Shoe of the Week: Nike Air Zoom Wildhorse 3

Nike enhanced this shoe by significantly updating the upper, cushioning and outsole and, in the process, finally differentiated it from its other current trail shoe, the lower-to-the-ground and less cushioned Air Zoom Terra Kiger 3. Although the new version of the Wildhorse is about an ounce heavier than the previous one, the changes make it a better shoe for long runs on more technical terrain. Aggressive treads on the outsole—a mix of sticky rubber down the center and chunky lugs around the perimeter, including on the rounded heel—makes for solid grip on a range of surfaces. Enhanced protection comes from a durable but flexible rock plate under the forefoot, and TPU overlays across the toes and around the heel, keeping rocks and other trail debris from jabbing feet. It has a comfortable upper that pulls securely around the foot via lightweight Flywire cables. Minimal seams throughout mean zero irritation on your feet. Testers raved about the shoe’s smooth ride, which comes from a combination of the anatomically rounded heel and springy cushioning compounds. It has a wider toe box for toe splaying (and foot swelling) but a more snug midfoot fit.

“I was really impressed by how well this shoe performed on dry trails as well as on wet, technical terrain,” said one tester. “It provides a lot of protection for your feet without feeling the least bit clunky.”

Despite the enhancements and extra material, the Wildhorse still offers amazing proprioceptive “feel” for the trail, allowing it to be both fast and agile as well as notably cushioned for long-haul comfort.

This shoe is for you if: You run a variety of trails at a range of speeds and distances and want a shoe that has some cushion and protection but doesn’t sacrifice the “feel” of the trail.

Price: $110
Weights: 10.3 oz. (men), 8.8 oz. (women)
Heel-toe Offset: 8mm; 26mm (heel), 18mm (forefoot)
Info: NikeRunning.com

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