PUMA Deviate NITRO 3: the carbon plate that doesn't require you to be an elite athlete

As a general rule, when we talk about running shoes with carbon plate, the first thought that comes to mind is to associate it with elite and very fast runners looking to break records. However, PUMA wanted to break that stereotype by presenting its latest update of the Deviate NITRO 3, a shoe that brings this advanced technology to a much wider range of runners. But it doesn't forget about the competitive level either with its top-of-the-line PUMA Deviate NITRO Elite 3 model.

With the PUMA Deviate NITRO 3 running shoes, the German brand puts the emphasis on combining the power and efficiency of a carbon plate with a feeling of comfort and stability suitable for those who are not professional athletes, but runners committed to their training and goals.

It is already a fact that carbon plate shoes have evolved rapidly in recent years. The biggest handicap with these options is that many of them are so aggressive that they are reserved for very fast runners. With the Deviate NITRO 3 running shoes, PUMA set out to soften this "entry barrier" and demonstrate that a model with a plate can be compatible with runners looking to improve their pace and enjoy extra propulsion without sacrificing comfort.

This model, with an approximate weight of 265 grams and a 10 mm drop (39 mm in the heel and 29 mm in the forefoot), is positioned in the segment of cushioned and reactive shoes, offering the possibility of running long distances, including marathons, without losing sight of stability and care of our joints.

Photo: PUMA (Official website)

What is the runner profile of the PUMA Deviate NITRO 3?

The PUMA Deviate NITRO 3 are aimed at that target audience that wants to combine training and competitions with a single running shoe on their feet. Although the PWRPLATE carbon plate provides that extra touch of reactivity, the sensations are not as radical as in other pure racing models. Thanks to this, the recommended uses of this shoe are:

• Daily training: for its generous cushioning and soft feel.
• Series and fartlek: thanks to the reactivity of carbon and NITROFOAM foam^.
• Racing of all kinds: from 10 km races to marathons, as the base is stable and the PUMAGRIP outsole offers traction on multiple surfaces.

PUMA's goal with this launch is clear: to democratize the carbon plate, making it accessible to anyone who enjoys running and wants to improve without having to be an asphalt professional.

Target audience: who are they for?

Thus, runners who can benefit from wearing this Deviate NITRO 3 on their feet are:

• Intermediate runners looking to improve times and try carbon plate technology without feeling out of their comfort zone.
• Experienced runners looking for an all-in-one shoe for training and racing, with top cushioning.
• Light and mid-weight athletes who prioritize a combination of comfort and performance.
• Those who need a long-lasting option to tackle 10 km to ultra-distance, but want to benefit from the "spring" effect of the PWRPLATE.

Photo: PUMA Running on Instagram

The technologies that make a difference in the PUMA Deviate NITRO3

PUMA's NITRO line is founded on several key innovations. In the case of the Deviate NITRO 3, the brand presents a shoe that delivers increased energy return and comfort, without sacrificing durability. The main technologies that make up this model are:

^NITROFOAM foam.

This is a nitrogen-infused foam responsible for cushioning and lightweight responsiveness. It provides comfort when running and absorbs impact when running on hard surfaces such as asphalt.

The midsole configuration allows the shoe to be versatile. When you run slowly, you'll notice a softer support; when you pick up the pace, the more reactive part kicks in, putting energy back into each stride.

PWRPLATE: Full Length Carbon Plate

At the heart of the PUMA Deviate NITRO 3 is its PWRPLATE carbon plate, which runs the full length of the midsole. This plate is responsible for providing extra momentum in each stride, which translates into increased efficiency and speed at livelier, more dynamic paces.

• Propulsion and efficiency: The plate works as a kind of "spring" that helps you take off with less effort, giving you that feeling of thrust that many runners are looking for.
• Premium stability: Despite being a system designed to enhance energy, it maintains remarkable stability, so it doesn't feel uncontrollable or overly aggressive on the foot.

ENGINEERED KNIT and PWRTAPE: Next Generation Upper

Engineered Knit is a premium technical knitted fabric, whose main mission is to increase breathability and elasticity in the upper. It is also reinforced with PWRTAPE, which enhances support in key areas.

• Breathability: The foot stays cool even on long runs or hot days.
• Controlled Stretch: Offers flexibility where the foot requires it, without losing consistency.
• Durability: PWRTAPE functions as a reinforcement that prolongs the life of the upper, minimizing breakage due to wear.

RUNNEA TEAM REVIEW: PUMA Deviate Nitro 3, in detail by Imanol Urrestizala

ROLLED COLLAR: New collar design

Another highlight of this model is the Rolled Collar, a collar with a rolled design that contributes to a better fit in the heel and ankle area. This reduces the possibility of slippage during the stride. This redesign of the collar in the PUMA Deviate NITRO 3 seeks to improve comfort and foot support, a point of criticism from many runners in previous versions.

PUMAGRIP: Multi-surface outsole guarantee

The unique PUMAGRIP outsole is a durable rubber compound that performs well on different types of asphalt and other surfaces. Even in moderately wet conditions, traction is solid and reliable. This is critical for those who train both in the city and in areas with more uneven or wet pavement.

What's New and Improved in the PUMA Deviate NITRO 3

With this latest update of the PUMA Deviate NITRO 3, PUMA wanted to make a leap in quality compared to its predecessor, the PUMA Deviate Nitro 2, meeting the demands of runners who were already familiar with the model. So, the question to answer is: What has changed?

• Redesigned collar: The so-called "Rolled Collar" minimizes heel slippage, which significantly improves the fit and prevents chafing or blisters on long runs.
• Lighter and asymmetrical base: The midsole has been lightened so that, despite the incorporation of the new foam, the total weight does not increase. The asymmetrical structure seeks to improve adaptability in any type of neutral stride.
• New colorway Yellow Alert for the SS25 season: A vibrant and striking fluorescent yellow combined with black, designed for runners who value visibility and modern style. Perfect for standing out in crowded races.

These features make the PUMA Deviate NITRO 3 an ideal shoe for distances ranging from short runs to marathons and even ultramarathons, thanks to its ability to offer both comfort and responsiveness.

In addition, the weight to cushioning ratio is one of the strengths of this best-selling PUMA model. At less than 300 grams - specifically about 270 grams in size 8UK - in men's running shoes, it is in a very attractive lightweight range for racing, but at the same time maintains the ability to protect your legs on long-distance runs.

Why can the PUMA Deviate NITRO 3 be a good bet?

With everything we've explained to you at RUNNEA about these PUMA Deviate NITRO 3, and just so you don't have any doubts we also comment on their running sensations:

Comfort for daily workouts.

Thanks to the NITROFOAM foam, the support is soft when jogging at easy paces. Those who train several days a week will find this shoe a good option for getting in some volume without putting too much stress on the joints. The upper, with its technical mesh, breathes well and the rolled collar holds the heel firmly.

Responsiveness when you pick up the pace

The PWRPLATE plate and the more reactive foam come into play when you decide to put the pedal to the metal. If you're someone who enjoys speed runs or fartleks, you'll notice the extra support in the midfoot transition and final propulsion, making it easier for you to reach more ambitious paces. It's that duality that makes the PUMA Deviate NITRO 3 a truly versatile shoe.

Photo: PUMA Running on Instagram

Stability and confidence.

Although we associate carbon with very radical models, PUMA has balanced the stiffness of the plate so as not to penalize stability in every stride. The 10 mm drop helps those who still heel slightly, and the PUMAGRIP outsole ensures a firm anchorage even on wet asphalt.

This makes it a safe and reliable bet for runners who don't have perfect technique or who are simply looking for a less "extreme" shoe.

Long distances, even beyond the marathon.

If your challenge is to complete a marathon or a long-distance race, the Deviate NITRO 3 shoes offer that combination of high cushioning and progressive propulsion that is so welcome when you've already got a lot of miles on your legs. While in other plate models the foot can become sore, here the slightly wider base and reinforced upper help maintain comfort on the most demanding runs.

The new PUMA Deviate NITRO Elite 3: for those looking to break records.

If the Deviate NITRO 3 is designed for a wide audience, its "big sister" version goes a step further. We are referring to the PUMA Deviate NITRO Elite 3, a model designed explicitly for professional athletes and runners who need maximum performance in highly competitive races.

What makes them a more "Pro" version?

• Thinner rubber layer: The outsole has been reduced to minimize weight and maximize the feeling of speed.
• Lighter NITROFOAM ELITE foam midsole: Ideal for those looking for the lowest possible weight without losing reactivity.
• Thermo-molded PWRPLATE carbon fiber plate: Thinner and more resistant, increasing propulsion in each stride and guaranteeing a greater rebound effect.
• Optimized mesh: Breathability and foot grip are enhanced, a decisive factor in highly demanding races.

The PUMA Deviate NITRO Elite 3 is a shoe that is close to the minimum weight (around 205 grams for men and 194 grams for women's running shoes). With a drop of 8 mm and a price of 230 €, it is focused on those who demand the most of themselves in professional or semi-professional level competitions, or for those elite runners who pursue their personal best at any distance.

Technical specifications of the Elite 3 Deviate NITRO 3

• Sole height: 40 mm (heel) / 32 mm (forefoot).
• Drop: 8 mm.
• Type of shoe: Competition.
• Cushioning Level: Maximum.
• Approximate weight: Men's: 205 grams (size UK 8) and Women's: 194 g (size UK 8).
• Price: 230€.

If your goal is to fly through the most demanding races and you don't mind sacrificing some everyday comfort to squeeze out every drop of energy, the Elite 3 Deviate NITRO may be the model you're looking for. But, for most runners looking for a versatile and friendly model, the PUMA Deviate NITRO 3 will remain the most balanced bet.

PUMA Quick Comparison: Deviate NITRO 3 vs Deviate NITRO Elite 3

Running with carbon plate is no longer a privilege, the PUMA Deviate NITRO 3 proves it

There is no doubt that with the latest Deviate Nitro 3 and Deviate Nitro Elite 3, PUMA consolidates their presence within the high performance running universe with two proposals that cover very different needs, but with a common denominator: the NITRO technology and the eagerness to innovate. The renowned German brand, founded by Rudolf Dassler, wants to demonstrate that carbon plates need not be an insurmountable barrier or a luxury reserved for the few.

So, if you're looking for a shoe that combines cushioning, responsiveness and stability, be sure to check out the latest update of the PUMA Deviate NITRO 3 -or the PUMA Deviate NITRO Elite 3, depending on your goals-. You may find that the extra you've been looking for is now within reach.

Enjoy every stride with the confidence that you're wearing state-of-the-art technology underfoot that adapts to you, whatever your pace or goal - dare to fly with PUMA!