Hoka Speedgoat 4

The upper of the Hoka Speedgoat 4 is made from a breathable mesh material that ensures good ventilation while keeping debris out. The redesigned upper is more rugged and durable than previous models, featuring a tight weave that prevents trail debris from entering the shoe. Lightweight overlays in the midfoot provide additional structure and support, enhancing the overall fit and comfort.

The midsole of the Hoka Speedgoat 4 features a maximal cushioning design with EVA foam, providing excellent underfoot protection and comfort. This foam is lighter and more responsive than previous versions, ensuring a cushioned yet dynamic ride. The 4 mm heel-to-toe drop (difference in height between the heel and the forefoot) offers a balanced feel, making it suitable for long-distance runs and ultra-marathons.

The Hoka Speedgoat 4's outsole is equipped with Vibram MegaGrip technology, known for its superior traction on both wet and dry surfaces. The 5 mm lugs (protrusions on the outsole) are designed to provide excellent grip on various terrains, from rocky trails to muddy paths. This outsole ensures stability and confidence, even on technical trails.

The Hoka Speedgoat 4 offers a roomier toe box compared to its predecessors, accommodating a wider range of foot shapes. It also comes in EE-wide sizes for those with wider feet. The fit is generally comfortable and secure, with a narrow heel that grips the foot well, preventing slipping inside the shoe.

Comfort is a standout feature of the Hoka Speedgoat 4. The shoe's maximal cushioning provides a plush and responsive ride, ideal for long-distance runs. The seamless interior of the upper ensures there are no rub points, enhancing overall comfort. However, some users may find the tongue thin and less padded, which could cause discomfort with certain socks.

The Hoka Speedgoat 4 is known for its maximal cushioning, thanks to the EVA foam midsole. This cushioning absorbs impact effectively, reducing strain on joints and muscles during long runs. The foam is also responsive, providing a springy feel that propels runners forward with each step.

The breathable mesh upper of the Hoka Speedgoat 4 ensures good ventilation, keeping feet cool and dry during runs. The tight weave of the mesh prevents debris from entering the shoe, while strategically placed holes in the tongue enhance air circulation. This design makes the shoe suitable for various weather conditions.

The Hoka Speedgoat 4 offers a stable ride, thanks to its wide landing platform and low heel-to-toe drop. The shoe grips the foot securely, preventing slipping inside the shoe. However, its high stack height (height of the shoe's midsole) may compromise stability on steep, uneven terrain. Overall, it provides a stable and confident feel on standard trails.

The Hoka Speedgoat 4 is built to last, with a durable Vibram MegaGrip outsole and a rugged upper. The shoe shows minimal wear and tear even after extensive use, making it a reliable choice for long-distance trail running. The midsole foam retains its cushioning properties over time, ensuring consistent performance.

The Vibram MegaGrip outsole of the Hoka Speedgoat 4 provides excellent grip on various surfaces, from wet rocks to muddy trails. The 5 mm lugs are designed to bite into soft and loose terrain, ensuring stability and confidence. This outsole makes the Speedgoat 4 a reliable choice for technical trails and challenging conditions.

The Hoka Speedgoat 4 offers a moderate level of flexibility, allowing it to adapt to uneven terrain while providing a stable platform. The shoe's flexibility enhances its overall comfort, making it suitable for long-distance runs. However, it may feel stiff to some users, especially those used to more flexible trail running shoes.

Yes, the Hoka Speedgoat 4 is well-suited for ultra-marathons due to its maximal cushioning and excellent grip. The EVA foam midsole provides substantial underfoot protection, reducing strain on joints during long-distance runs. The Vibram MegaGrip outsole ensures reliable traction on various terrains, making it a dependable choice for ultra-distance events.

The Hoka Speedgoat 4 features a roomier toe box compared to previous models, providing a more comfortable fit for a wider range of foot shapes. It also comes in EE-wide sizes for those with wider feet. The overall fit is secure, with a narrow heel that grips the foot well, preventing slipping inside the shoe.

The standard Hoka Speedgoat 4 is not waterproof, but it features a breathable mesh upper that dries quickly. For waterproof protection, consider the Hoka Speedgoat 4 GTX, which includes a GORE-TEX liner to keep feet dry in wet conditions.

The Hoka Speedgoat 4 is best suited for trail running on various terrains, including rocky paths, muddy trails, and technical routes. Its Vibram MegaGrip outsole provides excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces, making it a reliable choice for challenging trail conditions.

The Nike Kiger 5 is a lighter and more flexible trail shoe compared to the Hoka Speedgoat 4. While the Speedgoat 4 excels in cushioning and protection, the Kiger 5 offers a more responsive and agile ride, making it suitable for speed workouts and races on flat, fast trails. The Kiger 5's lower weight and streamlined design may appeal to those who find the Speedgoat 4 too bulky for certain runs.