Our verdict

The Terra Kiger 9 is a fantastic trail-blazer, boasting React cushioning—a shock-absorbing foam that delivers great energy return and durability. Its multidirectional lugged outsole provides stellar traction on dry surfaces, while the engineered mesh upper offers ample room for being a Nike shoe. And what's more, we found it's impressively lightweight!

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  • Bouncy and durable React foam
  • Excellent grip on dry terrain
  • Built-like-a-tank upper
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  • Light and agile
  • Remarkable value at $150
  • Outstanding choice for forefoot strikers

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Audience verdict

90
Superb!

Who should buy

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  • Frequently tackle dry conditions and need a roomy upper
  • Seek a trail shoe that is both cushioned and lightweight
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After putting the Kiger 9 to the test across various conditions, we advise against choosing this model if your usual runs or hikes involve some water or high-humidity surfaces.

jordans for girls high heel trail running shoe with superior grip in wet conditions like the Hoka Speedgoat 5 would serve you better. And if you want something really fast for racing purposes, the carbon-plated Endorphin Edge it's faster and seems a better choice from our end.

nike terra kiger 9 2 20008613 main

Cushioning

Heel stack

We precisely measured the Kiger 9's heel stack at 30.1 mm. While this figure sits below that of the average trail shoe, it's worth noting that it's 2.0 mm thicker than its predecessor.

Considering the Kiger's reputation as a speedy and agile shoe, we welcome this measurement. It's precisely what we were hoping for when it arrived!

nike free for sprinting Heel stack
Test results
Terra Kiger 9 30.1 mm
Average 31.9 mm
Compared to 137 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
19.6 mm
Heel stack
42.4 mm

Forefoot stack

Switching focus to the forefoot, we find 25.7 mm of React foam. This amount makes the shoe a fantastic option for those who strike midfoot or forefoot. Plus, it provides enough cushioning to protect our feet from rocks and other trail hazards—remember that there's no rock plate in this one.

nike terra kiger 9 forefoot stack 20008626 main
Test results
Terra Kiger 9 25.7 mm
Average 24.5 mm
Compared to 137 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
13.4 mm
Forefoot stack
33.9 mm

Drop

Subtracting the forefoot measurement from the heel gives us a 4.4-mm drop.

This figure may seem low compared to the average trail shoe, but it's a smart choice for those favouring midfoot-to-forefoot striking or anyone looking for an agile shoe that can tackle technical terrain. After all, super-steep shoes are the last thing we need in such conditions.

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Test results
Terra Kiger 9 4.4 mm
Average 7.5 mm
Compared to 136 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
-0.1 mm
Drop
17.3 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

We measured the Kiger's foam 17.3 HA of softness with our durometer, so this shoe provides a comforting and gentle touch on the foot, no surprise given it's a full layer of React foam. 

In a head-to-head comparison with the Kiger 8, our measurements reveal an astounding transformation—34.0 HA (v8) to 17.3 HA (v9)—which translates to a ride that's 97% softer in the latest model.

nike terra kiger 9 midsole softness 20008628 main
Test results
Terra Kiger 9 17.3 HA
Average 22.6 HA
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Compared to 113 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
9.1 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
39.0 HA

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Even when temperatures drop, the Kiger 9 continues to offer a reliable performance. Although it's not as plush at 22.9 HA, it still outperforms the majority of other shoes.

We've got a noticeable softness change of 32.8% when we compare room temperature with post-freezer conditions (20 mins). This kind of change is definitely something you can really sense underfoot.

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Test results
Terra Kiger 9 33%
Average 26%
Compared to 113 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
5%
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68%

Insole thickness

For us that love light shoes, we often have to accept that a thinner insole is part of the deal. While it's clear that a thicker insole enhances comfort, it also adds weight, so brands strive for a perfect balance.

Nike opted for a 3.9-mm insole in the Kiger 9, and we're okay with that despite being less than the average. It might be a touch too thin for the longest ultra-races, but for anything else, it gets our EdiconnectShops seal of approval!

nike free for sprinting Insole thickness
Test results
Terra Kiger 9 3.9 mm
Average 4.7 mm
Compared to 135 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
2.1 mm
Insole thickness
7.9 mm

Size and fit

Size

nike free for sprinting is true to size (159 votes).

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1 size small ½ size small True to size ½ size large 1 size large
Compared to 121 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
½ size small
Slightly small
True to size
Slightly large
½ size large

Toebox width - widest part

For those of us with wider feet, we've often found Nike shoes to be exceptionally snug. However, we've seen a refreshing change recently. The Kiger 9, with its commendable width of 103.1 mm, exceeds the average trail shoe's dimensions.

This makes it one of the finest choices from Nike for those of us born with medium-to-wide feet.

nike free for sprinting Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
Terra Kiger 9 103.1 mm
Average 99.0 mm
Compared to 122 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
92.6 mm
Toebox width - widest part
104.9 mm

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The big toe area measures a spacious 78.3 mm, which provides more than sufficient room for nearly all feet.

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Because of that, there's also ample room for our toes to move freely even in the hottest days.

nike terra kiger 9 toebox width at the big toe 20013917 main
Test results
Terra Kiger 9 78.3 mm
Average 79.4 mm
Compared to 83 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
70.5 mm
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90.1 mm

Stability

Lateral stability test

Once we felt the softness of the foam underfoot, we had no illusions about the Kiger 9 being a stability champ. And that's perfectly fine if it delivers decent stability—which is the case.

Torsional rigidity

The respectable stability of the shoe, in part, is due to its moderate flexibility. We assigned a score of 3 out of 5, which aligns closely with the average.

This tells us that Nike chose not to gamble absent, steering clear of making the shoe excessively rigid to boost stability, which could potentially sacrifice comfort. And a proper Kiger needs to be comfortable.

Test results
Terra Kiger 9 3
Average 3.6
Compared to 131 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

Nike plays it safe once again with the heel counter stiffness test, scoring a middle-of-the-road 3 out of 5. This no-risk strategy is bound to appeal to the vast majority of trail runners.

Test results
Terra Kiger 9 3
Average 3.1
Compared to 129 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

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Nike chose to address the foam softness challenge in the stability department by widening the midsole.

nike terra kiger 9 forefoot strike 20013923 main

Crafting an impressively wide landing platform of 115.3 mm—exceeding the average trail shoe width by more than 4 mm—they've successfully ensured stability on even the plushest foam. The landings are rock-solid for those of us that are midfoot-to-forefoot strikers.

nike terra kiger 9 midsole width in the forefoot 20008633 main
Test results
Terra Kiger 9 115.3 mm
Average 112.3 mm
Compared to 137 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
102.1 mm
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124.3 mm

Midsole width - heel

While the heel of the Kiger 9 is broader than most trail shoes, it doesn't match the generous width of the forefoot. This design choice likely results from two factors:

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  2. The shoe's design clearly caters to midfoot or forefoot strikers, thanks to its low drop and magnificent forefoot landing base.

For heel strikers who favour low-drop shoes, the Kiger 9 could be a good match. However, if a higher drop and a wide heel are more your thing, we'd recommend the Hoka Challenger 7.

nike terra kiger 9 midsole width in the heel 20008634 main
Test results
Terra Kiger 9 89.9 mm
Average 89.5 mm
Compared to 137 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
72.0 mm
Midsole width - heel
106.0 mm

Flexibility / Stiffness

We're genuinely impressed with the agility of the Kiger 9 during our trail runs, a feature largely attributable to its minimal stiffness.

This flexibility is precisely what we seek in a versatile trail shoe.

Test results
Terra Kiger 9 23.5N
Average 27.2N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 137 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
5.6N
Flexibility <> Stiffness
54.5N

Stiffness in cold (%)

Following a 20-minute stint in our freezer, the shoe exhibited a noticeable increase in stiffness. Even so, it remains more flexible than the majority of trail shoes.

The contrasting measurements demonstrate a 46.4% hike, resulting from the Kiger's React foam—a blend of TPE and EVA. This mix leads to less-than-optimal performance in cold weather because of the EVA. Our advanced guide offers a more in-depth look at this aspect.

Test results
Terra Kiger 9 46%
Average 32%
Compared to 134 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
3%
Stiffness in cold
90%

Weight

The Kiger 9 is a lightweight champion. We tip our hats to Nike for the impressive weight-loss journey they've put this shoe through with each new release. What-a-diet!

Shoe (US size 9) Weight Difference
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It's crystal clear that the v9 is a remarkable update in the weight department.

nike terra kiger 9 weight 20008624 main
Test results
Terra Kiger 9 10.16 oz (288g)
Average 10.23 oz (290g)
Compared to 137 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
7.51 oz (213g)
Weight
12.66 oz (359g)

Breathability

Trail running shoes often come with double or even triple-layer uppers, which can limit their breathability. 

Upon our silver lab inspection of the Kiger 9, we anticipated that its breathability wouldn't be top-notch. However, it proved to be adequate. We conducted our state-of-the-art smoke test and rated its breathability a run-of-the-mill 3 out of 5.

The nike presto utility wolf grey paint black trim, for instance, outperformed the Kiger 9, scoring a 4 out of 5 in our test.

This level of ventilation works for 95% of runs, but on a particularly hot day out there in the trails, we might favour something cooler.

A thin fabric layer in the Kiger 9 increases comfort but restricts airflow, as shown in the video above.

In our light test, the Kiger 9 showed to us how thin is the engineered mesh created for this shoe by Nike.

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But nothing like our microscope to expose the finer details of the shoe's upper construction.

Nike chose a thin, engineered mesh without any large ventilation holes, an option that inevitably affects breathability.

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Test results
Terra Kiger 9 3
Average 3.2
Compared to 113 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! The Kiger 9 has one of the sturdiest uppers we've ever put to the test. It's so good that, after testing it with our Dremel, we just have to give it the highest score: a solid 5 out of 5!

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nike free for sprinting Toebox durability
Test results
Terra Kiger 9 5
Average 3.1
Compared to 94 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

At 3/5, our Dremel test result make us confident that heel padding durability isn't something to worry about with the Terra Kiger 9.

Test results
Terra Kiger 9 3
Average 2.9
Compared to 93 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

We measured the outsole at 84.1 HC in the lab, we find ourselves dealing with an average trail outsole, one that should last the entire lifespan of the shoe.

It offers lovely grip in dry conditions. But—like many Nike nike sb supra black shoes sale free—it could really be better on wet surfaces.

nike free for sprinting Outsole hardness
Test results
Terra Kiger 9 84.1 HC
Average 85.7 HC
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Compared to 137 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
75.5 HC
Outsole hardness
96.1 HC

Outsole thickness

We clocked the outsole thickness at 2 mm—a notch below average but still suitable for this shoe.

We agree to Nike's well-judged decision; a thicker outsole would burden the shoe with additional weight, damaging its agility, which is a key aspect for any performance-driven trail shoe.

nike free for sprinting Outsole thickness
Test results
Terra Kiger 9 2.0 mm
Average 2.3 mm
Compared to 137 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
0.9 mm
Outsole thickness
5.5 mm

Misc

Grip / Traction

Switching focus to the forefoot, we find 25.7 mm of React foam. This amount makes the shoe a fantastic option for those who strike midfoot or forefoot. Plus, it provides enough cushioning to protect our feet from rocks and other trail hazards—remember that there's no rock plate in this one.

Lug depth

The Kiger 9, marketed as an all-rounder trail shoe ready to handle nearly any terrain, features 4.4-mm lugs. These are sufficient for most technical trails and work well on gravel or easy paths. 

Yet, if our plan would be to spend a lot of time navigating mud, snow, or other particularly soft surfaces, we would favour a shoe with taller lugs. A great example would be those on the nike women shoes blue pink black dress flowers.

nike terra kiger 9 lug depth 20013914 main
Test results
Terra Kiger 9 4.4 mm
Average 3.5 mm
Compared to 136 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Lug depth
5.8 mm

Tongue padding

Boasting a cushy 7.2 mm thick tongue, the Terra Kiger 9 is pretty much a lace-bite-free zone.

nike terra kiger 9 tongue padding 20013919 main
Test results
Terra Kiger 9 7.2 mm
Average 6.3 mm
Compared to 137 nike sb supra black shoes sale free
Number of shoes
1.3 mm
Tongue padding
12.3 mm

Tongue: gusset type

The Terra Kiger 9 features a semi-gusseted tongue—a design choice that we can appreciate, even though our preference generally leans towards fully-gusseted tongues for trail shoes. Nike has clearly chosen this route in their quest for agility and weight reduction. 

A semi-gusseted tongue may slightly compromise lockdown and could potentially allow some debris into the shoe, but it's far from a deal-breaker to us. These are simply trade-offs in the design that allow for a nimble, lightweight trail shoe, and that's fine.

nike free for sprinting Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Terra Kiger 9 Both sides (semi)

Heel tab

We're always thrilled to see handy finger-loop heel tabs—they're fantastic to slip the feet right into the shoe. Plus, they add some eye-catching style, right?

nike free for sprinting Heel tab
Test results
Terra Kiger 9 Finger loop

Removable insole

To wrap up our Kiger 9 tale, we're pleased to note that the insole is fully removable. This allowed us the flexibility to pop in insoles from other shoes or even our own custom orthotics.

Thanks to the shoe's spacious design, we don't predict any trouble fitting in practically any third-party insole.

nike free for sprinting Removable insole
Test results
Terra Kiger 9 Yes