Details
Brand
Puma
Heel To Toe Drop
12mm
Breathability
10/10
Latest Version
No
Terrain
Road
Type
Neutral
Key Features
• Ignite midsole foam• Ever track patented Puma technology used in the outsole for durability• Chevron flex grooves for added flexibility• EVA sock liner molds to the foot to support the arches• ForEverFoam found in the heels for added support, cushioning and energy return
Upper
The upper is made from a knitted mesh whose primary concern is adding breathability for the runner. With the exceptional level of breathability offered in this shoe, the runner will not have to worry about hot spots or irritation that can lead to blisters. It also includes an EVA sock liner that molds to the foot for extra comfort. Puma considered lots of little details in this upper to give the runner a smart, comfortable ride. One of those details is the suede tongue. The tongue is very thin and because of the material, runners won’t have to worry about friction or irritation. The laces are a traditional, adjustable system which allows for easy loosening or tightening, depending on the needs of the individual runner.
Midsole
One of the stand out features of the midsole is the Ignite foam used through the entirety of the midsole. This foam provides excellent shock absorption and cushioning. Runners reported that this foam actually delivers excellent return on energy and kept their feet feeling energized and free of fatigue. Although this midsole offers added cushioning, runners found that because of the chevron flex grooved the shoe was still able to deliver a high level of flexibility as well. Another well designed element of the Ignite ProKnit is the addition of the ForEverFoam found in the heel. This foam adds durability and protection. It promotes an efferless heel to toe stride too.
Outsole
Puma uses their patented Ever track technology in the outsole of the Ignite ProKnit. This technology is specifically designed to reduce wear and tear and protect the foot from the potential dangers found on the road. Overall, this patented outsole material provides a solid base and added durability to this running shoe.
Breathability
The upper of this shoe is made from a knitted mesh material. You can see how breathable the shoe is simply by viewing the air holes covering the upper portion of the shoe. The extra breathability keeps the foot cool and dry. This reduces hot spots and the potential for irritation. The one negative results of this breathable knitted mesh upper is that if you are caught in the rain, the shoe will get wet quickly with no chance of any waterproof qualities.
Comfort
The Ignite ProKnit receives extensive praise in the comfort department. Beginning in the upper, it is clear that Puma put thoughtful consideration into creating a shoe that runners enjoy putting on. The upper is made from a breathable knitted mesh that allows for maximum air flow. The midsole provides extra comfort through the cushioning gained by using Puma’s patented ForEverFoam and an EVA sock liner. Runners praised this shoe as one that they could take on long, difficult runs, and many athletes suggested it as a shoe that can be worn daily for folks who spend lots of time on their feet.
Style
The look of this shoe is a classic style. Runners appreciated that the shoe offers an all black option. This gives a sleek aesthetic. The shoe comes in a few different color combinations, all of which involve two primary color options. Runners reported that these are a great looking pair of shoes and even suggested them for an everyday wear because of their stylish exterio r.
Durability
The midsole and the outsole of this Ignite ProKnit really protect the shoe from wear and tear. The midsole features a ForEverFoam which does exactly what is claim: It last for a very, very long time. Additionally, the Ever Track outsole material is specifically designed to extend the life of the shoe, nearly eliminating natural wear and tear of the underfoot.
Protection
The outsole of this shoe offers great protection against the road. It is a thicker outsole, made Puma’s Ever Track technology. In addition to protecting the runner, it also protects the shoe from overall wear and tear. The durability it adds extends the overall life of the shoe. The Ignite ProKnit also features reflective material along part of the upper to protect the runner when they are out on their evening workouts.
Responsiveness
Runners reported that even though this shoe has a powerful, cushioned midsole and outsole, the responsiveness in this shoe is high. This could be attributed to the added cushioning in the heel of the shoe, but most likely it can be linked to the flex grooved that runs along the outsole. These grooves help the runner feel connected to the road, and the construction of the underfoot responds well to movement.
Support
The cushioning provided by these shoes offers runners a ton of support. The midsole foam is comprised of Puma’s patented ForEverFoam. In addition to that, the midsole also uses Ignite foam. These dual materials provide the runner with the support and cushioning they need to go the distance. The outsole is another source of support in these shoes. The base is stable and durable, and runners can feel protected and supported because of the Ever Track material used.
Terrain
The terrain suggested for this shoe is pavement. The shoe has more cushioning than some of its competition, which makes it a good shoe to take on your long runs. However, since the shoe is heavier and actually feels heavier than some, it is not suggested for as a speed shoe. Because of this, runners may want to keep this shoe off of the track for speed work, and stick to the roads for longer, slower runs.
Price
Runners should prepare themselves to spend between one hundred and ten dollars and one hundred and forty dollars on this shoe. It has been noted by many runners that this price too steep for them to pay, however, it is important to note that many runners commented on the high durability of this shoe which could justify the cost.
Drop
This shoe offers an eight millimeter heel drop. This places the Ignite ProKnit at the center of the heel drop continuum. Anything four and below is considered a natural running, or minimalist shoe, while anything at ten or above places the shoe in a more traditional category. The eight millimeter heel drop is a good medium for the runner who wants more cushioning but still wants to be able to feel the road below them.
Stability
Although this shoe is marketed as a road running shoe for the neutral runner, many runners found this a great option for extra arch support or help with overpronation. The midsole is constructed using ForEverFoam which adds extra support and stability to the heel of the shoe. It also comes equipped with an EVA molded sock liner that adjusts to the shape of the foot to give you a more customized fit. Runners found all the additional cushioning really worked to support their arch needs and correct over pronation.
Flexibility
The midsole features chevron flex grooves along the perimeter of the shoe. This is a unique element because although the shoe contains added cushioning, and it is actually a heavier road running shoe, it is still able to maintain a very flexible feel to it. Runners appreciated this combination of flexible and cushioning.
Traction
This is a road running shoe, but it does provide a bit more traction than some of its competiors. The underfoot is comprised of a series of sections with individual lines delineated by flex grooves. This, combined with the EverTrack material used in the outsole, gives this shoe added grip. Runners reported feeling confident and comfortable taking this shoe across slippery terrain.
Bottom Line
This shoe is ideal for the runner who is looking for some extra cushioning, comfort, and stability. From the breathable upper to the outsole that is constructed using EverTrack technology, comfort is a major selling point for this shoe. The price is on the higher side, but the durability of the shoe could make up for it. Unfortunately, this shoe is not offered in women’s sizes, but if a female runner is looking to purchase this shoe, she can simply buy a size and half smaller.
