What Is New With the Puma evoSPEED 1.4?

Bryan Byrne January 4, 2016 Latest, Puma 2 Comments

There was no high-profile release for the evoSPEED 1.4, instead Puma chose a low-key introduction for their latest speed boot installment. It is not a traditional move, but it does signal that the performance of this version is not intended to differ too greatly from the evoSPEED 1.3. There are some minor differences visually, although that streamlined, acceleration style silhouette stays in check.

Having had first hand experience with them, I can tell you that overall they are extremely similar, but the overall construction of the boot has been modified with some new additions and some significant exclusions. Rather than another review, I wanted to focus on how exactly the 1.4 differs from the 1.3 and remove any clouded confusion should you want to get a pair.

Find all Puma evoSPEED 1.4 colorways available at soccer.com.

First off, we secured pairs in the two introductory colorways released. Puma don’t hold back with the official naming conventions, listing them as Electric Blue Lemonade/White/Orange Clown Fish and a Total Eclipse/Lava Blast/White. If you want to keep things simple, you can instead call them the Blue pair and the Navy pair!

I’m a fan of the Blue version, so it is the pair we will be focusing on. From the side, one of the first things you will notice is the darker blue line that runs horizontally from the 4th lace eyelet down to the heel counter. Right underneath, a layer of stitching is used to secure two separate pieces of material through the upper, with the top layer adding extra durability. Does this look familiar to anyone else? I’m immediately drawn to the adiZero F50, best seen on the Glow Edition. The significant difference is the fact adidas use a super thin SPEEDFOIL heel, whereas Puma focus on more protection with extra padding through the region. Thankfully, it doesn’t compromising the lightweight nature of the boot.

Along with that, there is a significant exclusion here. Gone is the evident external EverFit cage that was intended to enable overall support across the upper and provide additional stability through play. The latice style design through the midfoot and lacing system seems to mimic an EverFit cage style design, running through key areas and pretty much adding the same fundamental support.

Up along the forefoot of the boot, Puma use a dimensional GripTex design that provides extra texture for touch and control on the ball. The shinny lines sit slightly higher thanks to a little extra padding under the surface. The additional dimension provides an increased region to soften the impact as you control the ball. Inside these lines, the area is covered in an extremely light criss-cross pattern. It is tough to see to the naked eye and there is no evident texture to the touch. But the purpose is to change up the level of grip and provide an almost sandpaper like definition and added friction on the ball. In theory, this should allow for better control as you dribble at top speed.

As a whole, I’ve got to say that 1.4 offers a definite upgrade over 1.3. On 1.3, there was some light textured grip and it was a nice addition. But, it didn’t provide the extra level of dimension, with 1.4 offering what I would call “upgraded touch” on the ball. Visually, there is something a little off setting about the 1.4 and I’ve a feeling that a section of players will dismiss them as an option because of their appearance. The colorways are sharp but that criss-cross pattern on the forefoot is a little off-putting. This is especially true when you compare them against their predecessor. For example, this more traditional style evoSPEED 1.3, which was much sharper visually.

Again, this is a quality performer that provides a top option for players in need of speed. Maintaining the use of lightweight materials, the new boot is extra light and flexible, which provides enhanced maneuverability and makes it the perfect choice for quick strikers and midfielders.

If you are interested in a pair, find the current line-up available at soccer.com.