Upload / Capture
I was eager to test the Puma Deviate Nitro 3. Puma's reputation has been rising, and it's now common to see numerous professional athletes sporting their gear. Now in its third iteration, the Puma Deviate Nitro is a great option if you are looking for a carbon-plated trainer. This year, the Deviate Nitro 3 provides a smoother and more comfortable ride, making it an excellent option for training. Puma has been growing, and I've been really happy with each Puma shoe I've tried recently.
Quick Facts
The Puma Deviate Nitro 3 features a snug knit upper, ideal for those with narrow-to-normal width feet. If you have a wider foot, consider going up a half to full size. The knit mesh offers mild stretch, providing a sock-like fit that is both secure and comfortable. A thin, well-gusseted tongue and overlays enhance midfoot security.
I've found that the best running shoe uppers seem to disappear on your feet, and the Puma Deviate Nitro 3 mostly achieves this. I haven't experienced any hot spots, blisters, or discomfort. It does run slightly narrow, so if you have wider feet, you may benefit from going up a half to a full size. When I first slid on the Deviate Nitro 3, I was concerned because it felt so narrow. It hasn't caused issues, but it is more narrow than I hoped.
The breathability is excellent, and considering the 100+ degree temperatures we've had in the Mojave Desert recently, I avoid anything that makes my feet sweat more.
I'm usually not a fan of running shoes that have giant lettering on the side. I'm old enough to remember when Hoka did this, but I actually appreciate the look of the Deviate Nitro. The bright orange and lettering are fun and make the shoe look fast.
As far as sizing goes, I usually wear between a women's size 10-11 wide. I've found the size 11 to fit the best. My foot is on the wider side, but I don't usually need a wide. As mentioned, if wide sizes typically fit you best, consider going up half to a full size from your regular running shoe size.
The midsole of the Deviate Nitro 3 is softer than previous versions. It isn't as soft and mushy as the Hoka Clifton. That extra firmness is what separates it from an easy run or recovery run shoe to a faster daily trainer. The full-length Nitro Foam ensures a smooth toe-off, making it ideal for easy miles and uptempo workouts. The shoe's new forefoot geometry improves overall smoothness and ride.
Compared to the previous version, it's definitely softer but not overly mushy, despite the significant foam. The carbon plate adds that responsiveness so you feel like you can pick up speed.
Where does the Puma Deviate Nitro 3 fit into my rotation? It's a faster trainer. I wear it on days when I'm unsure of the run type but want to potentially pick up the pace. It can handle easy and recovery days, but it feels fast, so I prefer it for quicker runs. I've done some uptempo work and longer intervals (around 2 miles), and it handles these well. For speed work on the track, I prefer an even faster shoe. If you are looking for a faster trainer, this is a great option. Overall, it's one of my favorite trainers this year. Running in the Puma Deviate Nitro 3 is simply fun.
The outsole features Puma Grip, providing excellent traction on smooth surfaces, even when wet. Durability is decent, and after putting about 100 miles on my shoes, I haven't noticed any decline in performance.
There is a flaw! The gap can trap rocks easily. Living in the Mojave Desert, at least 75% of my runs are on sandy trails, and it frequently picks up rocks, which can be annoying to remove. Keep this in mind if you run on gravel roads. I try to keep mine on roads only so that I don't have to hear the clink, clink, clink of rocks.
The Puma Deviate Nitro 3 is a great addition to the carbon-plated trainer market, perfect for daily training and uptempo workouts. It's definitely one of my favorite faster daily trainers at the moment.
Who Should Buy it?
Who Should Not Buy it?
I was paid to write an honest shoe review of my choice.
Login to your account to leave a comment.
We Want to Give it to You!
