Gear
Shoe Review: HOKA Speedgoat 3
The Speedgoat 3 is here, and it's better than ever. With an improved fit, HOKA's latest trail running shoe is ready for anything Mother Nature throws at it.
Similar Feel, Improved Fit
Speedgoat fans, rejoice. The HOKA Speedgoat 3 is here.
The new version of the Speedgoat maintains much of what made the Speedgoat 2 a success but adds thoughtful touches to improve the fit and feel. Here’s everything you need to know about the updated Speedgoat 3:
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4 mm
- Weight: 9.1 oz., women’s size 7; 10.3 oz., men’s size 9
- Category: Trail, neutral
- MSRP: $140
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Speedgoat 3 Fit
When HOKA released the Speedgoat 2, it came with a wider base for increased stability and roomier toe box for a more comfortable fit. Those things remain the same in the Speedgoat 3.
The third version of HOKA’s popular trail running shoe keeps the stable foundation and wide toe box, but it gets a trio of other fit upgrades that make the shoe even better:
- Additional heel support holds your foot into place
- Improved midfoot lockdown in the upper secures you in the shoe’s sweet spot
- Seatbelt-like supports create a protective cradle
One Fleet Feet tester put the Speedgoat 3 through the paces on wet roads and muddy trails. She said the shoe has, “Nice padding in the heel collar without being excessive, and the heel counter hugs my foot in a secure and comfortable way.”
HOKA also threaded thicker, textured laces through the Speedgoat 3 to help dial in the fit and stay cinched down.
Speedgoat 3 Ride
Running in the Speedgoat 3 also provided a similar experience to the Speedgoat 2.
A tall midsole stack height—a signature of HOKA running shoes—again shines in the 3. The cushion was noticeable to Fleet Feet testers but was pleasantly firm, not mushy, and it offers solid protection from sharp rocks and gnarly roots. “Runners who mostly want to feel that cushion will love it,” one tester said.
Underneath, though, is what makes the Speedgoat 3 stick.
HOKA used a high-traction Vibram MegaGrip outsole to hold on to the trail. The multi-directional 5 mm lugs bit into dirt and mud for superior grip and even performed well on wet roads. Plus, it didn’t pick up pebbles or get clogged with mud even on an especially squishy trail.
HOKA Speedgoat 2 vs. HOKA Speedgoat 3
While HOKA didn't make any major changes to the Speedgoat 3 when they updated it from the Speedgoat 2, a few thoughtful alterations improve how the new trail shoe handles.
The oversized midsole and aggressive Vibram outsole are almost identical save for a few aesthetic tweaks. But the upper got a refresh.
HOKA added additional overlay supports to lock down your midfoot and installed a thicker seatbelt-like support on each side of the shoe to anchor the laces in the middle of the shoe.
The Speedgoat 3 weighs a hair more than the previous version — 8.2 oz to 9.1 oz for a women's size 7; 9.8 oz to 10.3 oz for a men's size 9 — but testers still felt like the shoe was primed to perform on rough terrain.
HOKA Speedgoat 3 Technology
HOKA loaded the Speedgoat with everything you need to tackle the trails. Here's a quick look at what's under the hood:
- Oversized EVA midsole. It's the signature of Hoka running shoes: a fat, cushy midsole. The Speedgoat's cushion helps protect against sharp rocks and roots
- Vibram MegaGrip outsole. The high-traction rubber outsole is studded with aggressive 5 mm lugs to claw into the trail
- 4 mm drop. The low heel-to-toe drop lets your feet and legs move naturally as you run
- SKYSHELL bootie. Available in the HOKA Speedgoat 3 Waterproof, the waterproof lining keeps your feet dry when you stomp through streams
Conclusion
The updated HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 3 is a premium trail running shoe that offers top-notch cushioning and sure-footed traction no matter how sloppy the road ahead gets.
Still not convinced? Don’t sweat it. Fleet Feet's return policy means you can test drive your shoes and gear without risk. If you’re not happy with the way your gear performs, looks or fits, we’ll take it back within 30 days. Plus, you’ll get free return shipping on all fleetfeet.com orders. That's our Happy Fit Guarantee.
