Versatility and adaptability is one of the most important aspects that popular runners take into account when buying their trail running shoes, since this way, they can use them both in training and competitions in the mountains at different paces and speeds.
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Go to the Shoe FinderThe brands invest in their catalogs of trail running shoes to have models that stand out for their versatility and that adapt to a wide profile of runners, becoming all-terrain models and references in the market.
The Nike Wildhorse 8 and the Merrell Agilty Peak 5 are two examples of this, versatile, comfortable shoes that allow us to run on a wide variety of mountain terrain. In this article we will focus on these two shoes with similar characteristics, we will see the main similarities and differences between them.
Nike Wildhorse 8, in detail
It is one of the all-terrain shoes par excellence of the American multinational for running in the mountains and that, in this latest version, take a step forward by presenting several new features that we will see below and that improve its performance with regard to their predecessors.
Main technologies of the Nike Wildhorse 8
It's time to go into a little more detail on the novelties and technologies present in the shoe and that make this model one of the most outstanding of the brand, we highlight the following features:
React Foam
The midsole is one of the most important areas of a trail running shoe, the foam present in this model is the dual density React foam, which gives us a great combination of softness and reactivity.
It is one of the shoes with maximum comfort and cushioning but that combines wonderfully with that reactivity that we need if we want to squeeze a little more out of the shoe during our most demanding workouts or competitions in which we want to participate.
Resistant heel plate
It is one of the elements that we most appreciate if we run on uneven terrain or with a large presence of small stones and that not all trail running shoes incorporate. With the presence of this plate we ensure greater protection for our feet to run comfortably on these more complicated terrains.
New design
The shoe has an upper with a more modernized design compared to previous versions and also improves in important aspects such as comfort and breathability as the degree of ventilation of the shoe is improved.
Merrell Agility Peak 5, in detail
We are sure that we are not wrong if we believe that this model is one of the most popular and recognized of the American brand. In this latest version it has been improved in different aspects that we will see below. A sign of the quality of the shoe is that it was recognized with one of the awards at the prestigious ISPO fair in Munich.
Main technologies in the Merrell Agility Peak 5
It's time to go deeper into the analysis of the shoe, looking at the main features and technologies present in this latest version, among which we highlight the following:
FloatPro foam
The shoe incorporates the latest evolution of the Floatpro foam that has a medium density to ensure good cushioning and a greater sense of softness and comfort, essential if we want to run or walk long distances with this model.
Vibram Megagrip outsole
Maximum guarantee of durability and grip in the sole, with the presence of one of the most outstanding compounds on the market, the Vibram Megagrip outsole, a reliable insurance during our workouts on the most complicated trails, both dry and wet.
The new Agility Peak 5 is our latest advancement from Merrell with maximum midsole cushioning while keeping our runners connected to the path. We are thrilled to see the growth in trail running participation and with the introduction of the Agility Peak 5, we are looking to introduce even more runners to trail running. Nathan Buelow, senior brand manager at Merrell.
A commitment to sustainability
An increasingly important aspect for the big brands in the sector, sustainability and the use of recycled materials while maintaining the highest quality at all times. In the Merrell Agility Peak 5, fully recycled materials are used in the inner lining, laces and straps, while the EVA foam insole is made with up to 50% recycled materials.
Who is each of these trail shoes for: Nike Wildhorse 8 vs Merrell Agility Peak 5?
Both shoes stand out for adapting to a wide profile of runners, however we can extract some small differences between the two shoes.
Beginner Trail Runners
For this profile of runners we choose the Merrell Agility Peak 5 because we can also use them perfectly for trekking routes or similar ideal activities to get started in trail running and to provide extra stability and protection during our first workouts in the mountains.
Intermediate trail runners
Either of the two options is a good choice, depending largely on the type and morphology of each runner, the objectives and preparation of each one or the terrain on which they usually train and race.
Experienced Trail Runners
Surely neither of the two options is aimed at this profile of runner as they need more specific shoes for their disciplines (maximum cushioning for ultra distance or greater speed for shorter and explosive distances), in any case, the presence of the React foam tips the balance in favor of the Nike Wildhorse 8 for that extra reactivity and dynamism.
Pros and cons
Nike Wildhorse 8
Pros
- Great combination of cushioning and reactivity
- Excellent cushioning
- Good cushioning
Cons:
- Weight could be lightened in future versions
- Durability of upper fabric
Merrell Agility Peak 5
Pros
- Greater versatility than previous editions
- Very good traction on any type of surface
- Maximum comfort over longer distances
Cons:
- Lacks a bit of reactivity and dynamism.
- Higher price than the Nike Wildhorse 8
Which is the more versatile shoe?
As we have seen throughout this article, both shoes have similar characteristics and are aimed at the same runner profile. The final choice will depend, to a large extent, on the objectives and priorities of each athlete, always taking into account the type of terrain on which we train frequently.
If we are looking for maximum versatility, to use the shoe beyond our trail training, on excursions or trekking routes or for any other outdoors sporting activity, we would choose the Merrell Agility Peak 5 for its great comfort at slower paces.
If we are looking for a more exclusive use of trail, to run comfortably and with a good response of the sole in both easy and technical terrain, the choice would be the Nike Wildhorse 8
Anyway, whatever your choice, from RUNNEA we are sure that you are guaranteed a shoe with great versatility to enjoy your workouts in the mountains.
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