Running is going through a renaissance of sorts, with everyone and their dog now deep into the run-culture. So, those looking for a solid new running shoe option to tick the box of a daily runner while also having the tech to be a good race-day shoe, Puma has something in store for you.
The Puma Deviate Nitro 4 is a shoe designed for speed, but takes comfort into account. Where many shoes abandon the small things that make for a comfortable run in favour of being a strong racing shoe, the Deviate Nitro 4 does both. It comes in at 15g lighter than its predecessor, which may not seem like much, but given how light the Nitro 3 was, this takes an already feathery entry one step further and makes it a great shoe for those days when your legs are feeling a little heavy.
On the upper, the mesh upper feels significantly softer than the Nitro 3, providing a sock-like feel and fit that won’t cause any hot spots as your feet swell and heat up during runs. It’s a lot more malleable too, and the Nitro 4 didn’t crease or crumple up during my testing. The toe-box also seems slightly wider than last year’s model, and there is a greater feeling of lockdown thanks to the cushioned and slightly-improved heel area.
The burrito-style padded tongue is also incredibly soft, giving you a very plush and subtle feeling on the sensitive part of your foot. This design works better than the thicker, more obtrusive tongues of yesteryear.
Included in the sole is Puma’s carbon plate, which the brand calls its Pwrplate. There’s a noticable snap back and responsiveness from the shoe, moreso than many other brands on the market. Additionally, the Nitro 4 feels bouncier than its predecessor too, thanks to a few upgrades in the foam technology and its enhanced lightweight construction. It’s the perfect combo of snappy responsiveness and comfort, and I’m here for it.
As for the drop, the Deviate Nitro 4 offers an 8mm drop and a 30MM/38MM stack height. With that much foam underfoot, the shoe is technically considered a max-cushion shoe, but don’t let the amount of padding fool you: this shoe is still a high-performance “super trainer” designed for long runs and marathons where your goal is speed, not an easy trot.
So, with the re-angled carbon plate and ‘squishier’ sole, you can definitely feel that the shoe is more flexible this time around, allowing for a more natural stride while feeling noticably elevated above the road. If that’s your jam, the Nitro 4 should be on your radar.
The Deviate Nitro 4 is out now and is available to purchase online at a recommended price of R3,999.
