SHOE REVIEW: Puma Deviate Nitro 2

The Puma Deviate Nitro is back with its second variation, which features exclusive updates to the midsole and upper in an effort to make running faster even easier.

The updated midsole and upper are not the only new features on the Nitro 2, it also has a reworked heel collar to reduce heel slip and a lighter, asymmetrical base that works better with your body across all distances. If you are looking for a responsive speed shoe to train in leading up to your fall race, the Nitro 2 is a match made in heaven.

Now, let’s get into the details.

Price: $210
Availability: Now
Drop: 6 mm
Weight: 260 g for men’s size 9
Stack: 30.5 mm

The upper

Although I found the upper of Nitro 2 is similar to the original, there are a few minor updates to improve comfort and breathability. Made of a tightly woven mesh, the upper features a new padded heel collar, which is both more comfortable and more durable than the original–this is a huge improvement; I have not had a single blister in the new shoe.

Another addition to the upper is Puma’s new PWRTAPE technology, a tape overlay on the medial side, which reinforces the upper for better support and durability, and helps the upper retain its shape for the long haul.

I tend to wear a men’s size 9 in most models, but found I needed to go up to size 9.5 in this shoe, which fits a little on the narrow side.

The midsole

The Nitro 2 has a carbon-composite PWRPLATE, which runs the full length of the shoe. The PWRPLATE was designed for maximum energy transfer and running efficiency. The plate, in combination with the new Pebax-infused Nitro Elite foam, makes the shoe one of the highest cushioned carbon-plated models on the market. The moment I slipped this shoe on, I immediately noticed how soft the foam was and how pleasantly built up in the front, for forefoot and midfoot strikers.

Upon impact, the feeling is similar to Nike’s Vaporfly Next% technology, but what distinguishes the feel of the Deviate from a Nike carbon-plated shoe is its plush Nitro Elite foam and lack of rocker. Instead, the Nitro 2 lets you move naturally and has a soft landing for a carbon-plated shoe.

With a reduced 30.5 mm stack height and a 6 mm drop, this shoe sits lower to the ground than its competitors, which can help runners feel more in control around corners.

The outsole

The outsole is PUMAGRIP performance rubber, which holds up well on rainy runs on the road. I found the Nitro 2’s outsole more grippy than what you would find on most carbon-plated trainers. The deep rubber grooves are scattered from the midfoot to the forefoot (the grip tapers off at the heel and transitions to a lighter material), making it easy to handle wet or dry surfaces.

The verdict

I found that the new and improved Deviate Nitro 2 is miles better than its original. The redesigned upper and midsole made training in this shoe comfortable and easy. I particularly enjoy is its versatility: not only can the Nitro 2 be a racing shoe for a runner who wants more cushioning on race day, but it also has the durability to tackle long runs, tempos and speed days.