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Run Like a Puma: Faas 500 S and Faas 100 R Glow Review

puma-faas-review

Puma is just one of those brands that is so damn cool. Sleek and fast-looking, I’ve long been infatuated with the whole look and vibe (along with my friend Tom who is even more obsessed). And we’ve reviewed its running shoes before. In fact, we’ve even tried this particular type of Puma shoe: the Faas. But Puma’s got a brand new twist on the Faas, and we were sent two pairs to review. But do they perform as cool as they look? Behold our thoughts on the Faas 100 R Glow and the Faas 500 S!

Puma Faas 100 R Glow

Want to train “in the glow?” That’s what the Faas 100 R Glow shoe is all about. Designed specifically for women’s feet and with a sleeker and sexier look (their words, not mine), these feature reflective detailing and a super low-to-the-ground experience. With a zero millimeter heel-to-toe drop, these are like running barefoot, just with a little extra padding and cushioning. Incredibly light-weight and super airy (the upper is partially made of a mesh-like material — I could see my socks through it), they naturally encourage a more front-foot strike.

While I typically like a good minimal shoe, these were a bit too minimal for me. Maybe it’s because the weather is getting cooler and my feet got chilly in these (my feet are super sensitive to cold — I’m weird) or maybe it’s because I actually don’t like minimal shoes as much as I think I do, but  I found these to be a little too extreme for me. I also found the stiff back to really rub my heel. When I was running, it pushed my low-cut socks down, creating a blister, and when I was walking, it just hurt. But, I have this problem with a lot of shoes — so, again, I could just be weird. But with a price tag of just $72, these are a great buy if you’re looking for a super minimal running shoe that’s cute, reflective — and you have never had a cold-feet or raw-heel situation in your life.

Puma Faas 500 S

As if Puma knew that maybe the Faas 100 R Glow would be too much minimal for me, they also sent along a pair of purple Faas 500 S to try. And these were so much more my jam. Still giving you the lightweight feel of minimal running, you get nice support with style, extra cushion on the bottom and a 4-millimeter heel-to-toe drop. More of a stability shoe than I’m used to, it does help you to have a more neutral gait, too. And while the upper mesh was certainly breathable, it kept my tootsies warmer than the Faas 100 R Glow, which I appreciated. The sole is somewhat flexible, too, so it really encourages that toe push-off.

My only gripe about the Faas 500 S is that darn heel again. It’s not quite as rigid as the 100 R Glow, but it still took some breaking in for me. And I wouldn’t even think of walking in them — they feel great when running but that heel really gets rubbed when walking. But again, for $100 this is a great light stability shoe that gives you a little more support and cushion while still providing a natural-feeling run.

Have you ever run in a pair of Pumas? —Jenn 

FTC disclosure: We often receive products from companies to review. All thoughts and opinions are always entirely our own. Unless otherwise stated, we have received no compensation for our review and the content is purely editorial. Affiliate links may be included. If you purchase something through one of those links we may receive a small commission. Thanks for your support!