Hoka One One Speedgoat Mid 2 GTX -Lightweight and Good on Trails
Hoka One One Speedgoat Mid 2 GTX
The Hoka One One Speedgoat Mid 2 GTX ($169) with GORE-TEX bootie and Vibram Megagrip outsole feels ridiculously good on the trails. Marketed as something between a trail runner and a hiking boot, the Speedgoat Mid 2 GTX provides neutral support and balanced cushion along with an anatomically shaped foam collar that provided enough security for my narrow ankles.
The Hoka One One Speedgoat Mid 2 GTX fresh out of the box.
After a little break-in period on the local trails, I put these to the test with a few ski jaunts while snow was still on the ground. The Vibram soles worked well for these instances where I didn’t want to go into 4×4 mode. After repeatedly punching through soft snow on a variety of pitches, my feet stayed dry although they would notice the cold water vapor coming through.
Aaron all smiles as he looks at his objective of the day in the Speedgoat Mid 2 GTX (Photo by Wil Rickards)
During a summer tour, my crew lost the trail and found ourselves in the swampy willows. While trying to bushwhack our way back, I groaned as I stepped into some muddy water and anticipated that unsatisfying squishy feeling you get with wet shoes. Talk about shattered expectations. My feet felt pleasantly surprised that they didn’t have to go through a suckfest of squeakiness with the soaked socks and insole.
Aaron climbs a short section of snow in the Speedgoat Mid 2 GTX while Baggin looks on. (Photo by Wil Rickards)
Scrambling worked well in these shoes as I navigated large and small rocks. The reinforced toes were enough for these clumsy moments when I stubbed my toes on the rocks.
The Speedgoat Mid 2 GTX holds up well in rocky terrain.
Hoka One One Speedgoat Mid 2 GTX Review
The one quirk that I really noticed was the extra effort in opening up my laces so I could slip my average-volume feet in, but the positive counterpoint lies in the confidence that your feet aren’t floating around inside the shoe. There seems to be room to adjust for most foot profiles.
Testing the Speedgoat Mid 2 GTX in 90+ degree weather. (Photo by Mary-Beth Rose)
Weighing in at 13.20 ounces, the Speedgoat Mid 2 GTX are great for spring and summer approaches as well as short thru-hikes. The jury is still out on whether these are ideal for multi-day adventures where extra support and cushion may be appreciated.
Aaron wore low-cut socks and didn’t have any issues with the foam collar. (Photo by Mary-Beth Rose)
If you’re looking for a versatile hiking shoe that’s not boot-heavy, but also able to hold up in inclement weather, the Hoka One One Speedgoat Mid 2 GTX should tickle your fancy.
https://www.hokaoneone.com/men-view-all/speedgoat-mid-gore-tex-2/1106532.html
