Puma Deviate Nitro 3 review

9 expert score
8.7 user's score
As editorial policy, we do not accept free samples. We purchased this pair at Running Warehouse with our own money.
Review written on 17th August by Justin Alpaugh Ultrarunner and running shoes expert.
9 other reviews

Puma Deviate Nitro 3 Verdict

The Puma Deviate Nitro 3 is a do it all shoe. There are not many flaws found in the Nitro 3. A comfortable ride that is meant for the miles both in training and on race day!

The pros

  • Outsole coverage
  • Smooth ride
  • Do it all shoe

The cons

  • Tight around the forefoot

Where to buy

Best offers today in Italy, all prices in EUR
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Rating breakdown

Comfort
8.0
Build quality
8.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
8.0

Facts / Specs

Brand
Model
Deviate Nitro 3
Previous model
Weight
9.5 oz (269 g)
MSRP
€160.00

Heel
44 mm.
Toe
34 mm.
Heel drop
10 mm.
Carbon plate
Full length carbon plate

Size/Fit

Sizing
True to size
Heel fit
Normal
Midfoot fit
Normal
Toebox fit
Tight

Cushioning & ride

Type of cushioning
Responsive/balanced
Amount of cushioning
Medium cushioning
Stability
Some stability
Flexibility
Medium

Usage

Racing
Speedwork  
Daily training  
Long distance racing  
Ultra distance racing

Who should buy the Puma Deviate Nitro 3 ?

Everyone and every type of runner should consider buying this shoe. A runner who is consistently logging miles each and every day would benefit from the Nitro 3. Many shoes say “meant for daily training” well I tell you what the runner who daily trains and does it well will throughly enjoy them!

Who should not buy the Puma Deviate Nitro 3 ?

The only runner who should not buy it are those who have wider feet. The shoe does run a touch slim around the toe box.

Puma Deviate Nitro 3 Introduction

Picture of PUMA Deviate Nitro 3

The Puma Deviate Nitro 3 is the ideal model. When people are asking, what is the shoe to get? It is going to be the Puma Deviate Nitro 3.

The reason why is due to the fact that the shoe can perform at basically any level. I have ran super easy miles, tempo miles, long run, short runs, any run that you can think of I have utilized the shoe for it and I haven’t found many flaws.

A daily trainer that does it all or can even be considered a budget racer. I’m all about it!

From the top I absolutely love the heel collar. The heel collar sits around the ankle and the Nitro 3 absolutely crushes it with the perfect amount of padding. It sounds silly, but my ankles tend to rub really easy on most shoes around the ankle and I don’t have any issues with that here.

The engineered mesh upper keeps your foot nice and secure and fits like a glove when putting it on you will definitely feel fast when lacing up the shoe. One of the only flaws that I found in the Nitro 3 is the fit around the forefoot.

Picture of PUMA Deviate Nitro 3

It’s a little bit lower in volume meaning the upper is a bit more snug on top of the toes and isn’t as wide through the forefoot. The amount of snug it does have causes pressure on the top of my toes and the front of my feet which in turn does cause minor hotspots on the bottom of my feet, especially during faster paces. It’s not uncomfortable to the point where I want to disregard the shoe because I do love everything else about it.

My favorite part of the shoe is the responsive, and soft mid sole foam that puma delivers on the Nitro 3. To explain the tech term puma uses a nitrogen infused foam for better energy return. The foam feels really cushioned and is lightweight. The Nitro 3 offers a carbon fiber plate to help with energy return, responsiveness, and a smooth transition that propels you on your toes.

I recently bought the Asics Magic Speed 4 and it is a toss up between the Nitro 3 and the magic speed 4 they are both in the same category “super trainers” and can be compared in almost every aspect.

If you had to decide between the two either option would be great although this is a review about puma so if you’re a puma fan, get the shoe!

Puma Deviate Nitro 3 First Impressions

Picture of PUMA Deviate Nitro 3


My first impressions are exactly what I expected. I knew that getting my hands onto the Nitro 3. It was going to be an enjoyable experience.

I love the looks of them and how comfortable they are right out of the box. During my first run it was a smooth buttery ride for 8 miles. A little hot spot on the bottom of my feet but nothing overwhelming.

Puma Deviate Nitro 3 Upper

Picture of PUMA Deviate Nitro 3


The upper in my mind is pretty traditional Puma claims that there are some materials built into the shoe that helps with its stability. I’m not one that has issues with stability so it’s not something I wholeheartedly focused on.

What is important is the toe box does sit a little low on top of the foot around the toes is a little snug. I don’t mind it, but I know those who want a wider fit might have issues with the upper.

The upper is comfortable once fully laced up, no rubbing no irritation and has a glove like fit just a touch tight up front.

Puma Deviate Nitro 3 Sole Unit

Picture of PUMA Deviate Nitro 3


Puma grip, puma grip, puma grip. The best in the game.

I love a shoe that provides sufficient amount of outsole rubber but yet the shoe doesn’t feel heavy. The traction is amazing and the outsole is super durable. The cushioning is great the amount is almost perfect. Maybe just a touch more in the forefoot but that is just my personal preference.

The materials of the foam is pretty unique the foam closest to the foot is the elite foam which is used in the nitro elite race model.

The elite foam then sandwiches the carbon fiber plate with the nitro foam underneath the plate. This combination calls for the perfect recipe for a soft cushioned ride but yet responsive enough that it can handle tempo runs!

Puma Deviate Nitro 3 Conclusions

Not many flaws found in the puma deviate nitro 3 it is an awesome super trainer and daily trainer that will satisfy just about any runners needs, and only priced at $160 nowadays that’s not too bad.

It’s not the cheapest but it’s not the most expensive. Puma did deliver on their promises.

I think the best thing about this particular shoe is the fact that it can be used on race day. You don’t have to buy a $250 shoe. You have a very solid option right in front of you.

How does the Deviate Nitro 3 compare?

Asics Magic Speed 4
Puma Deviate Nitro 3
Adidas AdiZero Boston 12
Expert score
9
9
7
User score
Retail price
US$169.95
US$160
US$160
Brand
Weight
8.5 oz
9.5 oz
9.4 oz
Heel Drop
8 mm
10 mm
6.5 mm
Recommended for
Racing, speedwork
Speedwork, daily training, long distance racing
Daily training
Cushioning type
responsive/balanced
responsive/balanced
responsive/balanced
Cushioning amount
Medium cushioning
Medium cushioning
Highly cushioned
Flexibility
rigid
medium
medium
Stability
some stability
some stability
very stable
Sizing
true to size
true to size
true to size

Why you can trust us

As editorial policy, we do not accept free samples from companies.
We purchased this pair of Puma at Running Warehouse  with our own money.

This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Read more about our policy.
Lowest price:

€110

Puma Deviate Nitro 3 price comparison

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Reviewed by Justin

This review was written by Justin Alpaugh on 17th August.
Justin Alpaugh lives in Pocatello, Idaho. A place where in any direction you look you will find mountains. He grew up hunting and currently pursues the challenge of archery hunting. Hunting was an outlet to get into ultra running back in 2019. Since then he has ran a handful of ultras including the 100 mile distance. Running on the roads and trails molds Justin into becoming a better husband and father. Finding the right running shoes is equally an important part of his journey.

User feedback (4)

  • avatar-comment-1056526
    Alex K.
    3 days ago

    Just swung by my running shop to check these out since my Deviate 2s are getting up there in miles. Gotta say, that forefoot is definitely snugger than before – might need to size up. Love that they kept the killer grip though – my current pair handles wet roads like a champ. Bit bummed about the price bump, might hold out for a sale since my v2s still have some life in them.

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  • avatar-comment-1056095
    Sarah Martinez
    1 week ago
    9 score

    I’ve put about 200 miles on my Deviate Nitro 3s and I’m seriously impressed. The versatility is unmatched – I’ve used them for everything from easy runs to tempo workouts. The NITRO foam hits a sweet spot between cushioning and responsiveness. Compared to the v2, the ride is noticeably smoother and the durability is fantastic. I recently ran a half marathon in them and they felt great the whole way. The only minor issue is the snug forefoot, but it loosens up after a few runs. For $160, you’re getting excellent value compared to pricier options.

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  • avatar-comment-1055939
    RunnerGirl84
    2 weeks ago

    Any wide-footed runners try these yet? I need something for both training and tempo runs, but worried about that narrow forefoot I keep hearing about. Also, how’s the outsole holding up compared to Nike’s stuff? My Vaporflys wore down pretty quick.

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  • avatar-comment-1055870
    Marcus Chen
    2 weeks ago
    9 score

    After putting 150 miles on the Deviate Nitro 3, I’m thoroughly impressed. The shoe excels as an all-rounder – I’ve used it for everything from tempo runs to my recent half marathon PR. The outsole grip is exceptional, especially on wet surfaces. Compared to the Deviate Nitro 2, the ride feels more refined and smoother. The only issue I encountered was the tight forefoot, which required about 20 miles to break in properly. I’ve run in several carbon-plated shoes including the Endorphin Pro 3, but this one hits the sweet spot between performance and comfort. Perfect for both training and race day.

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  • avatar-comment-1055828
    Mike.Runner
    2 weeks ago

    Spotted these on sale at Running Warehouse and tempted to pull the trigger. Currently in Tempo Next% but need something I can use for both training and race day. Got wider feet though, and those reviews about tight forefoot have me worried. Any other Puma wearers out there? How do these compare to like the Velocity or other Puma models?

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  • avatar-comment-1055481
    Sarah Chen
    3 weeks ago

    Looking at the Deviate Nitro 3 for my first marathon this fall – anyone with wider feet try these? My local store didn’t have them in stock to try on. Been using Vaporflys for tempo runs but the toe box is pretty snug. Wondering if these would work better for both training and race day since I don’t want to buy two separate pairs.

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  • avatar-comment-1055229
    TrailRunner22
    4 weeks ago

    Need some advice from Deviate Nitro veterans! Version 2 was perfect for training but squeezed my toes during my last marathon. Has anyone noticed if v3 has more toe room? Also, my usual route has some packed dirt sections – wondering if the outsole can handle that or if I should stick to pure road running?

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  • avatar-comment-1055125
    TrackStar45
    1 month ago

    Training for Chicago this fall and eyeing these for my long runs. My feet run a bit wide and my current Puma Velocity Nitros are pretty snug in the forefoot. Anyone with wide feet try these yet? Also curious how the outsole is holding up for daily training – hoping to get at least 400 miles out of them.

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  • avatar-comment-1055096
    Robert Chen
    1 month ago
    9 score

    Finally found my perfect marathon shoe in the Deviate Nitro 3! Put these through a full training cycle including several 20-milers and a recent marathon PR. The NITRO foam combined with the carbon plate provides excellent energy return without feeling harsh. Sweet spot between cushioning and responsiveness. Grip is outstanding even in wet conditions. More versatile than the Vaporfly and more durable than the Endorphin Pro. Only issue was some initial tightness in the forefoot that stretched out after 40-50 miles.

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  • avatar-comment-1054995
    Amanda Clarke
    1 month ago
    9 score

    The Deviate Nitro 3 has thoroughly impressed me over 200+ miles of training. The versatility is outstanding – I’ve used these for everything from easy 8-milers to marathon tempo runs. Compared to my old Saucony Endorphin Speed 3, the Nitro foam feels more stable while maintaining good energy return. The outsole grip is exceptional, even in wet conditions. Recently ran a 1:45 half marathon in these and they felt great throughout. My only minor complaint is the somewhat narrow forefoot, though it has loosened up with wear. The durability so far suggests these will easily last 400+ miles. For $160, they provide excellent value as an all-around trainer/racer.

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  • avatar-comment-1054807
    RunnerJoe
    1 month ago

    Starting my Chicago Marathon training soon and eyeing these. My Deviate 2s were perfect except for that tight forefoot – anyone know if the 3s are any roomier? Also wondering how many miles I can expect to get out of them – planning on some serious training blocks!

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  • avatar-comment-1054745
    Rachel Martinez
    1 month ago
    8 score

    Hit a half marathon PR in these last month (1:45) and my legs weren’t totally dead after! Love how they can handle easy miles but still feel snappy for track sessions (my usual 6:45-7:00 pace intervals). The NITRO foam is that perfect middle ground – enough cushion for long runs but still responsive. Grip is awesome even in the rain. Watch out though – they run small, had to go up half a size. If you’re comparing to the Endorphin Speed 3, these feel more planted but don’t quite have the same pop. Great do-it-all shoe that’s been crushing my marathon training.

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  • avatar-comment-1054379
    D.Walker
    2 months ago

    Getting ready for Chicago Marathon and considering the Deviate Nitro 3. I’ve got slightly wide feet and previous Pumas felt a bit narrow. Anyone with wide feet try these? Also wondering how long they last – need something that’ll get me through the full training cycle without breaking down.

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  • avatar-comment-1054118
    Alex Martinez
    2 months ago
    9 score

    The Deviate Nitro 3 has been my primary shoe for the past 3 months, logging about 200 miles so far. Used them for everything from track workouts to a recent marathon. The versatility is incredible – they feel snappy enough for tempo runs but comfortable enough for long runs. Compared to the Deviate 2, the ride is noticeably smoother and the durability seems improved. That PUMAGRIP outsole provides amazing traction even on wet roads. My only issue is the tight forefoot – took about 30 miles to break in properly. Still, these have earned their spot as my favorite all-around trainer of 2024.

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  • avatar-comment-1054070
    Robert Wilson
    2 months ago
    9 score

    Really impressed with the Deviate Nitro 3 after 175 miles. The versatility is outstanding – I’ve used them for everything from track workouts to a marathon. The Nitro foam hits a sweet spot between responsiveness and cushioning. Superior grip on wet surfaces thanks to the outsole coverage. Only slight issue is the tight forefoot, but it loosened up after about 50 miles. Did my recent marathon PR in these – much preferred over the Vaporfly for full distance. Great balance of performance and comfort.

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  • avatar-comment-1053625
    David Thompson
    3 months ago
    9 score

    The Deviate Nitro 3 has exceeded my expectations in every way. Coming from the Deviate Nitro 2, the improvements in the midsole responsiveness are immediately noticeable. I’ve put these through their paces – from easy recovery runs to tempo sessions and even a recent marathon. The versatility is outstanding. The PWRPLATE provides just enough propulsion without feeling unstable, and the Nitro foam hits the sweet spot between cushioning and responsiveness. Grip in wet conditions is exceptional thanks to the PUMAGRIP outsole. Only critique is the somewhat tight forefoot – had to size up a half size. Used these for my BQ attempt and they performed beautifully, much better than my old Vaporflys for long-distance comfort.

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  • avatar-comment-1053504
    Marcus Thompson
    3 months ago
    9 score

    I’ve put about 200 miles on the Deviate Nitro 3 and I’m thoroughly impressed. The smooth ride really shines during long training runs – I used these to prep for the Chicago Marathon and they felt great even past mile 20. The outsole grip is exceptional in both wet and dry conditions. While the forefoot is a bit snug initially, it breaks in nicely after 30-40 miles. Compared to the Deviate Nitro 2, the cushioning feels more balanced and the upper breathes better. I’ve also used the Endorphin Speed 3, and while both are great, I prefer the more stable ride of the Deviate. My only real complaint is the tight forefoot fit early on, but that’s a minor issue for such a versatile shoe.

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  • avatar-comment-1052988
    William Chen
    3 months ago
    9 score

    200 miles in and these keep impressing me. The combo of Nitro foam and that plate hits a sweet spot – snappy enough for tempos but still comfy for easy runs. Been using them for everything from track sessions to half marathon races. Just PR’d in them! Grip is incredible in the rain too. Yes, the toe box starts tight but gives a bit after 30-40 miles. Definitely an upgrade from the v2 – feels more balanced. Not quite Vaporfly-fast for racing, but way more versatile. Great bang for buck at $160.

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  • avatar-comment-1052921
    Christine Park
    3 months ago
    8 score

    Put 200 miles on these babies and wow, they can do it all! Way more pop than my old Brooks Ghost, especially during those tempo days. They’ve taken me through everything from casual 5Ks to my fall marathon. Love how they grip like crazy – even ran through some nasty weather with zero issues. Toe box was pretty snug at first but broke in nicely. The upper breathes better than the v2, and the ride feels more dialed in. Honestly, at $160 you’re getting a lot of shoe for your money.

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  • avatar-comment-1052446
    RunnerJoe
    4 months ago

    Just checked these out at Fleet Feet after loving my v2s for the past year. Gotta say, that forefoot feels way tighter now – my wide feet aren’t happy about that! Love that they kept that super grippy outsole though. Might hold off till they hit the sale rack, especially with that price bump.

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  • avatar-comment-1052372
    Sarah Thompson
    4 months ago

    Training for Boston and eyeing the Deviate Nitro 3. Got slightly wide feet and my current trainers are pinching – anyone else with wide feet try these? Especially curious about that toebox fit. Also wondering if they’ll last through my whole training block – need something that can handle all those long runs and tempo sessions. Torn between these and the Endorphin Speed 3 since both are on sale at my local shop.

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  • avatar-comment-1051791
    Linda Martinez
    4 months ago
    9 score

    I’ve been rotating the Deviate Nitro 3 in my training for the past month, covering about 100 miles. The versatility is impressive – I’ve used them for everything from easy 8-milers to track workouts. The NITRO foam feels more refined than the v2, offering better energy return while maintaining comfort. That said, the forefoot fit is notably snug – I had to go up half a size from my usual. Compared to the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3, these feel more stable and durable, though slightly less poppy. The grip is exceptional on wet surfaces, which has been crucial during rainy spring training. For $160, you’re getting a genuinely versatile trainer that can handle both daily miles and race day.

    Your comment is awaiting moderation.
  • avatar-comment-1051658
    Michael Chang
    4 months ago
    9 score

    I’ve logged 200+ miles in the Deviate Nitro 3 and they continue to impress. Used them for everything from easy runs to a recent marathon PR (2:58). The ride hits a sweet spot between cushioning and responsiveness that works well across different paces. The NITRO foam maintains its properties even on longer runs, unlike some other super foams. Compared to the Saucony Endorphin Pro 3, these feel more stable and versatile. The only minor issue is the tight forefoot, but it loosens up after a few runs. Excellent durability so far – outsole shows minimal wear even after heavy use.

    Your comment is awaiting moderation.
  • avatar-comment-1046176
    Rachel Thompson
    6 months ago
    9 score

    These have become my go-to shoes for pretty much everything lately. Just crushed a 1:45 half marathon PR in them! The Nitro foam is perfect – bouncy enough for speed but still comfy for long runs. Had them out in the rain last week for a 10-miler and the grip was solid. Heads up though – they run a bit tight in the forefoot (went up half a size). More versatile than my Endorphin Speeds and tougher than the Vaporflys. Only needed about 50 miles to break in that tight forefoot. For $160, you’re getting a legit do-it-all shoe.

  • avatar-comment-1045590
    Amanda Brooks
    6 months ago
    8 score

    After 175 miles in the Deviate Nitro 3, I can confidently say this is one of the most versatile shoes in my rotation. The combination of Nitro foam and plate creates a ride that works for everything from easy runs to tempo sessions. Compared to the v2, the upper is more accommodating though still snug in the forefoot. Used these for a recent marathon build-up including several 20 milers and they’ve been fantastic. The outsole grip remains Puma’s secret weapon – absolutely no slipping even in wet conditions. They remind me of the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 but with better durability. Only dropped them to an 8/10 because of the tight forefoot which required some break-in time.

  • avatar-comment-1041208
    MARTHA
    10 months ago

    This review was really helpful, especially with the comparison to other shoe brands. I’ve been running in Sauconys for a while but now curious to try Puma out again!

  • avatar-comment-1041100
    Chris W.
    10 months ago
    9 score

    Giving this a 9/10. The cushioning is incredible, and I barely feel any impact when running on hard surfaces. The carbon plate adds a really nice boost to performance, though it took me a few runs to get used to it. For an everyday trainer or race-day option, it’s hard to beat at this price.

Lowest price:
€110

Where to buy

Best offers today in Italy, all prices in EUR
This page contains affiliate links Read more

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