Puma evoPOWER Vigor 2 Feature Review

Over the weekend, I got into a conversation with a friend about mid-tier boots that perform above expectations. A boot that quickly jumped into contention was the Puma evoPOWER Vigor 2, and as I looked up a few pairs I found that they were available at pretty awesome sale prices. A pair were purchased, and the decision was made to run a feature on the pair I’ve worn over the past month, so you know exactly what is on tap.

When it comes to mid-tire boot options, Puma has continually been a top market player. They have shown an astute ability to be able to create and release top performers that won’t break the bank. Keeping with that tradition, the evoPOWER Vigor 2 holds a lot of similarities to the top-tier Vigor 1, providing a very similar feel on foot while maintaining a very competitive weight and increased level of durability.

Check out the current evoPOWER Vigor 2 available at soccer.com.

In terms of tech specs, they feature a contoured spandex sock around the ankle that locks your foot in place exceptionally well without being overly constrictive. Note here that some players might need an adjustment period to adapt to an ankle lining that is not more rigid like a leather would be. The spandex material is softer, so it offers a different feel with less support through extended ankle movements. A traditional material won’t reduce injury, but it offers a placebo effect that some players enjoy.

With the spandex material, you are going to notice extended movement and a little more freedom as you wear the boot. You’d be surprised at how important the addition of a new material around the ankle affects wearability for some players. Personally, I enjoyed the Vigor 2 from first wear and they felt secure enough with the laces tied up keep me confident through games.

A super soft Japanese synthetic upper with textured print provides an ultra clean touch on the ball. The extra definition is not tacky, but it does allow for a little cushion as you look to control the ball. I’m all about simple added elements that enhance overall feel on the ball without reducing the natural feel on offer. And that is what you get here. You can see from the images just how defined the upper material is, and how the material has multi-dimensions through different areas.

Underfoot, there isn’t anything extraordinary going on. But you know what, there doesn’t need to be. On both artificial turf and natural grass surfaces, the mixed conical and bladed soleplate configuration provides ideal traction in all conditions. This is also a boot that plays out nicely on hotter turf surfaces. Although it isn’t perfect and won’t keep you aerated on hot surfaces, it will help reduce the discomfort you would feel when wearing thinner plates from other top brands.

Finally, when it comes to true value in a boot that provides unsurpassed performance, very similar to their top-tier brother, the evoPOWER Vigor 2 is absolutely the way to go. That is one of the more important conclusions to take from this feature. Are they even performance wise with their top-tier brother? No, there is a difference between both. And to be honest, I wouldn’t blame you if you are you are a little skeptical to drop $120 on a new pair of untested boots. But given the fact I’ve had the opportunity to test a pair, and when you factor in the current ridiculous sale price, they are a no-brainer to at least try out once! This is a boot that gets my seal of approval.

See all pairs currently listed between $49.99 to $119.99.