Puma's current running shoe range offers genuine choice at different price points, from entry-level trainers to cushioned performance models. The Aviator Running Shoes at £24.95 target casual joggers on a tight budget, the Liberate Nitro 2 at £54.95 delivers premium cushioning tech, and the Voltra Running Shoes at £74.95 sits at the premium end—but only the Liberate Nitro 2 and Aviators represent clear value. The Voltra, while a solid shoe, doesn't justify its £20 premium over the Liberate Nitro 2's superior cushioning.
Why Puma?
Puma was founded in 1948 and has built a reputation as a performance-focused sportswear brand that balances innovation with accessible pricing. Unlike premium rivals, Puma specialises in developing proprietary cushioning technologies—like Nitro foam in their running line—without charging luxury-brand markups. They're particularly known for track and field heritage, but their running trainers have evolved to compete with Asics and New Balance on comfort and durability. Puma's strength lies in offering genuinely technical shoes at street-level prices; you're not paying for heritage alone.
Top Picks
Aviator Running Shoes — £24.95
Best for absolute beginners or casual 2-3 km jogs. At under £25, the Aviator is Puma's entry point and delivers basic comfort without pretence. The minimal cushioning suits flat terrain and light exercise rather than serious distance running. Grab these if you're testing whether running suits you before investing further.
Liberate Nitro 2 Running Shoes — £54.95
Best for regular runners seeking genuine cushioning without overspending. The Liberate Nitro 2 uses Puma's proprietary Nitro foam, which provides responsive bounce and shock absorption across 5-10 km runs. At £54.95, it undercuts most comparable cushioned trainers and offers the best value-to-performance ratio in this lineup. This is where your money goes furthest.
Voltra Running Shoes — £74.95
Best for runners prioritising premium build and brand positioning. The Voltra sits at Puma's premium tier with refined aesthetics and advanced materials, but the £20 jump over the Liberate Nitro 2 yields diminishing returns for most runners. Unless you specifically want Puma's flagship status shoe, the Liberate Nitro 2 delivers 90% of the performance at 73% of the price.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Price | Best For | Standout Feature | |-------|-------|----------|------------------| | Aviator | £24.95 | Casual joggers, beginners | Unbeatable entry price | | Liberate Nitro 2 | £54.95 | Regular 5-10 km runners | Nitro foam cushioning | | Voltra | £74.95 | Premium positioning, aesthetics | Advanced materials, refined design |
What to Look For
- Cushioning type: Puma's Nitro foam (in the Liberate Nitro 2) offers responsive bounce; basic EVA (in the Aviator) suits only light use. Nitro is worth the extra investment if you run 3+ times weekly.
- Weight capacity and durability: Puma running shoes typically handle up to 100 kg comfortably. Heavier runners should opt for the Liberate Nitro 2 or Voltra for superior midsole stability.
- Terrain suitability: Road-only shoes like these aren't suited to trails or uneven ground. Stick to pavements and tracks for best performance and longevity.
- Seasonal factors: Puma's breathable mesh uppers work well for spring/summer; autumn/winter runners may prefer additional grip features found in specialist trail or winter models (not in this lineup).
The Bottom Line
The Liberate Nitro 2 at £54.95 is the standout choice—it offers genuine cushioning technology and durability for serious amateur runners without the premium pricing of the Voltra. If you're budget-conscious or testing running as a hobby, the Aviator at £24.95 works as a starter shoe, but expect to outgrow it within a month of regular use. Skip the Voltra unless you specifically want Puma's flagship aesthetic; the Liberate Nitro 2 delivers better performance per pound.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Puma running shoes good value compared to Nike or Adidas?
Yes. Puma's Liberate Nitro 2 at £54.95 undercuts Nike's equivalent Pegasus (£109.95) and Adidas Ultraboost (£129.99) while delivering comparable cushioning and durability. Puma's pricing strategy prioritises accessibility without sacrificing technology, making them a smart choice for cost-conscious runners who don't need brand prestige.
How long do Puma running shoes typically last?
Expect 300-500 km of active running before noticeable midsole compression. The Liberate Nitro 2 and Voltra will last longer than the budget Aviator due to superior foam quality and construction. For casual joggers (10-20 km weekly), most Puma shoes remain comfortable for 6-12 months.
Should I size up or down in Puma running shoes?
Puma runs true to size for most models, including this lineup. However, Puma uppers tend to run slightly narrow compared to Nike or Asics, so consider half-sizing up if you have wider feet. Always check the product page for specific width guidance before ordering.
Can I use these shoes for gym training or cross-training, not just running?
The Liberate Nitro 2 and Voltra work reasonably well for mixed gym use, but they're optimised for forward motion rather than lateral support. For weightlifting or HIIT classes, dedicated cross-training shoes (with stiffer soles and more ankle support) are a better choice. The Aviator is too minimal for anything beyond light cardio.
