Spot Reviews: HOKA's Speedgoat 6 Trail Running Shoe

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(SPOT.ph) Disclaimer: I’m not an active person. The gym and I? Strangers. I’m not proud of it. I know I should be up and about by 7 a.m. at least and walking around the neighborhood. But other than walking during the twice-a-week work commute and the occasional running and trying out sports when friends ask me to, I don’t really move a lot. I work mostly from home (which, thinking about it now, gives me enough reason to get up and run). Heck, the last time I owned and actually used running shoes was during my college Physical Education class. God, I miss those days.

But even then I just tried on whatever sneaker was white (the color a requirement in high school) or wore hand-me-downs from my aunts and cousins. I didn't mind. But after a visit to the HOKA store to find out what running shoes fit me best, I feel like my perspective changed. Especially after I got to try their Speedgoat 6 for myself. Here, my thoughts so far.

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What is the HOKA Speedgoat 6?

HOKA is known for its outdoor shoes, and you may have seen their logo in your active friends' fits when they go out for their hikes and runs. They've been around since 2009 and are a favorite among lovers of the great outdoors.

The Speedgoat 6 is the latest iteration of their Speedgoat franchise—which is made for runners and hikers. It has an ultralight CMEVA cushioning to the midsole combined with aggressive traction, a.k.a the Vibram Megagrip outsole with 5mm traction lugs. You bet it'll keep you on your feet across wet and dry surfaces. 

It also features a new lightweight woven upper that's both breathable and durable at the same time. It weighs 8.2 oz for women's size 8 and 9.8 oz for men's size 10.

"HOKA was born on the trails and remains deeply rooted in the authentic essence of trail running. The Speedgoat 6 was meticulously crafted to excel in these rugged environments, offering a seamlessly smooth ride that can conquer a myriad of elements," said Colin Ingram, Vice President of Product at HOKA. 

"We are excited for trail enthusiasts to experience the GOAT, whether they are taking on their next trail race, embarking on a thru-hike, exploring more technical terrains or stepping onto the trail for the first time."

First Impressions on the HOKA Speedgoat 6

Never in my life did I think I'd have to assess my foot ever, but I walked into the HOKA store in One Ayala and did exactly that. Every HOKA store has foot scanners and in-store treadmill testing, both of which I got to try to figure out my foot measurements. 

I assumed I was a size 6 (US) or 36 (UK), and while the staff at the store very kindly agreed, saying Yeah, well, sounds about right, the scans reported I was a 5.6 (left foot) and 5.7 (right foot). I also got to find out my heel-to-toe length and ball width. I had a neutral gait. It was a major TIL moment. They will also email you your foot scan and measurements.

Knowing all these, I learned, is a must when you're buying running shoes since there are so many different types with different tech; built for different uses and even foot types. You have to know the right pair to avoid injuries or discomfort when running or engaging in other feet-involved activities.

After we set straight the measurements of my feet, the staff asked how I intended to use the shoes (walking and light running) so they could prescribe the HOKA shoes that would best suit me. They recommended the Mach X2, Bondi 8, and, of course, the Speedgoat 6. I tried all of them on the treadmill onsite and found the Speedgoat 6 to be most stable and overall a good fit than the other two. 

I know, I know—it's made for trail running and hiking, but Metro Manila can be a tough terrain to brave through if you think about it. Especially if it's raining. The reason why I loved the Speedgoat on my first try is because of its grip, and true enough, it doesn't let me lose my footing even on wet pavements. It's light and hugs my foot just right.

Oh, and the colorway. It's not what I normally would choose as a neutral girlie. I have pops of colors inside my wardrobe too but this is certainly... something. It has a bold and unique design that would catch a lot of attention. I got mine in a navy upper with turquoise and pops of orange on the sole. 

I started going out for walks at first. I live in a busy neighborhood around QC, with sidewalks that let me do all that walking and a bit of running in peace. Sometimes I get to run on concrete and sometimes on artificial grass carpets. I once wore the Speedgoat 6 around the house for a whole working day just because. I went up and down the stairs. Having new running shoes that fit me, alas, provided the motivation to get up and move. Baby steps, I told myself. It can get a little firm on your first few tries, but I gradually adjusted. 

I tried it on my gym's treadmill, too. Yes, we're (the gym) getting acquainted these days. I walked-slash-ran for 30 minutes, with about 2 kilometers in distance. There was slight discomfort on my pinky toe at the 20-minute mark but it went away as fast as it came.

And while hiking isn't yet on the books for me (because I know I need a lot of preparation), I'm at peace knowing I'm ready at least in the shoe department.

Is the HOKA Speedgoat 6 good for daily activities?

While the Speedgoat 6 is made for trail runners, it also fares quite well on daily activities such as walking, running, and working out. Ultimately, having a shoe that fits you perfectly—one that you fitted especially and was prescribed to you by the HOKA staff—is the secret to having a comfortable time while on the go. HOKA and its in-store service, the foot assessment included, really did it for me.

Where to get the HOKA Speedgoat 6?

The HOKA Speedgoat 6 retails at P9,795 and is available (also for trial and testing) at HOKA Stores in One Ayala Mall, GH Mall, SM Aura, and Ayala Malls Manila Bay, and also at Planet Sports.Asia Trinoma, Planet Sports Galleria Cebu, Planet Sports Clark City Front Mall, Runnr, and online through their website.

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