Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2 Review: Recovery While on the Move

We get it: running is addictive. There’s nothing quite like pounding the pavement on a midweek-evening or weekend run, but as your running load increases, so do those creaks and squeaks in the knee (at least for us). But you don’t need to let those slight niggles throw you out of your groove, and a real recovery-runner, like the Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2, may just be the shoe you need in your arsenal.

The second iteration of Puma’s stability shoe is a true stability shoe that beginners and everyday athletes will absolutely love. It’s the ideal option for a more discerning recovery run, but also can double up as a daily runner if you prefer comfort over speed.

Built with consistency and longevity in mind, Puma says the ForeverRun Nitro 2 features improved stability, increased heel support, and upgraded comfort to keep runners out on the road for longer.

First impressions: Beefier stack, comfier ride

Out of the box, this new version of the popular stability running shoe screams ‘upgrade’. With a beefier stack (38mm at the heel/ 28mm up front, upgraded from a 36mm heel/ 26mm forefoot), the Nitro 2 feels like you’re stepping onto a cloud, that’s been hitting the gym and smashing its daily protein goals. Additional TPU support gives the shoe a well-calculated firmness that keeps the heel stable and supported through every foot strike.

Frothy but with a kick, like a strong beer, Puma’s fancy new co-moulded Nitro foam ensures every stride in these shoes is smooth and bouncy. This new approach to the sole helps runners get the best of both worlds: stability without sacrificing the responsiveness of the Nitrofoam that runners know and love. The sole combines a soft Nitro core for cushion and bounce, with a firmer Nitro rim for guidance in the stride. The result? Stability in motion!

At just over 300 grams (men’s size UK9), it’s certainly not the lightest running shoe on the block. But honestly, that extra heft, upped from the original’s weight, is barely noticeable underfoot thanks to the shoe’s responsiveness. So they’re not built for speedwork, but if a comfortable right is what you’re after, they deliver on that front.

In terms of fit, Puma has always done a solid job, and the knit upper has got some stretch with structure and support provided by Puma’s PwrTape for a snug fit that doesn’t feel too constricting. On top of that, the toe box is roomier than the original, which will appease those who like to get a splayed-out plant with their foot. Adding even more comfort to an already great upper is a plush heel collar that ensures you feel just as comfortable after hitting the 10km mark as you did during your warm-up.

The ride: More stable than day-old sourdough

Overpronators, take note. The Nitro 2 is all about stability, helping you to keep your stride in line without the wobble or tilt to either side. The running shoe’s wider midsole (made from improved dual-density Nitrofoam) offers excellent cushioning and support, while upgraded Runguide technology gives a gentle nudge to keep the foot aligned and centred through each stride for a smooth and enjoyable running experience. Like your long-suffering, supportive bestie, this shoe’s got your back.

The shoe’s jaw-dropping 10mm drop still contributes to a snappy heel-to-forefoot transition, but thanks to the heel compression underfoot, the drop doesn’t feel as pronounced. You would be convinced it’s slightly lower and closer to 7 or 8mm. This makes it a very comfortable shoe for heel strikers to run in without feeling overly tall.

Traction and durability: Ready for anything

The outsole on the ForeverRun Nitro 2 relies on Puma’s PumaGrip outsole which always delivers. Wet pavements, slippery paths, or that gravel trail you accidentally wandered onto, they’re all child’s play for traction. These shoes stick to the ground like they mean it. The rubber is thick and tough, and after clocking a fair amount of kilometres in mine, they still look ready to rumble. Compared to the original, the wider base of the ForeverRun Nitro 2 gives you more ground contact to play with, so you’re less likely to wobble on uneven turf. Basically, they’re the all-weather warriors your running wardrobe needs.

Verdict

As mentioned, the highlight of the ForeverRun Nitro 2 is undoubtedly the comfort and ride, so don’t expect to channel your inner Usain Bolt in these – it’s all about feeling good, giving those tired joints a rest, and making your 2, 5, or 10km weekly run a breeze rather than a chore.

What does it cost?

At R3,399, the Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2 isn’t cheap, but it’s a fair price for a ‘speciality’ shoe with all the bells and whistles. For that price, you’re getting top-tier cushioning, excellent stability, and a durable build that’ll last through your next marathon training. It’s a steal compared to competitors in the stability shoe game, like the Asics Gel-Kayano 31 which clocks in at R4,000.