Review: Puma Velocity Nitro 2 Running Shoes — A Bright Step Forward?

While having the slickest, top-of-the-range running shoe is great, most runners just want an everyday running shoe that will help them rack up kilometres day-in-and-day out. A shoe that is comfortable, with just the right amount of technology to ensure they’re able to give their best on the road. For many everyday runners, Puma’s popular Velocity Nitro running shoe ticked all the boxes. The shoe was a hit right out the gate, and for good reason.

The last few years have seen Puma invest a lot of research and development resources into the running category, whether it be shoes or gear to give runners the edge they need to give their all on the training runs and on race day. The brand has produced some stellar running gear, and its latest Velocity Nitro upgrade, the Puma Velocity Nitro 2 is no exception.

An all-in-one neutral running shoe, the lightweight and sleek update to the Velocity Nitro is ideal for running any distance. Perfect as an everyday running shoe for the casual runner, or as a training shoe for the more serious amateur, this updated favourite is sure to impress. Comfort and responsiveness are arguably the most important factors to consider when choosing a running shoe, and this shoe offers both in spades.

Featuring Puma’s now-famous Nitro foam, the shoe offers exceptional responsiveness and ultimate cushioning. Infused with nitrogen gas, Puma’s Nitro foam technology makes it possible to combine three key benefits to the runner — responsiveness, cushioning, and a lightweight feel.

Just like the original, the Velocity Nitro 2 is a well-fitting shoe, durable shoe that promises to offer a smooth ride, no matter the terrain. Built for comfort, this shoe doesn’t need much time to be broken in. You can slip them on day one and head out for a run with no issues or bug bares to distract from your run. They’re extremely lightweight (the women’s shoe weighs just 206 grams and the men’s 250 grams), which adds to their comfort level, enabling you to enjoy a more effortless run.

The comfort and weight of these shoes also make them very versatile. If you’re looking for a running shoe that can go from the road to the gym with absolute ease, then this offering from Puma won’t disappoint. I’ve worn these shoes on casual runs as well as to HIIT classes, and they fare very well with both.

Of course, safety is also a concern on the road, and the fact that this running shoe provides enhanced visibility through reflective accents on the shoe. While a seemingly small addition, this feature gives you the freedom to hit your stride on your time, making sure you’re visible to on-coming traffic on early morning or late evening runs. To give you even more peace of mind, PumaGrip, a durable rubber compound, provides excellent multi-surface traction, so you can have confidence in every stride while you’re on your run.

The Puma Velocity Nitro 2 is now available online from Puma.com at R2,800, as well as at PUMA stores, Totalsports, Sportsmans Warehouse, Superbalist and selected retailers.