The HOKA Speedgoat 5
by Annalise Scholtz UTMB TDS 2022 finisher.
I was lucky enough to have run in the Speedgoats 4 and more recently the 5th version. As an ultra runner I normally look for comfort, grip and a literal bounce in my stride and I found all of that in the HOKA Speedgoat 5. If you had questions after running in the 4’s please note that there were big updates between the 2 models and the 5’s are definitely my go to.
The 5’s are almost 10% lighter than the 4’s
More responsive midsole
Hoka redesigned the lugs in order to provide even better traction than the 4’s
Vibram Megagrip – need I say more?
Better fitting, more forgiving upper made from recycled materials (I love )
Extremely durable shoe
I love the thin tongue, feels more streamlined
The Speedgoat have been life changing for me. I used to struggle with blisters and losing toenails no matter what shoe or size I wore over all distances. I came across the Speedgoats and for the first time in my life I could run for days and not having to problem solve any feet issues. As an example, I took a pair straight out of the box, and ran for days from Italy to France on the TDS @ UTMB route and had no blisters or black toenails… NOTHING.
My feet were in better shape than my body was after that race.
The Hoka Speedgoat 5 is an all-rounder trail shoe. It works well on challenging terrain, it handles roots, rocks, mud and more with ease. So there is no need for different pairs of trail running shoes on different terrain, this one pair does it all. It adapts to the runner, whether you love to cruise slowly or race fast.
I honestly believe this is a shoe for everyone, from a beginner doing 5km runs to the 100 milers.
