Shoe test | MB.05 gives wings

And five! If he struggles with his Hornets franchise, LaMelo Ball has had a string of successes with Puma and its signature line “MB” since 2021. The collection quickly stood out and managed to reach the hearts of the public with its unusual side, which comes out of nowhere, to the point that it has become a reference in the sneaker market today.

Each year, the release of the “MB” fueled ever-increasing expectations, and Puma has been able to respond with its own innovations, while preserving the DNA that made it successful, since the MB.01. there MB.05 remains in that spirit and has therefore paid tribute to its initial team, in terms of the fit and composition of its sole, equipped with a good dose of Nitro foam.

The model therefore stands out this year with two scratches that cover the laces and form two wings, among the symbols inspired by the player’s tattoos since the beginning. The different colors offered a nice overview of all the potential that still needs to be explored in terms of design and materials to emphasize the uniqueness of this fifth MB, which still manages to surprise in a good way.

GENERAL COMFORT

The MB collection has developed its own style over the years, keeping the intangible elements that today make up the DNA of the lines. We find its rounded toe, medium cut and still practically the same comfort, with an imposing sole.

Overall comfort has always been one of the strong points of the Puma MB, and this fifth version is no exception. The padding on the ankle joint is noticeable and generous, as is that on the tongue.

The only downside is ventilation, which can vary slightly depending on colors and textures, but is minimal overall.

Note: 8.5

CUSHIONED

We know the benefits of a “made in MB” sole with an imposing layer of Nitro foam that gets a little thinner towards the forefoot as a midsole. A simple joint, but still just as effective.

The result is still just as pleasant in terms of comfort, especially at the heel level, and cushioning quality. This is one of the strengths of this fifth MB name, this year as well.

Note: 9

TRACTION

We also stay on top of the basket with a pair that grips the ground well and brings an essential touch of dynamism to the game Hornets guard.

The MB.05 has nothing to envy to the competition in this regard with herringbone rubber sole patterns that do the job perfectly, even on the most demanding side props or explosive starts.

Note: 9

SUPPORT AND STABILITY

Puma decided to innovate by trying to strengthen the support of the foot while maintaining freedom of movement in the ankle.

The obvious choice then was to incorporate two Velcro straps to cover the laces. The effect is not exceptional, but very present, provided you tighten the two straps well.

Stability has always been pretty good since the first MB. Even if you feel a little “tall”, the comfort and contours of the sole ensure that you are always in control of your support.

Note: 8.5

GRADUATES AND LIFE CENTURY

The MB.05 hit hard as soon as its first colorways were released, multiplying different patterns to cover the upper. The collection has become a reference by developing its dazzling style and once again managed to surprise with this fifth version.

Among the new features we can mention a mesh structure composed of “1”, barbed wire shaped around the heel inspired by LaMelo Ball’s tattoos, as well as a skull shaped at the level of the sole. But above all, it’s the two wing-shaped Velcro strips that cover the laces that give this MB.05 its uniqueness. Apart from support, the two wings also provide a design, finely crafted and whose texture can also vary depending on the color.

There are all the other usual easter eggs and captions, like “One of 1”, “Not from here”, as well as a beautiful shiny phoenix logo on the heel.

The life of the sole should be more than adequate, which is the most important thing. The stem could be more crumbly depending on the color. And above all, make sure to take good care of the scratches to preserve their best effect over time.

Note: 8.5

MB.05 JUDGMENT

A successful bet for the MB.05 which continues to amaze with its unique style and colors. The characteristic line of the LaMelo Ball has found its technical structure that offers good guarantees in terms of comfort and grip, with something extra added this year to support the foot.

Puma and the leader of the Hornets have actually focused on an increasingly striking design, in the purest style of the collection, to allow this fifth version to stand out. The famous “winged velcro” covering the laces makes the MB.05 a special touch, as well as the skull pattern molded under the heel and many other new details.

For the rest, we can count on the expertise of Puma and the imagination of the leader of the Hornets to bring this fifth signature shoe to life, with even more original colors.

Note: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Shoe weight (size 45): 445 grams

Price: available from 125 euros onwards Basket4Ballers (coloris «World Tour» for sale for 100 euros)

Rating scale

– minus ⭐⭐: not recommended
– between ⭐⭐ and ⭐⭐⭐: faults that may stop some, but qualities that will charm others
– ⭐⭐⭐⭐: approved and recommended pair
– ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: an exceptional couple!