For those who love Puma’s Deviate Nitro series, their newest edition of the trainer (the third) brings back its characteristic nitrogen-infused foam, combined with the same carbon-plate technology. Although still geared to providing powerful propulsion for neutral runners, the brand has also made some big changes to the design, including a softer midsole and a higher heel/toe drop–all features to provide you that extraordinary comfort and responsiveness that you look for in a shoe.
Specs
Category: Neutral max cushioning (plated)
Drop: 10 mm
Stack Height: 39 mm/29 mm
Weight: 265 g (9.4 oz.)/233 g (8.2 oz.)
Available: Now
Price: $220
The upper
Puma swapped its previous mesh upper for a knit upper, which molds to the shape of your foot. When I slipped on the shoe, it felt like my foot getting a hug. I expected airflow would be reduced due to the denser knit material, but despite it being a warm day, my feet were comfortable. In fact, the ventilation in the toe box is exceptional. A bonus: the knit upper is made of at least 20 per cent recycled materials.
The shoe fits snugly across the midfoot and will appeal most to runners with narrow feet. It held my feet securely on hills and tight turns–sliding isn’t something we approve of in a shoe, and evidently, neither does Puma. It does seem to run a little small–I’m usually an 8, but could’ve jumped up to an 8.5. Those with wider feet may find the toe box a little tight.
The midsole
With a full-length NITROFOAM midsole, the shoe provides just the right amount of cushioning. While the foam is soft and very comfortable, it doesn’t feel squishy, and lets runners easily gain speed without sinking into the shoe. It also still has its signature carbon-composite PWRPLATE running along the full length of the shoe, and you’ll instantly feel that energy return and snappy feeling with each step, especially as you pick up the pace.
Two noticeable differences between this version and the previous one are the changes in drop and stack height. The heel-toe drop jumped from 6 mm in the second iteration to 10 mm in this latest shoe, while the heel stack height increased by almost 6 mm. While the drop offers a more fluid heel-toe transition, I felt that being further from the ground somewhat reduced control around corners that the Nitro 2s were known for. (The shoe is also slightly heavier, with the added foam and stack height, though still quite light.)
As expected with a carbon-plated shoe, the Nitro 3 is pretty stiff, and better suited for faster runs, speed workouts or road races, to showcase the full benefit of the propulsion plate.
The outsole
I don’t think I’ve tried a shoe that came close to the Nitro 3’s level of grip. The PUMAGRIP technology along the sole looks surprisingly different from the previous edition due to the midsole cutout, with rubber grooves used more sparingly–but offers better traction than the 2. I found the midsole cutout occasionally traps stones, making it less ideal for gravel roads.
The verdict
If you’re a fan of Puma’s Deviate Nitro 2 but are looking for something with slightly more cushioning, this shoe was made for you. I found the newer model offers the same, maximal energy return with incredible traction, with the added bonus of increased comfort. The shoe’s versatility also increases its appeal–it’s perfect for both speedwork and race days, and at a relatively affordable price for a carbon-plated shoe. This is an excellent shoe and provides great value.
