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Shoe Review: Puma Velocity Nitro 2
Puma Velocity Nitro 2 Review:
Puma has stunned the running industry over the past 12 months, after an extended period in the darkness, the Cat has pounced into the limelight with their 2023 arrivals. The upgraded Puma Velocity Nitro 2 is an integral part of the re-emergence. This reasonably price daily trainer has a traditional heel height differential of 10mm, with a stack height of 34mm heel, 24mm forefoot.
The major update from the previous edition has been the midsole. It’s made up of two layers of foam, stacked upon each other. The top layer is softer to provide ride comfort, whereas the bottom layer is firmer to offer durability and stability.
The higher stack height of the Velocity Nitro 2 helps to offer a greater level of cushioning as your heel hits the ground. We have found shoes that sit in this category can help with heel and calf injuries in the runner.
How does the Velocity Nitro 2 fit?
The Velocity Nitro 2 wraps around the foot to offer a sense of security and comfort. Overall, the shoe comes up true for size. It’s comparable to the Brooks Ghost 15, Mizuno Wave Rider 26 and Saucony Ride 16 in length, although for runners who size up a little wider, you may want to consider going up half a size up.
With the inclusion of engineered mesh, runners benefit from an upper that is more breathable and therefore allows air, heat, and moistures to easily pass through the shoes and keeps the foot cooler and dryer. To improve the step-in-feel, Puma has included a gusseted tongue. Although for most runners this will help to connect the foot to the shoe, it can be prohibitive for those with wider feet.
How does it feel?
Within its category and price point, the Puma Velocity Nitro 2 is one of the best in class. Its rubbing shoulders with giants; including Brooks Ghost, Asics Cumulus and New Balance 880, but hitting an affordable price point of £105. At 249g*, the Nitrogen infused foam really flexes its muscles, making each run feel more effortless, with a light responsive experience.
One of the major challenges footwear companies have to overcome is the outsole, or the tread. Using a material, which is too soft, may improve the ground contact feel, but it’s likely to wear quicker. Using more durable materials is likely to add weight and alter the feel of the shoe to a firmer ride. Not to mention the most important element, the grip. The Puma Velocity Nitro 2 includes the brands proprietary technology, PUMA GRIP. Boasting a durable rubber compound that provides all-surface traction. Made from recycled materials, PUMA GRIP is lightweight and highly durable which makes it an ideal choice for those running predominantly on tarmac but like to venture on to the trails every so often.
During the wear testing we found runners being drawn to its versatility. Puma Velocity Nitro 2 is cushioned enough for the long run, light enough for speed sessions and grippy enough to tackle multiple terrains.
Why buy it?
At the Run Company the Puma Velocity 2 has become a go-to-trainer and often one of the first shoes we use during the gait analysis process. One of the greatest draws to the shoe has been the combination of a lightweight feel weight and durability, ‘clipping-along’ mile after mile continues to bring a huge amount of joy to the run.
*Weight of a men’s UK 8.
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Learn more about Puma here