The Puma Deviate Nitro 3 is a versatile workhorse with a stable, bouncy and cushioned ride. It takes all the elements we love about no-frills everyday running shoes like the Nike Vomero and amps them up—more foam, more fun, better grip, better looks. Throughout our 50 miles of testing, it's performed well for every type of run but is a favorite for fun and fast daily miles. The type of shoe that can handle everything from 20 mile days to 5k races, its comfort, versatility and reliability—the PumaGrip outsole sticks to the ground like a toddler in a tantrum—make it the best buy in a category where prices are now cresting $200 (looking at you, On). The main downside here is the 10mm drop, which can leave the forefoot feeling thin and disconnected for certain runners. Note that the shoe does also have a narrow toe-box. For a versatile speed trainer with a lower drop and more forgiving fit, check out the Asics Magic Speed 4 (soft, light, fast) or Hoka Mach X2 (bouncy and cushioned jack-of-all-trades).

Category

Speed trainer

Release Date

July 2024

Plated?

Yes

Type of Plate

Full carbon plate

Foam

Nitro

Foam Compound

Not disclosed

Ride

Bouncy, Cushioned, Responsive

Heel Stack (mm)

44.0

Forefoot Stack (mm)

34.0

Drop (mm)

10

Weight (mens size 9)

9.5

Support

Neutral

Fit

Snug