The Nike Wildhorse 6 has completely designed since the previous versions. Both the ride and the appearance are different and quite frankly, it feels and looks like a different shoe. Complete redesigns of shoes can be good or bad, but for the most part, I think Nike has done a great job and the shoe has changed for the better.
The most significant change in the Nike Wildhorse 6 is the new “React Foam Midsole.” Previously the Wildhorse used Phylon. The bottom of the Nike Wildhorse 6 now includes a segmented rock plate as well as larger lugs. As I moved to California, I’ve enjoyed a few more trail runs so I’ve needed a decent trail shoe.
Nike Wildhorse 6 Quick Facts:
Nike Wildhorse 6 Weight:
Nike Wildhorse 6 Heel to Toe Drop:
Nike Wildhorse 6 Fit:
Nike has had a reputation for running narrow, but the Nike Wildhorse 6 fits relatively true to size. The toe box has plenty of room. I found the toe box comfortable and not overly narrow.
The higher up collar of the Nike Wildhorse 6 hugs your foot but also prevents dirt and debris from getting in the shoe. I always worry the higher collars will rub and cause blisters like both the Brooks Levitate 2 and Brooks Hyperion Elite) Plus, the woven heel helps your foot feel more secure.
In the Nike Wildhorse 6, I didn’t have an issue and forgot the collar was that high up. On the back, there is a utility tab to easily pull the shoe on and off without damaging the heel counter.
The upper of the Nike Wildhorse 6 is made from a tightly woven breathable mesh that transitions into the heel. It’s light, yet durable.
Typically I wear between a women’s size 10-11 wide and the Nike Wildhorse size 10.5 fit well. I do have a wider foot and the Nike Wildhorse 6 fits perfectly.
Nike Wildhorse 6 Ride:
The major changes to the Nike Wildhorse 6 come in the midsole. It’s been redesigned with Nike React foam. The React Foam provides extra cushioning in the heel as well as a soft and smooth ride. According to Nike, the React Foam also creates stability to keep your foot on the platform. I’ve felt the stability in the Nike React Infinity Run, but I don’t feel it as much in the Nike Wildhorse 6.
The Technical Details of the Wildhorse 6:
React Foam: The React Foam in the Nike Wildhorse 6 makes it one of the most cushioned trail running shoes out there. If you’re looking for a trail shoe with a lot of cushion, the Nike Wildhorse 6 is one of the better options. It’s not as responsive as several trail shoes, but there is plenty of cushion. For me, this makes the Nike Wildhorse 6 a good trail shoe for runnable trails and less for technical trails. I prefer something lower to the ground for the technical trails (that way I’m less likely to roll an ankle). Since the trails out here are less technical, I appreciate it for longer hikes or runs.
Rubberized Heel: The part of the shoe that draws your attention first is the rubberized heel. According to Nike, the rubberized heel keeps the Wildhorse stable, secure and lightweight on the trail.
Segmented Rock Plate: The Nike Wildhorse 6 also features a segmented rock plate. The segmented rock plate covers the top 1/3rd of the shoe. The problem is, it leads a gap of about an inch between the forefoot and the midfoot. Ok so? I’ve got rocks caught between that 1 mm that I’ve felt while hiking through. It hasn’t been a frequent problem and more of annoyance, I know if I log more miles in the Nike Wildhorse 6, it will become more of an issue.
For a trail shoe, I would think protection from rocks would be an essential feature. Where the rock plate is in the Nike Wildhorse 6 gives the best protection, I just wish it was over the entire shoe.
Nike Wildhorse 6 Outsole:
In trail shoes, outsoles and traction are some of the essential features. In the Nike Wildhorse 6, the updated outsole delivers traction and responsive cushioning. The outsole of the Nike Wildhorse 6 uses an anti-clog rubber, which a sticky rubber pad on the bottom. I also found while hiking, it’s excellent, and I don’t lose traction on the trails.
Nike Wildhorse 6 Conclusion:
The Nike Wildhorse 6 is a welcomed update to the Wildhorse. My issue, however, is the 1-inch rock plate gap that has already been an issue a couple of times. I like the Nike Wildhorse 6 until the specific times I feel a small rock or sharp something wedge itself into that small gap. It’s a relatively minor problem but a noticeable one. I’ll still use the Nike Wildhorse 6 for hiking, but hopefully, Nike updates that issue for the Nike Wildhorse 7.
Current Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Saloman Sonic 3 Balance, Brooks Glycerin 18, Mizuno Rider Waveknit 3, Nike Pegasus 37, New Balance 1080 v10, Diadora Mythos Blushield Blushield Hip 5, Asics Cumulus 21
Speed Work: New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike Pegasus Turbo 2
Long Runs: Brooks Ricochet 2 Shoe Review, New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Hoka Cavu 2
Trail Running/Hiking: Nike Wildhorse 6, Saucony Peregrine 10, New Balance Hierro v5
Races: New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%, Saucony Endorphin Pro, Brooks Hyperion Elite, New Balance fuelcell TC, Reebok Run fast Pro
You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.
If you’re interested in learning more about running shoes, I wrote an ebook and you can read here.
Questions for you:
What is your favorite trail shoe?
Have you tried the Nike Wildhorse 6?
It’s almost like someone from outside Nike designed this shoe and that’s why it’s kind of awesome.
Don’t ask Tim what he is running in right now…the answer will shock you ha ha!