In the ever-evolving landscape of running shoe innovation, Puma has taken a step further with the release of their Puma Velocity NITRO 3, which builds upon the success of its predecessor. The Puma faithful will be pleased to discover that the brand seems to have done enough (but not too much) to fine-tune the v2.
From enhanced midsole foam additions (somehow without adding weight), this shoes appears poised to deliver an even more enjoyable and satisfying ride. Let’s delve into the Puma Velocity NITRO 3 a little more.
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Looks:
While the aesthetics of these shoes are gradually growing on me, I must admit that the fluorescent yellow, termed “Psychedelic Rush” by Puma, isn’t typically my preferred colorway. Despite my initial reservations, I find myself becoming more appreciative each time I wear them. Although not my usual choice, the vibrant hue does exude a sense of speed, especially with the added reflective components, giving it a groovy vibe. I still love the V2 colorway the most.
It’s worth noting that this is the inaugural launch, and only time will reveal whether Puma expands or modifies the color diversity. Regardless, let’s not dwell too much on the visual aspect.
Fit & Construction:
The construction of these shoes is genuinely impressive, boasting several upgrades from the previous version. As a solid daily training option, we’ve logged in a few dozen miles and, thus far, encountered minimal drawbacks. The overall quality and performance make it a commendable choice for regular training.
The weight of these shoes remains virtually unchanged from previous versions, hovering around 11 ounces for a men’s size 12. While it may not be considered overly heavy for me, it’s clear that these are not intended as lightweight speed shoes. What’s particularly noteworthy is that despite incorporating additional stack in the midsole (see more below), the weight has been maintained at the exact same level as previous versions. Whatever sorcery they employed to achieve this, it’s certainly an impressive feat and one that we wholeheartedly appreciate.
Upper:
Beyond the visual appeal of the upper, the intricate details enhance the overall experience. The upper exhibits commendable mesh breathability and a snug fit. Notably, the reduced padding in the tongue appears to have been redirected to the heel, providing additional softness. These adjustments collaborate effectively, ensuring a security.
The shoe entry has undergone a subtle modification, perhaps slightly narrowing the shape a small amount, while the overall interior feels more spacious and robust. The incorporation of PWRTAPE on the sides contributes to a fit that many stability shoes aspire to achieve.
However, a minor detail worth noting is that the laces were stretchy and kept a really nice hold over the miles, but the felt slightly too long for me.
Midsole:
Puma’s NITROFOAM stands as an underappreciated gem in midsole design. In the expansive realm of running shoes, where sturdy constructions abound, this particular concoction has consistently surprised me.
Infused with nitrogen, as indicated by the “NITRO” in its name, it delivers a commendable level of cushioning. In the updated version 3, an additional 2 mm of this midsole foam has been incorporated, enhancing the overall comfort of the ride.
It’s essential to note the 10 mm drop may not suit everyone’s preference. That’s a pretty steep drop in today’s world, but I didn’t notice it as much as I thought I was going to.
If you have tried out the v2, or have run in Puma shoes before, you are going to love this updated feel. If haven’t experienced this Puma midsole yet, be prepared for a delightful surprise, especially in the realm of daily trainers.
Outsole:
The outsole of these shoes doesn’t warrant much discussion, but that’s because PUMAGRIP is one of the best in the market. These shoes performed exceptionally well in various conditions. During our initial run, which included light rain, wet pavement, and stretches with lingering winter moss (a familiar scenario in Oregon), I scarcely detected any slippage over the 6-mile course. These shoes appear well-equipped to tackle the challenges posed by wet weather.
Overall:
What makes these shoes particularly intriguing is the ability to attain a superbly well-fitting and stable ride, coupled with appealing “bells and whistles,” all at a reasonable price point of $135.
In our overall assessment, there’s little to criticize about this new release from Puma. If you’re in the market for a fresh pair capable of effortlessly handling comfortable daily miles, the Velocity Nitro 3’s are certainly worth considering.
