Cushiony til the last drop.
I am well over two years in with the Hoka One One Women’s Speedgoat 3. Yes, I know running shoes shouldn’t be in circulation for more than 300-500 miles, and, yes, I’m probably approaching that number, but they still feel great. That’s saying a lot coming from someone who has shied away from running for most of her life due to ski-racing related knee injuries and pain. In the two years I’ve owned the Hoka One One Women’s Speedgoat 3’s I can say that I’ve become an enthusiastic trail runner, frequenting Aspen’s trails 2-3 times a week throughout the spring, summer, and fall. Previously, running was painful and to be avoided.
The Test
These blue foot clouds provide incredible traction and comfort for uber long trail runs and hikes. This summer alone, they summited West Maroon Pass with me en route to Crested Butte – an 11-mile-one-way journey afoot from Aspen, Colorado. They also hiked and ran various game trails high in the Elk Mountains, and town loops astride Aspen’s tributary creeks and the mighty Roaring Fork River.
They also braved approximately 8 stream crossings in one day on a Triangle Peak adventure and no blisters or discomfort were detected. Heck, they dried way faster than my hiking boots, but in case you’re wary of wet feet they now make a Waterpoof version. I’m not sure why I’d ever go back to a hiking boot/shoes – at least during the warmer months.
The Review
Rating
4.5 (out of 5)
Design: The laces and how and where they cinch down on the foot is optimal, providing both comfort and support. +1
Style: Style is personal and I’ll be the first one to say that, in general, Hoka One One shoes have a very unique look. They are wide, a product of their signature highly cushioned sole. Some may not like the profile, but in this case function is fashion for me. +.5
Performance: Offering excellent grip with a Vibram Megagrip high-traction outsole with 5mm lugs, these runners are ideal for rugged mountain trails, including technical sidehills. They are a little too grippy for asphalt, but then again they aren’t designed for it. +1
Durability: Weighing in at 10.3 oz, these shoes are considered lightweight for a trail runner, but the rugged Vibram sole and waterproof materials allow them to stand up to all conditions. +1
Comfort: While the Women’s Speedgoat 3 are highly cushioned they are responsive and provide shock, providing the perfect balance of joint comfort and energy. +1