The Altra Mont Blanc and Hoka Speedgoat 5 are two of the most popular trail running shoes on the market today. With maximum cushioning and rugged outsoles, these shoes are built to handle miles of technical terrain.
But with differences in drop, stack height, materials, and intended uses, which of these trail shoes is the better option? This in-depth comparison highlights the key similarities and differences to help you decide.
Similarities And Differences Between Altra Mont Blanc and Hoka Speedgoat 5:
| Specs | Altra Mont Blanc | Hoka Speedgoat 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Launched In | 2022 | 2022 |
| Stability | Neutral | Neutral |
| Flexibility | High | Moderate |
| Sizing | Men’s 7.5-14, Women’s 6-11 | Men’s 7-14, Women’s 5.5-11 |
| Weight | 10.2 oz (men’s 9), 9.2 oz (women’s 8) | 10.6 oz (men’s 9), 9.5 oz (women’s 8) |
| Cushion | Altra Ego Max foam midsole | CMEVA + Profly+ foam midsole |
| Outsole | MaxTrac rubber | Vibram Megagrip |
| Midsole | Altra Ego Max foam | CMEVA + Profly+ foam |
| Upper | Engineered mesh + TPU overlays | Engineered mesh + TPU overlays |
| Retail Price | $180 | $155 |
Features Comparison
Materials
The Altra Mont Blanc uses an engineered mesh upper with TPU overlays for structure and durability. The midsole utilizes the company’s new Ego Max foam which aims to provide soft yet responsive cushioning. The outsole is made of MaxTrac rubber.
In contrast, the Hoka Speedgoat 5 combines an engineered mesh upper with TPU overlays with the brand’s signature CMEVA foam and the responsive Profly+ foam in the midsole. The outsole uses Vibram Megagrip rubber for traction.
Durability
Both shoes are built to handle rugged mountain trails and have sturdy TPU overlays protecting the mesh uppers. The rubber outsoles are also designed for traction and durability.
Reviewers note the Altra may have a slight edge for long-term durability while some report the upper mesh on the Hoka Speedgoat 5 is more prone to tearing. Overall, both provide good durability for intense trail use.
Fit
A key difference between these shoes is the fit. The Altra Mont Blanc has the brand’s signature FootShape toe box which is wider and allows toes to splay naturally. It provides a very comfortable, roomy fit.
The Hoka Speedgoat 5 also has a wide toe box but is not quite as spacious as the Altra. Both models cater to runners with wider feet. However, the Altra likely accommodates the widest feet. The Altra also has a zero drop platform while the Hoka has 4mm of drop.
Stability
With their neutral platform and midsole cushioning, both the Altra Mont Blanc and Hoka Speedgoat 5 provide decent stability without being overly controlling. They allow natural movement and gait biomechanics.
The Hoka’s midfoot Meta-Rocker creates a smooth transition from heel to toe. For neutral runners, both deliver sufficient stability for varied terrain. Those needing pronation control may require additional insoles or support.
Cushioning
Maximal cushioning is a key focus in both of these trail shoes. The Altra Mont Blanc provides plush yet responsive cushioning through its 25mm stack height Ego Max foam midsole. Similarly, the Hoka Speedgoat 5 delivers very soft cushioning with its high 32mm stack of CMEVA and Profly+ foam.
Testers find both provide good energy return and shock absorption mile after mile. The Hoka caters to runners who prefer an ultra-cushioned feel, while the Altra offers a slightly lower profile.
Value for Money
With its lower $155 retail price, the Hoka Speedgoat 5 edges out the $180 Altra Mont Blanc in terms of value. The thicker midsole foam provides very plush cushioning for less.
However, the Altra still delivers decent value for those wanting maximum foot shape and zero drop. Both utilize premium materials suiting their high-end pricing. In short, the Hoka gives you more cushion per dollar spent.
Performance Comparison
For Walking
The thick cushioning and responsive midsoles of both shoes make them suitable for walking and running. The Altra Mont Blanc’s zero-drop platform maintains natural foot positioning and low impact, while the Hoka Speedgoat 5’s Meta-Rocker creates smooth heel-to-toe transitions when walking.
Both have excellent shock absorption thanks to their midsole foams. The Altra’s wide toe box allows unrestricted toe splay when walking while the Hoka still provides a relatively spacious forefoot.
For Running
Optimized for trail running, both shoes deliver great traction and cushioning mile after mile. The lug patterns on the outsoles dig into the dirt and technical terrain.
Testers found the Hoka Speedgoat 5 forgiving for ultramarathon distances while the Altra Mont Blanc maintains energy and comfort better for shorter distances like 5Ks to marathons.
The Altra excels on flatter, less technical trails while the Hoka performs better descending steep, rocky terrain thanks to its wrapped foot frame.
For Plantar Fasciitis
The ample cushioning in both the Altra and Hoka helps reduce discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis during activity. The soft, responsive midsoles absorb shock evenly throughout each step. The lack of a post or excessive stability elements prevents uneven weight distribution.
The Altra’s wide toe box allows proper toe splay to reduce tension on the plantar fascia. The Hoka’s Meta-Rocker creates a smooth transition that can also help reduce strain. Overall, both are strong options for reducing PF pain.
For Standing All Day
Although designed for the trails, the cushioning in both shoes makes them suitable for extended periods of standing. The compressed EVA and Profly foams retain energy to fight fatigue from standing for long stretches. The wide profile of both shoes provides lateral stability when standing in one place.
The Altra’s zero drop design maintains natural positioning that may help reduce lower back and foot discomfort when standing or walking all day. The thicker Hoka Speedgoat may have a slight edge for prolonged standing in total comfort.
Final Verdict
In summary, the Altra Mont Blanc and Hoka Speedgoat 5 each have strengths that make them ideal for certain runners. The Altra Mont Blanc is best for runners who prefer a lower cushioned zero-drop shoe with ample toe room.
It excels for varied distances from 5Ks to 50-milers across flatter terrain. The Hoka Speedgoat 5 maximizes soft, responsive cushioning ideal for ultramarathons and downhills.
It suits those wanting a very well-cushioned shoe with moderate stability features. Both are durable, cushioned trail shoes suitable for neutral runners. Choose the Altra for a wider toe box or the Hoka for maximum plushness underfoot.