The Deviate Nitro is the training companion to the Deviate Nitro Elite racing shoe. It’s designed to be a cheaper, more durable training shoe which gives you a similar feel to its racing counterpart.
The Deviate Nitro 3 was released 2 years after its predecessor and it has some big updates. This comparison will tell you which version you should buy.
Verdict
The Puma Deviate Nitro 3 is a do it all shoe. There are not many flaws found in the Nitro 3. A comfortable ride that is meant for the miles both in training and on race day!
The Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 2 is a soft-riding, plated training shoe which can be used for everything from easy runs to uptempo runs, to races. It has a high level of cushioning, decent stability and first-class grip. In version 2 of the Deviate Nitro, they’ve fixed the uncomfortable heel tab issue which was present in the first version. It’s also been given a softer ride due to the new Nitro Elite foam in its midsole.
Recommended for
Speedwork, daily training, long distance racing
Racing, speedwork, daily training
Cushioning type
Responsive/balanced
Balanced
Cushioning amount
Medium cushioning
Highly cushioned
Stability
some stability
some stability
Sizing
true to size
true to size
Retail price
US$160
US$160
The Deviate 3 has a new Nitro Elite foam in its midsole which is an aliphatic TPU infused with nitrogen. This foam is lighter than the previous version and it returns more energy. Version 3 also has a layer of Nitro foam underneath it which is a firmer, more durable foam that provides stability and structure.
The Deviate 2 has the old Nitro Elite foam in its midsole which is PEBA based. It is also infused with nitrogen for a lighter, bouncier ride. The older Nitro Elite foam is slightly heavier and has a slightly flatter ride. Version 2 also has a layer of Nitro foam in its midsole for extra durability and stability.
They both have carbon fibre plates in their midsole for propulsion and speed assistance. The Deviate 3 has a stiffer carbon plate which makes it feel faster and more snappy than version 2 due to a stiffer forefoot.
The Deviate 3 has a higher midsole stack height than version 2. This makes it feel more cushioned and gives it more long-distance comfort so it’s the better shoe for long runs.
When it comes to stability, the Deviate 2 is better. Your foot sits lower to the ground so foot strikes feel more planted. If is also slightly firmer so there is less lean bias.
If you’re looking for more ground feel, the Deviate 2 is also the better choice. Its thinner midsole results in less shock absorption and less padded landings.
Both of these uppers are more suited to narrow feet. The Deviate 3 has a more accommodating fit and is true to size while the Deviate 2 fits a half size small so you should go up a half size.
The upper of the Deviate 3 feels more comfortable and more premium whereas the Deviate 2 has a shallow toe-box with material that’s thicker and not as breathable. Both of these uppers have excellent foot lockdown.
If you’re looking for a faster, long-distance option, you should choose the Deviate 3. It has more cushioning depth and a stiffer, more prominent carbon plate. It has a more breathable upper and it has a midsole with more energy return.
If you’re looking for a slower option for shorter distances, the Deviate 2 is the better option. If you need more stability, this is also the version you should pick. The Deviate 2 has a more stable ride due to its thinner midsole. If you prefer a firmer ride, the Deviate 2 is the better choice for you.
