Last updated: 23-Apr-19
There is a great divide between those runners who love HOKA ONE ONE trainers and those that really do not. For those that do love them, it’s the deep, cushioned sole that is most attractive. One of the newest models is the HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 2.
HOKA ONE ONE state: “This model is inspired by Karl Melzter, who holds the record for the most 100-mile trail race wins, the fastest completion of the (2,190 mile) Appalachian Trail and epitomises the ‘go everywhere, run everything’ attitude.”
HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 2s were tested on hard, well-packed trails, stony trails, muddy paths and hills.
Features
- Neutral stability shoe
- Midfoot cage construction for stability and lockdown/foot capture
- Open engineered mesh construction for breathability
- Reinforced speedframe construction for durability
- Oversize EVA midsole provides lightweight cushioning
- Sole offset: 4 mm (from 32mm heel to 27mm forefoot)
- CMEVA foam midsole to absorb impact points
- Wider platform for a more stable base on varied terrain
- Vibram MegaGrip hi-traction outsole with 5mm lugs
- Multidirectional lugs for better grip on a variety of terrain
- Weight: 278g (EU 42)
Photo credit: Fiona Outdoors.
Pros: What’s good about Hoka One One Speedgoat 2 shoes
The fit of the shoes is true to size in the length. This means you can order them with confidence if buying on-line.
As soon as you put them on, the Speedgoat 2s feel very light, despite offering a robust and durable sole and a fairly durable upper.
Previous versions of HOKA ONE ONEs have had what feels like more cushioned and airy soles but the problem is that they wear out quite quickly. These new Speedgoats have what I would consider to be a more solidly cushioned sole that is still lightweight.
Because of the shape of the cushioned soles the foot does not slap flat down on the ground but rolls from front to back. The heel drop is also low, just 4mm, which is good for promoting a mid or forefoot strike. It actually feels as though your foot strike is aided with a forward momentum.
The shoe, as stated in the features list, does feel stable. Although the shoe is light, it feels as though you are placing your foot well and solidly on the ground.
The tread is middle-of-road in that it has fairly deep lugs but not as deep and grippy as some other shoes. That said, the grip was good. The Speedgoat 2s offer good traction on grass and dry, stony trails, as well as hill paths, both up and down.
The mud does not collect between the lugs, which is good news.
The shoes also look colourful and bright.
Cons: What’s not so good about Hoka One One Speedgoat 2 shoes
If you have wide feet, the HOKAS might feel a bit tight at the toe box. They also have a fairly deep heel cup, so if you are prone to Achilles issues this might not suit you.
There is more protection on the uppers than I have seen in other Hoka shoes but still only minimal rubber protection at the toe. This means the uppers may not wear well if you are running on rugged trails and places where there are rocks and debris.
The shoes do not cope well with loose gravel and on very muddy terrain.
If you like to feel more of the ground beneath your feet, these shoes are not for you because they have a thick and cushioned sole – but that is what HOKA ONE ONE are renowned for.
There is nothing discreet about these shoes. If you wear them people will notice!
Conclusion
As I said, runners either love or hate HOKAS. There are some thoughtful design features to create a useful off-road trail shoe although they are not as grippy and durable as other brands. The price is quite high.
| Score | |
| Design | 8/10 |
| Features | 8/10 |
| Performance | 8/10 |
| Value | 7/10 |
| Total | 7.75/10 |
Other shoes you may want to consider:
HOKA ONE ONE Challenger ATR 3
Altra Olympus 2.5
New Balance Fresh Foam Vango v2
Saucony Triumph
About the writer: Fiona is a keen runner, preferring off-road and hilly to flat and road. She lives in Scotland where the weather is fickle so needs to be prepared for all conditions.
All images Fiona Outdoors except when stated.
Have you used the HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 2 running shoes? Don’t agree with this review? What’s your opinion? Add your own comment to this review and share your experience and passion for running with others.
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