The latest power boot to hit the market comes in the form of the creative Puma PowerCat 1.12, or PWR-CT 1.12. The PowerCat line has dramatically changed through its existence and this edition offers a very unique final package. Right after release, the response from players was extremely popular, with the boots design being one of the most positive aspects. And then there was the fact that Cesc Fabregas made the surprising decision to jump ship from the Nike CTR360 Maestri to the PowerCat! For testing, I wore a pair of size 9US in the very fresh and bright White Pearl/PUMA Royal/Team Gold colorway and for the first time, I am including a short video to accompany the review – located at the bottom of this page.

Breaking In
To be honest, I didn’t find these to be the easiest boot in the world to break-in. The soleplate does eventually produce a really nice fit, but starting out they were a little stiff. I wore them for 2 training sessions before trying them in a game and this proved effective. The upper easily molds to your feet and feels great on the ball, K-leather again seems to be the winning formula! I was hesitant about how the Power Shooting Zone would feel through first wear, but it didn’t cause any problems. Matched with strategically positioned stitching across the front of the strike zone, it moves pretty much in unison with your foot. Because they are a little above the average weight of boots currently released (10.4oz) you get plenty of padding, particularly through the heel, which is nice.

3D Power Shooting Technology
Along the strike zone, you will find Puma’s newly innovated SD PST, or Power Shooting Technology. It is comprised of two separate regions of TPU, both featuring different densities and serving opposite functions. The blue region is a soft TPU that is positioned to retract and allow the ball to cushion against your foot, aiding in first touch and control. The Gold bars are a more solid TPU that offer more rebound as the ball contacts the region, particularly as you strike shots.

Does It Work?
The concept definitely does – but in reality it is tough to tell exactly how much of an impact it has on your game. The key question I have received is “Do the two regions counteract each other?” Puma has placed each piece of technology pretty effectively and with its own purpose on the boot. The blue touch/control TPU sits right across the region where you should be controlling the ball as you dribble and it is angled slightly down to ensure it doesn’t conflict with the gold power/rebound TPU. Plus, the Gold TPU sits right where you should be contacting the ball on solid shots. Of both pieces, I found the Gold TPU to be more effective and useful. You definitely get more pop out of shots and there is a nice rebound effect that will be particularly useful to players who prefer power over placement. I also tested to see if it offered any benefits in terms of putting more swerve on shots – this proved inconclusive.

Everything Else Performance
In terms of traction, Puma again stick with a similar blade configuration that is pretty effective. The blades are long enough to offer excellent twist and turn on firm ground while also working efficiently for the most part on turf. The only time I did question them as while playing in wet conditions on turf, they gave out once or twice as I tried to accelerate.

Something I really like is the tongue design. Puma allow it to be very breathable and have placed a slit on the top, so it forms and hugs your ankle comfortable.

Design
Initial feedback after release was centered on how good the boots looked! Puma put together an excellent combo of colors - White Pearl/PUMA Royal/Team Gold – that has really grasped the attention of fans. Personally, I feel like the gold detailing has a lot to do with it, as it adds a more sophisticated look. Plus, the 3D PST region gives the boot a curious look, and it makes you want to know more about the boot. Since they are white, you need to consider the fact they will need regular care. There are darker colorways coming soon.

How Do They Fit?
The one company I regularly encounter sizing issues with is Puma – but they seem to have got these spot on! Length wise, they are absolutely true to size and make for a perfect fit. If you are a player looking for a wider fit, these make for a solid option. From the midfoot, right through the forefoot, you get plenty of room and nice stretch to ensure your foot is not cramped.

Negatives
The biggest problem was scuffing that occurred around along the front of the boot. This is related to using them on turf and the white colorway is also a factor. Check out the video below for more details. It is definitely something to take into consideration if you are looking for a long term option.

The Skinny Summary
Highlight: Stealing Cesc Fabregas from Nike before releasing this boot was a very smart business move from Puma, and I am sure it won over a lot of new fans without them knowing how the boots test.
Category: In actuality, they are a solid power boot with some neat technology, the 3D PST Zone. Designed to offer both better touch and additions power, you are getting a hybrid of sorts.
Weight: They come in at 10.4oz, which is slightly above average although ideal for a power boot. It is noticeable if you are familiar to wearing some of the lightweight boots currently on the market.
Would I Buy Them: If you are looking for something new that looks really fashionable, they are a good option and I would probably fork out on a pair for that reason – but considering durability, they are not the best value for money currently on the market – retail around $180.
Player Position: Cesc is a playmaker, so add that to the list – but I think center-backs and strikers will benefit most. As a winger, I enjoyed them but there are better options (like the V1.11 SL!)

(*boots supplied for review by Puma USA.)

The latest Puma release is this pretty sweet PWR-CT1.10 in a Black/White/Aged Silver colorway. I have to admit, I am definitely a fan of this release, both for the actual boot and for the colorway. If you have not noticed yet, my preferred choice of design is something that is pretty minimal but carries a new look. And I feel that this release has a really good balance!

It has been a while since I tested the PowerCat cleat, but I still have them and decided today that it would be a good time to pull them back out of the closet! So, last night I got to take them out and strike some balls. And just as in testing, I found them to be super comfortable and a great boot for shooting. One area where people have raised concerns with this boot is in durability – my pair have lasted extremely well and still look pretty new (I tested them in February) so from my experience I would say durability is not an issue.

If there was one change I could make with the version I tested it would be the lime color used for detailing (which I thought was an improvement compared to the V-Konstruckt release) and Puma have upped it by releasing this colorway! The aged silver look creates a new dynamic on the black primary color that keeps it simple yet new-age. All of the detailing comes in the aged silver color, so if you are looking for something with color these are not going to be the release for you! Another aspect that might turn players off is the weight – they weigh in at 10.4oz. But that is what allows them to be a power boot, designed for striking the ball while also giving you the added advantage of protection. Nice release!

Following up on the successful adidas Jabulani review, we managed to get our hands on some other soccer balls to review with the Puma PWR C1.10 being the first. Puma have always been a top brand in terms of cleats and equipment, but I have never associated them with match day soccer balls. But, in the past few years they have become more prominent in leagues around the world. In particular, the WPS (Women’s Premier Soccer) has benefited tremendously from Puma’s sponsorship of the league. Currently, the WPS is one of the leagues that uses the PWR C1.10. I had the opportunity to test out the White/Black/Wild Lime version of the ball in training and game situations.

20 Panel Design
This is the most unique aspect about the ball. It has been designed using 20 high-frequency molded panels that have been placed in different shapes and sizes. 8 of the panels are shaped in a triangular fashion, while remaining 12 are fashioned in a long rectangular shape that separates the triangular panels. Even of the panels are molded together, so there is no stitching on the ball. What differentiates this ball from others on the market is how each panel ridges to the joining. Other balls have a nearly smooth design, but the PWR-C1.10 bumps up and down, leaving large gaps between each panel. I think the image portrays this most accurately.

Spot it in the Air
Along with the 20 panel design, Puma use a visual design that enhances visibility of the ball. 6 of the panels are colored in black, with 3 on each side in an “z” shape. As the ball moves and turns in the air, you have the added bonus of being able to track its trajectory. To be honest, the design is pretty unusual to look at for the first few sessions, but over time you become more familiar with it. I didn’t exactly feel like it was beneficial, for the most part I think it just gives the ball a unique look!

How it Feels
The ball is designed with a double layer that you can really feel when playing with the ball. The outer layer is made of a soft foam that allows for a crisp first touch. If you hold the ball and gently push down on any area it has a very squishy feel that almost feels like a sponge. This allows for superb touch and control when the ball comes to you and is noticeable. The second layer is a compressed foam that essentially rebounds off your foot. When striking the ball, this is how acceleration is increased. In fact, Puma say that the ball moves 4.3% faster in the air than a regular soccer ball. I could definitely feel there was a difference shooting or playing long balls as the ball does ping off your foot pretty easily.

Summing up….
I liked this ball a lot, although I don’t feel like it is the best game ball out there. You can feel the difference when knocking this ball about and it is a fun ball to play with. Controlling a long pass feels good as the ball has that rebound feel on your foot. It is priced around the $100 mark, which is decent for a top line ball. I can see many teams using this as a game ball, but throughout testing I preferred using it as a top line training ball. This is just my personal preference, with reactions from fellow players being mixed. The majority of players like the feel and touch of the ball. If you are looking for a ball that gives great touch and control then the Puma PWR-C 1.10 is a good option. For players that want to test it out, I would say it is worth the price.

A young boy wears two different boots and plastic bags as socks. playing on a dirt pitch in Johannesberg, South Africa, during the 2010 World Cup. (AP Photo/Rob Griffith)

Two weeks until the start of the new EPL season….I am not going to lie, I am pretty pumped! Waking up early for Fox Soccer Channel on Saturday mornings, nothing better (except actually being at the games of course!!) Over the past few weeks, I have spotted a few good articles and thought this morning would be a good time to share them!

• WomensSoccerDaily.com have a really good review of the women’s version of the Puma PWR-C 2.10 FG. Personally, I like the design of these boots!

• I have pointed this one out recently, but Scoutme.com have a great article about how to manage an ankle sprain. Always a good one to refer back to. (although I never wish for injuries!)

• Puma recently released a new initiative to raise money and awareness for Breast Cancer called Puma Project Pink. Check it out at Attackingsoccer.com.

• Darren Bent will be gearing up in the new Umbro GT Pro come the start of the season. Blog.Umbro.com have the official interview.

• How many pairs of Adidas Predators can one guy own? Ask Mr. Predator, or check in at Mud.Sweat.Badges.co.uk for the story.

• Check out the video of Nani doing some preseason drills in his Cactus Yellow Vapors. As seen on the Nike Soccer Blog.

• And in a final shameless plug, make sure you are following the SoccerCleats101 Facebook page for all our latest news!

No kidding, this is a pair of chocolate soccer boots that are on display at the World Chocolate Wonderland (Reuters/Nicky Loh)

Here it is, a full review of the Puma PowerCat! Since this is a World Cup year, there is a lot of pressure on the big companies to produce cleats that will represent well on the biggest stage. Puma have already established themselves in the speed category with the V1.10, but up until now they have not really captured the power cleat market. Adidas have the Predator X, Nike now have the T90 Laser III, but Puma only had the V-Kon that never really took off. Well, all that could easily change now with their latest release; the Puma PowerCat 1.10. Last week when they were released, I posted some images to give you an update on how they look. Well, finally after having several opportunities to work these in I finally have a review….and it is all positive! For testing, I wore a size 9 in the Black/White/Wild Lime color.

Breaking In
So, because of an injury, I broke these in over a period of around 4-5 weeks, with a lot of wearing while sitting around! With that being said, when I actually did get to wear them on the pitch, they broke in very smoothly! Unlike other Puma releases, these fit true to size. That for me is a big plus on what I have personally had to endure with prior Puma releases! One reason for this is due to the fact that these have a round toe unlike the V series (which has a box toe). I didn’t get any blisters and because the fit was true to size, I didn’t endure any foot cramping. It really didn’t take long for these to mold to the fit and shape of my foot. Puma are using a new anatomically shaped PowerLast that is an updated version of the AptoLast. The PowerLast provides additional volume to the forefront and instep of the foot. This allows the sole to follow the true contours of your foot and I have to admit that these create a real glove like fit.

Design
Puma have drifted away from the design of the V-Kon, and what a wise decision that will turn out to be! One of the biggest complaints I heard about the V-Kon was that it looked and felt bulky. This design looks sharper and the lime on black design really takes it to another level. Puma have removed a lot of the protection seen on the V-Kon, and some might argue that this takes the cleat out of the Power category. I strongly disagree with that, as there is still plenty of protection and a new front strike feature that allows these cleats the luxury of being a ‘Power Hybrid’ if you will. One of my harshest criticisms in recent times was on the colors being used with new releases. You only have to think back a few months to the release of the intensely yellow Puma V1.10 as an example. Both of the initial Puma releases are simple yet stylish and they are not loud and brash; more of a cleat for the no-nonsense player. Another positive is the fact that Puma have gone with a K-Leather for this release! “Yes”, I hear you also shout, and this is an excellent K-Leather that is super soft.

Puma ‘Cat’
You will find two very strategically placed Puma’s on these cleats. A textured lime colored Puma sites on the inner heal of the cleats, while the outside has a smooth white one. When you are wearing these on the field, both are pretty noticeable and you can see in the image above that they are easy to spot. On the white version of the cleat, the inner Puma is gold while the outer is blue. Rumor has it that Puma have added images of the Puma on both sides in order to increase speed in the cleat (Please note that this is not actually true!!)

Technology
There are a few things of note that Puma have added to the PowerCat. First off is the new 3D Power Shooting Technology. This is the one part of the cleat that everyone asks about, the lime green stripes that run across the strike zone. Well, to feel, these are like little ridges that overlap across the front of the cleat. The official term is SpringTech foam ridges, and they are designed to increase shooting power while maintaining touch and feel on the ball. The benefit of having this technology is that it has high rebound properties that does not absorb the typical amount of energy on ball impact, meaning more power is released when you shoot. Is it effective? Well it certainly does seem like it serves its purpose. When you strike the ball, you don’t feel the full impact, instead it feels like there is a cushioned layer. The ball does feel like it pings, but I can’t be 100% that it actually adds more power. I like the concept a lot though. Instead of have a large power zone, the 3D Power shooting technology is very minimal and not too invasive. Another addition worth mentioning is the  new Puma PowerLast, you can find more info about this in the ‘Breaking in’ section.

Negatives
Rather than being a ‘negative’, this is more of a word of warning/advice. Puma design/placement of the blades makes this a little more difficult to use on turf. I found that because of how the back 3 blades are configured, the boot tends to catch in the turf as you play the ball. Because of this, you should probably check out the PowerCat Turf version before you buy the firm grounds. And I do realize that FG’s are not designed for use on turf, but from my experience, the PowerCat might be more problematic than other boots.

Conclusion
Puma have raised the bar with this release and it is perfect timing for them! The design is sweet, the technology is effective and the comfort is superb! I am a real fan of the fact that Puma are using a K-Leather, they have followed up with the off center lacing, and the 3D Power Shooting technology is a real hit in my books. Once you get your hands on a pair of these you can tell that they are quality. My experience was very positive and I rate these as one of the best boots on the market at this moment. Expect to see a lot of players sporting these during the World Cup in South Africa.