PUMA All Pro Nitro 2
Pros
- Great shock absorption
- Excellent outsole traction
- Highly stable platform
- Exceptionally breathable
- Impressive durability
- Comfortable underfoot feel
Cons
- Not much rebound
- Toebox can feel constricting
Key Features
- Regular fit for everyday comfort
- Rounded toe design for improved agility
- Lace-up closure for a secure fit
- Flat heel type ensures stability during quick movements
- PUMA branding details add a stylish touch
Specifications
- Origin: Made in USA and Imported
- Sole material: Rubber for traction
- Outer material: Textile for breathability
- Closure type: Lace-Up for a customizable fit
The PUMA All Pro Nitro 2 is best suited for players seeking a reliable and moderately priced all-rounder. Despite its redesigned upper and visual updates, our lab tests indicate that its performance closely mirrors that of the previous model.
No significant enhancements were noted in aspects such as cushioning, fit, weight, or stability. However, this model still demonstrates adequate performance for various playing styles and preferences.
One drawback is that it may not satisfy players looking for substantial upgrades in these areas, which could be a consideration for those prioritizing cutting-edge features.
PUMA MB.02
Pros
- Awesome impact protection
- Top-notch ankle support
- Superior stability
- Excellent foot containment
- Reliable traction
- Comfortable in-shoe feel
- Durable construction
Cons
- Lacks energy return
- Not breathable
- Not perfect for outdoors
Key Features
- Engineered mesh upper for breathability and flexibility.
- TPU heel clip for additional stability and support.
- NITRO Infused midsole that enhances cushioning and responsiveness.
- High abrasion, non-slip rubber outsole for excellent traction on the court.
- Mb branding that showcases your connection to Lamelo Ball's basketball legacy.
Specifications
- Origin: Made in USA and Imported.
- Sole material: Rubber for durability.
- Outer material: Mesh providing lightweight support.
- Closure type: Lace-Up for a customizable fit.
The Puma MB.02 is a basketball shoe designed for those seeking significant support and containment, making it an excellent choice for players who prioritize stability during play.
This shoe's exceptional support stems from several features, including a generously padded tongue measured at 10.5 mm thick, exceeding the average of 9.2 mm. Additionally, the gusset-type design of the tongue helps keep the foot securely in place even during aggressive movement.
Crafted with a hard and thick outsole, the Puma MB.02 demonstrates notable outdoor durability. Lab results confirmed this, as it received a hardness rating of 86.5 on the HC durometer, compared to an average rating of 81.8. Furthermore, the outsole thickness measured at 5.6 mm, surpassing the usual average of 4.0 mm.
Despite its thicker base, the Puma MB.02 maintains flexibility, requiring 17.0% less force than typical basketball shoes to achieve the standard flex angle in our tests. This balance contributes to its performance without sacrificing agility.
A drawback of the Puma MB.02 is its limited breathability, as evidenced by a score of only 2 out of 5 in our breathability smoke test. While this may affect comfort during extended use, the overall performance remains strong.
PUMA Rise Nitro
Pros
- Great impact protection
- Good court feel
- Very comfortable step-in feel
- Effective grip (on clean courts)
- Breathable upper
- Dependable support and lockdown
- Durable materials
- Futuristic look
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Not for the outdoors
- Dust-sensitive outsole
- Heavier than average
Key Features
- Lace closure for a secure fit
- Lightweight knit upper that extends above the laces
- Nitrofoam midsole for supreme cushioning
- PUMA Cat Logo featured on both heel and outsole
Specifications
- Origin: Made in USA and imported materials.
- Sole Material: Polyurethane for enhanced grip.
- Outer Material: Knit for flexibility and comfort.
- Inner Material: A blend of mesh and textile to aid breathability.
The PUMA Rise Nitro is a basketball shoe best suited for players seeking a secure fit and enhanced stability during gameplay. Its fully gusseted and well-padded tongue contributes to an optimal fit, ensuring comfort and confidence on the court.
Notable for its stability, the Rise Nitro features a wide platform that prevents slipping or footbed displacement. The forefoot width measures 119.8 mm, exceeding the average of 113.9 mm. Additionally, our measurements indicated a heel width of 95.2 mm, compared to the average of 91.6 mm.
Comfort in the PUMA Rise Nitro is largely attributed to its breathable upper, which received a lab-tested score of 4 out of 5 for breathability. This airy design enhances overall wearability during intense play.
A significant drawback of the Rise Nitro is the hardness of the outsole, which was measured at 68.4 on the HC durometer scale, notably softer than the average rating of 81.8. This may affect durability and traction over time.