X-talon ultra 260

[Travs]

FWIW i am just about to replace a pair of HOKA SPEEDGOATS (wide, they suit my Bunnions perfectly) that I started using around the end of March and they have now covered around 1500Km and they are just showing signs that the uppers are going behind the toebox, but the Vibram soles which I have found to be plenty grippy enough on the Fells in all conditions, i.m.o still have life left in them and I will continue to wear them.

Ok many will condemn the shoes as being too heavy and bulky but for me they have been a revelation compared to the likes of inov8 etc, I have found the HOKA`s to be supremely comfortable straight from the box no blisters, hot spots, twisted ankles, debris ingress. All in all I have found the Speedgoats to be a great allrounder.

I had a pair of Speedgoats a couple of years ago. Agree with almost all you say... they were incredibly comfortable (perhaps even more comfortable and cushioned than Hoka road shoe models!).

Very durable.

However as you allude to, i thought they were unsuitable for the fells... too bulky, and i found the grip to be insufficient (i ran a very wet and muddy Haworth Hobble in them and was all over the shop).

Though i do suspect you probably have greater poise and technique on awkward ground than me... and as i'm finding with my current shoes, whatever feels good on your feet and makes you confident is not always the same for everyone.