I admit, I approached the Nike Kiger 9 ($150) with a wholesome dose of skepticism. Nonetheless, after slipping them on and taking my first steps, I used to be pleasantly shocked by their exceptional consolation. This preliminary expertise shifted my perspective, and I eagerly started testing them on the paths.
Although Nike is famend because the world’s largest operating shoe model, I’d by no means really skilled a pair of their path trainers previous to this testing expertise. Again in my highschool days, I used to be all about Nike observe spikes although! Contemplating their world dominance within the footwear business, it’s protected to imagine that they possess vital experience within the realm of path footwear, even boasting a devoted crew of specialists solely targeted on perfecting their path operating footwear.
The Nike Kiger 9 weighs in at 10.16 ounces (288 grams) precise weight for a males’s U.S. measurement 9, and has a 4.5-millimeter heel-to-toe drop.
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The Nike Kiger 9. All pictures: iRunFar/Bryon Powell
Nike Kiger 9 Higher
The higher on the Nike Kiger 9 is exceptionally light-weight and minimalist, making it really feel as if it effortlessly melds together with your toes, all of the whereas delivering ample cushioning on the paths. Crafted from engineered mesh, which is notably sturdier and extra versatile than typical mesh, it additionally serves as an efficient barrier towards dust intrusion.
Whereas testing, I felt just like the shoe did an excellent job of maintaining particles from making its method into the shoe, however one downside of the higher building was its lack of ability to dry out rapidly. I acquired caught in a rainstorm, and after the rain stopped, the footwear didn’t dry out in any respect in the course of the remaining run.
The midfoot band provides an additional layer of stability and help, successfully decreasing any undesirable foot motion contained in the shoe. My foot felt safe and supported within the Nike Kiger 9, however I do want the toebox space was barely wider. My toes felt like they have been testing the structural integrity of the mesh. That being stated, I didn’t incur any blisters whereas operating on this mannequin.
The tongue on the Kiger 9 isn’t a full sock-like tongue such as you’ve seen in different manufacturers’ footwear like these of On or Salomon, however relatively it acts like a no-show sock. The decrease a part of the tongue is related to the higher, including additional safety from particles coming into the shoe. The tongue is constructed with mild padding, for added consolation. Whereas testing, I didn’t discover any sizzling spots or ache across the tongue and laces.
And I’ll word, I do like this type of laces — nothing sophisticated, simply stretchy laces that don’t come untied whereas operating.
A lateral view of the Nike Kiger 9.
Nike Kiger 9 Midsole
The midsole of the Nike Kiger 9 is essentially the most stunning a part of the shoe for me. Pictures of the footwear led me to imagine the shoe could be heavy and stiff. Not the case. The midsole is constructed of the delicate, but sturdy, Nike React foam. This expertise represents a featherweight, long-lasting foam, designed to offer an effortlessly clean and responsive trip.
After some intensive analysis, Nike has built-in a whole React midsole within the Kiger 9, whereas eliminating the forefoot Air unit that was present in earlier fashions. Nike claims this adjustment permits you to expertise a good nearer connection to the bottom, all whereas preserving each consolation and pace.
I’ll affirm that the shoe was extremely comfy. I wouldn’t go as far as to say it felt plush, however it’s getting there. I discovered myself selecting to put on these footwear casually as a result of they have been so comfy.
A medial view of the Nike Kiger 9.
Nike Kiger 9 Outsole
The outsole of the Nike Kiger 9 is pretty strong. It options multi-directional lugs, which got here in useful on climbs and descents. I felt fairly assured going up and down hills, even leaping round from one huge rock to a different. I didn’t fear about shedding grip or sliding — and I didn’t do both of these issues with the Kiger 9.
The grippy rubber is notably absent in the midst of the outsole, revealing the comfy Nike React foam that my toes loved a lot. This protects some weight on the shoe, and I didn’t discover any dip in safety from rocks, nor did I want I had extra traction on the shoe.
Though the Kiger 9 offered me with a way of confidence and stability throughout my path runs, I did enterprise onto some doubletrack and paved bike paths as a part of my testing. Regardless of not being as quick as street footwear, I discovered that these footwear nonetheless maintained a way of pace, even on much less demanding terrain. In different phrases, the lugs didn’t show to be bothersome or obstructive once I ventured off the path.
The outsole of the Nike Kiger 9.
Nike Kiger 9 Total Impressions
I used to be pleasantly shocked by the Nike Kiger 9; they undoubtedly exceeded my expectations. Primarily based on the cushioning and building, and after some intensive testing, I believe this shoe could be good for path runs and races underneath six hours, and it looks like an excellent all-around path operating shoe. Simply stepping into path operating? Attempt the Kiger 9.
The one actual con for me was the width of the toebox. I usually like footwear which have a wider platform to land on — I are inclined to supinate a bit, so having further foam or cushion to land on, on the outer fringe of the shoe, tends to maintain my shins completely satisfied. I principally seen I missed the broader base on non-technical trails.
Other than that, the Nike Kiger 9 stands out as an distinctive all-purpose path shoe that delivers consolation, help, sturdiness, and glorious traction on your on a regular basis path operating wants.
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Name for Feedback
- Have you ever tried the Nike Kiger 9? What have been your ideas?
- Should you’ve worn prior variations of this mannequin, how do that one examine?
- Are you a fan of Nike path trainers typically?
[Editor’s Note: If you’re affiliated (i.e., an employee, ambassador, etc.) with a brand, please share your relation in each of your comments on this article. Thanks!]
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A high view of the Nike Kiger 9.
