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Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 Review Analysis (2022)

Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7

Last update: March 2024

The new Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 has more cushioning and protection to take on the most technical terrain.

The Consensus

9.2Overall score
Very good trail running shoes that combine comfortable cushioning and ground feel for all terrains

Psst… Check out the new version: Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 8

Nike just released the Terra Kiger 7, and longtime fans are crying foul: this seventh version, much more cushioned, has little in common with the first models, they claim. So what’s the verdict?

First, the new Terra Kiger is bulkier with a thicker sole and a roomier upper. Sadly, the weight has also gone up. The stack increased by 3 mm and is now 30 mm under the heel. In other words, after flirting with minimalism in its early days, the Terra Kiger has decided to supercharge its cushioning to go the distance. Like the previous model, it features React, Nike’s most popular foam right now (alongside ZoomX). This new configuration has the advantage of offering comfortable cushioning in all circumstances. Also, the segmented rock plate provides a high level of protection for added safety. Trail runners note that the TK7 delivers comfortable cushioning while keeping its signature ground feel despite the higher stack. However, they didn’t find the ride exceptionally responsive, even with the Zoom Air unit now located under the forefoot for a more effective toe-off.

Next, the outsole features more rubber and larger lugs for a more effective grip. Trailers criticized the non-slip diamond-shaped zone without lugs in previous models for its lack of effectiveness, and Nike has finally addressed the problem. Another improvement is that the rubber under the heel is less rigid, giving greater flexibility for a more stable grip.

Finally, the upper is roomier without sacrificing foot lockdown. The mesh/synthetic configuration with the Dynamic Fit system is secure even on difficult downhill paths.

In summary, the Terra Kiger series takes a new direction with this version 7. More cushioning, more protection, better grip: while some may regret the early lightweight days of the KT, many will be glad to take it for a spin on long and technical terrains.
Comfort
9
Grip
9.5
Protection
9.5
Durability
9
Value for money
9
Design
9.5
PROS
  • Good comfort
  • Protective shoe
  • Comfortable cushioning with a nice ground feel
  • Precise foot lockdown
CONS
  • Heavier than previous models

Technologies

Outsole

  • The sturdy rubber promotes a good grip on rugged terrains.
  • The multidirectional lugs increases traction on trail terrains to handle challenging conditions.
  • The rigid heel rock plate shields the foot from sharp rocks on uneven trail surfaces. It also increases the resilience of the shoe.
Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 rubber outsole

Midsole

  • The midsole is equipped with React: a soft and responsive foam that gives a lively ride during trail runs.
  • Zoom Air is a pod of pressurized air that improves shock dispersion for more comfortable and bouncier stride. On the TK7 it’s located under the forefoot.

Upper

  • The Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 uses a mesh and synthetic upper that ensures a comfortable and secure foot lockdown with a good airflow, especially when it’s warm outside.
  • Dynamic Fit is a midfoot support system that improves comfort and security by eliminating the space between the foot and the mesh.
  • The padded heel and collar soften the foothold to enhance instep comfort.

Facts

Technical Specs

TerrainTrail
Pronation typeNeutral
Drop4 mm
Heel stack height30 mm
Forefoot stack height26 mm
FeaturesRock plate
Weight (men)283 g/10 oz
Weight (women)250 g/8.8 oz
Release year2021

Cushioning

Softness (1-5)3 – Moderate
Bounce (1-5)3 – Moderate

Technologies

OutsoleSturdy rubber, multidirectional lugs, rigid heel rock plate
MidsoleReact, Zoom Air
UpperMesh and synthetic upper, Dynamic Fit, padded heel and collar

Use

SpeedModerate
DistanceMid, long
WorkoutDaily runs

Reference: Nike’s official page

Comparisons – Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 vs.:

Nike Wildhorse 7

The Terra Kiger 7 is more cushioned than before and looks a lot like the Wildhorse on paper. However, it offers a more stable ride with better grip and protection. We advise you to pick the TK7 over the Wildhorse. See the side-by-side comparison.

Nike Pegasus Trail 2

See the side-by-side comparison and commentary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 true to size?

Yes, although the KT7’s upper is roomier, it still fits true to size.

Is the Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 a shoe for heavyweight athletes?

Yes, this model should suit you regardless of your weight. To our knowledge, only one scientific study to date has looked at the relationship between weight, padding thickness, and risk of injury. According to this study’s results, minimalist footwear can increase the risk of injury for runners who weigh more than 71 kilos. The Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 has a 30 mm heel stack height, definitely not minimalist. Therefore, the KT7 should be suitable for most trail runners.

Is the Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 recommended to run an ultramarathon?

This Nike trail running shoe has a high stack sole with a good level of grip and protection. Thus, it’s quite compatible with the ultramarathon. We still recommend you test it on several long runs to confirm it.

Kevin Le Gall

Kevin Le Gall

Kevin is the founder and editor of Runner's Lab. He started running in 2015 and completed his first marathon in Rotterdam in 2016. He's also worked for Under Armour from 2016 to 2018 and helped launch their running collection in Europe (in particular the HOVR shoes). In addition, Kevin is a 300-hour certified yoga teacher (Sivananda) and uses this experience to run more mindfully with a focus on well-being over performance.

2 thoughts on “Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7”

  1. Hola. I really like these shoes but I’m not doing any trail work. Do you have any shoe recommendations that are similar in road but perhaps slightly less hard-landing. I tried the Pegasus 39s but I find to be them unresponsive, hot, and painful; I’ve had to abort my 2 test runs ~1mi in with them due to the pain.

    Reply

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