Nike Trail Running Shoes for 2021

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Here’s the best Nike Trail Running Shoes for 2021.

Road shoes and trail shoes are different from each other, and each of them is made for various purposes. Composition is the main distinction between the two shoes. Road running shoes are usually composed of lightweight materials for agility and responsiveness. On the other hand, trail running shoes are heavier and intended to support and protect the foot on rough terrain.

Nike Pegasus Trail 3 quarter view pair
Nike Pegasus Trail 3 quarter view pair

Here are some of the styles we are going to look at:

Nike Trail Running Shoes for 2021 – Overview

Trail running shoes have durable soles with more dynamic tread patterns to protect you against rocks, twigs, and other barriers you might face on the trails. The soles of trail shoes are extensive and close to the ground to give support on bumpy surfaces, so your ankle won’t twist when the foot comes down on lumps or rocks on the trail.

Nike Pegasus Trail 3 side view right
Nike Pegasus Trail 3 side view right

Additionally, some trail shoes have a protective toe bumper to safeguard against stubbed toes. Some also incorporate a dense insert between the midsole and outsole to protect against injury caused by stepped-on debris. Here are some of Nike’s Trail Running Shoes that deliver a secure feel and breathability as you run over rugged paths.

Nike Wildhorse 7 heel
Nike Wildhorse 7 heel

Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7

The Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 has an excellent upper with its open mesh, cushioned tongue protective toe rand, and lacing system that keeps the foot well-protected. It has a more flexible forefoot feel and cushioning with the larger, full-length dose of React foam that stays flexible and doesn’t shrink even after several runs. The midsole has the most noticeable change as the same Zoom Air unit was transferred from the heel to the forefoot of the Terra Kiger 7 and renders extra responsiveness, restoring your energy to help lead you down the trail.

Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 top view
Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 top view

The multidirectional traction lugs in the forefoot and heel are made from high-abrasion rubber. Nike has also enlarged the rock plate on the Terra Kiger 7 on the midfoot and heel with segmentation that enables high-grade flexibility. The shoe has a stack height of 16.5mm in the heel and 12mm on the forefoot with a 4.5mm heel-toe drop. The new outsole pattern of Terra Kiger 7 digs deeper on steep uphill and downhill. The slim, cushioned collar renders soft support and a sleek look and the padded tongue helps alleviate tension caused by foot swelling over long-distance runs.

Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 quarter view pair left
Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 quarter view pair left

Nike Pegasus Trail 3

The Nike Pegasus Trail 3 has been around for almost forty years and now comes with some refinements on purpose and construction. The main variations involve a trail-specific tread, distinctions in the upper, and the absence of a forefoot Zoom Air unit. The React foam from heel to toe is not as soft as in Kiger 7 but is still reasonably soft with responsiveness providing you protection while allowing you to feel the ground.

Nike Pegasus Trail 3 side view right
Nike Pegasus Trail 3 side view right

It also has the right amount of stability that feels natural. The shoe provides rugged traction to help you in rocky terrain and more support around the midfoot to help you feel protected on your venture. A dynamic band system around the midfoot gives you reliable support as you deal with bumpy paths.

Nike Pegasus Trail 3 outsole
Nike Pegasus Trail 3 outsole

Nike Wildhorse 7

The upper of the Nike Wildhorse 7 is the shoe’s most significant point with its relaxed and well-defined lockdown. It presents durable ventilation with support where you need it, while the foam midsole cushioning renders responsiveness on every mile. The multidirectional traction lugs in the outsole are built from high-abrasion rubber. They help provide intensified grip on descents and ascents.

Nike Wildhorse 7 outsole
Nike Wildhorse 7 outsole

Wildhorse 7 also uses Nike React foam that offers a soft, smooth ride and adds a little bounce to your step. The extra cushioning around the heel helps keep your foot protected and the skins at the toe deliver durability for severe terrain. The shoe has a gaiter collar around the ankle that locks your foot and helps keep dirt and debris out. The segmented rock plate helps protect your foot on rough terrain, while the utility tab is placed in the back for easy on and off.

Nike Wildhorse 7 quarter view pair
Nike Wildhorse 7 quarter view pair

Nike Trail Running Shoes for 2021 Review – In Summary

That’s our look at the best Nike Trail Running Shoes for 2021.

Your choice of shoes will determine your success on the road or trails, whether you are a novice runner or an elite marathoner. If you choose to run on the trail, a good shoe that fits properly and is suitable to the terrain you plan to run on will help you succeed and overcome. The right shoe will also guarantee that you remain fit enough to enjoy your fitness/running journey.

Nike Wildhorse 7 top view
Nike Wildhorse 7 top view

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Nike Pegasus Trail 3 back view pair
Nike Pegasus Trail 3 back view pair

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