We all already know that the Nike Trail section has been doing things right for some time now, and that its commitment to offering the best sports shoes for the mountains is just as solid as its long history of running shoes for running on asphalt. A clear example of this line of business of the Oregon brand are the Nike Wildhorse 8, which have been renewed with a very well-defined argument: to return to their origins.
These renewed Nike Wildhorse 8 are all-terrain trail running shoes, designed to face the most extreme conditions in trail territory. A studied balance between cushioning, stability and comfort, as well as a more secure fit, is the main hallmark of these Wildhorse 8. That is, the "wild horse" of Nike Trail comes wilder than ever.
Nike Wildhorse 8, back to the origins. What are its keys?
It is more accurate to speak of novelties than of keys, because the presentation of these Nike Wildhorse 8 represent a disruptive change in the trend that we had seen in the previous versions of this top of the range in cushioning for running in the mountains of Nike. A change of trend that is inspired by a return to the past.
It is obvious that this Nike Wildhorse 8 looks more like the Nike Wildhorse 5 than the Nike Wildhorse 6 and/or Nike Wildhorse 7.
A current and modern aesthetics
Let's start with the review of the most notable new features of these Nike Wildhorse.
The Nike Trail designers have given up introducing the innovative Cushlon Ring system, seen in the Nike Wildhorse 6 and Nike Wildhorse 7 versions, which was located in the heel area to increase cushioning and stability, as well as a more secure feel.
This improves the product 's aesthetics and running efficiency, but also improves comfort from start to finish, and over a variety of terrains.
Superior cushioning level
That the midsole of this Wildhorse 8 includes the full-length react foam means that your strides will not only be well cushioned and more comfortable, but you'll also enjoy increased energy return. This is also reinforced by the wide toe box for added comfort.
This strategic area of the shoe is completed with a hybrid outsole that combines high-abrasion rubber compounds to improve grip and contact feel on the ground.
Reliable and secure geometry
It is one of the few points that remain from the previous versions, because these Nike Wildhorse 8 maintain that geometry with heel heights of 35mm. and 27mm. of to embody a drop of 8 millimeters. A heel drop consistent and safe enough for heel-striking trail runners. But not excluding, far from it, for those who land on their midfoot in training and long distance races.
Redesigned upper
The upper of the Nike Wildhorse 8 has also been redesigned with new materials, featuring a lighter and more breathable technical mesh, but which also offers the necessary support and support in the landing phase, and even in the lateral movements.
The idea is that the instep area, at midfoot level, wraps the foot better, making it more secure and safe.
Resistant heel plate
The disappearance of the Cushlon Ring system from the rear does not mean that the shoe loses performance, far from it. Thanks to the inclusion of this resistant plate in this strategic point of the model, it is possible to enjoy efficient and stable cushioning, even on the roughest and most complicated terrain.
Nike Wildhorse 8 vs Nike Pegasus Trail 4
Having seen the main strengths of these Nike Wildhorse 8, it is also necessary to put them in context within the Nike running shoes catalog for mountain running.
We have already mentioned that with the release of the first version of the Nike Pegasus 36 Trail, the Oregon brand experienced a before and after in its trail running section. It is true that the Nike Wildhorse and Nike Terra Kiger families were already on the market, but since the Nike Pegasus Trail version was launched, all Nike trail running shoes have evolved, making a quantitative and qualitative leap.
Thus, the review of the Nike Trail products line is as follows:
Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 8
The lightest, most dynamic and agile option from Nike. Designed for a trail runner profile with some experience on trails and mountain routes, and with the idea of running at fast paces. A competition trail shoe with maximum guarantees. Not in vain, the Dutch athlete Nienke Brinkman was crowned as the fastest in the Alpine Marathon Zegama-Aizkorri 2022 with this Nike model.
Nike ZoomX Zegama
Nikes premium offroad shoe, which takes inspiration from Nike s most representative models for running on asphalt - Nike Air Zoom Tempo Next% or Nike Invincible 3 - offers an option that guarantees a balance between cushioning, energy return and grip for not overly technical terrain. The first Nike trail running shoe to employ the ZoomX midsole. That pretty much says it all.
Nike Pegasus Trail 4
The concept of these Nike Pegasus Trail 4 is more than clear, and it is no other than to take the successful formula of the Nike Pegasus 39 from the asphalt to the mountains. That is, comfortable cushioning, agile response and high protection. All spiced up in a lightweight and durable design to make it one of the most versatile alternatives in mountain terrain.
Nike Wildhorse 8
The Nike Wildhorse 8 is the top-of-the-line cushioning shoe from the North American company for mountain running. All its changes confirm that they deliver what they promise: comfort, performance and top-level protection for the trail runner to be able to face long distances, and in the most difficult terrains. In other words, they ensure rugged traction, reliable support and responsive cushioning.
Nike Juniper Trail 2
In the specific case of the Nike Juniper Trail 2 is the model with the best quality and price ratio of Nike Trial, and that stands out to include the Nike Grind material, consisting of recycled material, that makes it the most sustainable option for running in the mountains of Oregon. All its design is aimed to promote a uniform, reliable and safe footprint on dirt trails.
Nike Juniper Trail 2 Next Nature
Nike Juniper Trail 2 Next Nature
What is the recommended trail runner profile of the Nike Wildhorse 8?
The Nike Wildhorse 8 is aimed at runners of medium to heavy weight. It is a very interesting option for runners over 75 kilos and runners over 60 kilos. With the advantage that the athlete wears a reliable, stable and safe model in a wide variety of mountain terrains.
They respond with great efficiency to greasy and decomposed terrains. They perfom at their best in long distances, adapting to a great variety of rhythms.
Final conclusion and RUNNEA Score's evaluation of the Nike Wildhorse 8
In summary, all the new features of this Nike Wildhorse 8 reflect a model with resilient upper traction, soft, lightweight and responsive cushioning; and offers the confidence needed for the most demanding workouts, or even the toughest trail races of unlimited miles and rugged terrain.
By the way, our exclusive RUNNEA Score algorithm awards a round score of 8 out of 10, which is a B+. Compare prices at RUNNEA to make with the best discount Nike Wildhorse 8
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