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I am newer to the Puma running scene but was excited to run in the Puma Deviate Nitro 2. Three years ago, I tried the first version and I was not a fan. It completely tore up my ankles and left me fairly bloody after a run. It was unfortunate because I did like the ride, but it was too painful to run in. Having heard about the updates Puma made, I decided it was time to give it another go.
Puma has really picked up on the running scene, sponsoring several elite marathoners. It seems like they have a new debut almost every week (okay, not really that much, but sometimes it feels that way). Between the marathoners sponsored by Puma and their newest running line, I've been excited to see what their shoes are like.
Quick Facts
As mentioned in the introduction, I was absolutely not a fan of the first version. It completely tore up my ankles, so if I opened the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 box and it had the same upper, I wasn't even going to run in them. But surprise, the upper has been updated.
Fortunately, the updated version features a plush heel counter and light, breathable mesh with PWRTAPE reinforcement—ideal for keeping cool during fast-paced runs.
The shoe now fits comfortably without causing blisters or cutting into the ankles. The best running shoe uppers disappear off your feet and I really haven't had any issues with the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 causing any pain. If anything, the upper update is worth trying.
In running shoes, I wear between a women's size 10-11 wide and have found the women's size 11 to fit the best. The shoe has a fairly wide toe box and adequate room in the midfoot, with a more snug heel counter. It fits true to size.
The Deviate Nitro 2's midsole is made from Nitro Elite and Nitro foam layers, complemented by a carbon-infused PWRPLATE. This combination provides soft landings and a responsive push-off, making it a quintessential speed work shoe.
Puma has stated it's designed for daily running and faster work, and that is exactly what I use it for. It doesn't feel fast enough for true speed work, but it is fast enough to be able to pick up the pace on longer runs. I like how soft it is, but also responsive enough to pick up the pace. If I want to run faster, I can without feeling like it is taking a lot more effort. It's not as soft as, say, something like the Hoka Clifton, but it's soft enough that you feel cushioned with every step.
The Puma Deviate Nitro 2 uses the "Puma Grip" technology. The outsole offers plenty of traction on a variety of terrains. I've used them on rainy days as well as sandy trails with no issues of sliding around. If it is going to be not great weather, it's a shoe I will gravitate towards.
The durability of the Deviate Nitro 2 appears to be good. I've already put 100+ miles on mine without any signs of slowing down. I suspect the Deviate Nitro 2 will last around 400 miles.
The Puma Deviate Nitro 2 stands out as a great choice for those needing a responsive easy run shoe, longer run shoe, and possibly even a marathon if you prefer a more traditional marathon racer. It also handles inclement weather well. To be honest, there isn't a ton I don't appreciate about the shoe as it does what it's meant to do. It's become my preferred Puma running shoe, and I look forward to what else Puma has to offer in the running scene.
I was paid to write an honest shoe review of my choice.
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