Article by Jeff Valliere and Mike Postaski
Speedland GL:PDX ($250)
Introduction
Jeff V: The Speedland GL:PDX is inspired by the original SL:PDX and the Forest Park Trail System in Portland, Oregon. The PDX is intended for more rugged mountain terrain and all distances.
It features a Perform Fit wrap with a single BOA Fit System Li2 dial combined with velcro strap, tight ripstop mesh upper, beaded HTPU external midsole, blended SCF (supercritical foam) internal midsole, Michelin Fiberlite outsole with 6.5mm lugs. It is Carbitex Gearplate removable carbon plate compatible for an additional $35.. The precision fit, cushion, protection and traction make the PDX a great all mountain, any terrain versatile workhorse.
Pros:
Comfort, cushion, traction, quality, durability, protection, stability, upper with Li2 BOA Jeff
Very flexible (without plate) Mike P
Really like the narrower platform than other Speedland Mike P
Li2 BOA is the way to go (bi-directional) Mike P
No pressure from BOA dial Mike P
Ankle strap works better for me than 2nd upper BOA Mike P
No pressure on top of foot from BOA straps, ankle strap Mike P
Front gaiter loop and rear velcro tab Mike P
Cons:
Velcro strap could be improved Jeff V
A bit roomy in the heel Mike P
Black color - not ideal for hot, sunny summers Mike P
Getting closer to 10oz in my size would be much better Mike P
Please find the testers full run bios at the end of the article after Comparisons.
Stats
Spec Weight: US men's 9 - 10.3oz / 292g
Sample Weights:
US men’s 10 - 11oz (11.6oz w/ Carbitex plate) / 312g (330g w/ Carbitex plate)
US men’s 9.0 - 10.5 oz, 298g (without plate)
Stack Height: men’s 33mm heel / 28mm forefoot (5mm drop spec)
Platform Width: 90mm heel / 80mm midfoot / 115mm forefoot (US 10)
85mm heel / 78mm midfoot / 110mm forefoot (US 9.0)
$240 GL: PDX is available now from Speedland HERE
First Impressions, Fit and Upper
Jeff V: The GL:PDX is one of the latest commissions from Speedland and many of the specs overlap with the SVT. Like the SVT, the PDX has less cushioning and is more nimble and trim than the GS:TAM and the GS:PGH, both offering a higher stack and a more generous fit.
Also like the SVT, the PDX is a bit more streamlined, agile and has deeper lugs.
Slightly different than the SVT and previous Speedland models, the PDX upper features velcro strap closure combined with a single BOA Fit System Li2 dial with Perform Fit wrap integrating for a very soft yet comfortably secure fit.
The Li2 BOA dial is dual direction, meaning that you can rotate in either direction to make micro adjustments to tighten or loosen as desired without having to fully release the dial and start over. I really appreciate having the Li2 dial, as it makes adjustments super quick and easy on the go, amnd which is handy on any run to accommodate for foot swell, terrain or preference.
Like the SVT, if you are using Microspikes/EXOspikes (or other forms of supplemental traction), the upper is thin enough that it can be a bit uncomfortable with traction devices on the shoe (specifically over the toe).
The upper is quite breathable and the material does a great job keeping out trail dust and debris.
Fit is generally true to size in my usual size 10 and very similar to the SVT, with same platform, width and length with the main difference here is that the PDX has one BOA Li2 dial to adjust the lower section of the shoe and instead of another dial, a velcro strap is used to snug up over the top of the foot.
This combination works well, saving on cost and perhaps a little weight. Operation of the velcro strap takes some finesse, as I have found the seam in the middle of the strap causes resistance going through the plastic loop and can be a little futzy.
I eventually got a bit better adapted to it over time, but would love to see this improved to have a smoother flow to it.
Like the SVT, I find that I have a bit of extra room at the end of the toe box, which is not unusual for me (I measure 9.75 on the scale and always round up to 10). If you are on the edge of sizing or prefer smaller for better control in tech terrain, you might consider sizing down a half size depending on your preferences.
The PDX is slightly narrower than the TAM and PGH which is better for my low volume, narrower foot and especially is an advantage in technical terrain.
While there is not a built in gaiter as found on the SVT, the PDX has a mesh collar that does a great job keeping out dirt and debris, a very nice touch. The heel counter is semi flexible with a minimal, but adequate amount of padding.
Mike P (US 9.0): I’m starting to list my size in the Fit section of these reviews because I think that’s important information for those that follow specific reviewers’ sizing across different brands and models. I never, ever wear a 9.0, except for certain cases of sizing mistakes (VJ MAXx 2). I have struggled with Speedland sizing in my testing of the larger platform TAM and PGH models.
I tried US 10.0 in TAM and then 9.5 in PGH but still felt like those two shoes had so much volume and I could never get a good fit. Luckily for me, when we met with Kevin and David at TRE, I was able to try on their upcoming RX:FPY road shoe in a US 9.0. I was shocked that it fit so well so I decided to go with the unusual (for me) US 9.0 in the PDX.
It’s been a great choice so far for me, and this has been the best fitting Speedland shoe, by far for me. I attribute that partially to the ankle strap, but also probably discovering the correct sizing for me (half size down from my typical true to size!).
Please check out my Early Review video HERE to see a closer look and my thoughts on the fit and upper.
Midsole & Platform
Jeff V: The proprietary drop-in (removable) midsole is made of a 100% beaded HTPU compound and is light, soft and responsive in feel, very similar in looks and design to previous Speedland models with just slight variations in shape.
Of course, like other Speedland shoes, the PDX is plate compatible. You can purchase the Carbitex Carbon plate for an additional $35
The plate is easy to add/remove, taking just seconds and is easy enough to do efficiently in the field if you so choose.
I find the SVT to be reasonably quick and responsive, but its weight of 11.6oz (12.25 oz with Carbitex plate) / 332g (350g with Carbitex plate) is a factor if trying to run fast. For me, I do not find the plate to be an advantage from a pure performance standpoint, but I do like using it for most of my runs, if only from a protection standpoint, as most of my runs are rocky and technical. If I were running more moderate trails, softer surfaces, etc…, I would remove the plate.
Mike P: As mentioned in my early video review - I find that this lower, narrower GL platform works much better for me than the GS platform Speedlands that I’ve previously tested (TAM, PGH). Those felt way too big, wide, and overall bulky for me, and I had a hard time ever feeling comfortable with that volume of shoe underfoot. The upper fit on those, being very high volume, also didn’t help.
The GL platform at 33/28mm and on a narrower overall platform (I measured 110/78/85mm for my test pair), is a better fit for my size and weight. The combination HTPU midsole (outer carrier + drop in) is surprisingly flexible. I was struck by this as I had thought the GS models I tested were the opposite - surprisingly stiff (and firm, especially the TAM).
Aside from the flex, there’s a noticeable softer feel underfoot, which makes the shoe feel more agile and flexible - very different in character from the more cruiser-type TAM and PGH. I didn’t really like the Carbitex plate in the other models I tested. They made the shoes feel stiffer, and also added weight to already heavy-ish shoes. The same thought process applies for me here - I like the flex of the shoe as-is, so the plate doesn’t do it for me.
I don’t see it as a necessarily “fast”, runnable terrain type shoe, but as Jeff describes, I could see the plate being used for protection in rocky, technical terrain. It’s a great feature that if you have other Speedlands, you don’t need to buy new plates, you could just swap them in and out across models.
Outsole
Jeff V: The Michelin Fiberlite outsole features deep and aggressive 6.5mm lugs that are sticky and offer superb traction over a wide range of surfaces and conditions.
Like previous models, they have cuttable lugs. Personally, I could not imagine spending $300 on a shoe, to then reduce the overall life of the shoe by cutting the lugs and cannot visualize a scenario where I would want to cut them down (unless I were a sponsored runner and were seriously trying to count grams). Either way, the option is there (you can also snip a drainage hole).
Overall, I find traction to be very good on a wide variety of terrain, be it steep and loose off trail, some snow and frozen snow, rocky slab, in the wet, hard packed dirt, a little mud, etc…
The deeper 6.5mm lugs do make a difference here, especially when loose, muddy or snowy. Thus far, durability has proven to be very good.
Mike P: 6.5mm lugs are the deepest that I’ve ever run in. I definitely notice the enhanced traction in steep sections of loose rocks, and sandy dirt. The deep lugs really dig in, and are especially effective in contouring over terrain given the overall flexible nature of the midsole and shoe itself.
Full coverage rubber is key here as it adds a little bit of extra protection should you choose to forgo the carbon fiber plate. I mentioned in my video that I think the fully connected outsole also helps to add a bit of tension to offset the flexibility of the shoe. I agree with Jeff and wouldn’t recommend trimming the lugs - due to the cost factor and wanting to make them last.
Ride, Conclusions and Recommendations
Jeff V: The ride of the PDX is smooth and dynamic and varies depending on whether you are including the plate or not. With the plate, it is a bit stiffer (though not rigid or tippy), protective and better adapted for harsh terrain and with the added protection. Without the plate, they feel lighter, more nimble, flexible with improved trail feel.
The HTPU midsole is soft, yet stable and overall the PDX runs lighter than the weight might imply.
They are ideal for long runs over technical terrain, but are versatile enough for runs of any length and daily training on just about any terrain or surface.
Despite my minor nitpick about the velcro strap, Speedland once again delivers a shoe that is of the highest quality, most technically advanced and innovative.
For my technical mountain running preference, I find the PDX to be one of the best Speedlands yet and very close to the SVT. While $250 (plus $35 additional for the optional Carbitex plate) is still a lot of money for a shoe, it is encouraging to see the price of Speedland shoes coming down, while still providing the highest level of quality and innovation (the GL:PDX is light years ahead of its predecessor just a few years ago and less in cost). Nice work Speedland!
Jeff V’s Score: 9.6/10
Ride: 9.5, Fit 9.5, Value 9, Style 9.5, Traction 10, Rock Protection 10
😊😊😊😊😊
Mike P: This is my favorite Speedland shoe by far. For me personally, the weaknesses of the previous models I tested - bulk, poor fit/foothold, stiff/firm ride, are all improved with this model. The lower to the ground stack height fits me better, and I’d say for anyone, if you’re looking to run in the technical terrain that this shoe is designed for - this model and also the SVT are great options from Speedland.
Don’t expect a highly energetic and efficient ride from these in “runnable” terrain. Yes, the HTPU midsole feels softer and more responsive underfoot, but the shoe seems to flex and contour over terrain more than it “returns energy”. That makes it highly versatile when the terrain transitions from moderate to technical. In a lot of the dry, runnable terrain nearby, they do feel a bit overbuilt for that, but that really is expected just looking at the shoe and its design and purpose.
The ankle strap is clearly the standout element of this shoe, and actually the element that attracted me to it. It works for me, just as I hoped it would. I can really lock that strap down without any pressure over the middle of the foot. This makes me feel super confident in them when I get out in technical terrain.
At the end of the day, this is indeed a specialized piece of trail “equipment”. They’re definitely staying in my quiver and when I get a chance to mix it up in legit technical terrain - these will surely be a top option.
Mike P’s Score: 9.3 / 10
Ride: 9.5 - My favorite Speedland so far, versatile, leaning technical
Fit: 9.5 - Love the strap for ankle/heel lockdown, sizing down to 9.0 is also key. Still a bit roomy in the heel
Value: 8 - It’s a quality shoe, from a small brand.
Style: 9 - Mint color + simple black is nice
Traction: 10 - 6.5mm lugs.. Flexy shoe
Rock Protection: 8.5 - Surprisingly a lot of ground feel, but you could add the plate in
Smiles 😊😊😊😊
10 Comparisons
Speedland GL:PDX (RTR Review)
Jeff V: The PDX is a bit lighter, only has one BOA dial plus velcro strap, whereas the SVT has two BOA dials and a built in gaiter. Otherwise, they share the same platform/midsole/outsole. I personally prefer the two dials over the dial strap combo as I think it provides a better, more modulated level of foothold and adjustability. The PDX is still an amazing shoe and the $50 savings has a lot of appeal without significant sacrifice.
Speedland GS:PGH (RTR Review)
Jeff V: The PGH is actually a bit lighter, despite more stack and being an overall larger shoe, likely due to the deeper lugs on the PDX, rubber being the heaviest material in a shoe. The PGH has a wider fit and platform and with the additional cushion, is better suited for longer distances on more moderate trails, whereas the PDX with deeper lugs, more secure fit and deeper lugs is better for more technical mountain running.
Mike P (9.5): Unfortunately even at true-to-size in the PGH, they were too big and voluminous for me. Wish I had been onto sizing down in Speedland when I tested both the TAM and PGH. Overall a bulkier shoe in all regards, it was too much for me, especially given the non-secure fi not a good “fit”. In general I think that the GS platform is suited for bigger runners i It’s a lot of shoe underfoot, perhaps too much for lightweight runners. I would love to see that type of foam/outsole setup in a trimmed down setup - similar in size/volume to the PDX. Anyway - I agree with Jeff, the PDX is much better suited to technical terrain for all the aspects he lists.
Hoka Tecton X 3 (RTR Review)
Jeff V: The Tecton X3 is much lighter, faster and more responsive, with a softer foam midsole. It also has a gaiter that is light yet effective that should be industry standard, or at least a gaiter that all shoe companies should do their best to replicate. The Tecton X3 also has amazing traction as well. I think the PDX however is more adept on more rugged, technical mountain terrain, where the Tecton is a pure race shoe for moderate to less technical courses.
Mike P (10.0): Tecton X 3 is surely the more cushioned and efficient shoe for longer distances across all terrain except very technical. It can hold its own for sections of a 100M, but I wouldn’t reach for the Tecton if you were going to be in rugged, technical terrain non-stop. The PEBA midsole is too high and too soft. But again, it’s definitely lighter and faster, and generally a better distance and racing pick.
Salomon Genesis (RTR Review)
Jeff V: The Genesis is a few ounces lighter with its platform a bit narrower in the midfoot and heel, although the same width in forefoot. The Genesis is a faster running shoe, much of that attributed to the lighter weight, but the PDX is more protective (carbon plate), with a superior upper (BOA) and a more aggressive outsole with its 6.5mm lugs (vs. 4.5). The Genesis is exactly half the price (not factoring in the carbon plate).
Salomon S/LAB Genesis
Mike P (10.0): This is a shoe that plays in the same terrain - the S/LAB is more technically oriented than the regular Genesis, with a super dialed Matryx upper and a soft but responsive Energy foam midsole. It’s quite a bit lighter than the PDX, and also more runnable and race-ready. The fit is wide for a Salomon, but still may be snug for some. The Speedland at true-to-size will and work better for high volume feet. I’d give the nod to the S/LAB in all departments except for traction given the Speedland’s 6.5mm lugs. For dedicated loose and technical terrain, would be the scenario to go for the Speedland.
Salomon S/LAB Ultra Glide (Sam’s RTR Review)
Mike P (9.5): I have these in for test right now (20 miles so far) - the Salomon is a smoother riding, more cushioned shoe. It will clearly work better for pure runnable terrain up to moderate technicality, and also better for longer distances. It has a lower volume upper than the Speedland for sure, even a half size up. The Speedland is much more flexible and like other comps, better in more technical terrain. More to come on the Ultra Glide soon..
Saucony Peregrine 15 (RTR Review)
Jeff V: The Peregrine is lighter and quicker overall, with comparable traction, although the PDX’s Michelin rubber outsole has a more sticky compound that is advantageous in the wet or on slabby rock. The PDX has more cushioning, so perhaps is better for longer distances, but the Peregrine is also very well cushioned and protective underfoot given its woven forefoot plate. The PDX upper with single BOA is really nice and makes for easy adjustability. The Peregrine at $140 is a great value.
Hoka Speedgoat 6 (RTR Review)
Jeff V: The SG6 is lighter, has more cushion, is less expensive, has amazing traction and is so versatile, and thus is very popular for good reason. The PDX has deeper lugs and a superior upper which should be more accommodating for most, whereas the SG6’s is a bit tapered and might be bothersome to those with wider feet, and especially over longer distances.
The North Face Vectiv Sky 2 (RTR Review)
Mike P (10.0): Frontrunner for one of the top shoes of 2025 here.. The Sky 2 has such a good fit - and it does it without BOAs or straps, just regular old laces. It’s over 2 ounces lighter, has a flexible carbon plate, and clearly designed as a high speed, short-mid distance racer. Compared to the PDX, it will be limited protection-wise, especially in rocky, technical terrain. The all-around “bumper” design of the Speedland is more impact protective and the 6.5mm lugs are more rugged than the Sky 2’s more runnable 5mm design. Save the Sky 2 for race day, use and abuse the Speedlands on fun technical outings.
La Sportiva Prodigio Pro (RTR Review)
Mike P (10.5): Note the extreme sizing difference between the two brands. I’m 100% a 9.0 in Speedland, perhaps I could go 10.0 in La Sportiva, but no less than that. The Prodigio Pro is another hot 2025 shoe which is unplated, and mountain oriented. I’d say that in comparison to the PDX, it’s more “mountain runnable” than technical. The LS has some definite range into mountain terrain, and its EVA/TPU midsole combo is softer and very energetic as well. It’s clearly better suited to pure running than the Speedland. But again, in rough and rugged scrambles, the PDX would be the pick.
Index to all RTR reviews: HERE
The Speedland GL:PDX is available now from Speedland HERE
Tester Profiles
Jeff Valliere loves to run and explore the mountains of Colorado, the steeper and more technical the better. He has summited all of the 14ers in the state, many 13ers and other peaks in Colorado and beyond, plus, he has summited his local Green Mountain over 2,100 times in the past 20 years. He can be found on mountain trails daily, no matter the weather, season, conditions or whether there is daylight or not. On the side he loves to ski (all forms) bike and hike, often with his family, as he introduces his twin daughters to the outdoors. Jeff was born and raised in New Hampshire, but has called Colorado home for over 25 years. He is 5’9” and 145 lbs.
Mike Postaski currently focuses on long mountainous ultras - anywhere from 50K up to his favorite - 100M. 5'10", 138 lbs, midfoot/forefoot striker - he typically averages 70 mpw (mostly on trails), ramping up to 100+ mpw during race buildups. A recent 2:39 road marathoner, his easy running pace ranges from 7:30 - 9:00/mi. From 2022-23 Mike has won the Standhope 100M, IMTUF 100M, and Scout Mountain 100M trail ultras, winning the Scout 50M in 2024. He also set a CR of 123.74M at the Pulse Endurance Runs 24H and completed the Boise Trails Challenge on foot in 3 days 13 hours, besting the previous record by 7 hours. Mike's shoe preferences lean towards firmer, dense cushioning, and shoes with narrower profiles. He prefers extra forefoot space, especially for long ultras, and he strongly dislikes pointy toe boxes.
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