Puma MAGMAX 2

First look

The Puma MagMax 2 stands out from the crowd with its highly cushioned midsole, which stands tall among its peers. The comfort-focused daily trainer, built for easy and recovery miles, is a great update to the original MAGMAG. The shoe is thick and delivers a plush, bouncy ride that feels soft underfoot without being overly heavy, thanks to a slight but noticeable reduction in weight compared to the first version. The updated upper adds to the comfort story: a breathable mesh, padded collar, and soft knitted tongue create a secure, relaxed fit that should feel great on longer, slower runs.

Fit-wise, the shoe offers generous volume, which is great for wider feet but may feel slightly loose for narrower foot shapes. Initially, people have had to go up half a size on their previous Puma models. On foot, the MagMax 2 offers a relaxed fit with a soft, accommodating upper that wraps the foot without feeling restrictive. The midfoot hold is secure but not overly tight, making it comfortable for a wide range of foot shapes—especially those who prefer more volume over a sock-like squeeze. 

Underfoot, the feel is unmistakably plush, with a deep, springy cushioning that absorbs impact and encourages an easy, rolling stride. The addition of the re-tuned Nitro Foam is a welcome change, as I felt the original lacked plushness and was essentially just a lot of midsole to reduce impact. 

The function of the shoe aligns squarely with its design: this is a max-cushion trainer built for comfort-first running. It performs best during easy paces, steady daily mileage, and recovery days when you want your footwear to reduce fatigue rather than push you forward. The geometry, like its predecessor, provides a smooth transition underfoot, which can be tough to find in such a max-stacked model.

Overall, this is a subtle but welcome update to a fan favorite for smashing out miles after miles. The fresh new look is certain to be a standout on the shelf and on foot this summer.