I’ve been looking for a new hiking shoe for the 2019 season. As most people know, I like running but also appreciate and like hiking just as much. I like a good hike as much as a good run and just enjoying being outside.
I have tried a few shoes including the Brooks Cascadia as well as Under Armour BPF. Both were good, but I’m always looking to try something new.
I’ve also wanted to try something a little higher cut shoe so when I noticed Hoka One One had a midlevel version of the Speedgoat I knew I wanted to try it.
Technically the Hoka one one Speedgoat Midi Shoe is considered a running shoe or hiking shoe. A boot and shoe that does it all! I will personally use it as a hiking boot since I don’t live in an area that needs this aggressive of a trail shoe.
The original Hoka Speedgoat has won several awards as a top trail shoe, so I thought why not try it. For the Speedgoat, Hoka combines their famous sole with Vibram (named the Vibram Megagrip Outsole). Plus, the Hoka One One Speedgoat is waterproof, so if you step in puddles (which I have), you’re fine. I’ve come to realize waterproof trail shoes are essential to me, especially when hiking.
Upper of the Hoka One One Speedgoat:
The upper of the Hoka One One Speedgoat Midi varies from a traditional trail running shoes as it’s a boot. It’s water-resistant, so when it’s wet, your feet stay relatively dry. I typically wear a women’s size 10-11 wide. I found the men’s size 9 to be a good fit and truthfully I liked the color of the mens better. I like the width of the toe box and my feet don’t feel constrained.
Traction of the Hoka Speedgoat:
With trail shoes, traction is significant. You don’t want a trail shoe that you’re sliding around in.
The major difference between road and trail shoes is trail shoes have a more aggressive bottom.
Hoka One One has partnered with Vibram for the entire bottom of their shoe. The Vibram megagrip outsole grips the ground or rocks. While hiking, I had no issue taking them through mud, dirt, washed out, or dry trails. Most people don’t realize how rocky the Appalachian Trail can be, but they have gripped well. I haven’t had an issue where I’m like, oh that could use more traction.
Water Resistance:
One of the significant draws (for me) is the water resistance. As I hiked through muddy and wet terrain, I didn’t have any issues with my feet being wet. Sometimes you might worry a waterproof shoe is too hot (and think lack of breathability) but the Hoka One One Speedgoat has a wrap-around liner. This means it keeps water out but also allows your feet to breathe.
Conclusion of the Hoka Speedgoat:
As someone who loves both running and hiking, I believe this shoe can do both. For avid trail runners, the Hoka Speedgoat is a lightweight boot that you can put miles in a while still staying comfortable. I appreciate the amount of cushion in the shoe.
I’ve used them for long hikes and my feet have felt great from start to finish. For the casual hiker (like me), it a good boot with plenty of traction to keep you stable. Plus unlike many hiking boots, it’s not heavy. If I run any trail races this summer; this is one I’ll keep in mind.
Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy Runs: Brooks Glycerin 17, New Balance 1080, Hoka Mach 2
Speed Work: Reebok Float ride Runfast Pro, Nike Fly
Long Runs: Hoka Cavu 2
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Races: Nike Fly, Reebok Floatride
Questions for you:
Do you have a favorite trail shoe? What is your current favorite shoe?
Fun Wyoming fact. “Speedgoat” is the nickname for the pronghorn antelope, which is the fastest land animal in North America – other than you. 🙂
Such a great review! I know nothing when it comes to sneakers and this was very helpful! I’m definitely going to look into these, I need some hiking shoes!!
I roll my ankles ALL the time on trails. Did you feel better ankle support in these? The thick sole/high profile of Hokas have deterred me from trying them before, but these look promising…
I do. Like hiking boots, the higher tops give you a bit more stability. Let me know if you do Emily.
I’ve never worn Hokas before. But I have not found many shoes with water proof uppers.
These would be great to have in the winter when keeping your feet dry is so very important.
The extra tread would be helpful also.
Andy
Cute shoe/boot! I tried hiking the Appalachian Trail a couple of times, and I’m with you on the rocks! I wish some volunteers could clear off some of those rocks.