Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Trail Running Shoes

Hoka Speedgoat 7 vs Salomon Speedcross 6

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Hoka Speedgoat 7 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.8 vs 4.7). The gap is mostly about trail runners wanting one shoe for varied terrain — read the strengths below before deciding.

Hoka Speedgoat 7
Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Trail Running Shoes
Hoka Speedgoat 7
$160

The Speedgoat 7 is the best-overall pick — Hoka's flagship trail shoe with supercritical EVA foam.

Strengths
  • Supercritical EVA foam — super responsive
  • Vibram Megagrip outsole
  • Balanced cushion + traction + stability
Watch-outs
  • Higher stack than minimalist runners prefer
  • Newer foam less long-term data
  • Premium pricing
Salomon Speedcross 6
Ranked #2 in Best Trail Running Shoes
Salomon Speedcross 6
$145

The Speedcross 6 is the soft-terrain pick — Salomon's flagship for mud, snow, and loose soil.

Strengths
  • Mud Contagrip outsole with deep arrow-shaped lugs
  • Bombproof upper
  • Best traction in mud / snow / wet grass
Watch-outs
  • Aggressive lugs feel awkward on hard-pack
  • Heavier than Speedgoat
  • Narrow fit

How they stack up

Hoka Speedgoat 7

Best all-around. Vibram Megagrip. Supercritical foam.

Salomon Speedcross 6

Best soft-terrain traction. Narrow fit. Awkward on hard-pack.

Specs side-by-side

SpecHoka Speedgoat 7Salomon Speedcross 6
Drop4mm10mm
OutsoleVibram MegagripMud Contagrip
MidsoleSupercritical EVA
BrandHokaSalomon
LugsDeep arrow
← See the full ranking of best trail running shoes