Test: Puma Deviate Nitro 2 Trainers
The evolution of the Puma Deviate Nitro improves the support at the back, which is now firmer. The cushioning in this area has also been increased, with more protection to prevent rubbing on the heel. The midsole now has a double composition, adding a layer of Nitro Elite foam, while the carbon fibre composite plate has also been updated, being more flexible and comfortable.
More versatile than ever
If 2021 was the year in which Puma wanted to make a strong comeback to the forefront of performance-oriented sports shoes, then 2022 has confirmed their intentions with upgraded versions of their range. These Puma Deviate Nitro 2 trainers, a less radical version of the Puma Deviate Nitro Elite, are positioned in the interesting sector of versatile shoes, capable of being fast and at the same time very comfortable.
Although the main technical novelty is the introduction of the Nitro Elite compound in the midsole, it is worth noting that the heel of this new version provides much better support and above all is less likely to cause the annoying chafing typical of this area. The new midsole combines the firmer Nitro thermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPEE) foam with the softer Nitro Elite polyester block amide (PEBA) foam. This new layer has been added in the upper, but the thickness of both foams is different depending on the area: the Nitro Elite is less thick in the heel, where the Nitro foam is thicker to provide stability, and it is thicker in the forefoot, to contribute to its reactivity.
The other midsole component, the plate, is made of 70% carbon fibre and 30% thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and is therefore more flexible and comfortable than for example the 100% carbon fibre plate of the Puma Deviate Nitro Elite. This difference is explained by the more versatile nature of the Puma Deviate Nitro 2, while still providing stability and impulse support during toe-off.
Excellent support
If Puma has worked a lot on the structure and materials of its midsole in its new models, in the upper we find less novelties, maybe because its performance was already very good. Both the design and the materials used in the upper give the shoe a very high-quality look. And that’s before you put them on, because once they’re on, the thin and soft upper makes them extremely comfortable.
The structure of the upper is very light, with overlays that provide stability only in the inner and outer toe area. The great fit is also due to the tongue, which is padded and therefore protects against chafing from tight laces. But also to the support strap that keeps it fixed and provides extra stability and fixation in the midfoot area. Although it doesn’t usually get the most attention, we found the tongue of this model to be a marvel because of how comfortable it is and how well it helps to support the foot.
Versatile and safe sole
The outsole is another element that differentiates this model from the Puma Deviate Nitro Elite. Also using PUMAGRIP compound, it is a bit thicker, and adds more weight to the package, but in exchange its higher and more aggressive lugs make these shoes less punishing in mixed terrain and very safe.
Although they are not trail specific shoes, they can perfectly cope with even dirt surfaces and some trails with little technical difficulty. The sole exposes the midsole in the central part, which compensates somewhat for its greater stiffness, and also has an opening that allows the carbon fibre plate to be seen. The heel part uses PUMAGRIP ATR rubber compound, more durable and with good grip on uneven surfaces.
For who?
The Puma Deviate Nitro 2 benefits from an effective duality between upper and midsole. If the upper is pure comfort and softness, but with a firm fit thanks to its excellent tongue design and redesigned heel area, the midsole is more performance oriented, but without being radically a racing shoe. Therefore, they will be ideal for runners who need daily training shoes with a focus on performance over medium to long distances. They are not shoes for going about in on recovery days, as the stiffness of the plate is noticeable in more easy-going circumstances.
Pros
Versatile.
Perfect for daily training.
Outsole with great grip.
Cons
They are not very light.
Technical information
Brand
Puma
Model
Deviate Nitro 2
Fit system
Lace-up
Upper
Micro-mesh with reinforcement and improved padding in the heel and tongue.
Midsole
Combination of TPEE Nitro foam with PEBA Nitro Elite foam and a plate composed of carbon fibre (70 %) and TPU (30 %).
Sole
PUMAGRIP compound and PUMAGRIP ATR in the heel, versatile and durable.
Drop
6 mm
Available sizes
From 35.5 EU to 42.5 EU.
Weight
226g (in size 39 EU).
Price
115 €
Colours available
Pink-White, White-Light Green.
More information here
