If you’ve been in the running shoe world long enough, you’ve likely seen the rise of super shoes and all the innovations that came with it. Nike introduced the first super shoes back in 2016, and they’ve quickly become a fixture in nearly every running shoe brand line.
These lightweight, carbon-plated shoes are designed to be efficient, fast, and propulsive to help you reach new PRs on race day. However, they’re primarily designed for racing, meaning they often have less durability and don’t carry over to training miles.
That’s where super trainers come into the picture. Super trainers combine some aspects of a carbon-plated racing shoe – the large stack height, premium foam, incorporated plate, or other features – with a more durable and traditional shoe design to create a comfortable, efficient, and luxurious daily trainer.
Puma entered the super trainer game with the launch of the MagMax Nitro in August 2024. This maximalist running shoe was a new venture from this innovative German sportswear company, and our reviewers couldn’t wait to slide on this new super trainer and see how it stacks up against the growing max cushion running shoe market today.
So what sets the Puma MagMax Nitro apart from other trainers? And could it be the right running shoe for you? If you’re asking yourself these questions, keep reading for an in-depth analysis on everything we loved – and didn’t love – about the MagMax Nitro.
Our Review Process
Finding the right pair of running shoes can feel a lot like looking for a needle in a haystack. There are so many brands out there, all with so many different running shoe lines. So how do you know which shoe model is right for you?
At Marathon Sports, we’re here to help you narrow down the options and find the perfect pair of running shoes for your feet. Along with using the Right Fit Process to get to know your individual needs, we also have a dedicated team of reviewers to help you understand exactly what to expect when you put a shoe on for the first time.
Not only do our reviewers dive into all the specs and details of every shoe model, but they also put the shoes to the test on a variety of different runs. From recovery runs to speed workouts and everything in between, our reviewers get to know how the shoe performs on every type of run, on nearly every terrain.
Once we have a solid understanding of how the MagMax Nitro truly performs, we can offer you an in-depth review of every aspect of this unique super trainer, from how it fits to how it feels after miles and miles of use. Keep reading to learn more about this shoe and if it could be the perfect choice for you!
The MagMax Nitro: A Quick Overview
Here are some highlights and fast facts about Puma’s newest daily super trainer.
- Men’s weighs 10.2 oz and women’s weighs 8.8 oz
- Stack height is 46mm/38mm
- Heel-to-toe offset is 8mm
- Designed to be a max cushion daily trainer
- Utilizes a lightweight, nitrogen-infused NITROFOAM in the midsole
- Upper is made with a stretchy and breathable engineered mesh
- Neutral shoe with minor support elements, including a wide platform and PWRTAPE targeted support
- PUMAGRIP outsole adds grip, traction, and durability
- Fits true to size
- Price: $179.95
A Closer Look at the MagMax Nitro
Now that you know all the key specs, it’s time to dive a little deeper into all the MagMax Nitro’s features.
This max cushion super trainer is chock-full of innovative and modern features, and we’re going to take a closer look at everything the MagMax Nitro has to offer.
Superior Cushioning for Long-Distance Runs
What truly sets the MagMax Nitro apart from other daily trainers is the sheer amount of cushion underfoot. With 46mm of foam in the heel and 38mm in the forefoot, this maximalist shoe has one of the highest stack heights you can find in the running shoe world today.
This high stack height is perfect for runners looking for a little extra cushioning on their road runs. Whether you’re prone to injuries, looking for a comfortable recovery shoe, or just prefer more cushion underfoot, the MagMax Nitro’s substantial cushioning could make this your new favorite everyday trainer.
With such a large stack height, shoes often run the risk of feeling too soft or unstable. However, Puma avoids this concern by using a bouncy and responsive nitrogen-infused foam called NITROFOAM. The nitrogen gas mixture makes the foam springier and offers fantastic energy return, so you can feel the propulsion and comfort with every step of your run.
Overall Fit and Design
Puma shoes are known for running relatively narrow, so the MagMax Nitro’s wider fit and roomy forefoot was a pleasant surprise. While the shoe itself runs true to size, the wider platform gives the shoe a more spacious feel that can accommodate a wide range of foot shapes and sizes.
The Puma MagMax Nitro also features an 8mm drop between the heel and toe. This 8mm offset is on the average-to-higher end compared to other daily running shoes. While our reviewers didn’t find the higher offset particularly noticeable while running, there are some benefits to this higher drop.
Runners who heel-strike may find the design results in a smooth and natural ride and comfortable transitions. And if you’re prone to Achilles, calf, or ankle injuries, that high drop could be beneficial when it comes to reducing stress and pressure on long runs.
Like most super shoes, the MagMax Nitro also boasts a pronounced rocker design. The curved midsole design promotes a smooth heel-to-toe transition and drives momentum and a smooth forward roll on your runs.
Light and Breathable Mesh Upper
While the abundant cushioning feels fantastic under the foot, the MagMax Nitro’s engineered mesh upper is a true highlight of the shoe. The upper is plush and padded, including around the heel, for long-term comfort throughout recovery runs and long run days.
Puma really excelled in creating the mesh upper of this shoe. The stretchy mesh design feels soft and secure around the foot, while the exceptional ventilation keeps your feet feeling cool, even during warm summer runs.
If you prefer an ultra-padded tongue, the MagMax Nitro’s upper may not be for you. However, many of our reviewers found that the stretchy, lightweight tongue was an even better design choice than excess padding. The semi-gusseted tongue feels like a sock over the top of your foot, keeping the upper lightweight and unobtrusive throughout everyday runs and workouts.
Targeted Support Features
The MagMax Nitro is a neutral running shoe, meaning it doesn’t correct for any overpronation or fallen arches. However, Puma does find ways to incorporate targeted support features that benefit both neutral runners and mild overpronators.
The shoe’s wider platform offers some inherent stability on runs, ensuring a sturdy and supported landing with every step.
Puma also uses their PWRTAPE technology in the MagMax Nitro for some additional support. The targeted reinforcement along the medial side of the upper creates more structure and support in the shoe without feeling overbearing and hindering the shoe’s breathability and comfort. This design element pairs perfectly with the lightweight and flexible mesh upper to create subtle support for those who need it.
Tried and True Rubber Outsole
Puma is known for having some of the best outsole technology in the running shoe market, and the outsole on the MagMax Nitro is no exception. This shoe features their reliable signature PUMAGRIP outsole for extra grip and traction throughout your run.
While the MagMax Nitro works best for road runs, this blended rubber outsole provides enough traction and grip to take on a variety of different terrains. From slick, wet pavement to dirt paths, this outsole offers will keep you feeling safe and stable on any run.
This outsole also creates long-lasting durability in this super trainer. PUMAGRIP protects the NITROFOAM in the MagMax Nitro from early wear so you can log mile after mile in comfort.
Value
One of the major downsides when it comes to super trainers is the high price tag. Most max cushion shoes run about $160-$180, so the MagMax Nitro does fall within this standard price range. But when you’re spending $180 on a shoe, you want to make sure you’ll get plenty of value and use out of it.
Fortunately, the MagMax Nitro offers great value for the hefty price tag. Our reviewers have found that the shoes hold up well with the miles logged so far, and Puma takes several steps to ensure the longevity and durability of these shoes.
Between the reliable rubber outsole, premium midsole foam, and durable mesh upper, you can expect above-average use and durability from the MagMax Nitro. While it may be more expensive than other daily trainers, our reviewers felt that the superior cushioning and design elements justified the extra cost.
How Does the MagMax Nitro Perform on a Road Test?
Of course, the specs and details of a shoe are all important. But the most crucial test is when we get to lace up a pair of shoes and take them for some test runs.
The sheer amount of cushion on the MagMax Nitro is evident just by looking at the shoe. And right out of the box, that cushion offered some immediate comfort.
As a super trainer, the MagMax Nitro has a whopping 46mm of cushion under the heel and 38mm in the forefoot, and the high stack height is evident from the first step you take in these shoes. There aren’t many shoes out there with that much foam, and, we’ll be honest, some of our reviewers were skeptical that the shoe could maintain a stable feel with that stack height.
However, our team was pleasantly surprised by the cushion after the first few miles in the MagMax Nitro. With so many max cushion shoes, the foam feels too soft and spongy, making the shoe feel unsteady and unstable. The MagMax Nitro defies this norm with the surprisingly responsive and balanced NITROFOAM midsole.
Despite the high stack height, this trainer feels bouncy, energetic, and efficient. The rocker also contributes to smooth landings and propulsive runs, helping you efficiently move through every stride.
The MagMax Nitro is advertised for long runs and recovery days, and these longer runs are where the shoe really shines. The cushion keeps your legs feeling fresh and helps prevent fatigue, while the stretchy upper and targeted reinforcement ensure the shoe feels supportive and secure.
What really took us by surprise, however, was the versatility of the shoe. The lightweight foam and high energy return made it easy to pick up the pace in this shoe on speedy workout days. With so much cushion, the MagMax Nitro is heavier and clunkier than shoes specifically designed for speed. But if you want a well-cushioned shoe that can handle anything you throw at it, the MagMax Nitro is a great choice.
Pros and Cons
No shoe is perfect for every runner, and like every running shoe model, the Puma MagMax Nitro has some pros and cons to consider before you make the leap and purchase the shoe.
Pros
- Max cushion design absorbs shock on long runs to help prevent impact-related injuries
- Nitrogen-infused cushion is incredibly versatile and can handle long runs or workouts
- Engineered mesh upper and stretchy tongue with pull tab securely wraps the foot and adds extra comfort and breathability
- PUMAGRIP outsole is top-of-the-line and offers extra grip and traction for even more versatility
- Targeted support features add extra stability
Cons
- $180 price tag is more expensive than a lot of other traditional daily trainers
- May feel heavy and bulky compared to other versatile daily trainers
Who Should Give the MagMax Nitro a Try?
As a unique, out-of-the-box super trainer, the Puma MagMax Nitro isn’t going to be the perfect shoe for everyone. If you prefer a more minimal shoe or like feeling the ground under your feet during runs, this max cushion shoe most likely won’t be your top choice.
However, there are a lot of runners out there who could benefit from the cushion and design of the MagMax Nitro.
High cushion shoes such as the MagMax Nitro are a great choice for both injury-prone runners or runners at the beginning of their running journey. The cushion adds plenty of padding for your feet and joints as you land, so you can focus on building mileage with less concern about common impact-related running injuries.
The high drop and high stack height also make this a good shoe option for runners who tend to land hard on their heels. The MagMax Nitro will provide plenty of cushion for your landings, while the rocker design will smoothly roll you through each stride.
Another huge benefit of the MagMax Nitro is its versatility. The cushion and subtle support features keep you happy and comfortable throughout recovery runs, long run days, or everyday training runs. And unlike many other max cushion shoes, you don’t sink into the foam, making the MagMax Nitro responsive and fast enough for days on the track as well.
The MagMax Nitro vs. Competitors: How Does the Shoe Stack Up?
With more and more brands taking part in the new super trainer craze, the MagMax Nitro is competing against a wide range of max cushion shoes from some of the top brands in the running shoe game. So how does this newer shoe stack up against the competition?
The Saucony Endorphin Speed is one of the most reliable and beloved super trainers on the market today. Now on the fourth iteration, this is another versatile, high-cushioned shoe that can take on both long runs and speed days. While the Endorphin Speed 4 has less cushioning than the MagMax Nitro (36mm/28mm stack height), it’s also slightly lighter, making it a better, less bulky option for workout days.
The New Balance Fuelcell SuperComp Trainer is another great option for runners looking for plenty of plush foam underfoot. Similar to Puma’s MagMax Nitro, the SuperComp Trainer has a lightweight mesh upper, a high stack height, and a rocker geometry for more efficient runs. However, this New Balance shoe also incorporates a carbon fiber plate, offering even more energy return and propulsion.
Looking for a more traditional – and affordable – max cushion shoe? You might want to check out the New Balance Fresh Foam More v5. With a 44mm/40mm stack height, the More rivals the cushion found in the MagMax Nitro. And while it’s slightly less versatile, the softer foam makes it perfect for runners who prefer softer, more forgiving landings on their long runs.
Puma MagMax Nitro: The Verdict
Many of our reviewers were unsure what to expect with Puma’s new outside-the-box super trainer. But after all different types of runs in the MagMax Nitro, we feel confident saying that Puma released a fantastic max cushion shoe option that can fit into the running shoe rotation for a huge range of runners.
If you value feeling grounded and light on your feet on runs, this may not be the shoe for you. Compared to more traditional trainers, it does feel relatively heavy and bulky, and you shouldn’t expect to feel the ground beneath your feet when you head out for a run in these shoes.
However, if you’re looking for plenty of cushion that still offers lots of bounce and responsiveness, the MagMax Nitro is worth a try. The shoe’s balance, versatility, and comfort had us impressed throughout every run.
Reading about a shoe can help you narrow down the options, but it’s hard to know if a shoe is right for you until you try it on for yourself. And Marathon Sports is the perfect place to try on a pair of MagMax Nitros and countless other top-of-the-line running shoes.
Ready to find your perfect pair? Stop in today to work with running shoe experts and find everything you need to tackle every run, workout, and more!
