Puma Haraka XCS

An XC racer that has been indicated as a shoe that grazes over competition, the PUMA Haraka XCS features a highly responsive midsole, complemented with so many strengths infused in its overall technology as a competitive shoe. The Haraka gets its name from the Swahili word which means “hurry” and this already implies so much about the shoe. It is a very nimble and agile option for cross country running. 

It has also been considered as one of the best spiked running shoes in 2014. PUMA has remarkably exhausted very carefully thought efforts into the construction of the Haraka XCS. It is no exception to the narrowed quality shoes of the PUMA, and is undoubtedly a sufficient and efficient shoe in various aspects. It now features a six spike plate which enables its good traction or good grip on varied terrains. Superior are its aspects of comfort, durability and performance. What is considered as its very attractive feature is the sock-liner and insole material, which allows a sockless but highly comfortable wear. The Haraka XCS, despite having an aggressive outsole, retains its optimal cushioning so the runner never feels uncomfortable while running or walking or training. 

Arch Support and Pronation Control

The arch structure of the Haraka XCS is fairly minimal but sufficient enough to provide stability in the necessary areas of the foot. Cross country runners who deal with mild overpronation may feel a lot more challenged than underpronators and supinators when running in this shoe. The presence of the spiked lugs, however, offer enough stability and grip on the ground to aid overpronators should they wish to prove themselves much more than they have before.

Terrain

Cross country running mainly involves running through open-air courses on natural terrains or surfaces. The longest cross country running would cover almost 10k distances, something which the Haraka XCS is absolutely capable of beating. The terrains covered by this sport usually involves grassy, earthy surfaces, passing mostly through woodlands which would then lead to gravel roads.

Use

As previously stated and implied by the name, this shoe has been made specifically for cross country running or training. This sport is regarded as an intense workout, so runners will heavily rely on the Haraka XCS to provide them the best cushioning and comfort.

Durability

If judged through the type of durability, previous testers would say that this shoe is a power running shoe as it is able to cover so many miles in one run. The durability depends on the foot type of the runner though, and how frequently the shoe is used. PUMA though, has seen to it that the simple yet effective technologies fused into the whole shoe are long-lasting and resilient.

Outsole

The Haraka XCS specifically contains spiked receptacles at the outsole which fully enables it to attach to the ground firmly when needed. The excellent traction has been regarded by the testers as outstanding and they highly recommend to it anyone who is interested or is eyeing the Haraka XCS. The only main compound found on the outsole is called the Evertrack Technology, which are all intentionally placed at the heel and the forefoot to resist excessive wear and to extend its lifespan. The aggressive outsole may be something a lot of runners will like and find very appealing for cross country running or anything otherwise.

Midsole

Only minimal and super lightweight cushioning has been incorporated in the midsole for the sole reason of not adding unnecessary weight to the shoe. For cross country running, it is best for runners to only have minimum weight so they can go for faster and smoother rides. This type of lightweight cushioning is referred to as the KMS-LITE technology, which is regarded as PUMA’s premium lightweight midsole that is significantly lighter than the PUMA-EVA by 30%.

Upper

The upper of the Haraka XCS features a sandwich mesh that is also regarded as very lightweight and is highly utilized throughout the whole upper of the shoe. The lacing system also helps acquire very snug and comfortable fits. The Slip Lasting technology has also been engineered in the shoe, which encloses and stitches the upper in a regular shape before it gets attached to the midsole. This technology substantially reduces weight and increases necessary bendability.

The Haraka XCS is an ideal combination of design and stability in one sport shoe. In summary, the Haraka XCS is the best companion for long distance running. What gives this shoe its best appeal would be the fact that it comes in a really affordable price. It is a stable shoe and its quality is wide-ranging, starting from its tiniest mesh detail down to its aggressive outsole. The no added extra weight means no added hassle during running. If you are very interested with the Haraka XCS, get your very own pair right now!

Price Range

This cross country running shoe is exceptionally cheaper than most running shoes found and offered in the market today. Runners may treat this as a lucky jackpot, since the highest price the Haraka XCS could get is around $70.