Puma Future 9 Ultimate
Puma’s agility boot sits firmly as one of the mainstream staples in the market, a position it’s held since 2017 when Antoine Griezmann first fronted the silo. The Future makes its name on that original, eye-catching NETFIT lacing system, something no other boot was doing quite like Puma at the time. Since then, the line keeps evolving, dipping into ideas like midfoot compression bands, tape-style supports and clever dual-layer uppers to redefine what “agility” actually feels in a pair of football boots. And with the Future 9 stepping in, we’re about to see how Puma pushes that core identity forward once again.
What’s New with the Future 9:
- The Fuzion fit upper is now back to being a one-piece upper construction, moving away from the dual layer of inner Lycra and outer shell package from the Future 8.
- Given the upper changes, a foam liner replaces the inner Lycra and provides the backing for the entirety of Fuzionfit.
- At least around the top part, the heel has been narrowed down to improve the lockdown on that part of the boot.
FAQs about the Puma Future 9:
- Do I need to change my size?
- The Future 9 does run a quarter size long, but whether that merits going half-a-size down is still for your personal consideration. Personally, I would stick with true-to-size even with some dead space around the toes to avoid cramping my feet that much at the lower sizing.
- Is the weight of the boot a concern?
- Considering how even non-speed boots have a relatively lightweight feel, the Future 9 can be thought of as below average. That is mainly due to the weight of the soleplate bearing down on the boot.
- How is the ball control?
- Touch could be one of the highlights of the boot. With a simpler one-piece upper, the texturing from the Fuzionpods and grip zones now has that enhanced feel of where your foot is at relative to the ball.
- Release Year: 2018
- Generation Number: 9th
- Purpose: Agility Boot
- Competitor/s: –
- Notable Players: Jack Grealish, Neymar Jr.
Testing Conditions
- Surfaces: Firm Natural Grass, 3G Artificial Turf
- Foot Type: Medium Width (EU 43 1/3)
- Sessions: 2 Competitive Matches, 3 Training Sessions
- Weather: 1 Dry, 1 Wet
Pros
- Generally an upgrade from the Future 8 in terms of the heel lockdown
- Unique Fuzionpods stimulation making you aware of the ball’s positioning relative to your foot
- Balanced pliability and responsiveness/structure from the upper
Cons
- Heavy by today’s standards (contradicts its position as an agility boot)
- Still has some wiggle space on the lower heel and outstep toes
- May not be possible to size down to address point above because of the tapering along the midfoot