The Puma Deviate Nitro 3 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The PUMA Deviate Nitro 3 is a performance-oriented tempo training shoe designed for runners seeking enhanced energy return and traction. The incorporation of a carbon plate, akin to those found in racing shoes, provides notable cushioning and responsiveness during runs.

Lab results indicate that while there are areas for improvement in breathability, outsole durability, and weight, the overall upgrade in performance metrics is statistically significant. This shoe is particularly beneficial for athletes looking for an efficient training option without a substantial price increase.


Pros

  • Exceptional grip on all surfaces
  • Competitively priced
  • Responsive carbon plate
  • Adapts well to all paces
  • Enhanced knit upper
  • Ideal for tempo workouts
  • Great at navigating tight turns

Cons

  • Needs better energy return
  • Minor increase in weight
  • Ventilation could be better
  • Narrow toebox

Key Features

  • Regular fit for enhanced comfort during runs
  • Engineered mesh upper for breathability and flexibility
  • Stack height of 39mm/29mm for effective cushioning
  • Lightweight design at 265g (size UK8) for agility
  • Heel-to-toe drop of 10mm for a natural stride

Specifications

  • Origin: Made in USA and Imported
  • Sole material: Rubber for durability and grip
  • Outer material: Mesh for breathability
  • Closure type: Lace-Up for a secure fit

Puma Deviate Nitro 3 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

PUMA Deviate Nitro 3 ASICS Magic Speed 4 PUMA Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Nike Zoom Fly 6
Price $160 $170 $230 $170
Pace Tempo Competition Competition Competition
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 9.5 oz / 268g 8.4 oz / 237g 7.2 oz / 204g 8.7 oz / 248g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 10.1 mm 9.6 mm 10.6 mm 9.6 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Heel
Size Slightly small True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Soft Soft Soft Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Small Normal Small
Toebox durability Decent Good Bad Good
Heel padding durability Decent Good Good Good
Outsole durability Decent Good Decent Good
Breathability Moderate Breathable Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Narrow Medium Medium Narrow
Toebox width Narrow Medium Narrow Medium
Stiffness Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Flexible Flexible Stiff
Plate Carbon plate Carbon plate Carbon plate Carbon plate
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 37.4 mm 42.5 mm 39.2 mm 39.7 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 27.3 mm 32.9 mm 28.6 mm 30.1 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season All seasons Summer All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Top 32% Top 4% Top 11% Top 5%
Popularity Top 17% Top 23% Top 14% Top 8%