The Puma Deviate Nitro was our first plated shoe test. It was also Puma’s foray into the next generation of running shoes.
In short we loved them, an acquired taste for sure which take some getting used to, but nonetheless a game changer that felt and resulted in a clear difference in performance. The kick forward through heel to toe transition is immediately apparent.
The Deviate Nitro 2 was a definite improvement in a more comfortable upper, a lower less intrusive heel counter, and a slightly firmer midsole.
The refined update, now including a more contemporary look has resulted in a shoe we would rarely call a one shoe that fits all.
This is a trainer racer that has a legitimate place as both. It’s comfortable, durable and perceptively fast. Even better, it’s well priced versus other plated shoes.
Watch our review video for technical details of why we rated this shoe so highly.