By: Helen Mino Faukner

The Hoka Speedgoat has been my go-to training and racing shoe for the past eight years. It’s gone through quite a few changes over time, and after a disappointing last version, I’m really happy with the updates from the Speedgoat 6 to the Speedgoat 7. I loved the Speedgoat 5, and the 7 feels much more similar to that version.

Shop the Speedgoat 7

One of the biggest changes is the midsole. The Speedgoat 6 used a firmer foam that, in my opinion, was missing the soft, bouncy feel I typically expect from Hoka. The Speedgoat 7 uses a supercritical EVA foam that’s lighter, more responsive, and noticeably more energetic underfoot.

The upper construction also changed quite a bit. I felt like the Speedgoat 6 ran narrower, and the thin tongue gave me issues during races and longer runs. It often would slip around and create discomfort. The tongue on the Speedgoat 7 is more padded, and the updated heel collar makes my foot feel more secure and locked in without feeling cramped.

Both versions keep the Vibram Megagrip outsole with 5mm lugs, but the Speedgoat 7 has an updated lug pattern that just makes the shoe feel more fun and dynamic on the trails. If you’re in the store, flip them over and take a look at the design changes on the bottom.

With the significant midsole update, the Speedgoat 7 is slightly lighter, more responsive, and, in my opinion, brings the shoe back to what made earlier versions of the Speedgoat so great.

Shop the Speedgoat 7