Hoka One One, or simply ‘Hoka’, has taken the running world by storm with their maximalist soles and its unique approach to shoe design. But Hoka is not a brand where form follows function – these shoes are made to work hard. Whether on the road, or out on the trails, Hoka delivers responsive designs for runners of all fortes.
Hoka models have a distinct oversized sole, which provides ample cushioning, stability, and comfort to the wearer. This is all keeping true to the brand's philosophy of creating shoes that allow runners to go further, faster, and with less impact on their body.
Hoka Speedgoat 5 vs Hoka Speedgoat 4
The Hoka Speedgoat 5 trail running shoe is the latest version of the highly popular Speedgoat line. The shoe has several updates and improvements from its predecessor, the Speedgoat 4. The Speedgoat 5 features a new, improved midsole foam that provides better cushioning and responsiveness. The upper of the shoe has been redesigned to offer a more secure fit and better ventilation.
The new midsole foam of the Speedgoat 5 is made of compressed EVA foam and provides a plush, cushioned ride. The foam is more responsive than that of the Speedgoat 4, providing better energy return with each stride.
The upper of the shoe is made of a breathable mesh material that allows for maximum ventilation, keeping your feet cool and dry during long runs. The new design also features reinforced overlays for added support and durability in high-wear areas.
Let’s take a closer look.
The Speedgoat 5 is designed for trail running and long distances. It has a Vibram® outsole that offers excellent grip and durability on rugged terrain. The shoe also has a wider platform and more stable ride, making it suitable for runners with different foot shapes and sizes. The Vibram® outsole of the Speedgoat 5 features multidirectional lugs that provide excellent grip and traction on both uphill and downhill sections of the trail. The outsole also has a wider base, providing added stability and support to the runner. The shoe's wider platform ensures that the foot is well-supported, especially on uneven terrain, preventing ankle rolls and injuries. The Speedgoat 5 has a sleek and streamlined design that's sure to turn heads on the trails. The shoe is available in a range of eye-catching colours, from classic black to bold blues and violet. Upon trying them on, I found that the shoe fit true to size and felt comfortable and snug around my feet, with a roomy toe box which was a huge positive for my wide feet. They’re responsive while still allowing the runner to feel and traverse the terrain below - a crucial feature when navigating more technical trails.
Speedgoat 5 Specifications
Hoka Speedgoat 5 First Impressions
Hoka Speedgoat 5 Upper and Fit
The upper of the Speedgoat 5 is made of a breathable mesh material that allows for maximum ventilation, keeping feet cool and dry during long runs. The shoe's reinforced overlays provide added support and durability in high-wear rougher terrain areas. The shoe also features a wider platform that offers a more stable ride, making it suitable for runners with different foot shapes and sizes.
The fit of the Speedgoat 5 is snug and secure, thanks to the redesigned upper that provides a better fit and support. The shoe's gusseted tongue ensures that debris and rocks do not enter the shoe, keeping the feet protected and comfortable during runs.
Speedgoat 5:
Hoka Speedgoat 5 Midsole
The midsole of the Speedgoat 5 is made of a new, improved foam that provides better cushioning and responsiveness. The shoe has a 4mm drop and a cushioned footbed that offers excellent shock absorption, making it comfortable to wear even during long runs.
The new midsole foam of the Speedgoat 5 is designed to be softer and more responsive than that of the Speedgoat 4. The foam provides a plush, cushioned ride that's comfortable even on rough terrain
Hoka Speedgoat 5 Outsole
The Vibram® outsole of the Speedgoat 5 is designed to provide excellent grip and traction on rugged terrain. The multidirectional lugs provide exceptional grip on both uphill and downhill sections of the trail, and hold up to all kinds of rugged terrain. The outsole is also more durable than that of the Speedgoat 4, providing long-lasting protection against wear and tear.
Speedgoat 5 Gore-tex:
Speedgoat 5 Gore-Tex
For those seeking a waterproof trail shoe, the Speedgoat 5 is also available in a Gore-Tex version which offers waterproof protection for runs in wet and rainy conditions. The Speedgoat 5 Gore-Tex features a waterproof membrane that keeps the feet dry and protected from the elements. However, that waterproof Gore-Tex may not be as breathable as the regular Speedgoat 5, which may cause the feet to overheat on hot days. Something to keep in mind when lacing up!
Is the Speedgoat 5 Good for Trail Running?
Yes, absolutely! The Speedgoat 5 is specifically designed for trail running and long distances. It’s an excellent choice for runners looking for a comfortable, stable, and durable shoe for running on trails. The shoe's wider platform, improved midsole foam, and Vibram® outsole provide a comfortable and responsive ride, excellent grip and traction, and long-lasting protection against wear and tear.
The Verdict
The Hoka Speedgoat 5 running shoe is a trusty option for trail runners looking for a comfortable, stable, and durable ride. The shoe's new, improved midsole foam, breathable mesh upper, and Vibram® outsole provide excellent cushioning, support, and grip on rugged terrain. The Speedgoat 5 is an exciting successor to the Speedgoat 4, with updates and improvements that make it an excellent companion for long-distance trail running.
