Details
Brand
Puma
Heel To Toe Drop
12mm
Breathability
10/10
Latest Version
No
Terrain
Road
Type
Neutral
Key Features
• EVERTRACK, abrasion-resistant rubber outsole• Injection Molded EVA cushioning• Breathable mesh upper• Flex grooves• Injection molded EVA• Lightweight construction• Padded footbed
Upper
The Puma Bravery upper uses a flexible mesh material that makes the upper feel not only breathable but also comfortable and secure. The lightweight material moves with the natural movements of the foot without restricting. Air is able to enter the shoe to offer a cool, dry experience. The performance mesh covers the foot adequately, while a traditional lacing system keeps the foot in place. There is also a foam insole that offers added comfort. Some reviewers did have issues with the upper fabric tearing, so durability may be an issue. Overall, though, the upper ranks average for comfort and stability.
Midsole
The Puma Bravery’s midsole uses EVA foam, a high-quality injection molded foam that runs the entire length of the shoe. The midsole provides a cushioned, lightweight, comfortable running experience that lets the runner have a springy feeling during landing. The midsole offers adequate protection during impact, due to its flexibility and durability. Some reviewers, though, did feel like there was not enough cushioning for longer runs. However, runners can feel confident that there is a strong amount of comfort and protection due to the midsole. Overall, the midsole is average.
Outsole
The outsole of the Puma Bravery uses Puma technology to create a highly durable shoe. The outsole is made of Evertrack, a high-quality rubber compound that prevents abrasion, and is resistant to wear and tear. The outsole is designed with a liberal amount of rubber that helps during runs on tougher surfaces and road debris. There are also flex grooves along the forefront section that assist during toe-off. The flexibility of the flex grooves allow the shoe to move naturally with the runner’s foot. Overall, the Bravery’s outsole ranks high due to its durability and flexibility.
Breathability
The Puma Bravery’s upper manages to create a highly breathable shoe by utilizing a performance mesh. This lightweight material allows air to enter the shoe, keeping the foot cool and dry. Puma uses minimal construction by using mesh fabric, as the material wicks away moisture. This is great when runners are faced with hot temperatures or wet conditions. Reviewers described the upper as thin and breathable, contributing to the shoe’s light weight. The shoe wraps the runner’s foot in a way that allows for movements ad breathability. Overall, the Puma Bravery ranks above average for its breathability.
Comfort
Puma combines many features to create a comfortable running shoe. Starting with the shoe’s cushioning, Puma uses EVA injected foam that offers optimal cushioning and support during impact, while still maintaining its light weight. The foam is designed to feel like a spring during impact, so the runner can push off in a comfortable, efficient manner. The upper also adds to the shoe’s comfort level, as it uses a lightweight, thin, performance mesh that wraps the foot in comfort. The breathability during hot temperatures and wet conditions also help runners stay comfortable. Some runners felt there was not an adequate amount of cushioning and felt uncomfortable during longer runs. Reviewers felt that the fit was adequate as there was enough room in the toe box, but some felt that the fit of the shoe was a bit snug as it is a narrower option. The Bravery also has an OrthoLite footbed that is cushioned and matches the arch of the foot. Reviewers were pleasantly surprised by the shoe’s fit and comfort. Overall, the shoe rates above average for comfort.
Style
Puma offers a variety of options when it comes to the color choices. With some bold and neutral color options, this shoe appeals to many different preferences. The Bravery utilizes a heather graphic print that many felt enhanced the style of the shoe. The sleek design is appealing to runners and non-runners alike, as some have bought it as a lifestyle option as well.
Durability
The Puma Bravery boasts that the components and technologies are durable. The shoe’s outsole uses a high-quality rubber compound that sustains the shoe’s form during abrasion, and wear and tear on tougher surfaces. The shoe’s EVA foam and flex grooves also contribute to the shoe’s durability. While Puma touts the Bravery as a highly durable shoe, some reviewers had issues with the fabric on the upper. Depending on the number of miles that are put on the shoe will depend on the wear that the upper goes through. Overall, the shoe rates average for durability.
Protection
The Puma Bravery offers many protective features. Starting with the outsole that is made up of a durable, rubber compound called Evertrack. It protects the foot during impact from road debris and tougher surfaces that could hurt the foot, while also keeping it secure. Puma has designed the outsole to have a liberal amount of rubber on the forefront and heel areas for added protection. The upper unit uses a performance mesh that protects the foot, while the traditional lacing system keeps the foot secure. Reviewers did have an issue with the upper fabric ripping during high wear, so this could be an issue depending on where and how often the shoe is worn. The shoe’s midsole foam cushioning, which is abrasion-resistant, also offers an element of protection, keeping the foot safe and comfortable throughout impact. Overall, the shoe rates average for protection.
Responsiveness
The Puma Bravery is a responsive shoe with an 8mm drop. With a midsole that uses EVA foam, runners described the shoe as having a springy feel during impact, allowing the wearer to have more energy. The shoe’s flex grooves on the forefront of the Bravery are designed to allow for flexibility as the foot moves, while following the natural curvature of the foot and helping during toe-off. The shoe’s Evertrack outsole uses a liberal amount of rubber to protect from abrasive surfaces, although it does not impact the shoe’s responsiveness. This lightweight shoe is designed to move with the foot naturally while keeping it comfortable. Overall, the Puma Bravery ranks above average for responsiveness.
Support
The Puma Bravery has several features that contribute to the support within the shoe. The Bravery’s outsole uses Evertrack technology, a rubber compound that is applied liberally to the sole of the shoe, helping the runner feel supported during impact. The shoe’s midsole uses EVA foam for a cushioned, supported experience that supports the underfoot. The flexible, supportive midsole provides a soft, springy feeling while averting shock. Some reviewers did feel like there needed to be more cushioning for longer runs. The Bravery also has an OrthoLite footbed that is cushioned and matches the arch of the foot, supporting the foot. Overall, this neutral shoe offers an adequate amount of support to runners.
Terrain
The Puma Bravery is a road shoe that is designed for everyday training, as well as competition. The shoe has an outsole that is made up of Puma’s Evertrack, a high-quality rubber compound that resists abrasion, wear and tear. This helps provide protection from tougher surfaces and road debris, protecting the shoe from the effects of road running. The shoe also has flex grooves that offer flexibility and protection. While the shoes have durable, high-quality features, it is best to keep them off the trails and stay on the road.
Price
The Puma Bravery originally retailed for approximately $70. However, the shoe can be found online now for around $28, which is a great deal. With the affordable pricing and the shoe’s comfort, cushioning and strong outsole, the Puma Bravery would be a great option for runners looking for an everyday trainer or competition shoe.
Drop
The Puma Bravery has a midsole drop of 10mm. This an adequate drop for runners who need a bit more cushioning, which this shoe definitely provides, as is evident from the EVA foam midsole and liberal rubber outsole. There will be more heel support which is good for runners just starting out or who need a little bit more cushioning.
Stability
The Puma Bravery is a lightweight, neutral shoe that still manages to provide an adequate amount of stability. The shoe’s upper, made of a performance mesh, helps keep the foot snug and secure with the help of the shoe’s traditional lacing system. The strong rubber outsole and foam cushioning provide elements of stability needed during impact, so the runner can push offer more effectively and comfortably. While these elements definitely help create a stable shoe, if stability is an issue for you during running, the Motion Control category of the shoe may be a better option.
Flexibility
The Puma Bravery has many elements that contribute to the overall flexibility of the shoe. Starting with the flexible mesh material that is used on the upper, runners feel secure yet able to move the foot naturally. The upper is described as being able to bend and flex as the foot moves. The EVA foam midsole not only offers optimal cushioning, it also provides flexible support. The outsole is also flexible and helps runners move efficiently, while still offering a strong amount of protection throughout the shoe. The Puma Bravery’s flex grooves that are placed on the forefront of the shoe bend with the foot during toe-off, contributing to a smoother, more efficient run. Reviewers thought the lightweight shoe was flexible and unrestrictive. Overall, the Puma Bravery rates above average for flexibility.
Traction
The Puma Bravery is made for road running. The shoe’s outsole is designed with a strong rubber outsole to combat the debris and tough surfaces often encountered on the roam. Combined with the shoe’s abrasion-resistant foam injected midsole, the flex grooves help provide a strong amount of traction on the road. Overall, the Puma Bravery is average when it comes to traction.
Bottom Line
The Puma Bravery is a neutral shoe with many features that make this a great option for beginners or seasoned runners. Puma designed this shoe as a versatile option for more than just runners, as is apparent from the sleek design, and various color choices. The strong rubber outsole and cushioned midsole combine to create a highly powerful sole that is perfect for road running. The lightweight shoe is designed with flexibility in mind, as the breathable upper, flex grooves and sole move with the foot to encourage a more efficient stride. While some reviewers had an issue with the upper’s durability and the shoe’s narrow fit, most wearers are pleasantly surprised by the comfort and support. Runners can feel confident selecting this affordable shoe for everyday training or competition.
