The Hoka Speedgoat 7 is a shoe that has caught the attention of both trail-running enthusiasts and alpine hikers. While it was initially marketed for its ultra-lightweight and well-cushioned ride, it has proven to be a versatile shoe for a variety of outdoor activities. But is it worth the hype? In my opinion, the Speedgoat 7 is a shoe that deserves a closer look, especially for those who are looking for a comfortable and supportive ride for their outdoor adventures.
One of the most striking features of the Speedgoat 7 is its cushioning. Hoka uses supercritically foamed EVA, which is a special form of nitrogen that improves energy return and makes the material feel bouncy. The sole completely absorbs a lot of feedback from the trail, smoothing each step and providing a comfortable ride. Personally, I found the cushioning to be incredibly comfortable, especially on hard-packed gravel and exposed stone. It's like walking on a cloud, but with a bit of spring in your step.
However, the cushioning may not be as impressive for those who hike at a walking pace on soft dirt trails. The wide sole, while providing a stable base, can also make the shoe feel a bit clunky and less agile. But for those who are looking for a comfortable ride on harder surfaces, the Speedgoat 7 is a great choice.
The upper of the Speedgoat 7 is also worth noting. It's lightweight and flexible, and doesn't require a break-in period. The low-profile tongue provides a good amount of protection for the top of the foot, and the upper now includes Hoka's patent-pending flexible "dynamic vamp," which reduces pressure points and accommodates foot swelling. Overall, the upper provides a good fit and keeps the foot in place, even when hiking with a heavy backpack.
In terms of support, the Speedgoat 7 delivers a springy feeling and a solid, non-tippy base. The extra-wide sole provides a large platform for the foot to press into with each step, and the upper holds the foot in place without being too stretchy. However, the flexible sole may not provide the best support for side-hilling on steep hills, and the traction may not be the best on very loose, gravelly trails.
The Speedgoat 7 also has a Vibram Megagrip sole, which provides good grip on hard-packed dirt and granite. However, the traction may not be the best on wet, slick rock, and the shoe is not waterproof. The thick midsole will keep you safely above the danger zone on very shallow puddles, but water will seep through the porous upper.
One of the most impressive features of the Speedgoat 7 is its weight. At just 1.53 pounds per pair, it's astoundingly light. While heavier shoes usually offer more stability and durability, lifting excess weight with each step can accumulate over time. If you're looking for a lightweight shoe that won't weigh you down on long hikes, the Speedgoat 7 is a great choice.
In terms of durability, the Speedgoat 7 seems to be a shoe that can take a beating. The rPET upper appears to be more rugged and abrasion-resistant than the upper on the Speedgoat 6, and the entire upper is nearly devoid of exposed stitching. After nearly 30 miles, the upper looks perfect, with only a slightly dirty outsole and some very slight tread wear.
Overall, the Hoka Speedgoat 7 is a shoe that deserves a closer look, especially for those who are looking for a comfortable and supportive ride for their outdoor adventures. While it may not be the best choice for everyone, it's a great option for those who want a lightweight and cushy shoe that can handle a variety of terrains. So, if you're in the market for a new hiking shoe, the Speedgoat 7 is definitely worth considering.
