Nike Wildhorse 5

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Pro athlete users
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Hiroyasu TanakaKeely HenningerAlex VarnerSally McRae

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Nike Wildhorse 5: Review

β€œA protective trail shoe with a rock plate for moderate trails.”

Overview


The Nike Wildhorse 5 is a trail running shoe designed to offer protection and durability on moderate trails. This shoe is known for its robust construction and protective features.

Key Features:

  • Rock Plate: Provides protection from sharp rocks and trail debris.
  • Nike Air Zoom Technology: Ensures responsive cushioning in the heel.
  • Multilayer Upper: Offers a snug fit and improved ventilation.

The Nike Wildhorse 5 is an ideal choice for trail runners who prioritize foot protection and durability for moderate trail conditions. Its rock plate offers excellent protection, making it suitable for runners who encounter rocky terrains.

Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 20% of running shoes today.

Verdict

The consensus on the Nike Wildhorse 5


The Nike Wildhorse 5 is a trail shoe that excels in providing protection and durability for moderate trails. It features a rock plate and Phylon foam midsole, offering substantial underfoot protection and cushioning. The shoe's upper has been redesigned for a snug fit, although some users find it less comfortable than previous versions. The traction is adequate for dry conditions but struggles on wet or technical terrains. While not built for speed, the Wildhorse 5 is a reliable choice for midweek training runs. Its durability and protective features make it a good value for its price. However, the fit may not suit everyone, particularly those with wider feet. Overall, the Nike Wildhorse 5 is a solid choice for trail runners seeking protection and durability on moderate trails.

Comparable Shoes


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The Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 5 is a good alternative for those seeking a more aggressive outsole and lighter design. It offers better traction on technical trails and is more responsive, making it suitable for runners who need speed and agility. However, the Wildhorse 5 provides more protection and durability, making it a better choice for moderate trails.

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The La Sportiva Kaptiva offers a more aggressive traction pattern and a snugger fit, making it ideal for technical trails. It provides excellent grip and stability, but the Wildhorse 5 offers better cushioning and protection for longer runs on moderate trails. Runners who prioritize grip and agility might prefer the Kaptiva.

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The Scarpa Spin Ultra is known for its robust protection and aggressive traction, making it suitable for technical terrains. It offers a more secure fit and better grip, but the Wildhorse 5 excels in cushioning and comfort for longer distances. Runners who need a balance of protection and comfort might choose the Wildhorse 5.

6 Nike Wildhorse 5 Pros & Cons


3 Pros

Durable and protective with a rock plate.
Lightweight design for long-distance runs.
Good value for the price.

3 Cons

Traction struggles in wet conditions.
Snug fit may not suit wider feet.
Upper can feel uncomfortable for some.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the Nike Wildhorse 5 has been redesigned with a multilayer synthetic material that enhances the shoe's fit and ventilation. It features a combination of inner straps and conventional laces, replacing the previous Flywire system. This design aims to improve foot support and protection, although some users find it less comfortable, particularly over the top of the foot. The upper also includes thermo-seals for added durability and a more modern aesthetic.

Midsole

The midsole of the Wildhorse 5 is constructed with Phylon foam, providing firm cushioning and protection. It includes a segmented rock plate in the forefoot and a Nike Air Zoom unit in the heel, which enhances responsiveness and cushioning. This combination offers excellent protection from sharp rocks and trail debris, making it suitable for runners who encounter rocky terrains.

Outsole

The outsole of the Wildhorse 5 features a waffle-like pattern with dual rubber compounds. This design provides adequate traction on dry and moderately technical trails but is less effective on wet or steep surfaces. The lugs are arranged in a grid pattern, offering a balance between grip and durability. However, the traction may not be sufficient for more aggressive or technical trail running.

Size/fit

The fit of the Wildhorse 5 has been noted to be snug, particularly in the midfoot area. The redesigned upper may feel tight for some runners, especially those with wider feet. The lacing system is non-specific, which can affect the overall lockdown and stability of the shoe. It's recommended to try the shoe on before purchasing to ensure a comfortable fit.

Comfort

Comfort in the Wildhorse 5 is somewhat subjective, with mixed reviews. The Phylon foam provides decent cushioning, but the upper's fit may feel restrictive for some. The shoe is lightweight, making it comfortable for all-day wear, but the snug fit and pressure from the laces can detract from the overall comfort experience.

Cushioning

The cushioning in the Wildhorse 5 is provided by a combination of Phylon foam and a Nike Air Zoom unit in the heel. This setup offers firm cushioning that absorbs impact well, making it suitable for long-distance runs on moderate trails. The cushioning is responsive, providing a comfortable ride without being overly soft.

Breathability

The multilayer upper of the Wildhorse 5 includes mesh panels that enhance breathability, keeping the foot dry and comfortable during runs. The design allows for adequate airflow, which is beneficial for long runs in warm conditions. However, the upper's water-resistant overlay can absorb moisture, which may affect breathability in wet conditions.

Stability

The Wildhorse 5 offers a stable ride with its 8 mm heel-to-toe drop and firm midsole. The shoe's design provides a secure fit, reducing slippage on side-hills or steep grades. However, the snug fit and lack of flexibility in the upper can affect stability, particularly on uneven terrain.

Durability

Durability is a strong point for the Wildhorse 5, with its robust construction and protective features. The multilayer upper and rock plate contribute to the shoe's longevity, making it suitable for runners who log many miles on moderate trails. The outsole's rubber compounds are designed to withstand wear, although the traction may diminish over time.

Grip

The grip of the Wildhorse 5 is adequate for dry and moderately technical trails, thanks to its waffle-like outsole pattern. However, the shoe struggles on wet or steep surfaces, where the traction is less effective. The lugs are not aggressive enough for more technical trail running, which may limit the shoe's versatility.

Flex

Flexibility in the Wildhorse 5 is limited due to its firm midsole and protective features. The rock plate and Phylon foam provide stability and protection but reduce the shoe's ability to flex naturally with the foot. This can affect the shoe's responsiveness and adaptability on uneven terrain.

Who should buy the Nike Wildhorse 5?


The Nike Wildhorse 5 is ideal for trail runners who prioritize protection and durability on moderate trails. Runners who appreciate a firm, cushioned ride with a rock plate for added protection will find this shoe beneficial. It's suitable for those who engage in regular training and prefer a shoe that can handle a variety of trail surfaces. The shoe's lightweight design also makes it a good option for long-distance runners who need a reliable and protective shoe. Trail enthusiasts who encounter rocky terrains will appreciate the shoe's protective features.

Who should not buy the Nike Wildhorse 5?


Runners who prefer a more flexible and responsive shoe may not find the Wildhorse 5 suitable. Those who run on highly technical or wet trails might find the traction lacking. The snug fit may not be ideal for individuals with wider feet, and the upper's design could feel uncomfortable for some. If you need a shoe with aggressive traction or a more comfortable fit, consider alternatives like the Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 5 or the La Sportiva Kaptiva. Neutral runners seeking a more cushioned and flexible ride might look elsewhere.

Nike Wildhorse 5: What's it good for?


The Nike Wildhorse 5 is good for trail running on moderate terrains, offering protection and durability. It's suitable for daily training and long-distance runs, thanks to its cushioning and rock plate. The shoe performs well on dry and moderately technical trails, providing a stable and protective ride. However, it may not be the best choice for wet or highly technical trails due to its traction limitations. Runners who enjoy fore/midfoot striking will benefit from the shoe's design.

5 Nike Wildhorse 5 FAQs


What type of terrain is the Nike Wildhorse 5 best suited for?

The Nike Wildhorse 5 is best suited for moderate trails, offering protection and durability. It performs well on dry and moderately technical surfaces but may struggle on wet or highly technical terrains.

Does the Nike Wildhorse 5 provide good foot protection?

Yes, the Nike Wildhorse 5 provides excellent foot protection with its rock plate and Phylon foam midsole, making it suitable for rocky terrains.

Is the Nike Wildhorse 5 comfortable for long-distance runs?

The Nike Wildhorse 5 offers firm cushioning and a lightweight design, making it comfortable for long-distance runs on moderate trails. However, the fit may not suit everyone, particularly those with wider feet.

How does the Nike Wildhorse 5 perform in wet conditions?

The Nike Wildhorse 5 struggles with traction in wet conditions, making it less suitable for wet or slippery trails.

What is the heel-to-toe drop of the Nike Wildhorse 5?

The Nike Wildhorse 5 features an 8 mm heel-to-toe drop, providing a stable ride for trail running.

Nike Wildhorse 5 alternatives

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Nike Wildhorse 5
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productAthletes
Pro athlete users
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Dan Feeney
Weight
Weight
230 g
M: 247 g
W: 207 g
M: 241 g
W: 213 g
289 g
M: 179 g
W: 150 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
20 mm
7 mm
19 mm
18 mm
23 mm
12 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
8 mm
6 mm
6 mm
4 mm
4 mm
Heel
Heel
28 mm
13 mm
19 mm
24 mm
27 mm
16 mm
Terrain
Terrain
Trail
TrailTrailTrailSnow/iceTrailTrail
Brand
Brand
Nike
Inov-8AltraMerrellSauconyLa Sportiva
Support Type
Support Type
Neutral
NeutralNeutralNeutralNeutralStabilityNeutral
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
LightweightLightweightLow dropZero dropLightweightLow dropLightweightLow drop
Rock plate
Rock plate
Breathable
Breathable
Orthotic friendly
Orthotic friendly
Removable insole
Removable insole
Rocker
Rocker
Techs
Techs
Nike Air Zoom
Vibram
BOA
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Vegan β“‹
Sustainable
0

Nike Wildhorse 5: what the experts say (2 reviews)

Nike Wildhorse 5: 3 Expert video reviews

Nike Wildhorse 5 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2049)
TerrainTrail (+533)
BrandNike (+261)
Support TypeNeutral (+1603)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1578)
Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike (+1116)Heel strike (+1097)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1525)
FeaturesRock plate (+127)
TechsNike Air Zoom (+56)
ColorwaysBlack / Grey, Multicolour Lt Orewood Brn Black Blue Fury 000, Pumice University Gold Oil Grey
Specificationsvs Average
Released
Apr 2019
Measurements
Heel to toe drop
8 mm
Heel
28 mm
Forefoot
20 mm

6 pro athletes who've used Nike Wildhorse 5

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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