PUMA LIBERATE NITRO 2 INITIAL REVIEW - LOWER STACK SPEED SHOE FOR 2023 - EDDBUD

[@faulkenizeit]

Really glad to see this review Edd! Liberate v1 is one of my all time favorites- just perfect for road and track sprinting when I didn’t want to throw on spikes, and enjoyable for my shorter daily training miles. Have 400mi on my pair and the grip is still impeccable. Can’t wait to try this new version!

[@EDDBUD]

It a touch heavier but a good speed option. The grip is very good as per the original.

[@donalmctavish2127]

Had v1. Set PBs on my 5 and 10 k. It was an amazing shoe, super light and mad me feel like I was flying. Even took it on holiday due to its weight. V1 was also the most comfortable running shoe I'd ever had and fit my skinny ankles perfectly. Midsole felt dead after about 200 miles though and I'm seeing this in other Puma shoes I own with the nitro midsole (Velocity Nitro v1 and V2). Also own deviate nitro elite v1 which has about 120 miles on it. Just seems to be getting better. Would not rule out buying v2 of the liberate as it looks like a great shoe, but just hope it lasts longer than its predecessor.

[@QronoZ713]

100% same experience! Bit mine felt completely dead after 150 km (100 miles), I have 3 pairs so can compare. Terrible durability, terrible for the environment.

[@cheekster777]

Thanks Edd.

[@davidh5429]

I'm thinking of getting this. Recently went from running to sprinting and need something for general sprint training and drills.

[@EDDBUD]

🥉

[@honsten]

I’ve set a few PBs in the V1 at 5k and HM just out on night runs and not even in a race setting, where I’ve used Alphaflys. Absolutely bonkers shoe and incredibly cheap considering. Comfort is also great in that. Glad they’ve beefed up the forefoot though. Definitely a fave for all-out efforts.

[@EDDBUD]

It’s a little bit extra in the front. 👍🏼

[@alanrobinson2229]

Talking about sandals,I just got a pair of Flitflop Ryker cushioned sandal and am going to give them a go on this morning's parkrun.

[@ozenfant_ozn]

loved the OG, did my 5k PB in them. got the black version for a bargain back then, midsole lost it's magic after about 250k, but now it's a decent sneaker for the warmer days (finally!).

[@EDDBUD]

Yes less upper = warm weather win

[@mateuszkudeka3238]

I would love to see a Puma running shoes line-up from you. With so many new models, it got very confusing for me.

[@EDDBUD]

I shall make it happen!

[@runfrankfurt]

Version 1 was great, really enjoyed it. Will give version 2 a try as well.

[@jackkasperski2912]

Intriguing review! You caught my attention when you mentioned the real Takumi Sen series which in my homble opinion ended with the Takumi Sen 7 (running in one pair now and have another in its box). Will definitely consider these!

[@EDDBUD]

The sen 7 and previous versions are not the same models as the 8 onwards.

[@SW-rn6fe]

Thanks. Nobody's reviewing this one. I liked the first version.

[@EDDBUD]

Yes I don’t know why they haven’t checked it out! Worthy option

[@jonmatthews721]

Excellent, thanks, just waiting for birthday earth credits!

[@MadLadsAnonymous]

Looks like a good gym & general fitness shoe!

[@yeet76231]

I love these. I'm a decathlete. I wear them for everything. Second only to the Peg turbo 2

[@EDDBUD]

Interesting to hear these work so well for this use

[@yeet76231]

@EDDBUD they're light, grounded, and responsive enough for sprinting. But are still comfortable for mid distance work. They work for any workout I'm not spiked up for. The peg turbo 2 is still my favorite of all time, but those are getting harder and harder to replace every year

[@RSammy]

I think i preferred v1. I remember it being closer to the Rebel v2 in feel. This seems to be firmer. I wouldn't use it ror easy runs whereas the v1 was more versatile. That said the v2 doesn't bottom out in the way v1 did. Overall I think it's become a more niche shoe but better at that niche?

[@alanpelosi2955]

Hi eddbud 👋, another reliable shoe bye puma , two puma shoes I'm very much waiting for are the magnify 2 and velocity 3 😃

[@EDDBUD]

Yeah those have many bases covered

[@jozefberes250]

​@@EDDBUD HI Edd, do you have some information about velocity 3, when will they launched them? Thanks

[@MadLadsAnonymous]

@@jozefberes250From what I've read (comments), no Voyage 3 planned for 2023. Sounds like a Summer 2024 release (guessing).

[@bhky]

Thanks for the great review!!

[@EDDBUD]

Much appreciated 👍🏼👊

[@trockenthal8264]

I'm a similar build to yourself and the v1 is probably my all time favourite. Anything up to 10 miles is no problem. I'm even still on the fence as to whether I'd pick Liberate over Deviate Nitro Elite for racing 10k and below. Absolute minimum of 3/3 for outsole and value.

[@EDDBUD]

The outsoles are superb. Not sure what’s in that rubber. It’s very sticky almost

[@stuartwalker6786]

Glad to see you sorted the out of sight/out of mind like/subscribe issue 👍🦾🏃❤

[@EDDBUD]

👍🏼

[@markherbert8542]

Still got my Liberate nitro v1 and they are great for hill reps, track sessions and the occasional Parkrun. In fact, I have got a 2nd pair still in it's box that I bought from ASOS for £44. Version 2 will have to wait!

[@EDDBUD]

The original was insanely cheap at retail and even better on discount.

[@Matt_Kraczon]

Looks speedy. The midsole design gives an illusion that the heal is lower than the mid-foot, but I can see that there’s a bit of a wrap on the area just ahead of the heal.

[@EDDBUD]

Yes small but of wrap but not massive. Was surprised to measure the drop being quite a bit lower than it looks visually.

[@Stevenc1984]

Could be a great Parkrun option or maybe one for chasing muggers in the market, just like Del and Rooney.

[@EDDBUD]

Could be light enough to even run with a suitcase of yapping dog toys.

[@Stevenc1984]

@@EDDBUD King Charles got one of those for Spud's birthday 👑

[@TheCyclingCardio]

Loowww stack mid sole…exactly I’m looking for, for that foot/calf strengthening session

[@EDDBUD]

Sounds right up your street 👍🏼

[@TheCyclingCardio]

@@EDDBUDI’m looking for something minimal like Asics Sortiemagic or Mizuno Wave Ekiden..a breed that’s disappearing in these new generations of runner

[@zr7gaming256]

I think if it had a plate even if it was a plastic or carbon composite I think it would be the best tempo light short distance race day shoe

[@EDDBUD]

A very valid suggestion. Maybe turn it into the Puma version of the streakfly. Just a small shank or similar

[@jameswestmoreland9717]

Cool sunglasses Ed!

[@EDDBUD]

Oakley sub zero model. Very good. So light you forget where they are!

[@jmartinez19944]

Dang! Can't decide to get the liberate nitro 2 or thee saucony sinister 😁

[@EDDBUD]

By the sounds of it the sinister is quite a bit lighter.

[@jmartinez19944]

@EDDBUD Indeed, it is

[@joneaton3366]

Looking like a great replacement for my old favorites the Adidas adios 3's and 4's🎉

[@yakiweiss546]

What times are we in that stack of 31mm height has become for short distances.. We used to run a marathon in a stack like this.

[@EDDBUD]

Yes it’s such a different landscape now

[@michaelhanson3150]

I'm moving into my trail running shoes inov8 unltras g270s for the winter, i've bought a pair of these to close the gap between my adizero adios 3s, will this work for this endeavour?

[@EDDBUD]

It’s a good light nimble shorter range option.

[@thomasgreenhough8016]

First time a review was posted of a new version of a shoe while I was wearing the previous version. Have gotten alot of use of the previous version, value 3/3, fiw.

[@burningstonenongbak4598]

Hey Edd which one should I go please suggest me Liberate nitro or velocity nitro?😊

[@EDDBUD]

Liberate is a good shorter range light shoe. The velocity more a daily do it all shoe

[@JoutarouKuujou1]

Your sunglasses look great, what brand/model?

[@EDDBUD]

Oakley subzero. Super light

[@jerryx2000]

What is the lightest shoe for broad feet? For sprints 10-100m.

[@EDDBUD]

Maybe look at the adidas wide fit shoes. The Vomero 17 or brooks ghost max has some width too

[@MrSeedi76]

Brooks Divide 4 has a very roomy toe box. Larger than the Ghost Max (I have both). But both aren't as useful for sprints I'd say. More for longer runs.

[@adamfeerst2575]

Can the DNE do everything this can plus a little more?

[@EDDBUD]

But much more heft to the deviate and more drop. The liberate is very nimble.

[@pauldelaney4186]

If you have the Elite or Elite 2 would you need these? Seems like they would be used for similar purposes?

[@EDDBUD]

I think if you want less shoe and more grip for a 5 to 10k then maybe its worth the dive.

[@ratkinson808]

I’ve signed up for my first half marathon in 8 weeks time and I’m aiming for a sub 90, would you recommend the liberate nitro v2 or deviate nitro elite 2 for the fastest time possible? Is the liberate v2 cushioned enough for that distance? Thanks

[@EDDBUD]

The liberate is much lighter but you may do better with the additional cushion of the deviate nitro elite 2.

[@bendidms742]

Hey mate great video! thinking of getting these but not sure if they’re suited for me I do about 5 km of running daily think they’ll work fine? Otherwise can you got any budget running shoe recommendations or videos? Thanks

[@EDDBUD]

Shorter daily runs are no issue for these. The energy 5 from reebok or Puma Velocity nitro 2 also good

[@bendidms742]

@@EDDBUD thanks much appreciate 🫶

[@WinterVarg8x]

Hey. would you say the shoe is good for going about 5km distance? (maximum 10km).

[@EDDBUD]

Yes ideal for the shorter runs

[@russreinger4130]

Need your opinion, cross country for my high schooler.... should he go with a trail shoe or do you think the puma nitro deviate 2 could handle all the different terrain?

[@EDDBUD]

Hey Russ. I think maybe cross country in uk is a bit different. Can be very muddy and slippery. If it’s dry you might find the deviate 2 is a little on the hefty side for cc.

[@yalokim5264]

Yes, you might be right with the Deviate. I see many people using roads shoes in our off-road events. But I'd also check something like Saucony Ride TR (cool roadrunner with serious lugs) And my own pick - Pegasus but the Trail version. I find them better that the regular Pegasus. A good crossover (commute, track, parkruns, hike; 1 exception - mud)

[@EDDBUD]

@@yalokim5264 Cross country in my area is more about staying upright and slippery terrain sometimes. Now it’s summer it’s dry and more firm.

[@russreinger4130]

@@yalokim5264 thanks for the info I will check those out

[@randenlewis152]

my standard is adidas 10.5 and nike 10, what size should I go for puma?

[@BenjaminHo78]

I'm a 9 in Adidas and 8.5 in Puma, Nike, ASICS, new Balance and pretty much every other brand. Take that for what it's worth.

[@EDDBUD]

10 should do it.

[@randenlewis152]

@@BenjaminHo78 newv balance should be 9 too

[@dominikschrott7412]

Battle Liberate 2 vs. Adidas SL20.3? Who would win?

[@EDDBUD]

Liberate all the way

[@dominikschrott7412]

@@EDDBUD ask because I am a SL20 original version lover. And it's getting worn out. Looking for a successor...

[@EDDBUD]

@@dominikschrott7412 sadly none of the versions after the original were the same.

[@BRMUFC]

Nice🎉

[@EDDBUD]

🥇

[@jeffreymiddleton4063]

Bouncy grip unbelievable took a chance price was low goddamittboy this shoe sm9kes goats

[@EDDBUD]

It’s a great cheaper option

[@QronoZ713]

First run in Adios Pro 2 today, last 3 km clicking noise in the sole... What the hell adidas :( I got to do one session 😢

[@EDDBUD]

Oh no! Sounds like maybe a rod has broken.

[@QronoZ713]

​@@EDDBUD Yup, feels pretty shit after such short usage.

[@winjinsangma174]

It's good for 5km?

[@EDDBUD]

It’s light and nimble so why not.

[@07Corcaigh]

Not a massive score for this, think I'll wait and see what the Adios 8 and Hyperion will be like🤔

[@EDDBUD]

A good score. But it’s a niche shoe and won’t have the mass appeal due to the lower stack.

[@vexy2355]

Is it good for 5km running?

[@EDDBUD]

Don’t see why not

[@johndudley2030]

That piece of Powertape looks like a Bandaid! 😂

[@EDDBUD]

It does and serves the purpose of making key areas more durable.

[@nicklas6973]

Vs adios 8 or rebel v2?

[@EDDBUD]

The Adios is much the better shoe. Though way firmer if you like that

[@nicklas6973]

@@EDDBUD thanks! Just got the adios 8. Weirdly enough, I like it more than the vaporfly next2. Better upper/lacing and way more stable. Planning on getting the liberate 2 but might wait a little for the reviews about the rebel 4s. I will be having low stack shoes this time. Velocity nitro 2 will be my easy long runs shoes, adios 8 for racing and liberate or rebel for speed workouts.

[@MiracleWarriors]

Even if a shoe has less foam stack then the other , it can still be more comfortable and bouncy. That was easily noticed by me with the Adios 7 vs Ultraboost Light. The UB has 3 or 4mm more stack height then the Adios, but the LiteStrike Pro is a hell more propulsion and comfortable ( at least in tge middle to forefoot area). New runners should not be afraid of testing low stack shoes since the foam/outsole technology advanced so much ....

[@EDDBUD]

I’m enjoying the lower stacks at the mo. Though next to test is the 10mm of the Saucony triumph 21! 🤣

[@JoutarouKuujou1]

1st

[@jmac13131]

This one at full retail or the first version for $50?

[@EDDBUD]

The 1st is good though I like the upper better in the v2

[@bbnd5476]

Crazy that 31mm is "minimal" these days. Prior to the 4%, that was marathon material, and with harsh EVA too. What tools do you use to measure the stack? Measuring forefoot stack is in particular challenging because of the upper being in the way and the fact that its tougher to pick the exact measurement spot. Heel is much easier.

[@EDDBUD]

I measure using an offset calliper. I know my method works from testing it on sample sized shoes with known measurements.

[@bbnd5476]

@@EDDBUD that's the way! 👍

[@NeillyVille]

Hey

[@EDDBUD]

🥈

[@harshadchaudhry33]

Purchased today in India 😅😅😅

[@EDDBUD]

Hope they work out well for you

[@pisderata]

narrower than the Velocity Nitro 2? noo

[@EDDBUD]

A little bit but not a worry

[@Mike-mb1yf]

midfoot, possibly but wider in forefoot where it counts in my opinion.

[@pisderata]

@@Mike-mb1yf i hope so yes only i have problem with the forefoot of the VN2

[@Mike-mb1yf]

@@pisderata I don't have v1 but I do have v2 and I also wide feet. I find the toebox spacious, particularly why I went for v2 and not v1 because v1 seemed too narrow to me.

[@pisderata]

@@Mike-mb1yf then your feet aren't wide brah