Puma Fuse Review: Everything You Need to Know
There is a new kick on the block...introducing the all new Puma Fuse, Puma's first ever trainer designed specifically for functional fitness training.
Ahead of the global release of the Fuse we break down everything you need to know about its design. Read on for the full lowdown. The Fuse is launching globally this Friday the 15th of January, Sign up to the drop, then read on to get stuck into the details!
Puma Fuse Review
the puma fuse is puma's first ever shoe designed specifically for functional fitness training. It is designed for everyone who is training functionally, from Puma's top athletes of all disciplines, to the everyday box members around the world.
THE NANO , THE METCON, AND NOW THE FUSE.
WHY DID PUMA DECIDE TO DESIGN A FUNCTIONAL TRAINING SHOE?
The functional fitness scene has been booming for the best part of a decade now, and with that boom has come the introduction and evolution of trainers designed specifically for the physical demands and performance expectations of functional athletes. Shoes stable enough to lift in, durable enough to withstand friction, light enough to execute gymnastics, and cushioned enough to support dynamic movements. First came the Nano, then came the Metcon, and another huge global brand has entered the game with the arrival of the Puma Fuse.
Puma wanted to create a competitive performance shoe that was not only suitable for CrossFitters at all stages of their journey (from first timers to competing athletes) but also suitable for high-performance athletes of various disciplines who incorporate functional strength training into their programmes. You can therefore expect to see the Fuse in your local box, on competition floors, and on the feet of Puma's existing top tier athletes such as Lewis Hamilton.
THE FUSE IS DESIGNED WITH FUNCTIONAL END MOVEMENTS IN MIND. FROM ROPE CLIMBS TO BURPEES AND SLED PUSHES, THE ENTIRE SPECTRUM OF MOVEMENTS HAVE BEEN THOUGHT OF.
THE FUNCTIONAL DESIGN OF THE FUSE
STABILITY- Creating a stable trainer, suitable for lifting, was the most important feature in the design process of the Fuse. This was achieved with a 4mm heel to toe drop, creating a close to ground feel. This is supplemented with rubber wrap ups, and a firmer external heel midsole in firm foam compound + TPU heel counter which creates stability within a softer cushioning. A wider but nicely shaped toe box also allows the foot to play while lifting, enabling a stable grip of the ground.
DURABILITY- The stability of the Fuse is complimented by its Durability. The upper of the shoe features groove indented rope wraps, designed to not only help grip during rope climbs, but to resist rope burn in the process. The overall upper is made of a high tenacity mesh for withstanding overall friction during the wear and tear of day to day movements such a burpees, rowing, push ups etc. This upper is also incredibly breathable (a feature we recently saw introduced into the Metcon 6 design).
TRACTION- The sole of the Fuse is made of Puma Grip rubber which offers maximum grip and traction to avoid slipping and sliding when moving at speed during dynamic movements such as box jumps and every sort of burpee. The herringbone patterned traction enhances this further, and the additional Toe traction provides targeted grip for sled pushes and planks.
CUSHIONING - The design of the Fuse aims to combine its stability and durability with comfort and cushioning for periods of longer wear, and short runs combined within daily WODs. Much like best-selling functional training shoes on the market, the Fuse achieves this through a softer cushioning in the forefront of the shoe and a more firm reactive cushioning in the heel area of the foot. The result, just enough cushioning for short runs and not too much that would hinder weightlifting activities. Overall comfort is increased further with a super cushioned collar around the heel.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES- The Fuse features a loop hook at the back of the heel counter. This is not only handy for helping to pull your foot into the shoe, but also doubles up as a hook to attach your shoes to the outside of your backpack with a carabiner clip to optimise storage space whilst you are on the go. Puma really have thought of everything !
The Fuse features a loop hook at the back of the heel, perfect for hooking your shoes to your backpack on the go.
TRIED, TESTED AND READY FOR YOU.
The Puma Fuse may be the first iteration of its design, but you can rest assured that it has been tried, tested and approved by the elites. From Puma's top tier athletes of all disciplines to competing CrossFit athletes. Anastasia Lowe has been putting them to the test during the final development stages and shared that she "loves the form of the shoes, a lot of CrossFit shoes feels like you're running in a brick, but not these.”
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Some frequently asked questions!
Are Puma shoes good for workout?
The Puma Fuse has been designed specifically for functional fitness and working out. The shoe is designed to be durable across training methods with light cushioning for comfort over long periods.
Are Puma shoes good for weight training?
The Puma Fuse boasts a 4mm heel to toe drop with a wider toe box allowing the foot to play whilst lifting. This makes it the perfect accomplice in a lifting workout or if you're trying to get that PB.
What is the best shoe for cross training?
Cross training shoes are becoming increasingly popular with the Puma Fuse being their first iteration into the space. The shoe has been designed with all movements in mind making it a great asset in a cross training workout.