Puma Evospeed 1.3 review

PUMA evoSPEED 1.3

Speed boots are consistently seen to be the choice for players right across the pitch. The latest addition to the category from PUMA, the evoSPEED 1.3 looks to be a top contender competing with the likes of nike and adidas who have also released their own share of speed silos. Originally launched 2 years back in may 2012, the evoSPEED replaced the v1 series and hence played a pivotal role in PUMA signing many World class players.

The increasing popularity for the speed boots pushes PUMA to deliver a top quality product to add to their arsenal. A sincere attempt is seen with much time dedicated to research, to develop a top notch Speed silo. Famous players like Oliver Giroud, Sergio Aguero and Radamel Falcao offered their inputs on the final product. So it’s no surprise that the boot is having heavy expectations from both the players as well as the company to stronghold their position in the market.

The new colourway is sharp, the bolder external EverFit cage and the large lateral PUMA writing stands out the most giving the boot a bold new look. Changing the position of the EverFit cage to the outside allows it to work more effectively with the lacing system locking the midfoot and heel into the boot, for reduced energy loss from foot to studs. It all points to better traction, control and increased acceleration. The SpeedTrack soleplate is the same as seen on the previous version.

The everFIT cage on the outside.

Coming to the overall fit of the boot, the narrow fitting players will be happy to find that the boots fit perfectly although wider fitting player may need to go up half a size for a more comfortable fit. The padded lining included around the ankle proves to be extremely useful as you change direction. The extra level of material offers a soft feel in the right areas as the boot rubs up along our ankle joint. The higher cut tongue although a little unusual offers a comfortable fit while playing.

In the new version, it feels as though PUMA tried to take a shortcut by trying too hard to introduce a natural feel with toned down materials but as light as it is, an unusually stiff feeling is experienced. Intended to be the spine of the boot, the stiff SpeedTrack system needs some time to get used to. It is too firm when you first take them out of the boot, casing some lag as you break them in. It behaves as designed over time but the boot needs a few wears to really adjust to your feet and get fluid movements.

As the name suggests, the boots are designed with one thing in mind and that is speed! Compared to the original version which weighed just 6.4oz, the new boots are not the lightest evoSPEED market to be seen. At 7 oz they are slightly heavier but that doesn’t mean it is half bad. It competes with the likes of Nike and Adidas ranking among the lightest boots currently on the market. PUMA has kept the boot slim by using a thin microfiber upper.

The external heel counter is a good addition giving a little more stability and overall protection for the standing foot. Also the PUMA DuoFlex system gets an appearance again on the evoSPEED 1.3 designed to give players comfortable traction that adjusts with the mechanics of the foot while ensuring good grip.

Overall the third release in the popular evoSPEED series is a mixed bag but the positives clearly outweighs the negatives. Weighing just 7oz, it is one of the lighter boots available which is ideal for attack-minded players who like to speed past the opposition. It’s a good solid boot featuring nice features and enabling good pace and grip with the ball.

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