The HOKA Speedgoat has long been the gold standard shoe in trail running, and the Speedgoat 6 continues its reign. Revamped to tackle any trail with greater precision and comfort, this latest iteration is ready for wherever you take it. Whether scaling rocky ascents or navigating muddy paths, the Speedgoat 6 is built to keep up with every challenge.

As a trail runner in the high altitude of the Colorado Rockies, I’m constantly looking for a shoe that can handle unpredictable conditions. Speedgoats have been my go-to choice for years, and I was excited and a little nervous to see how this version would hold up during my runs.

When I first ran in the HOKA Speedgoat 6, I was intrigued by the updates — especially after reading that it was lighter, more responsive, and, most importantly to me, had a redesigned upper. I didn’t love the fifth version, so I had high hopes for this updated iteration.

This model takes things a step further with some key improvements. From a more structured upper to a lighter, bouncier midsole, this shoe was thoughtfully updated for runners who have come to expect a reliable performance from HOKA.

In short: The HOKA Speedgoat 6 ($155) is a dependable option for trail runners looking for a shoe that balances cushioning, durability, and versatility. The updates to the upper, midsole, and outsole continue to make it a reliable, all-around performer. It’s a solid option for experienced runners as well as those new to trail running. However, those who prefer a more flexible, stretchier upper might find the fit of the Speedgoat 6 a little too snug and prefer the fifth iteration.

Read GearJunkie’s Guides to the best men’s and women’s trail running shoes to see how the Speedgoat 6 stacks up against the competition. The Speedgoat 6 is also a great all-around hiking shoe.

HOKA Speedgoat 6 Review

Upper Updates

The most noticeable update in the Speedgoat 6 is the redesigned upper. The new mesh feels more supportive and less stretchy than the Speedgoat 5, providing a more locked-in fit. This change was a big bonus for someone like me who appreciates a snug midfoot feel.

In a side-by-side comparison, the Speedgoat 6 felt more secure, especially during steep climbs where I like a solid, stable fit. The four-way stretch vamp still allowed for a little give, which kept my feet comfortable without feeling loose or overly tight. However, I know some runners who preferred the stretchier, more flexible feel of the Speedgoat 5’s upper, so it comes down to personal preference.

On the other end of the shoe, the new heel pull loop made sliding the shoe on a lot easier, especially considering the taller heel cuff HOKA is known for.

Laces

The laces are slightly stretchy and flat, which is my preferred lace shape. Before running, I never knew I cared so much about laces — turns out I do! The flat laces are easy to cinch tight where I need them to, but don’t dig into the foot, causing pain. The flat laces and the new additional cushioning on the top of the tongue, where the laces rest, help prevent lace fatigue when I really have things tied tight. 

Once tied, the laces stayed in place throughout my runs, and the extra length allowed me to use the heel lock lacing method for added security. However, with the longer laces, I did find myself wishing for a lace guard to tuck them in, as they occasionally snagged on brush or branches while I was running through the trails. A little added protection would have kept them out of the way.

Midsole Updates

The midsole of the Speedgoat 6 has been updated to be lighter and more responsive while still maintaining HOKA’s signature high-stack cushioning. The result is a slightly bouncier feel that delivers plenty of comfort and support, with an added 1mm of drop — moving from a 4mm to a 5mm drop.

This midsole change made a difference during my long, rocky runs, as the cushioning still did a great job absorbing the shock and keeping my feet feeling fresh. The lighter midsole also gave me a more energetic, less sluggish feel when running uphill or navigating rocky stretches. While the Speedgoat 6 still doesn’t feature a rock plate, the higher cushioning makes it unnecessary — it does a great job of protecting my feet without one.

Grip and Traction

In terms of grip, the updated Vibram Megagrip outsole lug pattern is a big improvement. I tested these shoes on various terrains — from dry desert trails to snow-packed mountain roads — and felt confident on every run.

I thought the updated pattern and additional lugs provided great traction whether I ran on loose gravel, wet rocks, or over icy patches. HOKA has put a lot into its outsole design, taking an already solid design and making sure it can continue to handle multiple environments.

Still a Roomy Toe Box

HOKA has stayed true to its roomy toe box in the Speedgoat 6, giving my toes plenty of space to spread out. The roomier toe box is one of the things that first drew me to Speedgoats many years ago. It’s wide enough for some wiggle room but not too wide to feel sloppy.

The Speedgoat 6 even comes in a wide version for those who need extra room. HOKA also offers a GTX version and a GTX Mid, which wears more like a hiking boot with a taller collar.

Room for Improvement 

The only thing I’d say could use a little improvement is adding a lace guard. The longer laces tend to snag on brush, and having a way to tuck them in would be nice. Other than that, I really like the updates — something that doesn’t always happen with new versions. Sometimes redesigns mess with a good thing, but for my feet and my running style, I like the Speedgoat 6

Conclusion

Whether navigating challenging, rocky mountain trails or cruising along smoother, rolling hills, the Speedgoat 6 offers the support and cushioning that I’ve come to appreciate from the line. The new upper, midsole, and outsole all come together to provide a secure, comfortable fit, while the improved traction ensures I can take on a variety of terrains without hesitation.

The Speedgoat 6 is a well-rounded trail shoe that excels at both long and short runs. It has excellent grip, support, and cushioning to handle whatever the trail comes up with.

Whether you’re looking for a versatile option for diverse terrain or need a shoe that offers extra room, the wide version is a great option. While the snug fit of the upper may not be for everyone, it remains a solid choice for runners seeking a dependable, high-performance trail shoe.