Puma V1.10 SL Review

There is no doubting that the Puma V1.10 SL is built around speed! Weighing in at 5.3oz, it is currently the lightest soccer cleat to be released on the market and unbelievably light when you pick them up. But there are several other keys areas that need to be addressed if you are contemplating purchasing a pair, like comfort and performance for example. Another key issue is sizing, and I was lucky enough to be able to try on two different sizes in order to find the right pair. I went with a size 10US for testing in the White/Blue colorway.

Sizing
Since their release, one of the key questions about the V1.10 SL has been centered around their sizing, with many people unsure of what size to get. The team at soccer.com strongly recommend ordering a full size up. I normally wear a size 9US, so decided it only made sense to get a size 9.5 and 10. Both fit pretty well, but it was quiet evident that the 10 was a better option. They fit pretty tight and a little narrow at the toe area.
My advice: Make sure to order a full size up.

Breaking In
Just like with the Adidas adiZero, I was extremely shocked at how easy these boots were to break in. Being lightweight, I expected there to be an adjustment period but after one training session they were game ready. The microfiber upper is extremely flexible and feels broken in from the very start. I didn’t encounter any blister or cramping issues, so my experience breaking them in was positive.

Technology
In order to create a boot that weighs an incredible 5.3oz, you need to make some technological adjustments.  Well, Puma have cut down the weight by using supersoft and ultra thin premium microfiber upper and one piece of pebax with a carbon fiber inset to minimize weight and increase stability. Another area where they have reduced weight is in the tongue, which is super thin (almost too thin in my opinion.)

Touch and Control
This is where I felt the V1.10 SL excelled. Since these are designed for speed players, touch and control are going to be the more important attributes needed. And Puma have not disappointed. The upper, although thin, gives great feel on the ball. It also has a slight grip feel that I noticed helped with touch. I have to admit, these are probably one of my favorite boots for dribbling in. When it comes to shooting, the V1.10 SL is not going to help in regards to shot power. But, if you are controlling the ball the way you want to, then opportunities are going to be created through your play. So, I feel they have benefit in terms of helping you get into better positions for better shots.

Negatives
Protection. For some players, specifically defenders, protection is a big issue. My opinion is that the V1.10 SL offers the least protection of any boot on the market, particularly around the tongue region. This is something that is pretty much expected from a lightweight boot. If you are a defender, or someone who tackles a lot I would advise looking elsewhere. The second issue with the white/blue design is that they scuff really easily. The microfiber upper can look very damaged after playing. You will need to clean your boots after playing to keep them in top shape. So, for example, here is a before and after picture that shows they can be cleaned really well after playing.

Summary
I am a huge fan of the V1.10 SL and would definitely recommend them to players who are looking for a speed boot. They rank amongst my favorite releases to date and compliment what I look for in a boot to a tee. I am still a little baffled at how companies are producing these super lightweight boots, but they are managing to do a good job at releasing quality boots. These break in really easily and are probably one of the best boots on the market for real touch and control. They are more suited to wingers and fast forwards than any other position. Watch out for more releases in the range over the coming weeks like the V1.10 SL Lightning!

(*boots supplied for review by soccer.com)