The Puma Deviate NITRO 4 is arguably the centerpiece performance trainer in Puma’s current running lineup. It sits right between the brand’s everyday mileage shoes and its elite race-day supershoes. Essentially Puma’s answer to shoes like the Nike Zoom Fly, Saucony Endorphin Speed, and Adidas Boston series. However, competition in this category has intensified significantly in recent years.
Has PUMA done enough with the Deviate NITRO 4 to improve the formula and remain competitive?
Upper and Fit of the PUMA Deviate NITRO 4
What works for me
I especially like the lighter and more breathable upper compared to the previous version. The fit feels more streamlined and less bulky, while the midfoot lockdown and heel hold feel noticeably improved. The upper also feels nicely performance-oriented without becoming overly harsh or restrictive, and overall the fit feels natural and comfortable during longer efforts. I’ve had no hotspots so far. A bit of extra padding under the tongue prevents any lace bite, while the fairly stiff and well-padded heel counter provides a secure lockdown without sacrificing comfort. Like with most PUMA running shoes, I find the PUMA Deviate NITRO 4 to run slightly long, but overall I would still go true to size.
What doesn’t work for me
Not much to complain about here. The fit can feel slightly narrow in the forefoot, especially on longer runs or for wider feet. The performance-oriented upper prioritises lockdown over spaciousness.
Midsole and Ride of the PUMA Deviate NITRO 4
What works for me
The midsole uses a dual-foam, PEBA-based setup with a carbon composite PWRPLATE sandwiched in between. The top layer of foam is made entirely from PEBA. Delivering a softer, more energetic, and more consistent rebound than the comparatively muted bottom layer, which appears to have transitioned from the TPEE used in previous models to a PEBA blend. Sandwiched between the two sits the PWRPLATE – now redesigned as a broader, spoon-shaped carbon composite plate, replacing the forked layout used previously.
The ride is balanced, stable, and controlled, with a fast feel that never becomes overly aggressive or demanding. For better or worse, it is not as soft or “bouncy” as some competitors in this category. Instead, it feels more grounded and controlled rather than highly cushioned or trampoline-like. Even with the high stack, it feels relatively stable and not overly disconnected from the road, especially at moderate to fast paces.
What doesn’t work for me
I sometimes find the ride of the Puma Deviate NITRO 4 a bit underwhelming. I wish it felt more dynamic, as the relatively flat geometry and quite subtle rocker don’t really provide much forward assistance or propulsion. At slower paces, the plate can feel slightly too rigid and noticeable, while at faster speeds the foam and geometry don’t quite deliver the extra pop or guidance I would expect.
Outsole of the PUMA Deviate NITRO 4
Grip and Traction
The Puma Deviate NITRO 4 offers excellent grip and durability thanks to PUMAGRIP, which performs very well in both dry and wet conditions. It inspires strong confidence during cornering and faster efforts and holds up well over time. However, the generous layer of rubber on the outsole can feel slightly slappy and noisy on certain surfaces.
Durability
So far, I’ve had no issues with durability. That said, time will tell whether the thinner upper, which helps keep the overall weight down, may lead to earlier wear over time.
Conclusion
Value for Money
As with most running shoes from PUMA, the Deviate NITRO 4 offers solid value considering its versatility and performance. However, competition in this category has become much more intense, with an increasing number of models in the same price range. Some of these competitors also bring more excitement and more eye-catching designs, so it’s no longer as straightforward a value pick as it may have been a few years ago.
Fitting it into a shoe rotation
This really depends on the type of runner you are. For those running a few times per week, especially with an uptempo focus, it’s versatile enough to handle most sessions without feeling unstable. For runners with a full shoe rotation, it likely sits best in the uptempo category, where it is designed to perform.
Final Verdict
In my opinion, PUMA is moving in the right direction with the latest Deviate NITRO 4. I appreciate the reduced weight, which is very noticeable on foot, along with the lighter, more breathable upper and improved overall fit compared to previous versions. I also feel the updated midsole setup makes it more performance-oriented and less sluggish.
That said, I still wish for a bit more liveliness and punch. I think PUMA could experiment further with the foam without making the shoe unstable. A lot of it also comes down to the fairly traditional geometry, where I’d prefer a more pronounced rocker for a more modern feel and stronger propulsion.
Overall, I do like the fit, feel, and ride more than earlier iterations, but given the increasingly strong competition, I’m not fully convinced the PUMA Deviate NITRO 4 is a clear recommendation.
Comparisons Against Similar Shoes
PUMA Deviate NITRO 4 vs. Nike Zoom Fly 6
The Zoom Fly 6 feels softer and bouncier underfoot, but also noticeably less stable. I personally prefer the lighter, more grounded feel of the Deviate NITRO 4, although many runners will likely favor the more fun and energetic ride of the Zoom Fly.
PUMA Deviate NITRO 4 vs. Brooks Hyperion Max 3
The Neo Zen 2 is one of Mizuno’s most celebrated recent releases. It offers a smooth and comfortable ride built around their Enerzy foam. Compared to the Azura, the Neo Zen 2 is the more relaxed and forgiving of the two. It has a ride that encourages a steady, comfortable pace which doesn’t push you to pick up the pace, but also doesn’t shy away from faster splits. The Azura is noticeably more aggressive and responsive, making it the stronger performer for tempo runs and intervals. However, the Neo Zen 2 edges the Azura for pure recovery day comfort, and its upper is similarly well executed. The choice between the two comes down to intent: easy miles and long runs favour the Neo Zen 2, while uptempo and versatile training days favour the Azura.
PUMA Deviate NITRO 4 vs. adidas Adizero Evo SL
The Evo SL offers a springier ride and a more pronounced rocker geometry. However, for many runners it also becomes quite demanding on the legs over longer efforts, as it is one of the more unstable offerings on the market. The upper is also not as dialed-in or refined as the one found on the Deviate NITRO 4.
