Our verdict

We think the MagMax Nitro lives up to its name with max cushion, max stack, and max comfort. On top of that, it's far more stable than its height suggests. However, we found it a bit heavy and sluggish for faster efforts. Still, Puma's first serious leap into maximalist category seems promising—meeting the needs of runners who’ve long awaited a super-sized cat!

Pros

  • Endless cushioning
  • Stretchy, comfortable tongue
  • Outstanding traction
  • Rock-solid stability
  • Responsive midsole
  • Ideal for long-distance training
  • Great for heel strikers
  • Good value for being a supertrainer

Cons

  • Heavier than most competitors
  • Outsole shows fast wear
  • Lacks agility

Audience verdict

90
Superb!

Who should buy

We were eager to test Puma's largest shoe yet, and we found it perfect for:

  • Runners seeking tons of cushioning—the MagMax Nitro’s maximalist build offers plenty of it.
  • Those looking for a supertrainer that prioritizes stability and support over speed and agility.
  • Long-distance runners who dislike ground feel and need an ultra-cushioned shoe for long runs and recovery sessions.

Puma MagMax Nitro

Who should NOT buy

We found that while the MagMax Nitro weight isn’t exactly a disaster, it’s noticeably heavier than many other supertrainers, especially when stacked up against the Mizuno Neo Vista. And if you prefer to skip the Japanese brand, we think the Hoka Skyflow is a good choice too.

We also think that runners aiming for faster paces in a supertrainer will likely find the MagMax Nitro ankward. For speedier efforts, we recommend the ASICS Superblast 2 (no plate) or the ASICS Magic Speed 4 (carbon plate), which effortlessly handle a variety of faster paces.

Puma MagMax Nitro parts

Breathability

From the moment we unboxed the blue MagMax Nitro that we purchased, we noticed the upper was exceptionally plush and comfortable—though this raised some concerns about breathability. Naturally, we wanted to find out if it could deliver enough airflow.

We began with our signature smoke test, connecting our machine to a custom-designed, 3D-printed piece to direct smoke into the toebox. We found it performed well, earning a solid 4/5 on our scale.

Next, we used a light to examine the placement of ventilation holes in the toebox and medial area. We saw that Puma aimed for a balance of airflow and support, with less ventilation from midfoot to heel—a choice that made sense to us given the towering stack height of this shoe.

Puma MagMax Nitro micro 1

Under the microscope, we found an engineered mesh upper that was surprisingly standard. While Puma often experiments with unique materials and designs, this one resembled the uppers found in many other daily trainers.

Puma MagMax Nitro micro 2

Puma often uses thermoplastic overlays (PWRTAPE) to enhance the structure of the upper. We wanted to check if these overlays would restrict airflow, but we found that they don’t.

Puma MagMax Nitro PWRTAPE

Overall, we think this upper suits this shoe very well, with ample padding and adequate ventilation. For us, it passes the test!

Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 4
Average 3.8
Compared to 278 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

The advantage of using a classic engineered mesh upper is that durability tends to be reliable, even with numerous ventilation holes—especially compared to knit materials.

We gave it a 3/5 in the Dremel test. While not an outstanding result, it’s sufficient to handle the typical wear and tear of road running.

Puma MagMax Nitro Toebox durability
Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 3
Average 2.5
Compared to 212 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

Although the MagMax Nitro here earned the same 3/5 result as our previous test in the toebox, we found it slightly underwhelming compared to its competitors in the heel. Nonetheless, this score it’s far from disappointing.

The issue lies in the lining, which isn't plain but includes tiny ventilation holes. While these improve breathability, they also create weak points that are more prone to damage.

Puma MagMax Nitro Heel padding durability
Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 3
Average 3.3
Compared to 208 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

We found the outsole’s surprisingly soft rubber—measuring 74.0 HC—delivered exceptional traction, which we expected from the well-known PumaGrip.

Puma MagMax Nitro rubber coverage
We loved that the amount of exposed midsole is really low.

Our tests confirmed that the MagMax Nitro uses the same ultra-grippy rubber as Puma's top supershoe, the Deviate Nitro Elite 3. However, the MagMax features more extensive outsole coverage, and we anticipate a thicker measurement when we gauge it shortly.

Puma MagMax Nitro Outsole hardness
Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 74.0 HC
Average 80.1 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 329 running shoes
Number of shoes
52.1 HC
Outsole hardness
93.0 HC

Outsole durability

Durability-wise, the result isn't great—something we anticipated given the soft PumaGrip formulation and the fantastic traction we experienced even on dirt roads.

We measured the dent with a tire tread gauge and found 1.4 mm of rubber wear. This is more than we’d prefer and could lead to early wear for heavier runners prone to this issue, but we also believe it’s only slightly concerning for the average runner.

Puma MagMax Nitro Outsole durability
Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 1.4 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 190 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

Why do we think so? Because Puma, knowing the low wear-resistance of its PumaGrip compound, used 3.5 mm of thickness to ensure durability and extend the shoe's shelf life.

Puma MagMax Nitro Outsole thickness
Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 3.5 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 348 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.6 mm

Weight

Discussing the weight of this shoe is a bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, we believe it's even lightweight for its massive, behemoth-like build at just 10.3 oz or 291g. But on the other hand, it's still heavy when compared to a standard road daily trainer or average running shoe.

In our view, if weight isn't a significant factor for you, then the MagMax Nitro should suit you well. However, if you prefer a shoe that feels almost weightless on your feet, this is not going to work for you.

Puma MagMax Nitro Weight
Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 10.26 oz (291g)
Average 9.35 oz (265g)
Compared to 349 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.26 oz (149g)
Weight
12.56 oz (356g)

Cushioning

Heel stack

This shoe's weight has a solid reason behind it—its jumbo-sized stack height, which elevates the rearfoot to 42.9 mm from the ground, firmly placing it in the maximalist running shoe category.

Though it falls slightly short of Puma's stated 47 mm, we found that 42.9 mm is enough. In our experience, adding more height could have even been detrimental, given the shoe's weight-to-stack ratio.

Puma MagMax Nitro Heel stack
Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 42.9 mm
Average 34.0 mm
Compared to 348 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Heel stack
46.3 mm

Forefoot stack

The forefoot also measured shorter than anticipated at 33.3 mm, yet it's still much higher than most running shoes and clearly suitable for forefoot and midfoot strikers. It's ideal for those seeking zero ground feel and maximum protection underfoot.

Puma MagMax Nitro Forefoot stack
Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 33.3 mm
Average 25.4 mm
Compared to 348 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Forefoot stack
37.1 mm

Drop

If you're good with numbers, you may have already calculated it, but if not, the MagMax Nitro has an actual heel-to-toe drop of 9.6 mm. This makes it even more appealing to heel strikers than the Puma-stated 8-mm offset, though the 1.6-mm difference is minor.

Puma MagMax Nitro Drop
Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 9.6 mm
Average 8.6 mm
Compared to 348 running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.8 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Insole thickness

We used our digital calipers to measure the insole thickness, and it turned out to be just 3.3 mm—much thinner than we expected for this shoe. Maybe we were biased, assuming the MagMax Nitro had everything in XXL size!

Puma MagMax Nitro Insole thickness
Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 3.3 mm
Average 4.5 mm
Compared to 344 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

Some supertrainers combine two different foams, but Puma surprised us by sticking solely to Nitro foam and leaving Nitro Elite out, a different approach from the Deviate Nitro 3. While it would've been great to have their top-tier compound here, we understand it helped keep the price lower than some competitors.

Nitro is a nitrogen-infused foam that delivers both lightness and solid energy return, offering a far better ride than almost any other mid-tier foam on the market. Using a single slab instead of a dual setup also benefits durability, as it eliminates the risk of layers separating over time.

Puma MagMax Nitro stack foam

In our view, with the massive stack height of this shoe, Puma couldn't afford to make the foam too soft. We measured 18.3 HA on our durometer—an ideal balance that suits the MagMax very well.

Puma MagMax Nitro Midsole softness
Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 18.3 HA
Average 20.9 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 276 running shoes
Number of shoes
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
41.5 HA

Midsole softness in cold (%)

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

After placing the MagMax Nitro in the freezer for 20 minutes, we tested it again with our durometer.

In our view, the outcome was underwhelming—28.3 HA, reflecting a substantial 54.8% uptick.

Puma MagMax Nitro Difference in midsole softness in cold
Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 54.8%
Average 25.5%
Compared to 275 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Midsole softness in cold
100%

Rocker

The MagMax Nitro features a prominent rocker that begins 10 cm before the toe, essential for aiding turnover due to the shoe’s substantial stack height. The heel also boasts a significant curvature, crucial for heel strikers—especially those who land heavily on their rearfoot. Without it, they'd struggle to move forward smoothly.

Overall, we found the rocker to be smooth and natural, making the ride feel fluid and effortless in such a maximalist running shoe.

Puma MagMax Nitro Rocker

Stability

Lateral stability test

The Puma MagMax Nitro is built for neutral runners, but to handle its towering stack height, Puma added several guidance features, including midsole sidewalls, a massive sole flare extending along the midsole's sides, and a highly rigid construction.

For these reasons, we believe that runners with moderate stability needs can use this shoe, though we still think its primary focus should be on neutral runners, regardless of their footstrike.

Torsional rigidity

Crafting a shoe that's flexible from a torsional standpoint becomes challenging when the heel exceeds 40 mm and the forefoot goes over 30 mm.

In our experience, having 5/5 torsional rigidity helps provide a slight stability boost by keeping the forces centered in the MagMax Nitro. Of course, such high rigidity can make the shoe feel a bit less comfortable, but we believe it is necessary to maintain control given the high stack height.

Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 5
Average 3.3
Compared to 327 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

In our testing, we found that the heel counter strikes a solid balance, scoring 3/5 in stiffness.

It’s firm enough to provide support without feeling overly rigid. For us, this design seems aimed at satisfying a wide range of runners, and it succeded.

Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 3
Average 2.8
Compared to 311 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width - forefoot

From the moment we started working with this shoe in the lab, it looked enormous, but it wasn’t until we measured it that we realized its true massive scale. When we took our digital calipers to measure the forefoot width—coming in at a whopping 126.9 mm—we were genuinely amazed.

This is one of the widest shoes we've ever tested in the lab, and we found that its broad base is a key reason behind the stable feel, even with its towering height. Think of it as driving a massive SUV—it's not built for quick turns or rapid accelerations, but you'll be super comfortable cruising the highway.

Puma MagMax Nitro Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 126.9 mm
Average 114.1 mm
Compared to 349 running shoes
Number of shoes
100.5 mm
Midsole width - forefoot
127.9 mm

Midsole width - heel

The heel follows the same design concept as the forefoot—remarkably wide compared to 9 out of 10 running shoes on the market today. We measured it at 105.8 mm, which should be more than enough for heel strikers who require extra stability compared to the typical neutral workhorse.

Puma MagMax Nitro Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 105.8 mm
Average 90.7 mm
Compared to 349 running shoes
Number of shoes
74.9 mm
Midsole width - heel
106.6 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

With its sky-high torsional rigidity and massive midsole, we were initially skeptical about the longitudinal stiffness of the MagMax Nitro.

We tested it using our 90-degree bend method and found results similar to nylon-plated tempo shoes like the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4. While this isn't a bad outcome at all, we believe it's not ideal for those seeking a shoe for walking or all-day wear—it feels too stiff if comfort is your main priority.

Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 31.5N
Average 28.6N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 331 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.2N
Stiffness
94.4N

Stiffness in cold (%)

We obtained the exact same result after freezing the shoe for another 20 minutes, which is quite unusual in our lab tests!

Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 0%
Average 34.2%
Compared to 331 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Stiffness in cold
148%

Size and fit

Toebox width - widest part

The fit is similar to most Puma models, leaning towards a snug overall feel. However, in the MagMax Nitro, we discovered a bit more width at 98.3 mm, providing some extra space.

The upper's height is limited, and while the mesh does break in and stretch after a few runs, it’s worth noting if you struggle with low-volume uppers.

Puma MagMax Nitro Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 98.3 mm
Average 98.4 mm
Compared to 349 running shoes
Number of shoes
89.5 mm
Toebox width - widest part
109.1 mm

Toebox width - big toe

The toebox tapers like most daily trainers, striking a balance between not being too roomy or ultra-snug in the toe area. Combined with the stretchiness of the upper, we believe it should provide a comfortable fit for most runners.

Puma MagMax Nitro up
This picture illustrates the sole flare, meaning how the midsole extends outward on both sides to create a stable platform.

However, Puma doesn’t offer this shoe in wide sizes, which typically keep the same midsole but feature a larger toebox. For this reason, trying to go up half a size is the only trick available if you need more room.

Puma MagMax Nitro Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 77.6 mm
Average 78.3 mm
Compared to 223 running shoes
Number of shoes
60.4 mm
Toebox width - big toe
92.5 mm

Tongue: gusset type

Puma chose a semi-gusseted tongue for the MagMax Nitro, and we believe it’s the right call. A non-gusseted tongue would feel subpar in a $180 shoe, while a fully gusseted version could have been overwhelming and airflow-restrictive. 

Puma MagMax Nitro Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro Both sides (semi)

Comfort

Tongue padding

One of the standout elements of the MagMax Nitro is its tongue.

Puma MagMax Nitro lacing
The lacing system is great and offers an extra eyelet.

Unlike most running shoes that match the tongue material with the upper, Puma impressed us by opting for a stretchy design paired with a massive pull tab that instantly reminded us of the ASICS Nimbus 26.

At 7.1 mm thick with two slabs of foam, it strikes a perfect balance between plush comfort and minimal weight—a smart choice that enhances the overall feel without adding bulk.

Puma MagMax Nitro Tongue padding
Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro 7.1 mm
Average 5.8 mm
Compared to 346 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Heel tab

Puma is a brand known for skipping heel tabs in their shoes, with only a few exceptions like the stability-oriented ForeverRun Nitro. It seems they prefer this design choice, as the MagMax Nitro also lacks a heel tab!

Puma MagMax Nitro Heel tab
Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro None

Removable insole

The stock insole can be replaced with a standard one, but you’ll lose the cozy, bucket-like footbed that enhances heel lockdown in the MagMax.

Puma MagMax Nitro Removable insole
Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro Yes

Price

Maximalist running shoes often come with maximalist price tags, and the MagMax is no exception. While it’s not the most expensive supertrainer we’ve seen, it’s certainly not a budget-friendly option either.

Puma MagMax Nitro maximalist

Is it worth the investment? Well, we believe it is. In our experience, the combination of a luxurious upper, endless cushioning, and a world-class outsole makes the price justified.

Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro $180
Average $146
Compared to 349 running shoes
Number of shoes
$60
Price
$300

Misc

Reflective elements

We were thrilled to discover reflective elements in the MagMax—something Puma has been skipping in some of their top-tier trainers recently. In our view, this is a smart safety feature, and we’re all for it!

Test results
Puma MagMax Nitro Yes