Hoka Speedgoat 4 Trail Running Shoes
Named after HOKA Athlete Karl "Speedgoat" Meltzer, the Speedgoat 4 is part of an award-winning family known for making quick work of technical terrain. The fourth edition features a new breathable yet rugged mesh.
Breathable Mesh Upper
Constructed using an updated mesh upper, the Hoka Speedgoat 4 wrap the foot in breathable comfort whilst providing a secure, locked-down fit. Lightweight and breathable, the mesh allows cool air to flow through the shoe removing uncomfortable heat build-up and regulating internal temperature to create a healthy environment that feet can thrive in. The fabrication hugs the foot offering lightweight support whilst strategically placed 3D printed overlays across the midfoot helps to lock the foot down in the shoe keeping you feeling secure and locked in for a stable and supportive fit. Ensuring much-needed support, the overlays also increase durability by protecting both the shoe and the foot from possible damage that the shoe may encounter along the trail. A gusseted tongue has also been added to the upper to provide next-to-skin comfort plus, it prevents loose debris from entering inside the shoe. The tongue also features strategic cut-outs for increased ventilation. Completing the upper is a lacing system that ensures a secure, lock-down fit to reduce in-shoe slippage so you can enjoy distraction-free strides.
Lightweight Foam Midsole
A lightweight foam has been used within the midsole of the Hoka Speedgoat 4 Trail Running Shoes to ensure a cushioned and responsive ride. This specialised midsole material provides lightweight cushioning which keeps your feet comfortable and supported as you move through uneven terrain. The lightweight foam is also highly responsive as it works to as it adapts to the ground beneath you and works to propel you forward as you move throughout the gait cycle. The light foam is also ideal for this running shoe as it prevents the wearer from feeling weighed down and will keep the wearer feeling light and quick on their feet. As well as this, the foam absorbs shock and impacts in key areas of the shoe and helps to stabilise the foot to keep the wearer firmly on their feet. Completing the midsole is a wider platform and toe box within the shoe that is designed to provide a more stable based on a wide variety of terrain so you can have assured footing no matter how challenging the ground beneath you may be. The wider forefoot also ensures a more accommodating fit so you can remain comfortable for longer.
Vibram Rubber Outsole
Completing the Hoka Speedgoat 4 Trail Running Shoes is a Vibram MegaGrip outsole that ensures traction and grip on varied terrain. This high-performance rubber compound gifts you with an unparalleled grip on wet and dry surfaces, rugged longevity, and optimal ground adaptability. The rubber is able to form a solid bond with the ground beneath it to ensure traction and control as you explore the unbeaten path. Zonal rubber placement ensures traction and grip where you need it the most whilst remaining lightweight so you can cut through tough terrain with ease. Furthermore, 5mm 'stepped' lugs adorn the outsole to provide flexible and sticky multi-directional traction as you tackle awkward ascents and daring descents. The lugs ensure additional support and stability so you can continue with complete confidence that your footwear will support you on any outdoor adventure. Grippy on the uphill and secure on the downhill, the Speedgoat 4 is badass on every trail.
Shoe Review
If you're looking for a trail shoe with some added bounce, then look no further than the Hoka Speedgoat 4. The comfort and cushioning that this model provides is noticeable in every part of the shoe. The Speedgoat 4 have injected pure joy back into my training, making every trail run a truly pleasurable experience. Switching from road to trail has never been easier, to the extent where most of my autumn and winter training on the roads has been done wearing these shoes. This is undoubtedly one of my favourite trail shoes of the year.
The SpeedGoat 4 is a lightweight trail shoe that soaks up the big miles, perfectly suited to running long and ultra-distances. They are ideal for training, however, I wouldn't personally recommend them as a racing shoe for short distances, purely because of their bulkier shape and fit.
In terms of grip, I was quite impressed with how the Speedgoat's Vibram sole handled the switch from different types of surfaces and terrain. They perform well in both wet and dry conditions, although more suited to the latter. The uppers are made from a breathable mesh and offer some protection against sharp rocks, although not as much as other comparable shoes. The sides of the shoe are the most vulnerable areas, although the deep-cushioned sole, does help to alleviate this small issue as it raises your feet further from the ground. My only other slight criticism is that they could do with even more lateral support to help prevent movement inside the shoe whilst running over rugged and unpredictable terrain. The width of this shoe feels true to size and it is worth knowing that there is a wider version of the Speedgoat 4 also available. In terms of length, I have found that Hoka generally fit smaller than usual. In most brands, I wear a size UK 10, but I wear UK 10.5 in these.
Ben Mounsey - SportsShoes Trail Athlete