Hoka Speedgoat 6 Review: Still on Top? (2024)

Julien Guyod

Published on 09/11/2024

Updated on 02/17/2025

Does the Hoka Speedgoat really need an introduction? Since version 4, it has been a favorite among trail runners of all levels, from beginners to elites. Version 5 featured few thorough changes but introduced some improvements.

What about this v6? Did Hoka play it safe, building on its success, or did the brand take risks to further improve its bestseller? Let’s find out in my field test.

Our Verdict

Grip

The outsole has remained largely unchanged. It still features Vibram MegaGrip rubber with 5-mm deep lugs, but they have a new shape, Traction Lug, to increase grip, stability, and ground contact.

The result is exceptional. I was pleasantly shocked to discover that the shoes could even grip the tile floor of my house when I first put them on.

My subsequent trail runs confirmed the excellent grip, undoubtedly one of the best I have ever experienced. Other testers were unanimous in their praises, which confirmed my verdict.

The shoe doesn’t have a rock plate, but I didn’t feel it was lacking with the high stack.

Types of terrain

The Hoka Speedgoat 6 performs well on all types of terrain, whether compact or loose. It’s hard to find any weaknesses, even on wet surfaces, including slippery rock.

Mud isn’t a problem either, although it can accumulate a little, but no more than on other trail running shoes I have tested this year.

Also, the lugs are not uncomfortable when running on road sections. However, it’s best to avoid it to prevent early wear and preserve their sharpness on technical surfaces.

Overall, the Speedgoat 6 is yet to meet its match when it comes to trails: the shoe can easily tackle rugged or technical mountain paths with ease, thanks to its excellent protection and protective elements (more on this further down).

Cushioning

The midsole foam is again compression-molded EVA foam (CMEVA), but with a new, lighter formula.

Many testers have found the feel firmer than the previous version. I didn’t run with v5, so I came in with a fresh perspective: I found the feel quite balanced, neither soft nor stiff.

I think it offers a good compromise between safety and a pleasurable ride in treacherous descents.

Hoka announces a heel stack of 33 mm at the heel and 28 mm at the forefoot. However, many sites claim a higher stack, with values closer to 40 mm — I think they may be right as I find the shoe quite high compared to shoes with supposedly the same height.

Regardless, what matters is shock absorption, and the Speedgoat 6 is great on this front. This is quite logical, as its primary target distances are ultras (over 70 miles), and the shoes should be able to please runners who like extensive cushioning for long races.

The drop increases from 4 mm to 5 mm. Speedgoat fans shouldn’t feel much of a difference, and it makes this flagship model more accessible to runners new to the series. It’s a win-win. However, still, allow for some transition time if you’re accustomed to higher-drop shoes.

Energy return

V5 was lighter than v4, and the diet continues with 9.5 oz/270 g in EU size 42 for this v6. Combined with the more responsive foam, the shoes are more agile and bouncy.

Also, Meta-Rocker geometry ensures smooth back-to-rear transitions.

Overall, the Hoka Speedgoat 6 is a fast trail running shoe that can help you pick up the pace when needed.

Foot Lockdown

The new woven textile upper offers a good structure. It’s slightly less breathable than the previous version, but that’s nothing terrible compared to other models.

The shoe is very comfortable with plenty of padding, so you won’t have to worry about keeping it on for long. The fit is precise and close to the foot. Also, there’s more space between the eyelets than on V5, which should suit more runners.

Despite this, some testers once again felt tight around the instep. If in doubt, it’s best to turn to the Wide version (available on Hoka’s official site and a few other retailers).

The heel cup is well-designed and holds the foot firmly in place.

The pointed flare at the back of the collar is less pronounced but enough to relieve pressure from the Achilles tendon. A pull tab has also been added to put on the shoes more easily.

Finally, the V-shaped padded gusseted tongue adds comfort by not pressing on the foot’s flex. It’s still relatively short, but that’s not a problem unless you use the extra eyelets.

All in all, excellent foot lockdown gains in comfort without losing safety.

Protection and breathability

The upper offers good protection in cool weather, and while the shoe is slightly less breathable, it’s still good enough to run in warmer conditions.

The optimized toe bumper and lateral overlays wrapping around the shoe effectively protect against obstacles.

Overall, protection is top-notch, allowing you to confidently venture on the toughest terrains.

Use

The Hoka Speedgoat 6 can do absolutely everything. With optimal protection and comfy cushioning, it’s an obvious option for any ultra race, regardless of difficulty or distance.

Officially, the brand recommends this model for medium and long distances. However, given its excellent responsiveness, I can see myself also using it on shorter, speed-focused trails.

Conversely, you can use these shoes in any training scenario. I can’t see any session where it might not be the best pick in my rotation.

Overall, the SG6 is an all-around technical trail shoe that is comfortable and accessible. It’s suitable for everyone, from beginners and seasoned runners to occasional trail runners who want the best.

Quality and Durability

The stitched overlays on either side of the upper should help prevent it from separating. The mesh is very durable, and so is the Vibram sole. Therefore, the Hoka Speedgoat 6 is very durable, making it a good value for money.

The construction is more eco-friendly, with the upper leveraging recycled materials. However, the exact proportion is not disclosed, so it’s probably small.

Last but not least, the Hoka Speedgoat 6 is vegan.

Conclusion

I had never owned Speedgoats before, and before receiving them, I was under the impression that they were probably overrated and overpriced. How wrong I was!

The conclusion was evident from my first runs: the Hoka Speedgoat 6 are likely the best trail running shoes today. My later sessions only confirmed my verdict.

With its powerful grip and improved responsiveness, it performs well in all scenarios and should once again become the most-coveted model among trail runners.

Facts

Technical Specs

Cushioning

Technologies

Use