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Puma Ignite evoKNIT
Puma Ignite evoKNIT Review Facts
The Puma Ignite evoKNIT is marketed as a cross-trainer shoe, but it can be more than that. It is useful for a wide range of activities from running to gym exercises. It is a jack of all trades, as it is versatile and will outperform most straight running or cross-training shoes. However, if interested in checking other models of running shoes for men, you can check our guide.
One thing is for sure; you will enjoy every opportunity that you get to put this on your foot. The sock-like fit that it offers, coupled with its comfort, will keep you coming back for more time and time again.
As all the great technologies have been packed into a sleek and stylish silhouette, many will find themselves wearing this for nothing more than casual reasons. Without question, its versatility is its greatest selling point. Then again, the Puma Ignite evoKNIT is also not ready to handle your extreme needs. It won't be your go-to shoe for any specific situation, unfortunately. If you are in a search for such a pair make sure you read our guide on the best travel shoes.
If still not sure about the Puma EvoKNIT, our detailed review will help you in reaching the right decision.
Editor's Pros & Cons
Pros
Versatile
Provides fantastic comfort
Designed with Ignite foam for cushioning
Offers a sock-like fit
Outsole is durable
Traction is great on wet surfaces
Sports quite a flexible sole
Cons
Lacks support to be a go-to running shoe
Can feel somewhat sloppy
Lacks different width options
Not the best for intense cross-training
Use
What separates the Puma Ignite evoKNIT from most is just how versatile it truly is. Some of the best uses for it will be casual running, cross-training, exercising, walking and even everyday wear. That makes it perfect in this regard with no issues whatsoever, right? Well, if you were paying attention in the introduction, then you already know the answer to this question.
While it is great for all the activities listed above, it is not the best for any of them. Let’s start with what this is advertised to be, a cross-training shoe. For this purpose, it works well, but it is not quite stable enough to hold up to more intense training sessions. The same goes for running.
Again, while it can be used successfully for this, there is a lack of support so it would not be a running shoe that you would want to use every single time you went for a run. Ironically, some users have found it to be best for casual wear. There is nothing wrong with that, but for a cross-trainer, this may disappoint some of you.
While it is great for all the activities listed above, it is not the best for any of them. Let’s start with what this is advertised to be, a cross-training shoe. For this purpose, it works well, but it is not quite stable enough to hold up to more intense training sessions. The same goes for running.
Again, while it can be used successfully for this, there is a lack of support so it would not be a running shoe that you would want to use every single time you went for a run. Ironically, some users have found it to be best for casual wear. There is nothing wrong with that, but for a cross-trainer, this may disappoint some of you.
Comfort
No matter how you utilize the Puma Ignite evoKNIT, you can take pleasure in knowing that it is going to keep your foot comfortable for hours and hours. If nothing else, this is something that pretty much every single one of you is going to adore. But what makes this shoe so comfortable to wear?
Mainly, it is the combination of the knitted, form-fitting upper and the Ignite cushioning that has been implemented (more on that later). This results in a shoe that is smooth all the way around. What also helps is that there has been ForEverFoam that has been integrated into the heel.
Better yet is the fact that the PUMA Ignite evoKNIT is going to be superbly comfortable right out of the box. There is not going to be too much of a break-in period. That is always a huge plus. However, you can also check other models of cushioned-running shoes here.
Mainly, it is the combination of the knitted, form-fitting upper and the Ignite cushioning that has been implemented (more on that later). This results in a shoe that is smooth all the way around. What also helps is that there has been ForEverFoam that has been integrated into the heel.
Better yet is the fact that the PUMA Ignite evoKNIT is going to be superbly comfortable right out of the box. There is not going to be too much of a break-in period. That is always a huge plus. However, you can also check other models of cushioned-running shoes here.
Size
For the right people, this is going to fit like a charm — one of the primary reasons why is due to the sock-like fit that is provided from the upper. Words can’t do the fit of the upper justice as you need to see for yourself how well it contours to your foot. Additionally, there is a slight stretch in this shoe to offer additional comfort and flexibility.
However, did you notice how we said: “for the right people”? Yeah, this is pretty important. One of the most common complaints with the Puma Ignite evoKNIT has been its narrow fit. And, the bigger problem is the fact that Puma does not offer the shoe in different width options. To get a different width, you would need to sacrifice length, and this will not be optimal for most of you.
What this means is if you have wider feet, you may want to pass on this sneaker. While the shoe may stretch out a little bit, you do not want to be in pain with any shoe that you put on your foot for any lengthy amount of time.
However, did you notice how we said: “for the right people”? Yeah, this is pretty important. One of the most common complaints with the Puma Ignite evoKNIT has been its narrow fit. And, the bigger problem is the fact that Puma does not offer the shoe in different width options. To get a different width, you would need to sacrifice length, and this will not be optimal for most of you.
What this means is if you have wider feet, you may want to pass on this sneaker. While the shoe may stretch out a little bit, you do not want to be in pain with any shoe that you put on your foot for any lengthy amount of time.
Durability
You have to hand it to Puma as while their cross-trainer is not perfect, it is expertly built in every way possible regarding its durability. While you may be scared of the original cost, you need to know that your money is going to go a long way. And, this all starts with the fact that the higher wear areas of the shoe have received extra reinforcements.
Welded overlays have been added to ensure that the Puma Ignite evoKNIT is not going to wear down very quickly. Additionally, ForEverFoam has been implemented at the heel, and this provides even more durability. To top it all off, the design of the outsole is also something to behold.
Several previous users have simple lauded the superb durability and build quality of the rubber sole. Given that the sole of the shoe is going to endure the most abuse, it is comforting to know that this sole is built to last. While it is going to wear down eventually, as all soles will, that time is not going to be as soon as it would be for other soles.
Welded overlays have been added to ensure that the Puma Ignite evoKNIT is not going to wear down very quickly. Additionally, ForEverFoam has been implemented at the heel, and this provides even more durability. To top it all off, the design of the outsole is also something to behold.
Several previous users have simple lauded the superb durability and build quality of the rubber sole. Given that the sole of the shoe is going to endure the most abuse, it is comforting to know that this sole is built to last. While it is going to wear down eventually, as all soles will, that time is not going to be as soon as it would be for other soles.
Midsole
It was mentioned earlier, and now it deserves a much closer look. The Puma Ignite evoKNIT has been engineered with what is known as Ignite technology. This technology is what makes up the midsole of this unit and, overall, it is awe-inspiring and has received extremely positive reception from critics.
Ignite itself is just an EVA foam, but it is something that is often used in Puma’s footwear. Making up the midsole, it is slightly thicker in the heel area, and this is done to emulate the natural gait of a runner. This extra thickness will also deliver you with improved rebound and energy return.
At the same time, the foam also levels out naturally toward the forefoot area. This allows it to be well-balanced while still delivering improved performance. It is also not stiff or mushy when you train in it, which are both positives.
Ignite itself is just an EVA foam, but it is something that is often used in Puma’s footwear. Making up the midsole, it is slightly thicker in the heel area, and this is done to emulate the natural gait of a runner. This extra thickness will also deliver you with improved rebound and energy return.
At the same time, the foam also levels out naturally toward the forefoot area. This allows it to be well-balanced while still delivering improved performance. It is also not stiff or mushy when you train in it, which are both positives.
Outsole
As you already know, the durability of the outsole is just remarkable. What about how it performs? After all, what good is a durable outsole that really can’t deliver you the traction you need while you train? Thankfully, traction is not going to be an issue with the Puma Ignite evoKNIT shoe.
Rubber is the material of choice for the outsole, and this is not much of a surprise. But, what is unique is the type of rubber that has been utilized. It almost resembles tire compound, in a way, as it is quite sticky while also being incredibly durable. Even when the conditions are wet, this rubber compound is going to deliver you with above-average traction.
What is also present on the outsole are flex grooves. To combat the stiff and hard nature of the rubber, these grooves will allow you to flex your foot with greater ease. It can come in handy during several of your training sessions and is something you will love. It can also have a positive effect on your runs, so keep that in mind.
Rubber is the material of choice for the outsole, and this is not much of a surprise. But, what is unique is the type of rubber that has been utilized. It almost resembles tire compound, in a way, as it is quite sticky while also being incredibly durable. Even when the conditions are wet, this rubber compound is going to deliver you with above-average traction.
What is also present on the outsole are flex grooves. To combat the stiff and hard nature of the rubber, these grooves will allow you to flex your foot with greater ease. It can come in handy during several of your training sessions and is something you will love. It can also have a positive effect on your runs, so keep that in mind.
Support
Alright, so here is the deal; this shoe does provide your foot with some support. One of the features that do is the wave-inspired knit that is located at the lateral side and the back of this shoe. Additionally, there is an extra strap around the back to the front, and this is used to help wrap your foot and keep it more supported.
This is fine, and all but the reality of the situation is there is not enough support provided to make this a long-term running shoe. At least this is going to be the case for those of you who require a running shoe that has an adequate amount of support. The included insole is also lacking in support so you may want to insert your custom insole.
As a running shoe, this can also feel a bit lose while you are running. Again, this goes back to the lack of support. All in all, this is just not going to cut it for some of you.
This is fine, and all but the reality of the situation is there is not enough support provided to make this a long-term running shoe. At least this is going to be the case for those of you who require a running shoe that has an adequate amount of support. The included insole is also lacking in support so you may want to insert your custom insole.
As a running shoe, this can also feel a bit lose while you are running. Again, this goes back to the lack of support. All in all, this is just not going to cut it for some of you.
Upper
While it is no guarantee that your foot is not going to get a little warm in this sneaker from time to time, there is also no denying how well-designed the upper is. It boasts brand-new evoKNIT technology, and it is one of the many bright spots of this design.
This technology consists of woven material that has been spread across the entirety of the upper. In addition to being incredibly flexible, this material is also super lightweight. All at the same time, the upper also remains incredibly supportive for all your training adventures.
Yes, as was documented earlier, the upper also delivers a sock-like fit. Let’s say that you are not going to find too many users that will have anything bad to say about the upper of this training sneaker.
This technology consists of woven material that has been spread across the entirety of the upper. In addition to being incredibly flexible, this material is also super lightweight. All at the same time, the upper also remains incredibly supportive for all your training adventures.
Yes, as was documented earlier, the upper also delivers a sock-like fit. Let’s say that you are not going to find too many users that will have anything bad to say about the upper of this training sneaker.
Flexibility
This is yet another section where Puma kicked it out of the park. What you will realize as soon as you begin to train with this shoe is it is not stiff in the slightest. One of the primary reasons for this is due to the flex grooves that have been implemented into the sole. Better yet, they are Chevron flex grooves, and they also promote enhanced energy return.
The woven material of the upper is also quite flexible in its own right, though. Having this combination is going to be beneficial for virtually any type of training that you do with this shoe. The upper is going to give a little while; at the same time, the sole is going to better respond to your foot movements. Of course, you also need to ensure that you get the right size, but that was already documented.
The woven material of the upper is also quite flexible in its own right, though. Having this combination is going to be beneficial for virtually any type of training that you do with this shoe. The upper is going to give a little while; at the same time, the sole is going to better respond to your foot movements. Of course, you also need to ensure that you get the right size, but that was already documented.
Bottom Line
Whether or not Puma succeeded with what they wanted to achieve, they designed a cross-training shoe that would be great for a multitude of different situations. Not only for just training-specific needs, either, as the Puma Ignite evoKNIT is also going to work exceptionally well as a casual shoe.
It is an incredibly comfortable, breathable, lightweight, and durable sneaker that is going to impress quite a few of you. At the same time, it can’t be stressed enough that it is also not prepared for those of you who want to take it to Hell and back. Yes, it is durable enough to handle your abuse, but it is not going to hold up in the performance-end.
Put, it lacks the support that will be needed to make it a high-performance running shoe and the stability that will be needed to make it a high-performance cross-training shoe. Thus, you will find better options in your closet for your specific needs.
It is hard to say that you will find a more versatile sneaker in your closet. It all depends on what you need to be able to do. For some, the Puma Ignite evoKNIT will be just right. For those needing footwear that can handle more intensity for certain activities, it might not be the right fit.
It is an incredibly comfortable, breathable, lightweight, and durable sneaker that is going to impress quite a few of you. At the same time, it can’t be stressed enough that it is also not prepared for those of you who want to take it to Hell and back. Yes, it is durable enough to handle your abuse, but it is not going to hold up in the performance-end.
Put, it lacks the support that will be needed to make it a high-performance running shoe and the stability that will be needed to make it a high-performance cross-training shoe. Thus, you will find better options in your closet for your specific needs.
It is hard to say that you will find a more versatile sneaker in your closet. It all depends on what you need to be able to do. For some, the Puma Ignite evoKNIT will be just right. For those needing footwear that can handle more intensity for certain activities, it might not be the right fit.
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