Nike Zoom Terra Kiger 8

Who should buy the Nike Zoom Terra Kiger 8

Cop the Terra Kiger 8 from Nike if you're looking for a: 

• responsive trail shoe for mid to long distances that can handle moderate to fast tempos
• light running shoe for training runs and even races

Who should NOT buy it

Skip the Nike Zoom Terra Kiger 8 if you want smaller lugs that don't hurt the feet, and go for the Nike Pegasus Trail 3 or the Nike Pegasus 36 Trail instead. 

If you want ultimate grip on technical terrains and on wet trails, experts recommend the Inov-8 TerraUltra G 270. And if you want something lighter, get the Scott Supertrac RC 2 (9.5 oz vs. 10.5 oz in US M 9). 

Nike Terra Kiger 8 vs. 7 

The Nike Zoom Terra Kiger 8 carries over the same midsole and outsole design from its precursor. The only changes seen are found in the upper, including: 

• an even more breathable mesh cover
• modified heel for a more locked-in fit

Sticks like glue

This is especially true on light mud, dirt, loose forest trails, and dry rocks. However, the lugs can be overbearing and can pain the foot when used on hard-packed trails. 

Outsole needs an overhaul

The outsole of the previous Terra Kiger 7 has been called out by many trail runners for its poor grip on slick surfaces (rocks and roots included). And with the Kiger 8's unchanged outsole, the same problem continues. 

Maximizing control, minimizing strain

Despite its low-to-the-ground design, experts agree that it still offers plenty of protection. It has a segmented rock plate in the heel that prevents any poking sensation, and a set of overlays in the forefoot that act as toe bumpers. 

Feel your strides come to life

The Nike Zoom Terra Kiger 8's React foam is neither soft nor harsh, creating the right blend for a responsive ride. 

No more heel slips with the Kiger 8

One of the gripes many runners share with the Kiger 7 is the poor heel clutch. With the eighth iteration, they say the redesigned heel "works wonders" in preventing slips. 

Step-in is uh-mazing

The upper looks plasticky but is the exact opposite to the touch. Even more, it offers ample protection from lace pressure when tightening the fit. And it's plenty breathable too; those who have tested under warm weather all claim that it remains breezy. 

Pinches pennies

The Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 8 now costs less. From $160 (in version 7), it now retails for only $140. 

Looks fire! 

Apart from its colorways, the Kiger 8 has a sleek yet aggressive look about it that makes it a standout among most trail shoes. It looks so good; testers say Nike really "knows how to design nice-looking shoes." 

The Nike Terra Kiger line could use a diet

Iteration after iteration, the Nike Terra Kiger gains a few more grams. And in this version, it's no different. For all the cushion and protection you get, the price to pay is weight gain. It goes from 295 g/10.4 oz to 298 g/10.5 oz in US M 9.