Nike Zoom Terra Kiger 7 Review
Familiar Kiger Speed and Style for All Trails
Likes
- Secure fit
- Low-profile design
- More supportive than previous models
Dislikes
- Outsole traction
- Could be lighter
What's New
Nike has improved the Terra Kiger's durability and traction in version 7 with a redesigned lug layout on the outsole. Furthermore, a segmented rock plate in the heel helps improve the overall protection offered by this shoe. The Terra Kiger 7 has a softer feel than its predecessors thanks to its updated Zoom Air Unit, which has been shifted from the heel to the forefoot. Finally, Nike has updated the fit of these trail favorites, which is relatively snug with a familiar low-volume midfoot.
The Bottom Line
If you want to speed down the trails and look good while doing it, then the Nike Zoom Terra Kiger 7 is the trail shoe for you. These nimble, lightweight speedsters offer an excellent balance of protection and responsiveness with the help of a full-length React foam midsole and an Air Zoom unit in the forefoot. This impressive combination adds a springy bounce to each stride and will encourage runners to floor it as they navigate over backcountry terrain. Nike has also upgraded the Kiger's outsole with a new lug configuration, though our testers noted that the shoes did not instill the confidence they desired to fly through highly technical terrain. The redesigned segmented rock plate, which has now been moved to the heel of the shoe, delivers quality protection from trail debris. That said, the Terra Kiger's overall level of protection is probably best suited for shorter efforts. Overall, there is a lot to love about the new Terra Kiger 7, and those looking to add a stylish, lightweight trail shoe to their rotation will love this model.
Shoe Performance
Shoe Softnessi
FirmSoftRide/Energy Returni
Less SpringyMore SpringyUnderfoot Protectioni
LowHighFlexibilityi
RigidElasticUpper Supporti
StructuredAdaptableSpecifications & Fit
How It Fits
| Toe Box | Width: Medium | Height: Medium |
| Midfoot Volume | Medium to Low |
| Heel Width | Medium |
| Arch Height | Medium to High |
Shoe Specs
| Weight | Men's: 10.0 oz (size 9) | Women's: 8.8 oz (size 8) |
| Stack Height | 31 mm (Heel), 27 mm (Forefoot) |
| Terrain | Trail |
| Stability | Neutral |
| Sizing | True to Size |
Our In-Depth Look
Shoe Softnessi
For a faster, lower-profile trail shoe, the Terra Kiger 7 offers a soft and comfortable underfoot feel. The Nike React foam midsole is balanced, providing soft landings and an energetic return that makes trail runs a blast.
Erik: "As with the previous version, the React foam in the midsole delivers an excellent underfoot feel. The Terra Kiger is a lower-profile shoe, and as such, you aren't going to get a max cushioned experience when you hit the trails."
Ride/Energy Returni
Nike designed the Kiger to be an agile trail shoe that can handle speedy paces, and version 7 really highlights these attributes. The midsole features a full-length slab of Nike's React foam, which is both soft and responsive, offering a great ride for a variety of trails. The speedy nature of the Kiger is accentuated further by the addition of Zoom Air pockets in the forefoot, which delivers an even more responsive feel.
Erik: "With the React foam in the midsole and a Zoom Air Unit in the forefoot, this shoe provides just enough cushion underfoot for comfort and enough pop to run fast. The Terra Kiger 7 responds very well when it's time to pick up the pace."
Underfoot Protectioni
Although the Terra Kiger is a lower-profile shoe, it still offers enough protection from trail hazards to keep things comfortable and fun while running. The updated segmented rock plate in the heel provides additional defense against rough terrain without being intrusive. Also, the outsole's updated multi-directional lug design provides decent grip over loose rock and hard-packed trails.
Erik: "The rock plate offers just enough protection to get through the rocks and rough terrain that you may encounter on the trails. This shoe isn't designed to run far, so you sacrifice some protection for lighter weight and increased flexibility. If you are looking to go longer distances or prefer a softer, more cushioned underfoot feel, you may find the Kiger lacking a little."
Flexibilityi
It may come as a bit of a surprise, but the Terra Kiger 7 is fairly flexible despite being outfitted with a rock plate in the heel. This flexible design promotes smooth heel-to-toe transitions and highlights the speedy nature of these nimble trail shoes.
Erik: "When I want to run fast, I prefer a shoe that has a lower profile and decent flexibility. Nike's Terra Kiger 7 provides the flexibility I need for faster trail runs despite the rock plate."
Upper Supporti
The engineered mesh upper is soft, lightweight, and breathable, which contributes to the Terra Kiger's comfortable on-foot feel. The midfoot lacing system helps deliver an excellent lockdown that does not falter when on the trail. Also, the padded tongue provides additional levels of comfort and protection. Overall, the Kiger's upper will satisfy the needs of most trail runners.
Erik: "The Terra Kiger 7 has a similar upper to that of the previous version, with enough support to keep you locked in when moving fast and cornering. I have a narrow foot and found there to be plenty of room throughout the shoe. The overlays are not too abundant and are strategically placed to provide support without being constricting. The padded tongue also carries over from the previous version and provides additional protection and comfort. If anything, it is a little too padded and could be minimized just a touch."
Nike Men's Terra Kiger
Nike Terra Kiger
Individual Thoughts
The Terra Kiger 7 stays true to the line's reputation as a relatively lightweight and low-profile shoe that is great for moving fast over the trails. This version is a little beefed up from the previous one, but there is still a good mix of protection and flexibility. The only thing missing from the Kiger is an outsole with top-end traction to better grip a wider variety of trail terrain. I found this shoe to fit true to size and had no complaints in this area. I continue to be impressed with the bold color schemes in the Nike trail line, but don't worry if you typically prefer a more subdued color; Nike has you covered there as well.
