Nike Wildhorse 7 Review Analysis (2022)
Last update: April 2024
The Nike Wildhorse 7 is a comfortable trail running shoe for easy terrains.
The Consensus
Let’s cut to the chase: the Wildhorse 7, like its predecessor, disappointed testers overall. The cushioning is soft and comfortable, but this contributes to some instability. Also, despite the rigid segmented rock plate, trail runners complained of feeling the rocks while running. This configuration can be comfortable as long as you stay on trails that are not too rugged.
The upper remains the shoe’s strongest point with its comfortable and precise lockdown. Nevertheless, although sufficiently wide, the toe box is too low, which has caused irritation and even pain for some trail runners. Finally, the grip is decent on dry ground but insufficient on wet surfaces like mud. Also, testers criticized the lack of flexibility of the outsole (that translates into a rubber block), which contributes to making the shoe unstable.
In summary, despite a successful design and an ambitious configuration, the Wildhorse 7 is not convincing. It can be a comfortable option for easy trails, but beyond that, we advise you to opt for another model, like its much more impressive colleague: the Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7.
- Comfortable cushioning
- Upper that offers a precise foot lockdown
- Sleek design
- Affordable price for the quality
- Little protection against rocks
- The poor grip on wet surfaces
- Lack of stability
Technologies
Outsole
- The resilient rubber of the outsole gives secure traction on trails.
- The multidirectional lugs increase the grip on trail courses to serenely face the most challenging conditions.
- The segmented rigid rock plate protects the foot from sharp stones on rocky terrains. It also increases the durability of the shoe.
Midsole
- React: the plushest foam in Nike’s collection. It allows a soft and lively underfoot feel.
Upper
- The Nike Wildhorse 7’s upper is an engineered mesh that comfortably keeps the foot secure in the shoe while offering ventilation, especially in the summer.
- The gaiter-like collar enhances in-shoe feel and prevents dust and gravel to enter inside the shoe.
- Dynamic Fit is a midfoot support system that maximizes security and comfort by eliminating the space between the foot and the upper.
- The forefoot overlays maximize foot lockdown and the upper’s robustness to increase the lifespan of the shoe.
Facts
Technical Specs
| Terrain | Trail |
| Pronation type | Neutral |
| Drop | 8 mm |
| Heel stack height | 30 mm |
| Forefoot stack height | 22 mm |
| Features | Integrated gaiter, Rock plate |
| Weight (men) | 301 g/10.6 oz |
| Weight (women) | 273 g/9.6 oz |
| Release year | 2021 |
Cushioning
| Softness (1-5) | 4 – Soft |
| Bounce (1-5) | 3 – Moderate |
Technologies
| Outsole | Resilient rubber, multidirectional lugs, segmented rigid rock plate |
| Midsole | React |
| Upper | Engineered Mesh, gaiter-like collar, Dynamic Fit, forefoot overlays |
Use
| Speed | Moderate |
| Distance | Mid, long |
| Workout | Daily runs |
Reference: Wildhorse 7’s official page on Nike
Comparisons – Nike Wildhorse 7 vs.:
Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7
With more cushioning than before, the Terra Kiger 7 is getting closer and closer to the Wildhorse on paper. However, it’s more stable with a better grip, while being more protective. We strongly recommend that you choose it over the Wildhorse. See the side-by-side comparison.
Nike Pegasus Trail 2
Again, there’s a clear winner between these two trail models: the Pegasus Trail 2 has more springy cushioning and better grip. See the side-by-side comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This shoe is based on a regular sizing chart and testers confirm that it fits correctly. So you can choose your usual size.
Yes, this shoe should normally be suitable even if you’re a heavyweight runner. Indeed, The Nike Wildhorse 7 has a stack height of 30 mm under the heel, which is enough to support most people.
This Nike trail running shoe is very suitable for different types of training and distances. However, testers note a lack of protection and grip, which bounds the shoe to easy terrain. Ultramarathon courses can be technical, so we wouldn’t recommend this shoe.
