New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v7 vs HOKA Speedgoat 5: The duel for the most comfortable trail shoe on the market

New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v7 vs HOKA Speedgoat 5: The duel for the most comfortable trail shoe on the market
Gorka Sedano
Gorka Sedano
Journalist and popular runner
Posted on 08-06-2023

In the world of trail running, choosing the right shoes is becoming more and more complicated. New brands, dozens of models? Today at RUNNEA we want to make it easier for you to choose the perfect trail running shoe. We're going to compare two of the most popular trail runningshoes on the market: the New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v7 and the HOKA Speedgoat 5 Both are known for their comfort, good cushioning and for being optimal for easy paced runs on not particularly technical terrain. But each has its own strengths. Let's break them down to help you decide which is the best choice for you.

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New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v7

New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v7: Comfort and Durability

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v7 is known for its exceptional comfort. The Fresh Foam X midsole provides soft, responsive cushioning, making them ideal for long distances. In addition, the Vibram rubber outsole ensures exceptional grip on any surface, from muddy trails to slippery rocks.

The upper of these shoes is made from a durable and breathable synthetic mesh that conforms to the foot for a secure and comfortable fit. This means you can run for hours without worrying about blisters or discomfort.

In addition, the New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v7 are renowned for their durability. Despite their light weight, these shoes are built to withstand the rigors of trail running, so you can rely on them to last you for many miles.

  • Fresh Foam X Midsole: This cushioning technology provides a soft, responsive feel with every step, making them ideal for long distances.
  • Vibram rubber outsole: This outsole offers exceptional grip on any surface, from muddy trails to slippery rocks.
  • Synthetic mesh upper: This durable, breathable material conforms to the foot for a secure, comfortable fit.
  • Weight: 303 grams (for a men's size 42).
  • Drop: 8 mm.
  • Gore Tex version available

HOKA Speedgoat 5: Versatility and lightness

On the other hand, the HOKA Speedgoat 5 is known for its versatility. These shoes are ideal for a wide range of terrain, from technical trails to gravel roads. This is largely due to their outsole, which includes Vibram MegaGrip compound, Traction Lugs technology and 5mm lugging. These features improve traction by 20% over its previous version, allowing you to run with confidence on any surface.

The CMEVA foam midsole provides high cushioning and optimal flexibility, making these shoes comfortable for long distance running. In addition, the upper includes an engineered mesh that enhances adjustability, comfort and breathability.

The HOKA Speedgoat 5 is also known for its durability. Despite their light weight, these shoes are built to withstand the rigors of trail running, so you can rely on them to last you for many miles.

  • CMEVA foam midsole: This cushioning technology provides an elevated and flexible feel, making them comfortable for long distance running.
  • Vibram MegaGrip compound outsole, Traction Lugs technology and 5mm lugging: These features improve traction by 20% over the previous version, allowing you to run with confidence on any surface.
  • Engineered mesh upper: This material improves fit, comfort and breathability.
  • Weight: 292 grams (for a size 42 men's shoe).
  • Drop: 4 mm.
  • Gore Tex version available

Both the New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v7 and the HOKA Speedgoat 5 are excellent choices for trail runners looking for comfort, support and cushioning. Both offer these 3 features along with durability and traction that make them ideal for running on terrain that is not especially technical. However, the choice between one or the other will depend on your personal preferences. If you value comfort and a secure fit, the New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v7 might be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for versatility and lighter weight or even more speed, the HOKA Speedgoat 5 might be the perfect choice.

Ultimately, the best trail shoe for you will be the one that best suits your individual needs and preferences. We recommend you try both models and decide which one you like best. No matter which one you choose, we are confident that you will be well equipped to take on any trail running challenge. But before you buy, compare prices at RUNNEA.

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Gorka Sedano

Gorka Sedano

Journalist and popular runner

Graduate in information sciences from the University of the Basque Country. Journalist by vocation and profession. They say that dreaming is free, but without perseverance, those dreams do not materialize. I am a popular runner, one of those who looks at the heart rate monitor to see the kilometers run rather than the time invested in running them. I am passionate about sports equipment.