The Keen Nxis Speed Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The KEEN NXIS Speed is a lightweight trail running shoe designed for optimal performance. This shoe is ideal for runners seeking agility and comfort during extended rides, thanks to its 12 mm drop which supports heel strikers.

The shoe features a notably spacious forefoot area, enhancing overall comfort and fit. The lightweight materials contribute to a nimble feel, while the foam construction ensures a stable platform during runs.


Pros

  • Top-level comfort
  • Immensely breathable
  • Sticks to various terrain
  • Extremely durable outsole
  • Quite lightweight
  • Incredible support
  • Relaxed forefoot fit
  • Accommodating toebox
  • Greatly flexible
  • Locks the heel in place

Cons

  • Unruly shoestrings
  • Too airy for cold winters
  • Not ideal for backpacking

Key Features

  • TRACTION: The KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole ensures high-traction grip, making it suitable for muddy environments and rocky surfaces. The 4mm multi-directional lugs provide optimal grip for stable footing on rugged terrain.
  • BREATHABILITY: Featuring a performance mesh upper complemented by overlays and a breathable textile lining, these boots offer lightweight durability while keeping your feet cool during warm conditions.
  • FIT & DESIGN: The speed-lace webbing system with top collar hooks allows for a comfortably snug fit, while the Original Fit design provides generous space across the forefoot, enabling your toes to spread out naturally.
  • SUPPORT & COMFORT: Equipped with a removable PU insole for long-lasting comfort and a compression-molded EVA midsole for cushioning, these boots also include an ergonomic toe notch for enhanced dexterity and better balance.
  • CARE TIPS: To maintain these boots, gently brush them with a soft, damp sponge to remove loose dirt and restore their surface. For any stains, it's recommended to treat them immediately using a gentle cleaner.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Shaft height: Ankle
  • Shaft circumference: 5 inches

Keen Nxis Speed Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

KEEN NXIS Speed Merrell Moab Speed 2 Merrell Moab 3 Adidas Terrex AX4
Price $145 $140 $120 $100
Trail terrain Moderate Moderate Technical Moderate
Weight lab Weight brand 11.8 oz / 335g 11.6 oz / 329g 15.3 oz / 434g 13.4 oz / 379g
Lightweight
Breathability Breathable Breathable Breathable Moderate
Use Day Hiking Day Hiking Day Hiking Day Hiking
Orthotic friendly
Drop lab 10.4 mm 15.0 mm 11.2 mm 9.7 mm
Size True to size Slightly small True to size Slightly small
Midsole softness Soft Soft Firm Firm
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Normal Normal Big
Torsional rigidity Flexible Stiff Moderate Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Flexible Flexible Stiff
Stiffness Moderate Moderate Flexible Flexible
Outsole hardness Average Average Average Average
Waterproofing Water repellent - - Water repellent
Material Mesh Mesh Leather Mesh
Season Summer Summer Summer All seasons
Toebox durability Good Very good - -
Heel padding durability Bad Bad - -
Outsole durability Good Good - -
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Wide Wide Medium Narrow
Lug depth 4.0 mm 3.7 mm 4.8 mm 3.7 mm
Heel stack lab 30.7 mm 38.8 mm 31.7 mm 30.6 mm
Forefoot 20.3 mm 23.8 mm 20.5 mm 20.9 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Technology - - Vibram -
Heel tab Finger loop Finger loop Finger loop None
Removable insole
Ranking Bottom 40% Top 26% Top 20% Top 29%
Popularity Bottom 5% Top 18% Top 3% Top 46%