Puma Velocity Nitro 3 running shoes

The Puma Velocity Nitro 3 Running Shoe is a great value for money running shoe for everyday running. It has good traction, good cushioning, dynamics, and a comfortable and supportive upper. It is softer than the previous version because the midsole height has been increased and it has better breathability. Although it is suitable for slow runs, you can really feel its qualities when you start to accelerate. We recommend it for moderately paced runs, but beginner runners will also enjoy it, or those who have no problem with the narrower upper and a slightly stiffer than average midsole, but not hard.

Puma Velocity Nitro 3 upper

The upper material of the Puma Velocity Nitro 3 running shoe has changed from the previous version. The previous version was made from a more knitted material, but the new one is now made from a slightly stretchy mesh section, so it’s much more breathable. The shoe holds the foot well, but that’s also due to the narrower than average upper construction. For those with a wider foot, it may be uncomfortable. The tongue is made up of two parts. The upper part of the tongue is thin, V-cut with small cushions, which is perfect for longer socks, but wearing the shoe with short socks can be distracting on longer runs. The lower part of the tongue is made of a slightly thicker mesh material, great for keeping the foot in place. The heel collar can also be split in two. At the bottom, the Nitro foam of the midsole folds over it, making it stiff, and above it is moderately stiff with very good cushioning. The top of the Velocity Nitro 3 also has a semi-circular PWRTAPE layer in the middle, inner, arched part of the foot. This layer helps with cushioning, making the shoe more satiny, which is good because the sole structure of the shoe is narrower than average. This layer is not enough to make the shoe suitable for pronators, but it is useful for longer runs when the foot and shin are tired.

Puma Velocity Nitro 3 Midsole

The Puma Velocity Nitro 3 running shoe midfoot is made up of two layers. On top is the supercritical, nitrogen-injected, softer Nitro Foam, and underneath is a stiffer EVA foam, roughly ~75-25. The midsole height has been increased by 2mm from the previous version, the softer NITRO FOAM has only been increased in thickness, making the shoe softer and more dynamic. Overall, the two foams work well together, as the Puma Velocity Nitro 3 running shoe is both comfortable, soft and dynamic with a bouncy feel. Its dynamics are mainly felt on moderately paced runs, at lower paces it feels like an average running shoe. That’s not to say that the shoe isn’t a good choice for slower runners, but rather that those who are used to running faster than the base steady pace will feel how well the Velocity Nitro 3 performs at those paces. The midsole design is narrow, as is the upper, so the midsole can be less stable, but this is compensated for by the excellent PWRTAPE support in the upper. The shoe is also suitable for longer runs, as the 36mm heel thickness provides just the right amount of cushioning. This feature is not outstanding for the Velocity Nitro 3, but I didn’t miss more cushioning either. Overall, the Puma Velocity Nitro 3 running shoe midsole is a versatile foam, making it a perfect choice for everyday runs.

Puma Velocity Nitro 3 Outsole

The outsole of the Puma Velocity Nitro 3 running shoe is made from a rubber compound called PUMAGRIP. This rubber compound provides exceptional traction, enhanced by the outsole’s strong pattern and high coverage. In addition to good grip, PUMAGRIP has good wear resistance and is therefore extremely durable.

Summary

Overall, the Puma Velocity Nitro 3 Running Shoe is a very good everyday running shoe that thrives at a faster pace. It’s versatile, can be used for many types of running, and is not expensive, so it’s a very good value for money. Comfortable, extremely good foot support, so suitable for longer runs. In many ways it’s better than its predecessor, but if you’re using it for slower runs, where better breathability isn’t important, the cheaper previous version may be enough for you.