After much anticipation, Hoka has released the Speedgoat 5 — a speedier and grippier update to the brand’s popular trail running shoe. For the uninitiated, the Speedgoat has what amounts to a cult following in trail running circles. It’s one of the most popular shoes in the category, as well as among Hoka’s own lineup. It’s known for being capable, tough, cushy and secure.
And, for 2022, the Hoka Speedgoat 5 has received some major upgrades.
What’s changed for the Speedgoat 5?
The major themes of this update are cutting weight and increasing speed, thanks to a few key updates. Hoka reworked the outsole of the newest Speedgoat, adding Vibram Megagrip with Traction Lug to provide more surface contact and traction; the result is a grippy sole that manages to make easy work of loose dirt and rocks.
The shoe maintains responsiveness thanks to a lighter midsole compound and more room for your feet to move on trails, courtesy of the new supportive upper made partially from recycled polyester and double jacquard recycled content. These work in concert to provide the same cushiony feel that Hoka enthusiasts are used to, at less weight. The shoe is half an ounce lighter than its predecessor, while maintaining the same stack height and rocker profile of the beloved Speedgoat 4.
