The Puma Velocity Nitro 4 Review & Lab Test of 2026

The PUMA Velocity Nitro 4 is a lightweight daily trainer designed for runners seeking a responsive experience. This shoe is ideal for those who appreciate a combination of explosive energy return and a firm yet flexible ride.

Lab results indicate that the PUMA Velocity Nitro 4 features a grippy PumaGrip outsole, enhancing traction during runs. The lightweight construction contributes to an agile feel, making it suitable for shorter distances while providing adequate support for everyday training.

However, users should note that the forefoot may feel snug, which could affect comfort over long distances. Overall, this shoe offers notable performance metrics for runners prioritizing responsiveness and stability in their daily trainers.

Pros

  • Impressive energy return
  • Lightweight and agile underfoot
  • Superior traction from PumaGrip outsole
  • Handles tempo efforts with ease
  • Flexible and comfortable for everyday use
  • Accurate real drop
  • Natural-feeling, non-rockered design
  • Balanced cushioning with some ground feel
  • Looks really cool

Cons

  • Not ideal for long runs
  • Fit leans toward the narrow side
  • Midsole becomes firmer in cold conditions
  • Slight price increase

Key Features

  • Waterproof & Breathable: Equipped with a GTX Invisible Fit membrane that keeps your feet dry while allowing breathability.
  • Nitrofoam Midsole: A full-length midsole provides excellent cushioning and energy return, making each stride comfortable.
  • PUMAGRIP Outsole: Designed for superior traction, ensuring stability on varying surfaces.
  • Regular Fit: Offers a standard fit for most foot shapes, accommodating different running styles.
  • Rounded Toe Design: Promotes natural movement and better fit.

Specifications

  • Origin: Made in USA and Imported
  • Sole Material: Rubber, providing durability and grip.
  • Outer Material: Mesh for breathability and lightweight feel.
  • Closure Type: Lace-Up for a secure fit.
  • Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10.0mm for balanced foot positioning during runs.

Puma Velocity Nitro 4 Review & Lab Test – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

PUMA Velocity Nitro 4 Under Armour Charged Pursuit 3 Adidas Runfalcon 5 Adidas Supernova Rise 2
Price $140 $70 $65 $140
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 7.9 oz / 224g 9.3 oz / 264g 9.7 oz / 275g 9.1 oz / 257g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 9.7 mm 9.6 mm 9.4 mm 9.5 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Heel
Size True to size Slightly small True to size True to size
Midsole softness Balanced Balanced Balanced Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Big Normal Small Small
Toebox durability Decent Decent Bad Decent
Heel padding durability Decent Bad Bad Good
Outsole durability Decent Decent Decent Decent
Breathability Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Medium Medium Wide Wide
Toebox width Medium Wide Medium Wide
Stiffness Flexible Moderate Moderate Flexible
Torsional rigidity Flexible Moderate Flexible Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Moderate Moderate Moderate Stiff
Heel lab Heel brand 33.7 mm 30.8 mm 31.2 mm 33.5 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 24.0 mm 21.2 mm 21.8 mm 24.0 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Bottom 46% Bottom 13% Bottom 44% Top 9%
Popularity Top 19% Bottom 27% Top 41% Top 18%