Puma Magnify Nitro 2 vs Saucony Triumph 21: Two Max-Cushion Trainers Compared

Introduction

If you want one comfortable pair of shoes for easy miles, long runs and general training, these two are among the strongest max-cushion options around. Both sit on the more versatile side of the max-cushion category, which is rare: many heavily cushioned trainers, like the Nike Invincible 3, are far less adaptable day to day. This comparison covers specs, fit, ride feel and where each shoe makes the most sense.

Quick Specs and Price

The Puma Magnify Nitro 2 costs £130 and weighs 287g (10.1 oz) for men in a size 8, with a 10mm drop. The Saucony Triumph 21 costs $160 and comes in slightly lighter at 280g (9.9 oz) in the same size, also with a 10mm drop.

Those numbers tell you most of what you need to know going in: these are near-identical shoes on paper, and the real differences only emerge once you look at materials and midsole feel.

Upper and Fit

The Triumph 21’s main update over its predecessor is a revamped flat-knit upper: thinner, more breathable and a single-layer design, paired with a modified lacing system for better lockdown. It fits true to size, with plenty of room in the forefoot without feeling sloppy.

The Magnify Nitro 2 uses an engineered knit upper that is breathable and slightly stretchy, giving a more forgiving, sock-like feel if you have wider feet. Structure around the outside, including Puma’s medial power tape areas, holds the foot comfortably in place. Fit is similar to the Triumph 21, but with a bit more forefoot room, so going down half a size is a reasonable option there.

Midsole Feel: The Biggest Difference

The Triumph 21 keeps the PWRRUN+ midsole and sock liner from its predecessor, a foam that feels soft while still returning a good level of energy. On slow recovery runs it nestles your foot into the ground and minimizes impact, yet there is enough bounce to make picking up the pace genuinely enjoyable. As a cruising shoe for marathon training and long runs, it just carries you along without you thinking about your feet.

The Magnify Nitro 2’s full-length nitrogen-infused NITRO foam is not quite as soft and feels denser, with less bounce in return. That density can be a positive if you are a heavier runner or want a bit more substance underfoot. It makes the shoe feel very stable and solid, though slightly less fluid than the Triumph 21.

Outsole and Grip

Both shoes excel here. The Magnify Nitro 2 uses Puma’s PUMAGRIP outsole, one of the best outsole rubbers available, gripping very well and covering the midsole foam thoroughly for durability. The Triumph 21 matches it with a generous layer of outsole rubber that is very grippy, protects the foam and performs well across varied road conditions. Grip is effectively a non-factor between the two.

Verdict: Which One to Buy

Both are comfortable, well-built max-cushion daily trainers, and either would be a happy pick. If pushed, the Saucony Triumph 21 edges it: the foam feels a bit more enjoyable and poppy, the ride is more fluid, and it is slightly more versatile for everything from easy runs to faster cruising.

Choose the Magnify Nitro 2 if you are a heavier runner, want a denser and more stable feel, or prefer the extra forefoot room, sizing down half a size. Choose the Triumph 21 if you want the softer, bouncier ride for long runs and marathon training.

Conclusion

The Magnify Nitro 2 is the more solid and stable of the two, while the Triumph 21 wins on midsole feel and overall versatility. Prices differ between markets, so the better value may simply come down to where you are buying. Either way, you are getting one of the best max-cushion daily trainers currently available.