Speedland GS:BLK Review: Back in Black

Introduction to the Speedland GS:BLK

ALEX: The Speedland SL:PDX was one of the first shoes I ever reviewed back in 2021, so I was really excited to get my hands on the new GS:BLK and see what Speedland has been up to. From the beginning, Speedland has stood out as a brand willing to push innovation and premium tech earlier and more aggressively than many others.

The GS:BLK isn’t a reinvention, and it doesn’t pretend to be. There’s no forced overhaul here, no dramatic pivot just to justify a new release. Speedland has been clear in past iterations that they aren’t mass-producing shoes or chasing trends, and the GS:BLK reinforces that ethos. This is thoughtful, intentional design: small refinements made where they matter, leaving the core experience intact for fans of the brand.

What we like about the Speedland GS:BLK

ALEX: The most obvious and recognizable feature of the GS:BLK is the BOA Fit System, and it’s still one of the things that makes Speedland stand apart from other brands. The dual-dial setup makes it quick and so easy to achieve that Goldilocks fit in a way traditional laces just can’t. Over long training runs and races when my feet get puffy, terrain varies, or conditions change, being able to make on-the-fly (on-the-run?) adjustments without stopping to untie and retie laces (with my puffy fingers) is a real advantage.

The midsole combination of the external HTPU chassis and the removable drop-in midsole creates a smooth, fun ride that is both protective and responsive on descents and uneven terrain.

Traction is another area where the GS:BLK stands apart. Or maybe, more literally, above the rest. The 6.5 mm Michelin lugs grip everything: mud, snow, loose dirt, a bit excessively. Given the aggressive nature of the outsole, I did not find these compatible with dry, buffed-out singletrack. On soft terrain or loose technical trails, however, the GS:BLK will shine.

The combination of small details is what makes me really appreciate this shoe. The protective toe bumper adds confidence on loose, technical terrain, the rockered platform promotes a smooth ride and efficient turnover, and the overall build quality feels premium throughout. The all-black colorway (I will take this colorway in every shoe, please) fits the clean and understated vibe.

A note on the removable Carbitex plate

Speedland offers an optional, removable Carbitex GearFlex plate for $35, which you can add or remove depending on what you want from the shoe. On its own, that price feels surprisingly reasonable, especially considering how much a plate can transform the shoe. I did not test the GS:BLK with a plate, though it made me pause and think: if a removable performance plate can cost $35, why don’t we see this kind of modular approach in more trail shoes, especially those priced under $200?

Speedland is situated at the premium end of the spectrum, but the idea itself feels accessible and forward-thinking, and it hints at a direction the rest of the trail shoe world could eventually head. Maybe?

What we don’t like about the Speedland GS:BLK

ALEX: While the BOA system brings with it a lot of benefits, it’s not without drawbacks. For me, the top BOA strap requires significant tightening to achieve a true heel lock, and once dialed in, it can create pressure across the top of the foot, particularly on descents and later in long runs when swelling increases.

The aggressive lug depth, while excellent on softer terrain, can feel like overkill for everyday training or dry, buffed-out singletrack. Runners who spend most of their time on hard-packed trails may find it excessive.

And while this isn’t necessarily a negative, it’s worth stating clearly: the GS:BLK is not a major departure from previous Speedland models. Aside from refinements and aesthetic updates, the core experience remains very familiar.

Final thoughts on the Speedland GS:BLK

ALEX: The Speedland GS:BLK is a shoe that gets better the more time you spend in it. After break-in, it feels natural and dialed, especially over longer efforts where a secure fit, traction, and protection matter.

For me, this is a mid- to ultra-distance shoe on softer ground: mud, snow, wet trails, maybe mixed mountain terrain. It’s not my daily choice for dry, groomed singletrack.

For those who appreciate premium materials, modular design, and intentional refinement, the GS:BLK is a compelling choice.

You can pick up the Speedland GS:BLK for $275 from Running Warehouse (featuring free shipping and 90-day returns) by using the button below.