I first used Kinvara when it was introduced in India in 2021.  Since then I ran in all the editions of Kinvara, 12, 13, and now Kinvara 14. The Saucony Kinvara first released in 2009 quickly became a favorite among runners for its low drop (4mm), and its lightweight that promoted natural running. My running experience with Kinvara 12 & 13 has been good. But Kinvara 13 felt dated when compared to the modern light weight trainers such as Puma Liberate Nitro 2, Adidas Adizero Takumi. You can read my review of [Kinvara13](https://shoegeeks.in/review/saucony-kinvara13-006003013/) here. When I first heard of Kinvara 14, I was hoping it will be a very different shoe from 13.

*So how does it compare to other modern light weight trainers? Does it continue to remain true to original design philosophy?  Read on below for full review.*

<ShoeCard shoeCode="006003014M"></ShoeCard>

##### What makes up Kinvara 14?

The first thing one notices about the shoe is its lightness. The UK size 10 shoe that I weighed was 226 grams. The official weight is 200 grams for a UK size 8 (US size 9). This means that the shoe has shed about 15 grams from the previous edition. This is truly impressive given its stack height of 31mm, which is 3mm higher than the previous edition. The higher stack and lighter weight make it a contender in two shoe categories: lightweight speed trainers and daily trainers.

__Midsole__

The Kinvara 14 has the most flush midsole of any Kinvara to date. It features PWRRUN foam, which is very responsive but not the softest. The durometer measurement is about 32, slightly softer than the earlier edition. What is more interesting is the PWRRUN+ sockliner, which is the softest sockliner I have ever seen in a running shoe. It measured 12 on durometer and is also one of the largest in terms of height. Together, the midsole and sockliner provide the most comfortable experience of any Kinvara so far.

<LightBox src="/images/saucony-kinvara14_1.jpg" caption="Midsole stack has increased, and is softer than before" alt="" ></LightBox>

The other surprising update is the higher toe-spring, which effectively makes the Kinvara a rocker shoe.  Kinvara 14 looks like more like an Endorphin and less like Kinvara. (Our reviews of [Endorphin Speed 3](https://shoegeeks.in/review/saucony-endorphinspeed3-006012003/), [Endorphin Shift 3](https://shoegeeks.in/review/saucony-endorphinshift3-006002003/), and [Endorphin Pro 2](https://shoegeeks.in/review/saucony-endorphinpro2-006001002/)). The toe-spring is almost the same as the one that you see in Endorphin Speed series, may be a bit smaller.  One should expect a completely different ride experience in Kinvara 14.

<LightBox src="/images/saucony-kinvara14_4.jpg" caption="Kinvara 12, 13 and 14 side by side" alt="" ></LightBox>

__Upper__

The upper has also been significantly updated. It uses the same engineered mesh upper as the Endorphin Pro 3, which is one of the best uppers I have seen on any shoe. In addition the mono mesh on the Endorphin Pro 3, a layer of reinforcement with a softer inner layer is added, which makes it feel almost like a sock. One could probably run in the shoe without socks.

<LightBox src="/images/saucony-kinvara14_9.jpg" caption="Major upgrade in the upper" alt="" ></LightBox>

The gusseted tongue has also been made lighter. It is just barely enough to protect your feet from the laces. However, the laces are super soft and comfortable. They are stretchy, and much better than the ones found on the Kinvara 13.

The eyelets have also been updated in an interesting way. A 5+1 eyelet pattern is used, as opposed to the 6+1 eyelet pattern used in most shoes. The 5+1 pattern is becoming more common, as seen in Puma's Velocity Nitro and Deviate Nitro shoes. What is more interesting is that the first 3 eyelets are looped. I am not sure if this helps with the fit, but it does make it much more convenient to adjust the lacing.

__Heel__

The Heel shoe has not changed significantly from earlier editions. It is very comfortable, with adequate padding. The internal heel counter is also very supportive. I particularly liked the generous elastic pull tab on the back of the heel, which makes it very easy to put on the shoe. I recently saw this feature in the Puma Foreverrun Nitro ([review here](https://shoegeeks.in/review/puma-foreverrunnitro-005015000/)), and I hope all shoe designers will be as generous with such pull tabs in the future.

<LightBox src="/images/saucony-kinvara14_3.jpg" caption="Elastic pull tabs are a nice addition" alt="" ></LightBox>

__Outsole__

The Outsole is more or less the same as previous editions. The outsole is exposed, and there are couple of hotspots where hard rubber is placed.  That said, PWRRUN midsole is very durable.  

<LightBox src="/images/saucony-kinvara14_7.jpg" caption="Outsole is similar to earlier editions" alt="" ></LightBox>

##### Why did I buy it?

Having used the last two editions, and loved them for the natural runnning feel they provide, I want to try out the newest edition.  Kinvara 14 however, was more pricier (Rs 11,990) than earlier editions (Rs 9,990), which made me deliberate on the purchase.  But generous sale discount offered on sauconyindia.com made the decision very easy.  I bought it an effective price of 8,990.  At this price, this is probably one of the best value daily trainers out there.

##### Kinvara 14 Ride

I have logged approximately 120 kilometers in this shoe. I have run several long runs of more than 2 hours, one of which was 28 kilometers. I have also run many easy runs, tempo runs, and intervals.
As expected, the ride of the shoe is quite different from earlier editions of the Kinvara. It is still fast, but no longer has the firmness that earlier editions had. This also makes the new Kinvara the most versatile.

<LightBox src="/images/saucony-kinvara14_10.jpg" caption="Very versatile and comfortable" alt="" ></LightBox>

The shoe's light weight makes it an excellent choice for speed training. It is responsive despite its lack of firmness. The rocker in the Kinvara is not as aggressive as the Endorphin Speed, but it is sufficient to help with fast transitions. I have used the shoe for a session of 600m speed intervals and several sessions of longer threshold intervals. It is an excellent choice for both. It has a good bounce and offers decent underfoot cushioning, which makes it easy to push off.

The shoe also has enough cushion and softness for longer runs. It is very comfortable even in the closing miles of a 28km run. The shoe is easy on the feet, making it a good choice for easy and recovery runs. The 4mm drop makes it quite natural to run in. Overall, I found it to be the most versatile Kinvara to date.

__Fit and Comfort__

I wear a size UK 10, and the Kinvara 14 fits me true to size and is very comfortable. If you wear a size UK 10 in Nike, Puma, or Saucony shoes, the same size will likely fit well in the Kinvara 14. The forefoot fit is excellent, neither too tight nor too loose. The new upper is very comfortable and supportive. Despite the loss of padding in the tongue, the midfoot is quite comfortable and secure. The looped lacing system is very flexible, allowing for a customized fit. The heel fit is also excellent. The padding and counter work well to keep the rear foot stable and comfortable. In summary, the Kinvara 14 is the best Kinvara to date for me in terms of fit.

__Stability__ 

Although this is not a stability shoe, it is reasonably stable for a neutral trainer. I was able to tackle uneven surfaces with confidence. The harder foam at the bottom prevents excessive medial compression. It is suitable for most runners, unless they require extra stability.

__Road Grip__

Like the earlier editions, the shoe doesn’t have much rubber at the bottom. The Outsole's tread pattern is a bit different from earlier editions, but is primarily designed for road use.  It performs well on tarmac, but caution should be exercised when running on slippery surfaces such as wet roads, especially at high speeds. The shoe is not suitable for mixed road and trail running.

__Aesthetics & Ergonomics__

I own the Citron/Black colorway, and it is a stunner  in every way. It is the most beautiful Kinvara I have ever seen. The upper feels very premium, and the curvy inset patterns on the midsole add a touch of class. The shoe design is well-thought-out and carefully crafted. Saucony designers have definitely made a significant improvement over the Kinvara 13.

### Review Summary

<ReviewSummaryCard shoeCode="006003014M"></ReviewSummaryCard>

<ProsCard
title="PROS"
pros={[
"Extremely Lightweight",
"Responsive and durable",  
"Versatile and can handle most run types",
"Very comfortable upper and is highly breathable", 
"Lacing system that makes it quite easy to adjust the fit"
]}
/>

<ConsCard
title="CONS"
cons={[
"Pricier than earlier editions (if you do not consider the generous discounts).",
"Grip could be better"
]}
/>

<InfoCard title="RECOMMENDATION">
Saucony Kinvara 14 delivers a lightweight, versatile, and comfortable running experience. It is a major upgrade from the previous edition and is the best Kinvara in the recent times. If you are looking for alightweight speed cum daily trainer, Kinvara 14 is highly recommended.  If you own shoes in Sauconcy Endorphin series such as Endorhpin Speed or Endorphin Pro, It makes a very good companion for speed training and easy running.
</InfoCard>


Saucony Kinvara 14 Review


Puma, now known for its innovative Nitro shoes, which use Nitrogen infused foam among other innovations, had its first attempt at stability shoes with Eternity Nitro. However, it appeared to be a half-hearted attempt, which seemed like they simply incorporated the RunGuide technology (hard TPU material on the side of the heel, just above the midsole) into the popular Velocity Nitro daily trainer. Interestingly Eternity Nitro didn’t see the edition 2 update yet.

Nonetheless, Puma's pursuit of stability didn't end there. Enter Foreverun Nitro, a fresh addition to the young yet well-established Nitro lineup. Foreverrun Nitro is Puma’s sincere effort to bridge the stability shoe gap within the Nitro series. Unlike its sibling Eternity Nitro, Foreverun Nitro appears to be designed from scratch, taking into account the specific requirements of stability-seeking runners. Puma’s designers have put a lot of focus on enhanced support and guidance.

So does it work as a stability shoe? What kind of runners or runs does it work best? Does it make a good contender for stability shoes against other well-established shoes such as Asics Gel Kayano and Saucony Guide or Saucony Omni?

When Puma reached out to me to test the shoe, I was more than glad to do it, as it is an extremely interesting shoe to run in. Thank you Puma for the pair. Other than sending the shoe, Puma marketing has no say in this review, and that has been explicitly communicated with Puma.  

<ShoeCard shoeCode="005015000M"></ShoeCard>

##### What makes up Foreverrun Nitro?


__Midsole__

Foreverun Nitro has a dual-layered midsole, combining the softer Nitro foam at the top with a firmer Nitro foam at the bottom. The idea behind dual-layered midsole is simple, The softer top layer provides a plush and responsive feel underfoot, while the harder Nitro foam beneath, provides stability and durability.  So the good parts of Velocity Nitro are already here.

It has a 36mm stack height, which is just about the just at the median when compared to similar shoes in this category.  I am surprised Puma didn’t take it much higher, given that high-stack stability shoes are all the rage now. 

<LightBox src="/images/puma-foreverrun-nitro_8.jpg" caption="" alt="" ></LightBox>

What is interesting most is the runGuide system. It consists of two key components. Firstly, a layer of firmer foam wraps around the midsole on the medial side, which is supposed to offer support and prevent excessive pronation. Secondly, a TPU-based heel clip encases the heel, to provide additional stability and minimize the risk of unwanted movement at the heel.  runGuide system is a unique take on stability when compared to Brooks GuideRails or Saucony’s Hollow-Tech.  

Forever Nitro caters to runners with different striking styles by incorporating a 10mm heel-to-toe drop. This versatile drop is suitable for both mid-foot strikers and heel strikers.

Despite all the stability features, Forever Nitro is relatively light. Weighing in at 274 grams, it is one of the lowest in its category.


__Upper__

The upper is very stiff and is probably designed for providing addtional support. It is an engineered mesh with two layers. It doesn't feel very breathable. The gusseted tongue is attached to the upper. The tongue has just enough padding and is comfortable. 

<LightBox src="/images/puma-foreverrun-nitro_2.jpg" caption="Upper is stiff and holds the foot very well, not doesn't breath well" alt="" ></LightBox>

__Heel__

The heel is supported by external TPU based heel counter, and is part of the runGuide system. The heel has ample padding. The heel also has a generous pull tab attached it. 

<LightBox src="/images/puma-foreverrun-nitro_6.jpg" caption="Heel support is excellent" alt="" ></LightBox>

__Bottomsole__

The bottomsole is called ‘PUMAGRIP’, the same branding that is used for rest of the Nitro lineup. The difference however is, it is J-Shaped hard rubber outsole and is much thicker and harder. It supposed to provide guidance, and an imitation of Hoka’s J Frame, albeit just on the outsole.  Hoka’s J Frame is built into the midsole itself. 

<LightBox src="/images/puma-foreverrun-nitro_1.jpg" caption="PumaGrip gets better with every iteration" alt="" ></LightBox>


##### Why did I consider it?

When Puma approached me to test one of their Nitro shoes, I eagerly opted for the Foreverrun Nitro model, as it stood out as the most intriguing option within the Nitro lineup that I hadn't yet experienced. While I primarily use neutral shoes for my running, I have had past encounters with stability shoes. In the past, I have run in models such as the Saucony Omni, Guide, Asics Gel Kayano, and GT 2000, all of which provided stability features. Although I do have mild stability issues in my right foot, I handled them and don’t rely on stability shoes anymore.

##### Ride in Foreverrun Nitro

I have run more than 100 km so far in the shoe despite running in it for more than a month, as I am simultaneously testing Saucony Kinvara 14 as well. I used it mostly for easy runs and long runs.  But tested it also for occasional short interval runs and tempo runs.

For easy runs, the shoe truly excels due to its ample cushioning and mild responsiveness, making it an ideal choice. During the couple of long runs, which consisted of runs exceeding 25 km, I really appreciated the stability provided by the shoe. It also performed very well with good bounce and cushioning.  The only downside I must admit is that the rigid nature (in terms of flex, and not having a rocker) of a stability shoe is something I didn’t really enjoy. But most runners may not notice the difference.

When it comes to speed runs, I found the Forever Nitro to be highly responsive and stable. However, the shoe's weight and rigidity somewhat hinder its suitability for this type of workout, making it less than ideal.

__Fit and Comfort__

The fit of the Foreverrun Nitro is excellent for my feet, surpassing even the Velocity Nitro and Deviate Nitro. It provides a very secure and comfortable lockdown, particularly in the heel area.

The upper of the shoe fits snugly and has a pleasant feel to it, further enhancing the overall fit and comfort.

One peculiar aspect I noticed is the presence of an elevated foam in the middle of the insole. Although I personally didn't perceive a significant difference or added heel support from it, I believe it may serve a purpose in improving proprioception for runners who prefer using orthotic insoles.

<LightBox src="/images/puma-foreverrun-nitro_4.jpg" caption="The fit is one of the best" alt="" ></LightBox>

__Stability__ 

It's been a while since I last ran in stability shoes. My impression of them was that they were heavy, and lacking in responsiveness. However, the Foreverrun Nitro changes my perception.

In terms of feel, it is reminiscent of other Nitro shoes like the Velocity Nitro, but with a bit of added stability. I tested it on an uneven lake bed, and the shoe's wide base makes running on such uneven surfaces, a pleasant experience. That said, the shoe doesn't compare to traditional stability shoes that have harder medial posts. If you are looking for a shoe with pronounced stability features, you may want to look elsewhere.

The upper of the shoe is notably rigid, contributing to its overall stability while maintaining a comfortable fit.  The specially designed insole does seem to help, but I can’t say for it sure.

<LightBox src="/images/puma-foreverrun-nitro_5.jpg" caption="RunGuide system adds mild stability" alt="" ></LightBox>

__Road Grip__

True to its reputation, the Puma Grip outsole continues to impress. It offers exceptional traction on various surfaces, whether it's loose sand or slippery roads during Bangalore's monsoon season. Throughout my runs, I never felt a moment of instability or a slip.

__Aesthetics & Ergonomics__

I have the One 8 branded edition, a white colorway with a light green and blue accent (Puma calls it White-Fizzy Lime-Elektro Purple).  I really liked the colorway, but for the maintenance of it.  Given the monsoon, it didn’t take much to soil the shoe.  If given a choice, I would have preferred the black colorway (PUMA Black-Ultra Orange) which is very slick. The upper has Puma PWRTAPE bubble-shaped overlays which makes it harder to clean.  The hard rubber on the outsole has huge inlays which also makes it harder to clean.

I really liked the large pull tabs, which are really practical to go in and out of the shoes pleasant.  I wish all the shoe designers consider incorporating these.

<LightBox src="/images/puma-foreverrun-nitro_3.jpg" caption="The accents look slick" alt="" ></LightBox>

### Review Summary

<ReviewSummaryCard shoeCode="005015000M"></ReviewSummaryCard>

<ProsCard
  title="PROS"
  pros={[
  "Excellent fit with secure heel lock and snug upper",
  "Surprisingly stable without being heavy or clunky",
  "Reliable traction with the legendary Puma Grip",
  "Ample cushioning which is bouncy and works well for long and easy runs",  
  ]}
/>

<ConsCard
  title="CONS"
  cons={[
  "Weight and rigidity may hinder speed runs",
  "Not the most stable shoe out there",
  "Not very easy to clean",
  "Premium pricing",
  ]}
/>

<InfoCard title="RECOMMENDATION">
Foreverrun Nitro is an excellent addition to Puma's Nitro lineup, catering to runners needing stability shoes. Its dual-layered midsole combines soft and hard Nitro foams for a balanced ride. With a 36mm stack height, it offers ample cushioning, while the runGuide system offers plenty of stability. The J-shaped hard rubber outsole provides exceptional grip. Despite the stability features, it maintains a lightweight profile at 274 grams. The shoe boasts an excellent fit, comparable to other Nitro models, with a secure heel lock and snug upper. Surprisingly, Foreverrun Nitro defies typical preconceptions with stability shoes, offering stability without being heavy or clunky. The shoe excels in long runs and easy runs, though its weight and rigidity may hinder speed runs. 

If you are looking for a modern stability shoe, that offers mild stability, and don't want to compromise on bounce, and is practical for Indian conditions, Foreverrun Nitro is a stylish yet functional choice.
</InfoCard>


Reviews

Saucony Kinvara 14 Review

Puma Foreverrun Nitro Review