HOKA SPEEDGOAT 6 VS. SPEEDGOAT 5: A DETAILED COMPARISON
Posted on June 07 2024
The Hoka Speedgoat series has long been a favorite among trail runners, known for its combination of comfort, stability, and rugged durability. With the release of the Hoka Speedgoat 6, many enthusiasts are curious about how it stacks up against its predecessor, the Speedgoat 5. Let's dive into the key differences and similarities between these two models.
Design and Aesthetics
Hoka Speedgoat 5 Deep Lake Green
The Speedgoat 5 features a modern and sleek design, with bold colorways that stand out on the trails. The upper is made of a breathable engineered mesh that provides good ventilation while maintaining durability.
Hoka Speedgoat 6 Sherbert / Beetroot Orange
The Speedgoat 6 takes a step further in design with an updated aesthetic that looks even more streamlined. The color options are diverse, catering to those who prefer both vibrant and subtle hues. The upper is also improved with a more flexible and comfortable mesh.
Upper Construction
Hoka Speedgoat 5 Deep Lake Green
The upper on the Speedgoat 5 is durable and offers decent breathability. It includes a reinforced toe cap and heel for additional protection on rough trails. The fit is snug but allows enough room for toe splay, which is crucial for long-distance comfort.
Hoka Speedgoat 6 Sherbert / Beetroot Orange
In the Speedgoat 6, the upper construction has been refined with a more adaptive and breathable mesh. This new design offers better flexibility and conforms more naturally to the foot's movements. The toe cap and heel reinforcement remain, ensuring that the shoe can handle rugged terrain just as well as its predecessor.
Midsole and Cushioning
Hoka Speedgoat 5 Deep Lake Green
The Speedgoat 5 is known for its plush cushioning, provided by a thick layer of Hoka’s EVA foam. This cushioning offers excellent shock absorption, making long runs more comfortable. The midsole provides a balanced feel that’s not too soft, maintaining responsiveness on the trail.
Hoka Speedgoat 6 Sherbert / Beetroot Orange
The Speedgoat 6 continues with the plush EVA foam but features a slightly tweaked midsole design for even better energy return. The cushioning is similar in feel but offers a bit more responsiveness, making the shoe feel more dynamic underfoot.
Outsole and Traction
Hoka Speedgoat 5 Deep Lake Green
The outsole of the Speedgoat 5 boasts Vibram® Megagrip rubber with deep, multi-directional lugs that provide outstanding grip on various terrains. This makes the Speedgoat 5 a reliable choice for technical trails, wet surfaces, and steep descents.
Hoka Speedgoat 6 Sherbert / Beetroot Orange
The Speedgoat 6 retains the Vibram® Megagrip rubber but introduces an updated lug pattern for improved traction. The new design offers better grip and stability, especially on loose and uneven surfaces. This enhancement ensures that runners can confidently tackle even the most challenging trails.
Fit and Comfort
Hoka Speedgoat 5 Deep Lake Green
The Speedgoat 5 provides a snug, secure fit with a comfortable internal heel counter. The overall fit is designed to accommodate various foot shapes, making it versatile for many runners. However, some users noted that the toe box felt slightly narrow.
Hoka Speedgoat 6 Sherbert / Beetroot Orange
With the Speedgoat 6, Hoka has addressed the toe box issue by offering a bit more space, enhancing overall comfort. The heel counter and midfoot support have been refined for a more locked-in feel without compromising on comfort. The shoe's interior feels plush and accommodating for long-distance runs.
Conclusion
Both the Hoka Speedgoat 5 and Speedgoat 6 are exceptional trail running shoes, each with their unique strengths. The Speedgoat 5 remains a solid choice with its proven performance and comfort. However, the Speedgoat 6 brings subtle yet impactful improvements in fit, flexibility, and traction, making it a worthy upgrade for those seeking the latest in trail running innovation.
Whether you stick with the tried-and-true Speedgoat 5 or opt for the enhanced Speedgoat 6, both models will serve you well on the trails, providing the comfort, stability, and durability that Hoka is known for.
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