7 Best PUMA Running Shoes in 2023

Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob Andersen on
7 Best PUMA Running Shoes in 2023
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The cat didn’t come to play. PUMA is lesser known than other brands in the running world, but it sure isn’t lesser when it comes to performance. Whether it’s on the road, trail, daily training, or racing, it’s going great guns. 

And we say this because we’ve examined them out ourselves through our independent shoe testing lab

How we test running shoes

We love to go through the nooks and crannies of each PUMA shoe we try, and to do so, we keenly and thoroughly carry out the following: 

  • Purchase the PUMA shoes we test with our own money to avoid brand bias and loyalty
  • We run in each shoe for 30-50 miles in various terrain and conditions. 
  • In our lab, cut each shoe open with our saw, and measure all parts of it with our calipers, durometers, scales, etc. to give you concrete data.
  • To see how they stack up against other running shoes, we make sure to calculate its Corescore with the help of both expert and user reviews.

Best PUMA running shoes overall

What makes it the best?

The PUMA Deviate Nitro is back with a significant update that makes an already great shoe even better. It’s really comfortable, which is not always the case for carbon-plated shoes, and it’s extremely versatile. As a result, we have a real do-it-all companion to take on the road for every run, not to mention the quality-price ratio, which basically makes it a no-brainer.

Pros

  • Great all-rounder
  • Super-smooth and responsive ride
  • Plush cushioning
  • Comfy upper
  • Grippy outsole
  • Above average durability
  • Fairly priced

Cons

  • Heavier than other similar shoes
  • Not many colors available
Full review of PUMA Deviate Nitro 2

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Black (37680701)
Azul (37680709)
Black (37756701)
Black (37680711)
Sunset Glow (37680703)
Gul (37680705)
Bianco (37680704)

Best PUMA running shoes with wide toebox

What makes it the best?

The PUMA Velocity Nitro 2 offers a seriously competent and comfortable all-rounder running shoe in a fairly priced package. With a soft, plush midsole, insane grip, and looks to boot, this is claimed one of the best shoes this year, and a gift that keeps giving.

Pros

  • Excellent cushioning
  • Perfect all-rounder
  • Great lockdown
  • Stable platform
  • The most versatile running shoe tested!
  • Excellent outsole
  • Improved upper comfort
  • Roomy toebox

Cons

  • Runs a little long
  • Poor durability in the upper
Full review of PUMA Velocity Nitro 2

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Pink (19533712)
Yellow (19533701)
Cherry Tomato Puma Black (19533704)
Beige (37729101)
Lime Squeeze (19533711)
Black (16471705)
Black (19533702)
Grey (19533705)
More colors

Best PUMA running shoes for flat feet

What makes it the best?

The Eternity Nitro from PUMA became a true surprise for runners. From the look of it, it's not a very promising trainer, but it changes your mind the moment it's on your feet. It is a well-cushioned stability trainer that doesn't feel like one. Be it a long slow run or a full day of walking, this PUMA shoe has got you covered.

Pros

  • Supports flat feet
  • Secure upper fit
  • Responsive cushioning
  • Great for recovery runs
  • Excellent grip
  • Durable
  • Light for a stability shoe

Cons

  • Not for severe overpronation
  • Lacks breathability
Full review of PUMA Eternity Nitro

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Castlerock/Puma White/Lava Blast (19468101)
Sailing Blue/Puma Black/Cherry Tomato/Puma White (19510022)
Grey (19468110)
Evening Sky (19468113)
Puma Black Puma White (19468102)

Best PUMA running shoes for race

What makes it the best?

Think of the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v2 but with a plate — that's the Deviate Nitro Elite from PUMA. It's almost like a traditional racing shoe with the pop and bounce of the newer super shoes on the market. And with its natural-feeling ride, it "excels" in long-distance efforts and uptempo paces.

Pros

  • Mighty fast
  • Stable
  • Roomy toe box
  • Racer fit
  • Natural ride
  • Secure heel clutch
  • Lightweight
  • Breathable
  • Durable

Cons

  • Scratchy upper
  • Tongue doesn't stay in place
Full review of PUMA Deviate Nitro Elite

Today's best price

Unisex
Any color
Sun Stream/Sunset Glow (37760301)
Black (37709101)
White (37644401)
White (19520403)
Orange (37760201)
Asphalte Noir Citron Vert (37709001)
Yellow (37644402)

Best PUMA speed training running shoes

What makes it the best?

The Electrify Nitro is a daily trainer that can take on long and easy miles and faster intervals. This addition to the Nitro family is not only lightweight but also super airy which makes it a great companion for an electrifying run in the summer heat. These daily trainers from PUMA are a solid pick if you’re looking for affordable kicks that not only perform well but also look good.

Pros

  • Great for runs in the heat
  • Lightweight
  • Doesn’t break the bank
  • Entry-level friendly
  • Ready to take on long and uptempo runs
  • Secure lockdown
  • Accommodates custom orthotics
  • Also great for the gym workouts
  • Aesthetically pleasing

Cons

  • Might not fit narrow feet
  • Not the for flat-footed runners
Full review of PUMA Electrify Nitro

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Red (19517306)
Fizzy Light Yellow Alert Puma White (19517311)
Puma Black Metallic Silver Cherry Tomato (19517312)
Green Glare (19517303)
Black (19517301)
Grey (19517310)

Best value PUMA running shoes

What makes it the best?

Whether it's an easy run or a 2-hour session at the gym, the Axelion NXT is a reliable choice. The comfort and the visuals of these daily trainers from PUMA are what many workout enthusiasts are after. Although these might not be the best for those with flat feet, these affordable trainers plus a pair of orthotics still wouldn’t hurt the bank. As an added plus, they’re machine washable!

Pros

  • Superb comfort
  • Fits true-to-size
  • Cloud-like cushion
  • Versatile daily trainers
  • Definite head turner
  • Super affordable
  • Machine washable
  • Looks better in person

Cons

  • Arch support could be better
  • Doesn’t come in a wide option
Full review of PUMA Axelion NXT

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Black/High Risk Red (37675601)
Puma Blanc Ocean Dive (19565607)
Castlerock High Risk Red (37696601)
White (37721401)
Puma Black/Lime Squeeze (37809701)
Puma Black Castlerock (37696602)
White-high Risk Red-black (19565605)
High Risk Red/Black (37696603)
More colors

Comparison of the 7 best PUMA running shoes

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CoreScore
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Experts
Best price
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# of colorways
Author
Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob Andersen

Jens Jakob is a fan of short distances with a 5K PR at 15:58 minutes. Based on 35 million race results, he's among the fastest 0.2% runners. Jens Jakob previously owned a running store, when he was also a competitive runner. His work is regularly featured in The New York Times, Washington Post, BBC and the likes as well as peer-reviewed journals. Finally, he has been a guest on +30 podcasts on running.