Brand: REI
Category: Running General
Recommended by Nicole Nachlas, Trail Runner — Austin, TX
Highlights: cushioned, grippy
The Speedgoat 7 Trail-Running Shoes are designed for serious trail runners seeking unparalleled comfort and grip on rugged terrain. With advanced cushioning and a durable outsole, these shoes provide the support needed for long-distance adventures. 1. Lightweight construction featuring a breathable mesh upper for optimal ventilation and comfort. 2. Signature HOKA cushioning technology that absorbs impact, reducing fatigue during long runs. 3. Vibram Megagrip outsole with multidirectional lugs for superior traction on various surfaces. 4. Early-stage Meta-Rocker design that promotes a smooth transition from heel to toe for efficient running. 5. Reinforced toe cap for added protection against rocks and debris on the trail. 6. Available in multiple colorways to suit personal style preferences. 7. Designed with a wider forefoot for enhanced stability and comfort during dynamic movements. The Speedgoat 7 Trail-Running Shoes are ideal for trail running enthusiasts who tackle challenging terrains, including rocky paths and steep inclines. They perform best in varied outdoor conditions, from dry trails to muddy surfaces, making them suitable for year-round use. Targeted at intermediate to advanced runners, these shoes excel in long-distance races and training sessions, providing the necessary support and traction for optimal performance.
Price: $165
- Who it's for
- Trail runners looking for a high-use daily trainer across light to heavy technical terrain, including steep and rocky ground. Notes skew toward frequent, serious trail runners, though a couple of hosts use them more casually.
- What people are saying
- Hosts consistently praise the Vibram grip, cushioning, and ground feel on technical terrain, including steep descents. The wider toe box versus the prior version and minimal break-in time are frequently noted positives; mud performance is flagged as a weakness by one host.
- Worth noting
- The heel counter is not stiff, which one host found helpful for Haglund's deformity. Not recommended for muddy conditions per one note.
Nicole Nachlas's review
I use these for all of my trail runs. They are sturdy and give your feet a good amount of cushion for the terrain. The toe box is wide which is nice. And they pretty much went from box to trail with minimal breaking in.
Recommended by Nicole Nachlas, Trail Runner
Frequently asked questions
Who is the Speedgoat 7 Trail-Running Shoes for?
Trail runners looking for a high-use daily trainer across light to heavy technical terrain, including steep and rocky ground. Notes skew toward frequent, serious trail runners, though a couple of hosts use them more casually.
What do experts say about the Speedgoat 7 Trail-Running Shoes?
Hosts consistently praise the Vibram grip, cushioning, and ground feel on technical terrain, including steep descents. The wider toe box versus the prior version and minimal break-in time are frequently noted positives; mud performance is flagged as a weakness by one host.
What should you know before buying the Speedgoat 7 Trail-Running Shoes?
The heel counter is not stiff, which one host found helpful for Haglund's deformity. Not recommended for muddy conditions per one note.
What does Nicole Nachlas say about the Speedgoat 7 Trail-Running Shoes?
I use these for all of my trail runs. They are sturdy and give your feet a good amount of cushion for the terrain. The toe box is wide which is nice. And they pretty much went from box to trail with minimal breaking in.
Why does Nicole Nachlas recommend REI?
Nicole Nachlas recommends the REI Speedgoat 7 Trail-Running Shoes for running general. I use these for all of my trail runs. They are sturdy and give your feet a good amount of cushion for the terrain. The toe box is wide which is nice. And they pretty much went from box to trail with minimal breaking in.
Is the Speedgoat 7 Trail-Running Shoes a good running general?
Yes — Nicole Nachlas recommends the Speedgoat 7 Trail-Running Shoes by REI as their running general pick. I use these for all of my trail runs. They are sturdy and give your feet a good amount of cushion for the terrain. The toe box is wide which is nice. And they pretty much went from box to trail with minimal breaking in.
How cushioned is the Speedgoat 7 Trail-Running Shoes?
In Nicole Nachlas's experience: I use these for all of my trail runs. They are sturdy and give your feet a good amount of cushion for the terrain. The toe box is wide which is nice. And they pretty much went from box to trail with minimal breaking in.
More from Nicole Nachlas's 10 Products I Actually Use
View Nicole Nachlas's expert gear recommendations on Rendezvu
What other hosts are saying
13 experts recommend the REI Speedgoat 7 Trail-Running Shoes.
Awesome trainer for all kinds of trails. More minimal than some of my other shoes, really stable and good feel of the terrain
Recommended in Trail Running Essentials
Tyler Sarkisian, Endurance / Strength Athlete + Coach
size 12. great all around trail shoe
Recommended in Trail Run
Dreama Walton, Trail & Ultrarunner, Coach and Founder of DreamAdventures and Dreama Team Way
I run in the women's version but love it. I feel connected to the earth but confident in the outsole grip to fly over the trails!
Recommended in New to Running?
Current daily trail trainer. These don't bother my haglunds since the heel counter isn't super stiff. Good for light to heavy technical terrain, just not in the mud. Techy downhills don't feel as dangerous with these heart shaped lugs
Recommended in Items Gavo Uses Daily
Maggie Perkins, Runner and Professional Wildflower Admirer
My go-to, daily driver.
Recommended in Running Tried and Trues
the speedgoat is sooooo back! This has been my adventure shoe this summer while training for CCC and frolicing around the Washington Cascades. I trust the vibram grip with my life and its proved durable on and off the trail
Recommended in Shoes
Andy Ia, Community Leader, Runner, Triathlete
These have worked well for the limited trail running I do. I didn't break my ankles so that's a win
Recommended in Shoes
Jamie Hunyor, Ultrarunner & field botanist
Consistent training on trails and gravel roads requires a consistent shoe. The Speedgoat 7 has been exactly that for me this summer.
Recommended in Daily drivers
Snug and secure. Used for short mountain racing and training runs. Solid support.
Recommended in Shoes that I have used and wear
Scott Herstik, Merchant Marine/ Mountain Athlete
I’ve ran in the speed goats my entire trail career. The 7 is my favorite one they’ve ever put out. The toe box is a bit wider than the 6 and really great in steep terrain.
Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use
My favorite daily trail trainers!
Recommended in The Items I ACTUALLY Use and Love!
My go to trail shoes. Provide a decent amount of stability, a grippy sole, and good cushion for a trail shoes
Recommended in Race day Essentials
