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Hoka’s Versatile Workhorse Trail Shoe Gets Its Most Technical Version Yet

The Speedgoat still sets the pace for a workhorse trail shoe. This new version may be the most capable in its 11-year run.

Gray HOKA trail running shoe with Vibram sole and black tread on a blue background.
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By Jack Seemer

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Stinson. Challenger. Mafate. And Tecton. Hoka has no shortage of trail runners in its orbit. But for a true do-it-all workhorse, the Speedgoat sets the pace.

Developed in collaboration with the accomplished ultrarunner Karl “Speedgoat” Meltzer back 2015, the Speedgoat continues to be one of the most trusted shoes on the trails.

For the second straight year, it was the most worn model at Western States 100, according to an analysis by iRunFar.

Blue and dark gray Hoka running shoe with thick gray sole and yellow logo on the side.
The Speedgoat 7 (pictured) introduced a supercritical midsole to the storied trail runner.
Hoka

The seventh generation, covered by Gear Patrol at launch in early 2026, marked a meaningful step for the storied silhouette.

The Speedgoat gained a supercritical EVA midsole to deliver a notably softer, more compliant ride than that of previous generations (one of the shoe’s chief complaints in the era of super shoes).

Now, a new GTX variant builds on that foundation for the most technical Speedgoat yet.

Gray Hoka trail running shoe with Gore-Tex Invisible Fit and Vibram sole, side view.
The Speedgoat 7 GTX dresses the new generation in a combination of Gore-Tex and Cordura.
Hoka

The supercritical EVA midsole carries over, as does the Vibram Megagrip outsole with 5mm lugs, Hoka’s go-to combination for grip on technical terrain.

Brown and beige Hoka trail running shoe with black Vibram lugged sole angled upward.
The new variant retains the supercritical midsole and Vibram Megagrip outsole.
Hoka

What changes is everything around it: a Gore-Tex membrane handles wet and muddy conditions, Cordura reinforcement protects high-wear areas from rock and brush and a toggle lacing system lets runners dial fit on the move.

Beige, black, and red trail running shoe with thick sole and black laces on a white background.
Cordura improves abrasion resistance.
Hoka
Pair of dark brown Hoka running shoes with beige midsoles and black insoles, viewed from above.
The model also comes with speed laces for quick adjustments on the trail.
Hoka

Availability and pricing

Those additions come at a cost, and not just in the price department.

The GTX tips the scale at 10.7 ounces, up from 9.7 ounces for the Speedgoat 7. But it may be a worthwhile tradeoff for runners who prioritize waterproofing and ruggedness over raw speed.

The Speedgoat 7 GTX is priced at $180, a $15 increase from the Speedgoat 7. 

About the Author:

Jack Seemer is the executive editor at Gear Patrol, with over a decade of experience in product journalism. He currently reports on a wide range of topics, including footwear, watches, EDC, cookware and more.

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