HOKA Speedgoat 6 Review: Helen Mino Faukner

I think we can all agree that one of the worst things is when you find a shoe you love and the next version is changed in all the wrong ways. Lucky for us the Hoka Speedgoat 6 has some upgrades from the 5 that I think make it a better shoe and it still remains one of my favorite shoes to run in.

The Speedgoat 6 features an updated mesh upper that enhances breathability while maintaining a secure fit. The overlays are strategically placed to offer better support and protection, particularly around high-wear areas. I used to break through the sides of the Speedgoat 5 after a few hundred miles and that seems to be fixed in the newer version. The 5 also had a mesh upper but with different overlay placements. The updates in the 6 aim to improve the durability and fit of the shoe.

The midsole of the Speedgoat 6 remains the same as far as foam goes for excellent shock absorption and comfort. The geometry has been refined to provide a more stable ride, particularly noticeable in the heel area. The design tweaks in the Speedgoat 6 aim to enhance stability and reduce the feeling of bulkiness, especially on descents.

The outsole of the Speedgoat 6 still has the Vibram® Megagrip outsole with 5mm lugs, offering superior traction on various terrains. The wider platform enhances stability and confidence, especially on technical descents. This is the same as the 5 and sometimes if something isn’t broken you shouldn’t fix it.

The Speedgoat 6 aims to maintain a lightweight feel without compromising on
durability and support. The updated materials contribute to a slightly lighter overall weight compared to the 5. Most of the time with these slight weight differences you can’t tell, but I like to think that over long distances it does make a difference. I think the new design makes the Speedgoat 6 feel less bulky and more agile.

The Speedgoat 6 is designed to offer a balanced performance that combines cushioning, stability, and agility. The updates in fit, cushioning geometry, and outsole design aim to enhance comfort and responsiveness on the trail.

The Hoka Speedgoat 6 builds upon the strengths of its predecessor, the Speedgoat 5, by refining key areas such as upper fit, midsole stability, outsole traction, and overall weight. These updates make the Speedgoat 6 a great choice for trail runners looking for enhanced comfort, performance, and durability in challenging trail conditions. I appreciate that this shoe got some updates, but still feels similar to former versions. Whether you're tackling technical descents or enjoying long-distance runs, the Speedgoat 6 promises to deliver a smoother, more stable ride with improved traction and support. This has been my go-to shoe since 2018 and it still is!

All photos by Jacob Banta (@banta.visuals).

Shop the Speedgoat 6 online.

Available in all sizes, colors, and wide fit.