The Hoka Speedgoat 7: A Trailblazer's Companion
The Hoka Speedgoat 7 is a hiking shoe that has been making waves in the outdoor community, attracting both trail runners and alpine hikers alike. With its ultralight design and plush cushioning, it offers a unique blend of comfort and performance that sets it apart from traditional hiking footwear. But is it the right choice for your next adventure? Let's delve into the details and explore why this shoe might be a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts.
Comfort: A Plush Ride
One of the standout features of the Speedgoat 7 is its exceptional comfort. Hoka's use of supercritically foamed EVA, a nitrogen-infused material, provides a deep and plush yet springy feel underfoot. This innovative foam technology ensures that each step is smooth and energy-efficient, making it ideal for long hikes on hard-packed trails. The midsole's ability to absorb feedback from the terrain is remarkable, providing a consistent and comfortable ride throughout your journey.
The upper of the Speedgoat 7 is a lightweight and flexible masterpiece. It doesn't require a break-in period, which is a rare find in hiking shoes. The low-profile tongue offers adequate protection without adding bulk, and the flexible 'dynamic vamp' technology is a game-changer. This stretchy patch of material reduces pressure points, accommodates foot swelling, and ensures a snug fit in the toe box, enhancing overall comfort.
Hoka has also paid attention to the details, like lowering the collar height and improving padding. This results in a supportive yet comfortable fit, providing good heel lockdown without restricting movement. The heel pocket, centered over a wide, stable base, ensures that heel strikes are comfortable and consistent, even on uneven terrain.
Support and Stability
While the Speedgoat 7 excels in comfort, it also delivers on support and stability. The Super Critical Foam (SCF) in the midsole provides a springy and responsive feel, giving you a solid base to push off from. The extra-wide sole offers a large platform for your foot, enhancing stability and confidence when navigating uneven terrain. The upper, though flexible, holds your feet securely in place without excessive slippage, ensuring a stable and controlled stride.
However, it's worth noting that the flexible sole might not provide the best edge grip on steep hills or when carrying a heavy backpack. The shoe's design leans towards fast and light hiking, making it less ideal for backpacking or side-hilling on steep slopes. But for those who prefer a more agile and responsive ride, the Speedgoat 7 delivers.
Traction: Grippy Enough for Most Trails
The Speedgoat 7's traction is a balanced affair. The Vibram Megagrip sole provides excellent grip on hard-packed dirt and granite, ensuring you stay firmly planted during your hike. The widely spaced lugs offer a good level of traction on loose, gravelly trails, thanks to the extra-wide sole that increases the contact patch with the ground. This design allows for a smooth roll over various terrains, making it suitable for trail runners as well.
While the traction is generally impressive, it's important to note that it may not be the best on wet, slick rock. In such conditions, it's advisable to exercise caution. The shoe's performance on steep, loose forest duff is mediocre due to the softer footbed, but it should handle most trail conditions without issue.
Water Resistance and Weight
The Speedgoat 7 is not waterproof, but it offers some water resistance. It can handle short dewey meadows and shallow puddles, keeping your feet reasonably dry. However, crossing deeper water bodies or puddles might result in wet socks. The thick midsole provides some protection, but water will seep through the porous upper, so be mindful of your surroundings.
Despite not being the lightest shoe, the Speedgoat 7's weight is impressive. Each pair weighs just 1.53 pounds, making it incredibly lightweight. This feature is particularly beneficial for fast-paced hikes, as it saves energy and reduces fatigue over long distances.
Durability: A Rugged Companion
Hoka has crafted a durable shoe with the Speedgoat 7. The rPET upper is more rugged and abrasion-resistant compared to its predecessor, the Speedgoat 6. The near-seamless upper, welded together with synthetic sections, minimizes exposed stitching and wear. After nearly 30 miles of testing, the upper remains in excellent condition, with only slight tread wear on the outsole.
Should You Buy the Speedgoat 7?
If you're seeking an ultralight, cushioned hiking shoe, the Speedgoat 7 is an excellent choice. Its unique blend of comfort, support, and traction makes it a versatile shoe for various outdoor activities. However, it's important to note that the slightly angled toe box might not suit all foot shapes, and the shoe runs half a size short, so sizing up is recommended. Additionally, those who require heavy-duty support or plan to tackle extremely rugged terrain might find it lacking.
Exploring Alternatives
For those who prefer a more traditional hiking shoe with a wider toe box, the Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4 is a top contender. Its anatomical design and excellent heel pocket provide exceptional comfort. The Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX offers waterproof protection and cushioning but at a slightly heavier weight. If you prefer a more agile approach, the Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX combines cushion and ground feel without the extra-wide sole.
In conclusion, the Hoka Speedgoat 7 is a trailblazer's companion, offering a unique blend of comfort, support, and traction. While it may not suit every hiker's needs, its lightweight design and exceptional cushioning make it a compelling choice for those seeking a smooth and enjoyable outdoor experience.
