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Puma Deviate Nitro 3: Complete Review & Comparison Guide
In-depth review of the Puma Deviate Nitro 3. See how it compares to similar plated training shoes, specs, pros, cons, and where to buy.

Puma Deviate Nitro 3: Complete Review & Comparison Guide
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Overview
The Puma Deviate Nitro 3 is Puma's plated training shoe—designed for runners who want carbon plate propulsion on everyday runs. With NITRO Elite foam, a carbon fiber plate, and versatile construction, the Deviate Nitro 3 bridges the gap between daily trainers and race-day super shoes.
This is Puma's "train the plate" option: carbon performance for everyday miles.
Key Specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Category | Speed, Daily Trainer |
| Cushion Level | Moderate |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 8mm |
| Weight (Men's/Women's) | 9.2oz / 7.9oz |
| Stack Height | 37mm heel / 29mm forefoot |
| Pronation Support | Neutral |
| Width Options | Standard |
| MSRP | MSRP: $190 |
| Surface | Road |
What It's Known For
The Deviate Nitro 3's combination of NITRO Elite foam and carbon plate creates a bouncy, propulsive ride that can be used for daily training. Unlike race-only super shoes, it's built with durability in mind while still delivering that plated sensation.
Runners appreciate the Deviate's ability to make training runs feel faster without destroying an expensive racer.
Why Runners Love It
Pros
-
Bouncy: NITRO Elite foam provides excellent energy return.
-
Versatile: Handles training runs and tempo workouts.
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Good Energy Return: Carbon plate adds propulsion.
What Some Runners Don't Like
Cons
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Narrow Fit: Traditional Puma fit runs narrow.
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Less Durability: Plate construction has limits.
Who Should Consider This Shoe
The Puma Deviate Nitro 3 is ideal for:
- Speed-focused runners (20-55 miles per week) wanting plated training
- 5K to marathon preparation with plate adaptation
- Runners transitioning to carbon plate racing
- Those who enjoy bouncy responsive foam
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere
Consider other options if you:
- Have wide feet
- Want maximum durability
- Prefer traditional trainers
- Need stability features
How It Compares: Cross-Brand Comparison
| Shoe | Cushion | Drop | Weight (M) | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Puma Deviate Nitro 3 | Moderate | 8mm | 9.2oz | MSRP: $190 | Bouncy plated training |
| Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 | High | 8mm | 7.8oz | MSRP: $170 | Versatile plated |
| ASICS Superblast 2 | High | 8mm | 8.3oz | MSRP: $200 | Max cushion speed |
| Nike Pegasus Plus | Moderate | 10mm | 10.3oz | MSRP: $180 | ZoomX trainer |
| HOKA Mach X | Moderate | 5mm | 8.8oz | MSRP: $180 | Low-drop plated |
Puma Lineup: Same-Brand Comparison
| Shoe | Cushion | Drop | Weight (M) | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Puma Deviate Nitro 3 | Moderate | 8mm | 9.2oz | MSRP: $190 | Plated training |
| Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 2 | High | 6mm | 6.7oz | MSRP: $250 | Carbon racing |
| Puma Fast-R 3 | Moderate | 8mm | 6.0oz | MSRP: $250 | Elite racing |
| Puma Velocity Nitro 3 | Moderate | 8mm | 9.0oz | MSRP: $140 | Daily training |
| Puma Magnify Nitro 2 | High | 10mm | 10.8oz | MSRP: $150 | Cushioned training |
Final Verdict
The Puma Deviate Nitro 3 delivers bouncy, plated performance for training runs. It's the way to experience carbon plate propulsion without saving it only for race day.
For plated training with NITRO foam, the Deviate Nitro 3 is an excellent choice.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Affiliate link - we may earn a commission