Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2 review: Cushioning that cuddles but doesn’t speed

Puma’s been on the roll with its running footwear launches, so when the opportunity came up to test the Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2, I went for it, especially after my delightful testing experience with the Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3.

The ForeverRun Nitro 2 is different from the Nitro Elite 3, though. The shoes have dual-density foam, an engineered knit upper, and external TPU heel support, the shoes are best suited for slower training runs and those needing additional arch support.

I don’t mind slower running shoes – I was quite happy to train in the Puma MagMax Nitro. That said, I found the ForeverRun Nitro 2 slumpier than needed, almost holding me back on my runs. Maybe, Puma’s engineers dialed up the cushioning a bit too much at the expense of the energy return.

While Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2 might not make it into my rotation, it doesn’t mean it’s without merits. The upper is accommodating, and the shoes are stable and provide an excellent ground feel. Should you get a pair? Read my full Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2 review below to find out.

Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2 review

Price and availability

The Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2 was launched in February 2025 and is available to buy at Puma US and Puma UK for a recommended price of $150/ £140 (approx. AU$241). I couldn’t find the shoes on Puma’s Australian website. The shoes are available in five colours each for women and men. I used the Cool Weather-Yellow Alert colourway for testing.

Specifications

• Best for: stability, slow training, recovery, jogging
• Tested weight: 339g/ 12oz (men’s US 11/ UK 10)
• Stack height: 38mm (heel), 28mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 10mm
• Fit: true to size
• Support: Stability

Design and materials

The ForeverRun Nitro 2 is a stability shoe using dual-density NITROFOAM cushioning to create a smooth and comfortable ride while maintaining a level of stability. NITROFOAM has been used in a variety of Puma's running shoes; the nitrogen infusion process makes the foam lighter and more durable, contributing to the overall lightweight feel of the shoes.

The shoes also incorporate the RUNGUIDE SYSTEM, a special midsole construction that helps to correct overpronation. It uses denser foam or more structured materials on the medial side to help guide the foot from heel strike to toe-off in a more natural motion.

The engineered knit upper uses PWRTAPE reinforcement in critical areas for durability and additional support. Traditional lacing helps the shoes stay in place, while the non-padded, gusseted, semi-integrated tongue reduces the pressure on the top of the foot. Puma also added a TPU Heel Clip for even more stability in the rear.

PUMAGRIP is famous for its grip, and the rubber outsole of the ForeverRun Nitro 2 does a great job of keeping you glued to the ground while you run. Although it doesn’t cover the whole outsole, PUMAGRIP is generously applied in key areas.

The shoes aren’t lightweight, at 339g/ 12oz (men’s US 11/ UK 10), but they're not massively heavy, either. The stack height under the heels maxes out at 38mm; the ForeverRun Nitro 2 has a 10mm drop, giving it a 28mm forefoot stack height.

Performance and comfort

I don’t typically over or under-pronate, but I don’t mind wearing support shoes like the Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2 every now and then, especially when I'm recovering from a race. This type of footwear can offer a break from constantly focusing on my form, allowing me to just relax and go with the flow.

That said, I had some trouble finding my flow with the ForeverRun Nitro 2. The cushioning felt too soft and slumpy, making me work harder than I should have on my slower runs. I initially chalked it up to being out of shape, but after a few runs, I tried the Nitro Elite 3, and they felt much better.

As I mentioned in the intro, the ForeverRun Nitro 2 and the Nitro Elite 3 are completely different shoes, so I didn’t expect them to perform the same way. Still, I didn’t feel as sluggish in the MagMax Nitro or in other stability shoes, which led me to believe it was the dual-density midsole that was affecting the performance.

I do empathise with runners who overpronate, as they often have limited choices that tend to focus on slower-paced options, which doesn’t seem fair. The ForeverRun Nitro 2 is definitely on the slower side, which might be fine if you’re not concerned about speedwork. However, it does take away from the overall versatility of the shoes.

On a more positive note, the ForeverRun Nitro 2 is incredibly comfortable. The upper, especially the toebox, is roomy and supportive. While I found the heel area a bit loose, even with the external TPU Heel Clip, the padding around the ankles is fantastic, and I really liked the pull tabs/loops.

The wider forefoot platform is another great feature. Puma’s shoes are often on the narrower side, which I typically don’t mind, but it makes sense for the ForeverRun Nitro 2 to have a wider design. It enhances stability and helps with a safer toe-off.

Verdict

I found the Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2 a good enough stability shoe. It’s not perfect or even great, but it’s a decent option for those runner who don’t mind some extra support and the lack of speed or versatility. Runners with wide feet are also welcome, thanks to the accommodating engineered mesh upper.

I wish the shoes returned more energy, making them better suited for slightly faster-paced runs. They are far from being too expensive, and I’m sure Puma will eventually knock down a few bobs of the recommended retail price. If I were you, I’d wait until then to buy them.