Puma Deviate Nitro 3: Complete Review & Comparison Guide

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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.

Bob BodilyBob Bodily
3 min readShoes
Puma Deviate Nitro 3: Complete Review & Comparison Guide

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.

  • Good Energy Return: Carbon plate adds propulsion.

What Some Runners Don't Like

Cons

  • Narrow Fit: Traditional Puma fit runs narrow.

  • 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.


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