Post by Stein Langlie
Having worn the Puma Faas 500 v2 for hundreds of training miles and at least one marathon, I was excited at the opportunity to review the Puma Faas 500 V3. I was jazzed by my initial impression of the shoes.
The Puma Faas 500 V3 has the same basic shape as the V2. However, the lacing has been adjusted and now has two lugs at the top with eyelets for the three holes near your toes. The lacing worked fine even though it looks a little weird up close. These shoes were always a comfortable choice for both short and long runs. Plenty of cushion under and around your feet keep the ride plush. They breathed well and provided a secure fit.
From heel to toe, the V3 was smaller than the V2. The size difference is noticeable, and you may need to size up a half-size. I also felt there was too much additional padding in the heel counter, ankle cuff and tongue. Maybe it’s psychological but the additional padding makes my feet feel warmer. I experienced a couple hot spots (that didn’t blister) the first time I ran in the 500 V3 (10 miles) but thereafter had no issues with rubbing. I think Puma may have over done it with the redesign. While I usually welcome a little additional softness under-foot, I prefer a simpler low-profile collar and heel counter.
The Puma Faas 500 V3 is a solid choice as a daily training shoe. It is comfortable and smooth on the road and offers enough protection for crushed gravel surfaces too. Unfortunately my experience with the V2 spoiled my experience in the V3 because it feels like a different shoe, not a simple update like you see as most shoes evolve. None-the-less it is a good shoe, and at around $70 the price is right.
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