The Hoka Speedgoat 7 Is Better Than Ever Before

The Speedgoat 7 is also undeniably more comfortable than its predecessor, right from the step-in. In addition to the luxe new midsole, Hoka also refined the heel collar, which is satisfyingly plush and secure. The stretchy vamp at the top of the toe box—a familiar feature from the Speedgoat 6—adds extra breathability, and if you’re partial to running with gaiters for extra protection against small rocks and debris, you’ll appreciate the stealthy loop at the base of the heel that makes the Speedgoat 7 compatible with standard running shoe gaiters.

Personally, though, I feel that what the Speedgoat 7 has gained in all-around resilience and comfort comes at the cost of a slightly less locked-down feel. While the structure of the shoe would actually suggest better lockdown than the Speedgoat 6, the hardwearing RPET upper, which is made using recycled plastic, is mostly the same on the inside and outside of the shoe, and I could feel my feet sliding against it on steep descents, even when I tightened the laces.

Looks that satisfy your need for speed

Cosmetically, the Speedgoat 7 has undergone a wholesale redesign to match the retooling under the hood. The Speedgoat 6 featured a relatively modest design, adorned with a subtle mountain range illustration along the edge of the toe box. The Speedgoat 7 flaunts a much flashier finish with contrasting panels that give it a glitchy, energetic vibe. It looks fast. With semi-transparent sections streaking across the midfoot and a massive reflective panel covering the heel, it’s a decidedly sportier design that should appeal to most runners.

It’s also worth mentioning that the tongue is slightly longer on this model, rising a little higher against the front of the ankle. It’s a small tweak, but some Speedgoat 6 users took issue with how the tongue would sometimes slip below the top lace. The Speedgoat 7 also has a slightly reworked lug pattern. (It’s the same Vibram Megagrip sole, and the lugs are the same 5mm height as the previous model.) I can’t say I noticed a difference, but the Speedgoat 7 was surefooted as ever throughout the steep ups and downs of our testing.

Verdict: Is the Hoka Speedgoat 7 worth it?

Overall, like its predecessors, the Speedgoat 7 is a highly capable all-around trail shoe that will no doubt be a hit for runners looking for a Jack of all trades for daily miles and longer runs. If you liked the earliest Speedgoat models, you will absolutely love this. The Speedgoat 7 takes that familiar, well-cushioned ride and enhances it with even better energy return and a more durable, eye-catching exterior. However, runners who gravitated to the Speedgoat 6 for its firmer midsole might want to sit this one out.