Puma MB.03 “Melo 3.0”: A Full Performance Breakdown
Our complete performance review of the Puma MB.03 examines its cushioning, traction, and support to see how LaMelo Ball's third signature shoe plays on court.
The Puma MB.03 is the third signature basketball sneaker for professional player LaMelo Ball, marking a continued evolution in his popular footwear line. Positioned within a competitive market, this model builds upon the success of its predecessors, the MB.01 and MB.02. The anticipation surrounding its release was significant, fueled by Ball’s rising stardom and the distinct identity of his previous shoes.
Design and Aesthetics
The visual identity of the MB.03 is its most striking feature, characterized by aggressive and unconventional design cues. The upper is wrapped in prominent TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) overlays that are molded to resemble either dripping slime or sharp claw marks tearing through the shoe’s surface. Beneath these overlays, an engineered woven mesh forms the main body of the shoe, providing a textured and breathable foundation.
This model has been a canvas for a variety of creative and thematic colorways, each telling a unique story. The “Toxic” colorway, for instance, features a vibrant, almost radioactive green and purple palette that leans into the slime motif. In contrast, the “La France” edition pays homage to Ball’s time playing professionally in France with a more subdued, elegant floral pattern. Another notable release, the “GutterMelo,” was a collaboration with the NFT project Gutter Cat Gang, showcasing a wild, multi-colored design inspired by digital art.
On-Court Performance
Cushioning
The shoe’s ride is defined by Puma’s full-length NITROFOAM™, a nitrogen-infused foam engineered for responsiveness and low weight. On the court, this setup provides a balanced experience, offering substantial impact protection for landings and explosive movements without sacrificing court feel. The foam compresses effectively under load, returning energy that aids in propulsion, making it suitable for guards who rely on a quick first step.
Traction
Traction is a high point for the MB.03, which utilizes a full-coverage rubber outsole with a distinct, non-slip pattern. On clean, well-maintained indoor courts, the grip is exceptionally reliable, allowing for hard stops and sharp lateral movements with confidence. The performance remains solid on dustier surfaces, though an occasional wipe of the soles may be needed to maintain maximum bite.
Support and Lockdown
A robust internal TPU heel counter cups the back of the foot, preventing slippage and enhancing stability during play. The lacing system works with the upper’s materials to provide a secure lockdown across the midfoot when tightened. The aforementioned TPU overlays also contribute to the shoe’s supportive structure, reinforcing the mesh upper to keep the foot centered on the footbed during intense, side-to-side actions.
Fit
The Puma MB.03 runs true to size for most foot shapes. The forefoot area is accommodating enough for those with slightly wider feet, avoiding the overly narrow construction found in some performance basketball models.
Release Information and Pricing
The Puma MB.03 was introduced to the market with a standard retail price of $125 USD for most of its general release colorways. This price point positions it competitively within the signature basketball shoe landscape. Collaborative or special editions sometimes carried a slightly higher price tag, reflecting their limited nature.
The initial launch of the MB.03 occurred with the “Toxic” colorway on October 27, 2023. Following this debut, Puma rolled out a series of other popular styles over the subsequent months, including the “La France” version in December 2023 and the “Blue Hive” edition inspired by the Charlotte Hornets. These sneakers are available through Puma’s official website and major footwear retailers like Foot Locker, Champs Sports, and select other sneaker boutiques.