Naming a trail shoe "GOAT" requires confidence. No, I’m not talking about the usual reference to some of the greatest athletes ever. I mean the real goat, a unique mountain creature, a fearless climber, and creator of mountain paths. The new now more than ever lives up to this name.
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Honestly, the Speedgoat models I’ve tried have never really topped my list. Not because they were bad, but because my needs were beyond what these shoes could offer.
I run either very flat trails or very steep ones. On flat trails, I prefer something soft and fast like Hoka Tecton X3, and on the steeper parts, I’m probably more of a Hoka Torrent guy with its lower stack and better technical ability. The new Speedgoat 6 from leans towards the latter in this exciting new update.
Hoka Speedgoat 6 - Fit
Compared to last year’s version, the upper has been updated with a mix of very breathable materials and more robust sections.
One thing the new Hoka Speedgoat 6 has is a good grip around your midfoot and heel, thanks especially to the new upper. My feet feel comfortable and secure, with no sign of heel slip.
The shoe is a bit narrower around the midfoot, which may not suit everyone, but this snug midfoot fit really makes the shoe stay on your feet, even when running a steeper route. Personally, I really like this! More on this in the last section, “goat abilities”!
The toebox is spacious enough for longer runs, and the stretchable "vamp" on top of the toes helps accommodate different foot widths. The tongue is thin, attached on both sides for minimal movement during running, and has also added padding to reduce the risk of lace burn (foot irritation due to laces).
Overall, the upper has a slightly narrower fit and a very comfortable and good grip. The secure fit enhances technical ability, enabling the Speedgoat 6 to tackle more varied terrains.
Hoka Speedgoat 6 - Feel
The biggest difference from Speedgoat 5 to 6 is the midsole. The new midsole is higher and features updated CMEVA foam. Essentially, this shifts the cushioning from a more mattress-like feel to a lighter, more responsive, and higher energy return feel. Together with the new upper, these midsole changes have resulted in a 15% weight reduction compared to the previous model (internal measurement)!
The new midsole feels a bit firmer and more stable while retaining the fantastic Hoka Speedgoat 6 running sensation that Speedgoat is known for.
The cushioning level is good, and I had no trouble running larger sections on pavement, but the new midsole shines the most when you hit forest trails, where the combination of a stable and fast midsole with market-leading grip really makes a difference.
And speaking of the outsole. Under the shoe, you’ll also find the quality Vibram Megagrip rubber, which always makes Speedgoat stick to all kinds of surfaces. Vibram knows what they’re doing, and the small changes in the midsole only make Hoka Speedgoat 6 better on all surfaces.
Hoka Speedgoat 6 - Goat Abilities
Now back to my original mention of goats in the mountains. Goats are amazing climbers; they find grip on the steepest rocks, and they have pioneered hiking trails (along with sheep) in many mountain regions, making it easier for us to run.
That’s why I think Hoka Speedgoat 6, now more than ever, lives up to its name. An improved upper, a firmer midsole, increased grip, and a weight reduction. All improvements in Hoka Speedgoat 6 go in one direction, and that’s towards being more versatile, more technical, and more stable.
Hoka Speedgoat 6 is now a shoe that truly lives up to its name and as the one true king of the mountain, GOAT!
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