Puma returns to the clamouring football apparel market with the newest and lightest addition to its V series, the V1.11.
Following the footsteps of its V1.10 predecessor, this latest creation challenges the market with construction that makes it one of the most lightweight footwear available today (more on this later).
One of the most notable features is the rich, brilliant colour combination of fluorescent green, white (vaporous gray for the women’s model), and midnight navy blue. Although a little on the flashy side, the colour ensures a unique look that stands out in a field amongst 21 other pairs of feet possibly brandishing 21 different shoe designs.
You can also get it in the more subdued white-black-blue colour, but I say why settle for mediocre when you can stand out?
One of the V1.11’s main selling points is its weight. Its upper material is made of microfiber, and most of the weight comes from the studs at the bottom of the shoe.
The upper material itself is softer than before, and includes padding in the toe area for greater comfort and ball control.
Overall the construction produces a lightweight creation, clocking in at 8.2oz.
Admittedly, that number is no contest to the Adidas F50 AdiZero at 5.1oz. But with weight combined with its construction, the V1.11 is still massively formidable competition. However, another alternative would be the V1.11 SL, which weighs 5.6oz.
As with the V1.10, this model comes with Puma’s UNI technology where stitching instead of glue attaches the upper material to the shoe sole.
This construction replicates the PUMA Aptolast, conforming to the natural curves of the foot by letting the upper material follow the foot’s natural form. This provides a perfect, glove-like fit that is neither too loose nor too restricting.
Finally, the lace cover (not included in the V1.11 SL model) held down by an elastic strap adds to the snug feel that makes every movement seem like you’re doing it barefoot. As for ball control, the lace cover with the TriHook fastener also helps in allowing you to kick the ball with the top of your foot, thereby ensuring greater offensive accuracy.
The foam insole located at the heel area adds extra comfort, offering greater support and stability in its area.
The studs are also designed to provide more flexibility and comfort. Based on conclusive research on a player’s natural movements, the studs’ distribution performs crucial functions for ease and movement.
The larger middle studs provide greater stability and manoeuvrability; the ones at the front are slightly raised to go with the foot’s roll when running. The one at the back adds traction when rolling off the heel.
For those looking for speed, the V1.11 features a sole-plate with a carbon fibre composite, which greatly helps distribute pressure and flexibility, allowing quick movement responses.
A fact of note: the V1.11, like previous Puma models, is about half a size smaller than the equivalent sizes of shoes of other brands. Remember to go for half a size larger than your usual measurements.
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