Lace up, trail enthusiasts and road warriors! We’re about to embark on an epic showdown between two HOKA titans: the rugged Speedgoat 6 and the sleek Solimar.
Whether you’re conquering rocky peaks or pounding city pavements, choosing the right shoe can make or break your run. So, which HOKA hero will claim victory in this battle of comfort, performance, and versatility? Let’s dive in and find out!
key takeaways:
- The Speedgoat 6 excels in trail running and hiking, offering superior traction and durability for technical terrain, while the Solimar is better suited for everyday road running and urban environments.
- Both shoes feature HOKA’s signature cushioning, but the Speedgoat 6 provides more substantial protection for rough trails, whereas the Solimar offers a balanced ride for daily miles on pavement.
- The Solimar stands out for its use of recycled materials and lower price point, making it an attractive option for eco-conscious runners and those seeking value for everyday use.
- While both shoes offer neutral stability, the Speedgoat 6’s trail-specific features provide enhanced stability on uneven terrain, and the Solimar’s Meta-Rocker technology promotes smooth transitions on roads.
- For specific needs like plantar fasciitis or all-day standing, both shoes offer benefits, but individual fit and comfort should guide the final choice between the more supportive Speedgoat 6 and the more flexible Solimar.
Comparison Table between Hoka Speedgoat 6 And Solimar:
| Feature | Speedgoat 6 | Solimar |
|---|---|---|
| Stability | Neutral | Neutral |
| Flexibility | Moderate | High |
| Sizing | True to size | True to size |
| Weight | 9.80 oz | 8.50 oz |
| Cushion | Balanced | Balanced |
| Outsole | Vibram® Megagrip | High abrasion rubber |
| Midsole | Light, responsive compound | Compression-molded EVA foam |
| Upper | Lightweight woven textile | Recycled content mesh |
| Retail Price | $155 | $125 |
Speedgoat 6 VS Solimar: Features Comparision
1) Materials
The Speedgoat 6 boasts a Vibram® Megagrip outsole with 5mm lugs, providing exceptional traction on technical terrain. Its lightweight woven textile upper offers breathability and foot-hugging comfort. The Solimar features a high abrasion rubber outsole for durability and a stretchy, recycled content mesh upper (88% recycled polyester).
Both shoes utilize EVA foam midsoles, with the Speedgoat 6 featuring a lighter, more responsive compound. The Solimar includes a molded EVA sockliner for added comfort and uses recycled materials in its laces and tongue.
2) Durability
The Speedgoat 6 is built to withstand harsh trail conditions, with its Vibram® Megagrip outsole and protective toe bumper guarding against rocks and debris. Its woven upper balances durability with breathability.
The Solimar, designed for road use, employs a high abrasion rubber outsole for long-lasting wear. Its recycled mesh upper may not be as rugged as the Speedgoat’s but should hold up well for daily road running. Both shoes demonstrate HOKA’s commitment to quality, but the Speedgoat 6 has the edge for extreme conditions.
3) Fit
The Speedgoat 6 features an internal support chassis for secure foot lockdown and a dual-sided gusseted tongue for enhanced comfort. Its dynamic vamp allows for more accommodation in the forefoot.
The Solimar offers an anatomical Achilles construction designed for maximal comfort and support. Both shoes are true to size, but the Speedgoat 6 may feel snugger due to its trail-oriented design. The Solimar’s extended heel pull facilitates easy on and off, which some users might prefer for daily use.
4) Cushioning
Both shoes offer HOKA’s signature cushioning but with different focuses. The Speedgoat 6 provides protective cushion while maintaining a responsive toe-off, ideal for long trail runs. Its lighter, more responsive midsole compound balances comfort with performance.
The Solimar also aims for a balance of protection and responsiveness, utilizing compression-molded EVA foam. It’s designed for everyday miles, offering a smooth ride without the extreme cushioning of some HOKA models. Both provide excellent impact absorption, but the Speedgoat 6 may feel more substantial underfoot.
5) Stability
Both the Speedgoat 6 and Solimar feature neutral stability, providing a symmetrical bed of cushion without additional prescriptive technologies. This design philosophy aims to offer support without overengineering. The Speedgoat 6’s trail-specific features, like its internal support chassis and aggressive outsole, provide enhanced stability on uneven terrain.
The Solimar’s late stage Meta-Rocker™ promotes a smooth transition through toe-off, contributing to stability during road running. While both shoes offer stable platforms, the Speedgoat 6 excels in technical conditions.
6) Value for Money
At $155, the Speedgoat 6 is pricier than the $125 Solimar. However, for trail enthusiasts, the Speedgoat 6’s advanced features and durability justify the cost. It’s a versatile shoe that handles both trail running and hiking.
The Solimar offers excellent value for road runners, with its recycled materials and everyday performance at a more accessible price point. It’s ideal for daily training and casual wear.
Your choice depends on your primary running environment and personal needs, but both shoes offer solid value within their respective categories.
Speedgoat 6 VS Solimar: Performance Testing
1) For Walking
For walking, both shoes offer comfort, but in different settings. The Speedgoat 6’s aggressive traction and protective features make it ideal for trail walks and light hikes. Its cushioning provides all-day comfort on rough terrain.
The Solimar shines on urban walks and casual strolls, with its lighter weight and smooth transition. Its recycled mesh upper offers breathability for warm days.
While both can handle long walks, the Solimar’s more flexible design and lower price make it a better choice for everyday walking, unless you’re frequently on trails.
2) For Running
In the running department, these shoes cater to different crowds. The Speedgoat 6 is a trail running champion, excelling on technical terrain with its Vibram® Megagrip outsole and protective features. It’s built for long distances and challenging conditions.
The Solimar is designed for everyday road running, offering a smooth, responsive ride on pavement. Its late stage Meta-Rocker™ promotes efficient running form. For road runners, the Solimar is the clear choice, while trail runners will appreciate the Speedgoat 6’s specialized features.
3) For Standing All Day
For those on their feet all day, both shoes offer HOKA’s renowned cushioning. The Speedgoat 6’s more substantial midsole and protective design make it suitable for outdoor work environments or long days on varied surfaces.
The Solimar’s lighter weight and balanced cushioning make it ideal for indoor jobs or urban environments. Its recycled content mesh upper might provide better breathability for long wear.
While both can handle all-day wear, the Solimar’s lower price and versatile design make it a more practical choice for most daily standing situations.
4) For Plantar Fasciitis
Both shoes offer features beneficial for plantar fasciitis sufferers. The Speedgoat 6’s robust cushioning and internal support chassis provide excellent arch support and impact absorption, crucial for managing pain.
The Solimar’s compression-molded EVA foam and anatomical Achilles construction offer a supportive, comfortable fit that can alleviate symptoms. The Solimar’s more flexible design might be preferable for some, while others may appreciate the Speedgoat 6’s firmer support. Ultimately, individual comfort and fit should guide the choice for plantar fasciitis management.
Conclusion: Which Is Better For You
Choosing between the Speedgoat 6 and Solimar boils down to your running environment and personal needs. For trail enthusiasts and those seeking a rugged, versatile shoe, the Speedgoat 6 is the clear winner. Its superior traction, durability, and protective features make it a trail running powerhouse.
However, if you’re primarily a road runner or seeking a comfortable, everyday shoe, the Solimar offers excellent value with its smooth ride, recycled materials, and lower price point.
Consider your main activities and try both on if possible to find your perfect HOKA match.