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Head-to-head · Best Trail Running Shoes

Hoka Speedgoat 7 vs Salomon Ultra Glide 4

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

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The short answer

Hoka Speedgoat 7 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.6 vs 4.3). The gap is mostly about Trail runners seeking responsive cushioning — read the strengths below before deciding.

Hoka Speedgoat 7
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Trail Running Shoes
Hoka Speedgoat 7
11 sources$184.9as of Sep 4

The Hoka Speedgoat 7 returns with a refreshed midsole using Supercritical EVA for improved responsiveness and a more modern feel. Reviews highlight the enhanced upper design with flexible forefoot vamp and gaiter attachments, while the Vibram Megagrip outsole provides reliable traction across varied terrain. The shoe maintains its reputation for high-stack protection and stability, though some runners still find it needs a sizing adjustment. It's best suited for all-terrain trail running and long-distance runners seeking a balance of cushioning and control.

Strengths
  • — Improved midsole responsiveness with Supercritical EVA replacing CMEVA
  • — Enhanced upper design with woven textile and flexible forefoot vamp for better comfort during long runs
  • — Vibram Megagrip outsole with deep 5-mil lugs for reliable traction on mixed surfaces
Watch-outs
  • — Still requires a sizing adjustment for some runners
  • — Not the most cushioned experience compared to competitors
$184.9 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Salomon Ultra Glide 4
Ranked #6 in Best Trail Running Shoes
Salomon Ultra Glide 4
11 sources1 derived$160as of Sep 4

The Salomon Ultra Glide 4 offers a max-stack cushioning experience with a rockered ride that performs well on easier trails and long-distance runs. Reviewers noted its plush foam, secure fit, and premium upper, though the low energy return and sharp toebox limit its appeal. It's best suited for forefoot strikers and narrow-footed runners seeking a comfortable, versatile trail shoe, but those wanting faster performance may find better options elsewhere.

Strengths
  • — Smooth, rockered ride with plush foam cushioning
  • — Premium upper with secure fit and Quicklace system
  • — Excellent comfort and high forefoot shock absorption
Watch-outs
  • — Low energy return due to outdated Energy Foam midsole
  • — Pointy toebox may restrict runners needing toe splay
  • — Above-average weight for a max-stack trail shoe
$160 · Buy at salomon.comFull review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Hoka Speedgoat 7

The Hoka Speedgoat 7 stands out with its Supercritical EVA midsole that offers improved responsiveness compared to the Challenger 8's outdated CMEVA foam, though it lacks the max-stack cushioning of the Challenger 8. Unlike the Altra Experience Wild 3+, it doesn't feature a zero-drop design, and while it provides good traction with Vibram Megagrip, it's not as cushioned as the Salomon Ultra Glide 4. The Speedgoat 7 is best for runners seeking a balance of cushioning and control on varied terrain.

Salomon Ultra Glide 4

The Salomon Ultra Glide 4 offers a smoother, rockered ride compared to the Saucony Peregrine 16, but it lacks the energy return of the La Sportiva Prodigio Pro and is heavier than the Salomon Aero Glide 4 GRVL. While it provides excellent forefoot shock absorption, it's less cushioned than the Hoka Challenger 8 and doesn't match the traction of the Hoka Speedgoat 7. The Ultra Glide 4 is best for forefoot strikers seeking comfort.

Specs side-by-side

SpecHoka Speedgoat 7Salomon Ultra Glide 4
Weight9.7 oz (275 g) for US M10 / 8.3 oz (235 g) for US W89.7 oz / 275g
OutsoleVibram Megagrip with 5-mil lugsAll Terrain Contragrip
Upper MaterialRPET woven textileEngineered Mesh (textile/synthetic)
MidsoleSupercritical EVAoptiFOAM (EVA)
Stack Height{"value": "37 mm"}38.6 mm
Drop5 mm6.0 mm
Lug Depth5mm4mm
Upper—Textile / Synthetic Material
Toe Box—Wide
← See the full ranking of best trail running shoes