HOKA Speedgoat 6

I was lucky enough to have a race bib for the MCC by UTMB event at the end of August in Chamonix, what better destination than the mountains of Chamonix-Mont Blanc to test the new version of HOKA's best-selling trail shoe?

I have to say that while I may not be the most experienced trail runner, I do consider myself to be the perfect tester for this shoe. The Speedgoat is an iconic HOKA model for ultra distance runners, but in the end the needs of a beginner and that of an ultra distance runner are not so far apart. Want to know what I'm talking about? I'll tell you all about it below.

As I was telling you, I had the opportunity to thoroughly test this model on the MCC course, running on steep slopes and technical terrain. This test is designed from the perspective of a person that is not too experienced in the trail world, who is looking for a shoe that provides confidence, stability and comfort both on steep climbs and on long descents and flatter sections.

As I said, needs very similar to what an ultra marathon runner asks from a shoes: versatility, safety, comfort.

General characteristics of the HOKA Speedgoat 6

Before delving into my experience with the MCC, let's take a look at what makes the HOKA Speedgoat 6 special. This model has been designed for long distance trail running races, with a special focus on stability and cushioning. Its Vibram Megagrip rubber outsole with 5mm lugs provides good grip even on wet or slippery surfaces, although its rear midsole has a gap without a lug that could reduce the grip surface.

The midsole provides durable cushioning, while the sole height and 5mm drop offer a protective feel without losing connection with the terrain. As for the last, HOKA has designed this shoe with long distance comfort in mind, not too wide or restrictive.

First impressions and initial fit

The first time I tried the Speedgoat 6 on, I immediately felt the cushioning that is so characteristic of the brand. The soft feel is evident from the first step, but without feeling "spongy" or unstable. The fit is comfortable and the last seems to be well thought out for those who need space in the forefoot area, which is essential in trail running where the foot tends to swell. Inner seams are minimal, which reduces the risk of chafing on long runs, and the structure of the shoe holds the foot well without being too tight.

An important aspect for me, as a beginner trail runner, was the secure feel, and these shoes gave me a good first impression of stability and traction. In my opinion, they suit runners of varying levels, as they don't require perfect mountain technique to deliver good performance.

HOKA Speedgoat 6: The test on the MCC by UTMB

The MCC has a very particular profile: we start with 1,800 meters of positive elevation gain on relatively non-technical terrain, followed by a 500 meter climb on much more demanding and rocky terrain. This is followed by a steep descent of 1,800 meters of elevation gain over 18 kilometers, mostly on trails, and ends with 4 kilometers of flat terrain.

This combination of terrains helped me to test the Speedgoat 6 in all their facets, from their traction and stability on climbs, to their cushioning on long descents, to their lightness on fast, flat sections.

Climbing on non-technical terrain: first test of comfort and traction

The first part of the race allowed me to see how Speedgoat 6 behave on less technical terrain. Here, I needed above all a shoe that would allow me to climb comfortably and without too much effort in technique. The Speedgoat delivered perfectly, as the Vibram Megagrip outsole maintained good traction even on loose dirt trails. The 5 mm lugs provided reliable grip, and I felt no slippage when stepping.

In terms of cushioning, this first phase was a relief for the legs: the Speedgoat 6 absorbed the shocks of the climb well without creating a bouncy feel. I noticed that my foot remained in a stable position, thanks to the structure of the shoe which, without being rigid, avoids unwanted twisting on uneven terrain.

Second part of the climb: performance on technical terrain

The second phase of the climb was much more technical, with rocks and sections where I had to concentrate on every step. As a "beginner" in this type of terrain, the security that the shoes gave me was fundamental. The traction of the Speedgoat 6 on dry rock was excellent. The Vibram Megagrip outsole really makes the difference here, offering a firm grip and preventing my feet from slipping, even on sections where the rocks were unstable.

Stability was also key in this section. While these shoes are not particularly stiff, they manage to give a good sense of balance without compromising mobility. I had no problems with lateral torsion, something I appreciated in these terrains where any false move can lead to a fall. Without being an ultra-technical racing shoe, the Speedgoat 6 behaves very well and provides the necessary support in difficult terrain.

Downhill: cushioning and stability on long descents

The long descent of 1,800 meters of elevation gain over 18 kilometers was a real test for the cushioning and stability of the Speedgoat 6, and here the midsole proved its worth. Every stride on the descent felt cushioned, and although as the race progressed my legs were already quite tired, the shoes managed to mitigate the impact noticeably. The underfoot feel was comfortable and, at the same time, allowed me to control each stride well.

One area of concern for me as a novice mountain runner was the possibility of the shoe losing stability on long descents. However, the Speedgoat 6 held firm, and the sole design and lugs offer the confidence to not slow down too much on steep trails. On less technical terrain, such as the end of the downhill, I was able to relax and accelerate without feeling that the shoe was limiting my speed or comfort.

Last kilometers: performance on flat stretches

The last kilometers of the race were practically flat, I was finally back on my home turf. And although by this time my legs were exhausted from the accumulated effort, the Speedgoat 6 proved to be versatile at all times and I was able to continue running comfortably and naturally feeling the transition between different types of terrain.

The sole, despite having pronounced lugs, did not feel stiff or uncomfortable in stretches of continuous running. This is a very favorable point for those who are looking for a shoe that not only performs in the mountains, but also feels agile in flat or not very technical sections.

Durability and comfort on long distance runs

One aspect I always value is the shoe's durability and ability to maintain comfort on long runs. Not only did the Speedgoat 6 prove to be tough in terms of the outsole, which is still in good shape after this type of use, but also the upper of the shoe continues to not wear out, even after wearing them on rocky terrain. Throughout the entire run, ventilation was adequate and I experienced no pressure points or chafing.

HOKA Speedgoat 6: The flagship shoe for ultra distance, can also help beginner runners.

For an experienced mountain runner, the HOKA Speedgoat 6 may be the ideal shoe for challenging long-distance races. But it is also a perfect choice for beginner trail runners, as it is a shoe that provides confidence and stability, essential features for those who want to enter the world of trail running. The Speedgoat 6 allows you to run safely both uphill and downhill, while offering good cushioning over long distances. It is also light enough (278g in a European size 42) not to penalize on flat or low-difficulty sections.

The HOKA Speedgoat 6 is an excellent choice for those looking for a versatile model for trail running. Will I always remember them? Surely yes, because they took me to explore terrain that I didn't think I would be able to evolve in. And I think it was a first that will call for other adventures in the future.