Our verdict

We found the Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 to be a significant upgrade from its predecessor—faster, lighter, and impressively responsive. For us, it's a real supershoe contender with its explosive bounce. While the lack of stability might be a major drawback for heel strikers, we think it's ideal for runners craving agility and speed. In our lab tests, the enhanced Nitro Elite cushioning and lightweight design stood out, and we believe it offers superior value for its price compared to other supershoes. On top of that, it looks fantastic!

Pros

  • Superb Nitro Elite foam
  • Breathable, lightweight upper
  • Extremely responsive
  • More affordable than most supershoes
  • Outstanding grip
  • Great comfort for a racer
  • Major improvements from v2
  • Fast, agile, race-ready performance
  • Fantastic tongue

Cons

  • Not the best for heel strikers
  • Durability concerns
  • Lacks stability for some runners

Audience verdict

90
Great!

Who should buy

We believe the Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 excels for:

  • Runners seeking a nimble, race-ready supershoe that tackles distances from the mile to the marathon.
  • Those who found the previous Deviate Nitro Elite lacking excitement—Puma fixed that, making it a thrilling ride.
  • Midfoot strikers looking for a high drop supershoe with outstanding performance and superb energy return.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3

Who should NOT buy

We believe the Deviate Nitro Elite 3's lack of stability might be a dealbreaker for some. Its narrow build brings excitement and speed, but it’s not ideal for everyone. In our view, if stability is what you're after, the Nike Alphafly 3 or Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 are far more stable, marathon-suited options, while still offering comparable speed.

Additionally, we think that forefoot strikers may struggle with the high heel-to-toe drop of the Deviate Nitro Elite 3. If that’s a concern, we suggest the ASICS Metaspeed Sky Paris as a better alternative or the Rocket X 2 for those who prefer Hoka's signature feel.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 parts

Cushioning

Heel stack

Speaking of pushing boundaries, Puma has met the current challenge to every supershoe manufacturer by maximising the stack height near the 40-mm limit set by World Athletics. They achieved it with 39.2 mm of plush cushioning in the heel.

And don't worry, we'll also delve into the state-of-the-art Nitro Elite foam. But let us tell you that it provides exceptional cushioning, and as many midfoot strikers involuntarily shift to heel landings after mile 20 in a marathon due to fatigue, this towering 39.2-mm stack height in the heel offers a crucial advantage.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Heel stack
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 39.2 mm
Average 33.9 mm
Compared to 365 running shoes
Number of shoes
22.5 mm
Heel stack
46.3 mm

Forefoot stack

In our lab, the forefoot measured at 28.6 mm, typical for most supershoes and adequate for forefoot strikers, though slightly thinner than expected. And this reading introduces a minor issue that we will explore next.

By the way, the carbon plate isn't as thick as it appears. During the process of cutting the shoe in half, the foam can sometimes turn black from the debris.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Forefoot stack
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 28.6 mm
Average 25.3 mm
Compared to 365 running shoes
Number of shoes
13.7 mm
Forefoot stack
37.1 mm

Drop

After our measurements, we discovered a 10.6-mm heel-to-toe drop, which is slightly higher than preferred.

Although this is beneficial for those with calf or Achilles tendon issues, the shoe's narrow rearfoot makes it less suitable for heel strikers. We would have favoured an 8-mm drop as advertised, though the actual difference of 2.6 mm is relatively minor anyway.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Drop
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 10.6 mm
Average 8.6 mm
Compared to 365 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

The most notable upgrade in the Deviate Nitro Elite 3 over its predecessor might go unnoticed, but we're here to ensure that's not happening. Although it retains the Nitro Elite name, this is a whole different compound.

Puma has switched from a supercritical PEBA mix to an industry-first aliphatic TPU foam, enhancing durability and UV resistance. This change significantly boosts performance in the later stages of a marathon by reducing foam fatigue and extends the shoe's shelf life.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 foam side

The main foam in the shoe is exceptionally soft, registering at 15.1 HA on our durometer. Puma strategically layers two different foam densities around a stiff carbon plate, a setup reminiscent of the popular Vaporfly design that many brands have followed since 2017.

Regarding energy return, we found that this foam performs on par with leading PEBA-based materials such as ZoomX or PWRRUN HG. And yes, the shoe consistently delivered exceptional bounce back during our runs, particularly at faster paces.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Midsole softness
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 15.1 HA
Average 21.1 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 292 running shoes
Number of shoes
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
38.9 HA

Secondary foam softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

As previously mentioned, Puma incorporates two different Nitro Elite foams in this shoe, one softer than the other. 

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 midsole

The secondary foam, positioned closer to the ground and below the carbon plate, is slightly firmer and denser, measured at 18.3 HA. This is clearly geared towards enhancing stability, but with a minimal difference of 3.2 HA, is subtle and mostly indiscernible outside of our lab.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Secondary foam softness
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 18.3 HA
Average 23.9 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.

Midsole softness in cold (%)

While the A-TPU Nitro Elite foam offers several advancements over traditional PEBA-based materials, it falls short in cold temperature performance. Our freezer test revealed a disappointing 25.8% uptick, which fell below our expectations.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Difference in midsole softness in cold
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 26%
Average 26%
Compared to 292 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Midsole softness in cold
63%

Insole thickness

We discovered the insole typical of a top racer, measuring just 2.8 mm in thickness—a more streamlined option compared to what you'd find in a daily trainer like the Velocity Nitro 3.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Insole thickness
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 2.8 mm
Average 4.5 mm
Compared to 361 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Plate

Puma has reengineered the carbon PWRPLATE to be more aggressive compared to previous models and its training partner, the Deviate Nitro 3. And why not—let's use this opportunity to discuss and compare carbon plates.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 PWRPLATE

First, we put the Deviate Nitro Elite 3 (green) against its training sibling, the Deviate Nitro 3 (orange). It's evident the DNE3 has a much more aggressive curve starting after the heel and more sharply in the forefoot, aiming to boost turnover. This design is more demanding on the muscles—especially calves—but quicker, making sense of both approaches.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 plate comparison

Then, we compared the Deviate Nitro Elite 2 (black and green) with the Deviate Nitro Elite 3 (green). It's evident Puma aimed to make the DNE3 more Vaporfly-esque and aggressive. This design enhances speed, and although it may reduce versatility when compared to v2, it excels at helping everyone achieve personal bests! 

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Plate 2

Rocker

While the Deviate Nitro Elite 3 introduces notable changes from its predecessor, such as updated foam and a redesigned carbon plate, certain features remain unchanged, including the rocker profile.

Our measurements confirm that the forefoot rocker of the DNE3 maintains the exact shape of its predecessor, beginning at 10 cm and rising to 5 cm, indicating no changes were necessary as the toe-off remains effective and fast.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Rocker

Size and fit

Size

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 is true to size (20 votes).

Owners of this shoe, how does this shoe fit?

1 size small ½ size small True to size ½ size large 1 size large
Compared to 308 running shoes
Number of shoes
½ size small
Slightly small
True to size
Slightly large
½ size large

Toebox width - widest part

Right from unboxing and fitting, it was clear that the Deviate Nitro Elite 3 might not be the best choice for those with wide feet.

The upper's widest section measures 95.7 mm—not crazy narrow but snug enough to deliver a classic racer, performance-oriented fit. Vertically, though, it offers ample room for toe movement, enhancing comfort and preventing some black toenails!

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 95.7 mm
Average 98.5 mm
Compared to 366 running shoes
Number of shoes
91.6 mm
Toebox width - widest part
104.9 mm

Toebox width - big toe

The big toe area is also narrower than typical, measuring 75.4 mm, indicating a tapered shape more than we'd prefer.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 pov
As is common with most supershoes, only one width option is available.

For those with very wide feet, this might be a deal-breaker, though sizing up half a size could alleviate the issue. 

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 76.1 mm
Average 78.4 mm
Compared to 240 running shoes
Number of shoes
67.6 mm
Toebox width - big toe
89.2 mm

Stability

Lateral stability test

This is a fact—the Deviate Nitro Elite 3 is not ideal for runners who prioritise stability in a supershoe. It's a classic, streamlined racer designed for those with solid running form and a neutral stride.

Puma has opted to exclude substantial midsole sidewalls and sole flare, particularly in the heel area, which, despite its high drop, makes this shoe potentially too unstable for rearfoot strikers.

Yet, this lack of stability simply offers a different appeal for a specific group of runners. It's more aggressive, lively, and nimble compared to other supershoes, catering especially to high-cadence individuals tackling shorter, faster distances like 5/10K races.

Torsional rigidity

As you already know, the DNE3 features a stiff carbon plate, and this design delivers exceptional torsional rigidity. During our manual test, we assigned it a max score of 5 out of 5, fully meeting our expectations.

Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 5
Average 3.3
Compared to 344 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

Despite its minimal heel structure, earning a 1/5 stiffness rating, we experienced no heel slippage whatsoever.

Puma adopts a design strategy similar to ASICS' racers—featuring a slightly padded collar that hints at tempo training shoes for a bit more security than ultra-flexible models like the Saucony Endorphin Elite.

Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 1
Average 2.9
Compared to 328 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width - forefoot

Those seeking a fast, nimble, and agile racer that lives up to Puma's reputation will find it in the Deviate Nitro Elite 3. As mentioned earlier, this shoe isn’t about stability—it’s all about speed and responsiveness. The 108.0-mm measurement we recorded using our digital callipers clearly demonstrates that.

Because of this, while it can handle marathons and perform a great job, we believe it shines brightest in shorter races.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 108.0 mm
Average 114.0 mm
Compared to 366 running shoes
Number of shoes
103.3 mm
Midsole width - forefoot
126.9 mm

Midsole width - heel

The heel's narrow 82.7 mm width, coupled with the absence of stability features, underscores this shoe's suitability for midfoot and forefoot strikers looking for a high-drop racer.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 82.7 mm
Average 90.7 mm
Compared to 366 running shoes
Number of shoes
73.0 mm
Midsole width - heel
106.6 mm

Flexibility / Stiffness

In our assessment, the Elite 3 demonstrated a high 51.4N in our 90-degree bend test—a typical indication of a shoe integrating a carbon plate. This substantial stiffness often translates the shoe into feeling somewhat cumbersome during runs at easy paces, which we generally do not advise, especially given its narrower build.

Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 51.4N
Average 28.2N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 348 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.2N
Flexibility <> Stiffness
72.1N

Stiffness in cold

Despite its minimal heel structure, earning a 1/5 stiffness rating, we experienced no heel slippage whatsoever.

Puma adopts a design strategy similar to ASICS' racers—featuring a slightly padded collar that hints at tempo training shoes for a bit more security than ultra-flexible models like the Saucony Endorphin Elite.

Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 52.2N
Average 36.7N
Compared to 348 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.5N
Stiffness in cold
89.2N

Stiffness in cold (%)

Following a 20-minute nap in the freezer, we re-evaluated the shoe's stiffness and recorded a slight increase to 52.2N of force—a mere 1.5% surge. This minor change is barely perceptible, even in the coldest conditions.

Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 2%
Average 34%
Compared to 348 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Stiffness in cold
105%

Weight

Historically, the weight of the Deviate Nitro series has been a drawback compared to state-of-the-art supershoes like the Nike Vaporfly 3, with Puma facing challenges in achieving ultra-lightweight designs.

However, our scale now shows a nice figure of just 7.2 oz or 204g, marking a significant improvement from previous models. For us, this weight is highly competitive and should satisfy most runners, though we believe Puma could still benefit from reducing it to below 7 ounces to keep up with industry advancements—most brands are really pushing the boundaries!

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Weight
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 7.20 oz (204g)
Average 9.38 oz (266g)
Compared to 366 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.61 oz (159g)
Weight
12.59 oz (357g)

Breathability

To begin our lab test of the Deviate Nitro Elite 3, we examined its ventilation, which looks promising due to the Ultraweave engineered mesh upper, which is as thin as a razor.

Using our smoke machine, we discovered that the toebox expels air at a solid pace, though it doesn't match the breathability of other supershoes we've tested. Consequently, we gave it a solid 4/5, which we think it's sufficient to handle even the hottest races.

Next, we moved the cut-in-half DNE3 over a powerful light to highlight its construction and the minimalistic thickness. Puma enhanced stability with its logo and included PWRTAPE reinforcements, a common feature in their shoes.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 microscope

While monomesh uppers generally impress under the microscope, the Deviate Nitro Elite 3 was particularly striking. The threads are incredibly thin and display remarkable precision.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 micro close

The Nitro Elite 3 integrates a few thermoplastics in the upper, but they are not intrusive or noticeable by any means.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 upper close

Overall, this is exactly what we anticipate from a modern marathon shoe: well-ventilated, even at the heel, where those holes add a premium touch. Despite the minimal padding, we found it to be more substantial than in other supershoes.

Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 4
Average 3.8
Compared to 295 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

Regular visitors to RunRepeat might have anticipated our Dremel test results after seeing the microscope images, which showcased the upper's delicate nature.

What you see below the upper is a cardboard piece used to maintain the shape during testing, ensuring all tests are consistent and fair.

Indeed, the material proved to be really fragile. We inevitably had to assign it the lowest possible rating.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Toebox durability
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 1
Average 2.5
Compared to 229 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

The Deviate Nitro Elite 3 turned the tide in our second evaluation with the Dremel tool.

We discovered that the heel counter's lining held up impressively, partly due to the minimal padding in the shoe. Nonetheless, the results were outstanding.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Heel padding durability
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 5
Average 3.2
Compared to 225 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

Let's be clear—we believe PumaGrip is becoming so good it's challenging Continental for the title of best rubber in road running shoes.

For this shoe, Puma opted for a 72.6 HC rubber, aiming for even better grip than their training models by reducing the hardness. It's like a Formula 1 car—the softer the tyre, the better the grip.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 rubber coverage
Rubber coverage is good for a supershoe, especially in the forefoot.

And in rainy conditions? Once again, Puma delivers performance that rivals Adidas' Continental. It appears to us there's still a huge rivalry between the two brands founded by the Dassler brothers, each pushing the other to greater innovations.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Outsole hardness
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 72.6 HC
Average 80.1 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 346 running shoes
Number of shoes
60.3 HC
Outsole hardness
93.0 HC

Outsole durability

But high grip comes at a cost, as we discovered using our Dremel against the PumaGrip rubber.

While a 20-second test is rigorous, we apply the same challenge to every shoe with consistent force. Afterwards we noted a 1.6-mm dent, more wear than usual but an expected outcome for a  grippy supershoe. However, this might make the DNE3 less suitable for tempo training and extended mileage.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Outsole durability
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 1.6 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 207 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

We measured a rubber thickness of 2.6 mm, which should ensure a respectable shelf life for a supershoe despite the rubber wearing out slightly faster than average.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Outsole thickness
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 2.6 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 365 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.0 mm

Misc

Price

While running shoe prices have generally increased, the Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 offers a delightful exception.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 toe cap

Despite surpassing the £200 mark, it remains one of the most budget-friendly racing shoes. Let's not forget that this model impressively combines a lightweight design, a carbon plate, and a second-to-none superfoam!

Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 $230
Compared to 366 running shoes
Number of shoes
£45
Price
£270

Reflective elements

This colorway is so unique that we expected some reflective details, but it seems Puma let us down here. In our view, adding reflective elements would have made this shoe even better for low-light tempo workouts!

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Reflective elements
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 No

Tongue padding

Most road running shoes without a gusseted tongue typically feature a single loop to prevent shifting, but Puma has introduced a dual-loop, parallel design in this shoe. And it works amazing.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 lacing
Puma still uses simple, plain laces with the DNE3.

We were also impressed by the intelligent padding on the tongue. Unlike most racing shoes that have minimal padding, Puma cleverly combines a sleek, paper-thin tongue with a concentrated cushion right where the laces tighten, achieving an ideal balance of comfort and lightness.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Tongue padding
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 6.1 mm
Average 5.8 mm
Compared to 363 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Tongue: gusset type

We observed that the tongue is not fixed to the sides, which might seem unexpected in a high-end shoe. However, this feature is standard in supershoes, specifically designed to minimise weight for optimal performance.

Additionally, it's important to note that this non-gusseted design significantly improves ventilation, particularly in the medial area, ensuring enhanced breathability during races.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 None

Heel tab

PUMA has retained the same heel design from previous models, omitting the heel tab. While this design choice makes the shoe slightly more challenging to put on, it remains one of the easiest supershoes to slip into quickly, also making it a practical option for triathlons.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 heel view

By the way, congrats to Puma for putting out this AW24 Major Marathons colorway. They even showcased the current records—including Kiptum's 2:00:35—despite none of them being set by Puma athletes.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Heel tab
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 None

Removable insole

Unlike many marathon shoes where the insole is permanently fixed, the Deviate Nitro Elite 3 allows for its removal. You can easily swap it out, although the original insole is so cool that we prefer to keep it as is!

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Removable insole
Test results
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Yes