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The Hoka Speedgoat 3 is a trail running shoe designed for maximum cushioning and grip on challenging terrain. Part of the Hoka Speedgoat family, this model is a favorite among ultra-distance runners and those seeking a plush ride on the trails.
Key Features:
The Hoka Speedgoat 3 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize comfort and traction for long distances on trails. Its updated upper offers a more secure fit, making it suitable for technical and muddy paths. While it maintains the brand's signature cushioning, the shoe also introduces slight improvements in weight and fit from its predecessor, ensuring a better trail running experience.
According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 65%. This puts it in the lowest rated 10% of comparable running shoes.
The Hoka Speedgoat 3 has earned its reputation as a reliable trail shoe, offering a combination of plush cushioning and aggressive traction that's hard to beat. It's particularly well-suited for ultra-distance runners and those who face rugged, uneven terrain. The shoe's maximalist design is a hallmark of the Hoka brand, providing a protective barrier against the harshness of the trail. While the fit may be narrow for some, the secure feel and responsive ride are often praised. The Speedgoat 3's durability also stands out, handling miles of technical trails without significant wear. Overall, the Hoka Speedgoat 3 is a top choice for trail runners seeking a cushioned and confident ride on the most challenging paths.
The Hoka Speedgoat 3 builds upon the success of the Speedgoat 2, with minor changes to the upper design for a more secure fit. While the midsole and outsole remain largely unchanged, the shoe is slightly lighter and offers a bit more room in the toe box. These updates enhance the shoe's performance without altering the characteristics that have made the Speedgoat line a favorite among trail runners.
The Hoka Challenger ATR 5 is often compared to the Speedgoat 3 due to its similar maximalist cushioning and trail capabilities. However, the Challenger ATR 5 is slightly lighter, less expensive, and offers a wider fit, making it a better option for runners with broader feet or those seeking a more versatile shoe that can transition from trail to road.
The Altra Lone Peak 4 provides a different trail running experience with its zero-drop platform and foot-shaped toe box. Runners who prefer a more natural foot position and ample toe splay may favor the Lone Peak 4 over the Speedgoat 3. However, the Speedgoat 3 offers more cushioning and a more secure fit for technical terrain.
The Nike Wildhorse 5 is a competitor that offers a balance between cushioning and sensitivity. It has a wider toe box than the Speedgoat 3, which may appeal to runners seeking more room for their toes. While the Wildhorse 5 is versatile and comfortable, the Speedgoat 3's superior traction and cushioning make it a better choice for more challenging and longer trail runs.
The Hoka Speedgoat 3 Waterproof version includes a SKYSHELL bootie, offering runners a dry and comfortable experience in wet conditions. This special version maintains the same performance features as the standard model but adds protection against the elements, making it an excellent choice for runners who don't let rain or streams interrupt their trail adventures.
The upper of the Hoka Speedgoat 3 has been fine-tuned for a more secure fit. With additional heel support and improved midfoot lockdown, runners can expect their feet to stay in place, even on the most technical trails. The engineered mesh material provides breathability, while the thicker, textured laces help maintain a snug fit throughout the run.
The midsole of the Speedgoat 3 is where Hoka's expertise in cushioning truly shines. The oversized EVA midsole delivers a responsive yet soft ride, absorbing impacts and protecting feet from sharp rocks and roots. This single-density foam construction ensures a consistent feel from heel to toe, ideal for long-distance comfort.
The outsole of the Speedgoat 3 features a Vibram Megagrip compound, known for its stickiness and durability. The 5mm multi-directional lugs provide excellent traction on a variety of surfaces, from muddy trails to wet rocks, ensuring runners have the grip they need to tackle challenging terrain confidently.
While the Speedgoat 3 offers a slightly wider toe box compared to its predecessor, the overall fit remains on the narrow side, particularly in the forefoot. This design choice may affect runners with wider feet, but it also contributes to the shoe's secure and stable feel during technical runs.
Comfort is a standout feature of the Speedgoat 3, with ample cushioning and a well-padded heel collar. The shoe's maximalist design provides a plush underfoot experience, making it a favorite for runners who spend long hours on the trails and require extra protection and shock absorption.
The Speedgoat 3's cushioning is a defining characteristic, offering a springy and heavily cushioned ride that Hoka fans have come to love. The midsole's single-density foam provides a consistent feel, and the absence of a rock plate maintains flexibility while still offering substantial underfoot protection.
The engineered mesh upper of the Speedgoat 3 ensures breathability, allowing for adequate air circulation to keep feet cool during runs. This feature is particularly appreciated by runners who tackle long distances in warmer conditions.
Despite its high stack height, the Speedgoat 3 manages to provide a stable ride thanks to its low 4mm heel-to-toe drop and secure upper design. The shoe's stability is further enhanced by the wide base, which offers a solid foundation on uneven terrain.
Durability is a strong suit for the Speedgoat 3, with its robust Vibram outsole and high-quality construction. The shoe holds up well against the demands of trail running, ensuring that runners can rely on it for many miles of adventure.
The grip of the Speedgoat 3 is exceptional, courtesy of the Vibram Megagrip outsole and deep lugs. Whether navigating through mud, crossing streams, or climbing rocky inclines, the shoe provides the traction needed for confident and safe trail running.
The Hoka Speedgoat 3 is best suited for trail runners who seek maximum cushioning and reliable traction on varied terrain. It's particularly beneficial for ultra-distance athletes and those who frequently encounter technical trails. Runners with a preference for a narrow fit and a need for a secure, locked-down feel will appreciate the design updates in this model.
Runners with wider feet may find the Speedgoat 3's narrow toe box uncomfortable, and those looking for a more ground-feel or minimalist experience should consider other options. Additionally, runners who primarily stick to road running or less technical trails might prefer a shoe with a lower profile and less aggressive outsole.
The Hoka Speedgoat 3 excels on technical trails, ultra-marathons, and long training runs. Its cushioning and grip make it ideal for runners tackling muddy terrain and off-road paths. The shoe's durability and comfort also make it suitable for ultra marathon distances, where underfoot protection and support are crucial.
The Hoka Speedgoat 3 features an updated upper with additional heel support and improved midfoot lockdown. The toe box is slightly wider, and the shoe is a bit lighter than the Speedgoat 2. These changes enhance the overall fit and performance on the trails.
The Speedgoat 3 has a narrow fit, particularly in the toe box, which may not be comfortable for runners with wide feet. Those with broader feet might consider other models with a wider fit.
While the Speedgoat 3 can handle occasional road running, its aggressive outsole and maximalist cushioning are specifically designed for trail running. Runners who primarily run on roads may prefer a shoe with a less pronounced lug pattern and a lower profile.
The Speedgoat 3 performs well in wet conditions thanks to its Vibram Megagrip outsole, which provides excellent traction on slippery surfaces. For those seeking additional water protection, the Hoka Speedgoat 3 Waterproof version is equipped with a SKYSHELL bootie to keep feet dry.
Now viewing Hoka Speedgoat 3 | ||||||
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bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
priceBand | Price band | |||||
similarity | Similarity | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar |
released | ReleasedJan 2019 | Nov 2023 | Dec 2023 | Dec 2023 | May 2024 | |
expertReviewScore | Expert Review Score | | | | | |
Weight | WeightM: 292 g W: 258 g | M: 303 g W: 281 g | M: 289 g W: 249 g | M: 309 g W: 272 g | M: 281 g W: 235 g | |
Forefoot | Forefoot28 mm | 32 mm | 30 mm | 28 mm | 24 mm | |
Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop4 mm | 4 mm | 6 mm | 8 mm | 8 mm | |
Heel | Heel32 mm | 36 mm | 36 mm | 36 mm | 32 mm | |
Terrain | TerrainTrail | MudTrail | MudTrail | MudTrail | MudTrail | Trail |
Brand | BrandHoka | Hoka | Nike | Saucony | ASICS | New Balance |
Strike Type | Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike | Fore/Midfoot strike | Fore/Midfoot strike | Fore/Midfoot strike | Fore/Midfoot strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike |
Shoe Type | Shoe TypeLow dropMaximalist | ComfortableLow drop | ComfortableLow drop | ComfortableMaximalist | ComfortableMaximalist | Comfortable |
Rocker | Rocker | |||||
Breathable | Breathable | |||||
Rock plate | Rock plate | |||||
Techs | Techs | Vibram | Vibram | ASICS Gel | ||
Common characteristicsNeutralNeutral pronationHigh archOrthotic friendlyRemovable insole |
Characteristics | |
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Sports | Running (+2049) |
Terrain | Trail (+533) |
Brand | Hoka (+107) |
Support Type | Neutral (+1603) |
Pronation Type | Neutral pronation (+1578) |
Strike Type | Fore/Midfoot strike (+1116) |
Arch Type | High arch (+1525) |
Shoe Type | Low drop (+277)Maximalist (+428) |
Fit | Narrow toe box (+222) |
Features | Orthotic friendly (+456)Removable insole (+439) |
Materials | Mesh (+942) |
Events | 10k (+711)Half marathon (+711)Marathon (+711)Ultra marathon (+136) |
Colorways | Dsprd, Gbog, Pbbm, Ppeb |
Specifications | vs Average | |
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Model | 3 | |
Released | Jan 2019 | |
Measurements | ||
Weight | M: 292 g W: 258 g | |
Heel to toe drop | 4 mm | |
Heel | 32 mm | |
Forefoot | 28 mm |