Puma Deviate Nitro 2 Shoe Review

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So, I’ve been putting some miles on the Puma Deviate Nitro 2, and honestly, it’s a pretty interesting shoe. Puma really changed things up from the first version. It feels good on the foot, and when you’re running, it’s got this nice balance of cushion and responsiveness. I was curious to see how it would handle different types of runs, and if it lived up to the hype. Let’s break down what makes this shoe tick.

Key Takeaways

• The Puma Deviate Nitro 2 offers a comfortable ride with its updated Nitro Elite and Nitro foam midsole, making it suitable for various distances.
• Improvements in the upper design provide a more premium feel and better breathability compared to the previous model, though some might find the fit a bit snug.
• The shoe features a less aggressive carbon plate, offering a good blend of responsiveness and flexibility for tempo runs and daily training.
• Grip from the PumaGrip outsole is excellent, performing well on both wet and dry surfaces, and the shoe shows good durability for its weight.
• While versatile, it might not be the best choice for runners seeking a super lightweight or aggressively fast shoe, with options like the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 being lighter alternatives.

An Overview Of The Puma Deviate Nitro 2

The Puma Deviate Nitro 2 like the Puma velocity nitro shoe is a running shoe that aims to blend speed with comfort, and for the most part, it hits that mark. It’s an update to a shoe that already had some good things going for it, but also a few issues that needed fixing. Puma seems to have listened, and this second version brings some welcome changes.

Key Updates From The Previous Model

The biggest change you’ll notice is the upper, specifically around the heel. The original Deviate Nitro had a reputation for a stiff, uncomfortable heel tab that could really dig into your Achilles. Puma has completely redesigned this area with more padding, making it much more comfortable. They’ve also updated the midsole foam. While the first version used Nitro foam, the Nitro 2 now incorporates Nitro Elite foam, which is the same stuff found in Puma’s top-tier racing shoes. This change is meant to give you a bit more pop and energy return.

Midsole Foam Composition

Speaking of that midsole, the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 foam is a supercritical foam. What does that mean for you? Basically, it’s a lighter, more responsive version of their standard Nitro foam. It’s designed to be both soft enough for comfortable daily miles and snappy enough for faster efforts. The shoe also still features a carbon fiber plate embedded within this foam. This plate is what helps give the shoe its propulsive feel, guiding your foot forward.

Overall Ride Experience

When you put the Deviate Nitro 2 on, the ride feels pretty balanced. It’s not overly soft like some max-cushion shoes, nor is it super firm. The combination of the Nitro Elite foam and the plate gives it a lively feel. It handles easy runs well, feeling comfortable and protective, but it also has enough pep to pick up the pace for tempo runs or even some faster efforts. The shoe feels stable, which is a nice bonus for a plated trainer. It’s a shoe that tries to do a lot of things well, making it a versatile option for many runners.

The goal here seems to be a shoe that feels good on your feet for a variety of runs, from easy jogs to quicker workouts, without being too aggressive or unforgiving.

Upper Design And Comfort

Premium Feel And Breathability

Puma really stepped up their game with the upper on the Deviate Nitro 2. It feels pretty premium right out of the box, honestly. The engineered mesh they used is soft and flexible, which makes it feel really nice against your foot. It’s also got this perforated inner surface that’s supposed to help with airflow, but, and this is a big ‘but’, it doesn’t breathe as well as you might hope, especially when it’s warm out. The fit is on the narrower side, which helps keep your foot locked down, but it does seem to limit how much air can get in and out. So, while it feels great, don’t expect it to be your go-to for super hot summer runs if you tend to overheat.

Learn More About the Nitro Shoe on Amazon

Heel Collar And Counter

The heel area of the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 has seen some nice updates from the previous version. They’ve gone with a more padded, rolled collar, which is a big improvement. It feels plush and comfortable, and it does a solid job of keeping your heel in place without any annoying slippage.

The heel counter itself is pretty robust, giving you a good amount of support. For me, this high heel collar almost acts like a built-in stability feature, making it tough to over-pronate, which is nice for steady miles. However, it can sometimes feel like it slightly hinders a quick forefoot takeoff, which is something to consider if you’re really focused on speed.

Fit And Potential Snugness

Overall, the fit is true-to-size for most people, and it strikes a good balance between being secure and comfortable. The midfoot is held nicely with some subtle overlays, and the tongue is lightly padded and gusseted, which prevents any lace bite issues.

The Puma Deviate Nitro 2 toe box is reasonably roomy, giving your toes some space to splay without feeling sloppy. This shoe offers a really pleasant step-in feel that makes you want to keep running. However, if you have a lower volume foot, you might find the heel area a bit roomy, and the overall narrowness of the upper, while good for lockdown, might feel a little snug for some, especially on longer runs or in warmer weather. It’s not a race-day fit, but for a daily trainer that can pick up the pace, it’s a really solid compromise.

Performance On The Run

Responsiveness and Plate Engagement

The Puma Deviate Nitro 2 really shines when you pick up the pace. The combination of the Nitro Elite foam in the forefoot and the PWRPLATE really comes alive, giving you a noticeable pop with each step. It’s not as rigid as some other plated shoes, which actually makes it feel more natural and less demanding on your legs, especially during longer efforts. This shoe feels responsive without being overly aggressive. You can feel the plate working, but it’s more of a gentle nudge than a forceful push, making it suitable for a variety of faster paces. It doesn’t require a super specific foot strike to feel good, which is a big plus.

Outsole Grip and Durability

Puma’s own PUMAGRIP rubber is used here, and it’s pretty solid. It offers good traction on dry pavement and even handles light gravel roads without much fuss. After putting in a decent number of miles, the outsole is holding up well, showing minimal signs of wear. This suggests you’ll get good longevity out of these shoes, which is always a nice bonus. It strikes a good balance between being tough enough to last and grippy enough to feel secure, even when you’re moving quickly.

Versatility for Different Runs

This is where the Deviate Nitro 2 really stands out. While it’s definitely capable of handling tempo runs and even some faster-paced efforts, it’s also surprisingly comfortable for daily training miles. It’s not the absolute best choice for super slow, recovery jogs, the plate can feel a bit stiff then, but for everything else, it’s a strong contender.

You can use it for your long runs, your steady-state miles, and your speed work. It’s a shoe that can genuinely do a lot, making it a great option if you’re looking for one shoe to cover most of your running needs. It’s a shoe that adapts well to a wide range of paces, which is pretty impressive for a plated trainer.

Cushioning And Flexibility

Shock Absorption Capabilities

Looking for a Puma Deviate Nitro 4 review ? The Puma Deviate Nitro 2 offers a pretty balanced approach to cushioning. It’s not a super soft shoe, but it does a decent job of soaking up impact, especially in the heel. We measured the heel at 130 SA (Shock Absorption units), which is right around the average for running shoes. The forefoot is a bit less cushioned, which helps keep you feeling connected to the ground, good for when you want to pick up the pace. It feels protective enough for most runs without being overly mushy.

Energy Return Metrics

When it comes to getting energy back from your stride, the Nitro foam in the Deviate Nitro 2 is okay, but not mind-blowing. The heel gave us about 58.5% energy return, and the forefoot was a bit better at 63.2%. These numbers are decent, especially for a shoe that isn’t trying to be a super-shoe, but don’t expect a massive bouncy feeling. It’s more of a subtle responsiveness that helps propel you forward.

Flexibility Compared To Plated Shoes

Now, this is where things get interesting. You’d think a shoe with a carbon plate would be super stiff, right? Well, the Deviate Nitro 2 is stiffer than your average non-plated shoe, but it’s actually more flexible than many other plated options out there. We measured it at 16.9N in our bend test, which is pretty average for this category. This means you get some of the benefits of a plate – like a bit of snap – without feeling like you’re running in a rigid plank. It makes the shoe feel a bit more forgiving and comfortable for everyday running.

The shoe strikes a good balance between having a carbon plate for responsiveness and maintaining a comfortable, flexible ride that doesn’t feel overly stiff for daily miles. It’s a versatile setup that works well for a variety of paces.

Here’s a quick look at how it stacks up:

• Shock Absorption: Balanced, with good heel protection.
• Energy Return: Moderate, providing a subtle boost.
• Flexibility: More flexible than many plated shoes, offering a comfortable ride.

If you’re looking for a shoe that can handle a bit of everything without feeling too stiff or too soft, the Deviate Nitro 2 is definitely worth checking out. It’s a solid all-rounder that performs well across different types of runs, making it a great option for many runners.

Who Is The Puma Deviate Nitro 2 For?

Ideal Runner Profile

The Puma Deviate Nitro 2 is a solid choice for runners looking for a shoe that can handle a variety of paces and distances without feeling overly specialized. If you’re someone who enjoys a shoe with a bit of pep in its step but doesn’t want to sacrifice comfort for speed, this could be your next go-to. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate a responsive ride that still feels cushioned enough for longer efforts. This shoe shines for daily training, tempo runs, and even half-marathon distances. It’s not a super-soft, maximalist shoe, but it offers a good balance of cushioning and energy return, making it versatile.

When To Consider Other Options

While the Deviate Nitro 2 is quite versatile, it might not be the best fit if your primary need is for ultra-plush comfort on every single run. If you’re training for a marathon and your main goal is maximum shock absorption over 26.2 miles, you might want to look at shoes with even more cushioning. Also, if you have very wide feet, the standard fit might feel a bit snug, though wider options are available. It’s also not really designed as a pure speed demon for short, fast intervals or sprints; other shoes might feel more nimble for that specific purpose.

The Deviate Nitro 2 strikes a nice balance, but if your runs are exclusively slow and easy, or exclusively all-out sprints, there are likely better-suited shoes out there. It’s a great all-rounder, but not a specialist.

Comparison To Similar Shoes

When you look at shoes in a similar category, like the Saucony Endorphin Speed series or the Hoka Mach, the Deviate Nitro 2 often holds its own. Compared to the Endorphin Speed, the Puma might offer a slightly firmer, more stable ride due to its plate design, while the Saucony might feel a bit more flexible and perhaps a touch softer. The Hoka Mach is generally known for its smooth, balanced cushioning, and the Deviate Nitro 2 competes well in terms of responsiveness and that energetic feel from the Nitro foam and plate. It’s a strong contender, especially considering its price point relative to some competitors.

Here’s a quick look at how it stacks up:

• Puma Deviate Nitro 2: Good all-rounder, balanced cushioning and responsiveness, secure upper.
• Saucony Endorphin Speed (e.g., Speed 3/4): Often feels more flexible, very energetic, can be a bit softer.
• Hoka Mach (e.g., Mach 5/6): Smooth ride, good for daily miles, generally less aggressive than a plated shoe.
• Brooks Hyperion Tempo/Max: Often lighter, more focused on pure speed and less on long-distance comfort compared to the Deviate Nitro 2.

Technical Specifications

Weight and Stack Heights

The Puma Deviate Nitro 2 comes in at a respectable weight, with men’s US size 9 tipping the scales at around 9.1 ounces (258 grams). For reference, a US men’s size 9.5 sample weighed in at 9.49 ounces (269 grams), and a US men’s size 10.5 (EU 44) is about 9.91 ounces (281 grams). Women’s sizes are lighter, with a US size 8 coming in at 7.82 ounces (222 grams).

When it comes to stack height, the shoe features a heel measurement of 38 mm and a forefoot stack of 30 mm. This gives it a substantial, yet not overly high, profile compared to many modern running shoes. The insole itself measures about 4.4 mm thick.

Heel-to-Toe Drop

The official heel-to-toe drop for the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 is stated as 6 mm. Our measurements, however, came in slightly lower at approximately 5.6 mm. This falls into the mid-range for running shoes, offering a balanced feel that works for a variety of runners and running styles.

Available Widths

Currently, the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 is primarily available in a standard width. While there might be occasional availability of a wide option, it’s not consistently offered. This means most runners will be looking at the standard model, which tends to have a narrower, more performance-oriented fit, especially in the toe box. If you have wider feet, this is something to keep in mind.

The shoe’s construction, with its dual-density Nitro and Nitro Elite foams and the S-shaped carbon composite plate, contributes to its responsive and propulsive ride. The plate is designed to dip in the forefoot, aiding in toe-offs, and while it’s stiffer than many training shoe plates, it’s still more flexible than some dedicated racing shoes.

Here’s a quick look at the key specs:

• Weight (Men’s US 9): ~9.1 oz / 258 g
• Stack Height (Heel): 38 mm
• Stack Height (Forefoot): 30 mm
• Heel-to-Toe Drop: ~5.6 mm (official 6 mm)
• Plate: Carbon composite
• Widths: Primarily standard, wide availability is limited.

So, Should You Get the Puma Deviate Nitro 2?

Alright, so after putting some miles on the Puma Deviate Nitro 2, I’ve got to say, it’s a pretty solid shoe. It feels good on the feet, especially with that updated heel that doesn’t dig in anymore. The cushioning is nice – not too much, not too little – and it’s got a bit of a spring to it that makes runs feel more interesting. The grip is also seriously good, even when things get a bit wet out there. It’s not the lightest or fastest shoe out there, and the fit might be a bit snug for some folks, especially if you have wider feet. But for everyday training and those tempo runs where you want a little extra pep? Yeah, it definitely holds its own. It’s a good all-around option that’s worth checking out if you’re looking for a reliable daily trainer with a bit of a kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s new in the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 compared to the first version?

The Deviate Nitro 2 has some cool upgrades! The part that wraps your foot, called the upper, is now comfier and feels more premium. The foam inside the shoe, which is what you run on, is also softer, making for a much better ride.

Is the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 good for running long distances?

Yes, it can be! It’s got enough cushioning to be comfy on long runs, and the plate inside helps you keep going. It’s a pretty versatile shoe that works well for everyday runs and even longer ones.

Does the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 feel fast?

It’s designed to help you pick up the pace! It has a special plate that gives you a little boost with each step, making your runs feel quicker. It’s not a super-light racing shoe, but it’s definitely good for faster training runs.

How does the grip on the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 perform?

The grip is awesome! The rubber on the bottom of the shoe sticks really well, even when the ground is wet. You can trust it to keep you from slipping, whether you’re running on dry pavement or after it rains.

Who might not like the Puma Deviate Nitro 2?

If you have wider feet, this shoe might feel a bit too snug, especially in the front. Also, if you’re looking for the absolute lightest and fastest shoe out there for racing, you might want to check out other options.

How comfortable is the upper of the Puma Deviate Nitro 2?

The upper is much more comfortable than the older version. It feels good on your foot, and there’s nice padding around the heel so it doesn’t rub. It’s also pretty good at letting air in to keep your feet cool.