Puma Deviate Nitro 2

The market for running shoes with carbon plate expands its market with models of shoes like the one we are going to analyze today. We are talking about the Puma Deviate Nitro 2, a running shoe that if it did not have a carbon plate we would be talking about a model with excellent cushioning for training and running at very varied paces that will allow us to run fast and also do it in a comfortable, protected way and all this with a very light model. Well, let's add to all these features, a full carbon plate that is not excessively rigid and let's add performance. The end result is one of the most versatile carbon plate shoes we have tested in 2022, with a soft feel when running at slower paces, but when it's time to accelerate, we find that spark, that dynamism that will allow us to run very fast and do it with a good dose of protection.

For what type of runners do we recommend the Puma Deviate Nitro 2?

We can classify them as mixed trainingshoes, which we can use both for days in which we will want to perform series sessions, changes of pace, slopes or those runs at faster paces. But also to compete if what we are looking for in addition to good cushioning and comfort in the race, that plus that will give us the carbon fiber plate. Therefore we see this shoe ideal for runners up to 80-85 kg, looking for a very versatile shoe for training and competition around 4:30 m/km or faster, without sacrificing comfort in the race and some protection. Something that the most racing carbon plate models on the market lack.

In terms of distances, it will depend on different factors. If you are looking for a more classic cut shoe with a plate, that is to say, lighter, more spartan in terms of foot protection, even more explosive, this may not be the model for you. If, on the other hand, you prefer a good balance between comfort, protection and speed, this Puma Deviate Nitro 2 may be your choice because it is also at a very competitive price if you compare at RUNNEA. You can run with them from a 10k to a marathon.

Puma Deviate Nitro 2 2 prices

What we liked best about the Puma Deviate Nitro 2

Undoubtedly the  sensations you feel as soon as you put the shoes on. A model with a midsole made of a foam that the German brand calls Nitro Elite, with a soft, even squishy feel that reminds us of the one we have been able to test in the Brooks Glycerin 20, the DNA LOFT v3. Ample cushioning, which deforms generously absorbing the impact on landing but recovers quickly and returns energy in each stride cycle. The combination of this foam, which could even be a bit unstable in the absence of the carbon plate, is perfectly synchronized with a new plate called PWRPLATE, providing not only greater reactivity, but also giving the model extra stability.

One of the objectives of the German brand with respect to the first version, the Puma Deviate Nitro, has been precisely that, to provide greater comfort and safety in the race, without compromising the consideration of a fast shoe.

To achieve this balance, we see a more padded forefoot area that better protects the achilles and ankle area. The tongue is thin and the lacing hugs the foot very well. PUMA adds a system called POWETAPE on the inside of the foot. A kind of arch that provides some rigidity and structure to the shoe. A chassis with greater focus on avoiding unwanted movements in the race that provides security at all types of paces. We also perceive a better support of the plantar arch area. The design of this shoe allows the support of this area even in runners with cavus foot.

Its upper has also been redesigned and feels very breathable and pleasant to run in.

Finally, we like its PumaGrip compound outsole for increased durability, one of the weak points of carbon plate shoes in general.

Possible points for improvement

The redesign of these Puma Deviate Nitro 2 improves considerably the first version, always taking into account that it seeks greater protection and safety in the race as well as growing in terms of comfort sensations. And perhaps the area that has evolved the least in search of these features is the tongue. Excessively thin and perhaps a little out of tune with the drift of the model. A slightly more cushioned tongue that allows not to feel a very firm fit of the laces would allow the model to go deeper in the search for comfort while running without losing sparkle and speed.

Conclusion

We loved the Puma Deviate Nitro 2. They may not be the fastest shoes on the market (although with their first version the American athlete Molly Seidel won a bronze medal in the women's marathon at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games), but they have an excellent balance between speed, comfort and safety during the race. And that's a very precious commodity in today's running shoes market. Speed without sacrificing comfort. And Puma manages to do it with a relatively reasonable price, always below 150 €.

Which are the rivals of the Puma Deviate Nitro 2

There are several brands that are already focused on democratizing the carbon plate and seek sensations and comfort without sacrificing speed. These are their rivals:

New Balance FuelCell TC

Adidas Adizero Boston 11

Salomon Spectur

HOKA Carbon X 3