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PUMA Deviate Pure NITRO Men's Running Shoes

Lightweight. Flexible. Responsive. A plated-shoe alternative for everyday road running.

The PUMA Deviate Pure NITRO Men's is a neutral road-running shoe designed for runners who want a lightweight, responsive training shoe without the stiffness of a carbon plate.

Unlike the PUMA Deviate NITRO 4, the Deviate Pure NITRO deliberately removes the plate. Instead, it uses NITROFOAM™ cushioning, an 8mm drop and a flexible construction to provide smooth propulsion while allowing the foot to move more naturally through the gait cycle.

At approximately 220g in a men's UK 8, it is considerably lighter than a conventional high-cushion daily trainer. This gives the Deviate Pure NITRO a versatile character: it can handle everyday mileage but also feels comfortable when the pace increases.

At a Glance

Specification	PUMA Deviate Pure NITRO Men's
Category	Neutral lightweight daily road-running shoe
Best Use	Daily running, steady runs, tempo and faster training
Cushioning	Medium
Midsole	NITROFOAM™
Plate	None
Drop	8mm
Stack Height	38mm heel / 30mm forefoot
Weight	Approx. 220g men's UK 8
Upper	Engineered mesh
Outsole	PUMAGRIP performance rubber
Terrain	Road
Support	Neutral
Recommended Runner	Frequent runner
Average Mileage	PUMA lists approximately 800km

What Is the PUMA Deviate Pure NITRO?

The Deviate Pure NITRO is essentially a lighter, more flexible alternative to a carbon-plated performance trainer.

The name can cause some confusion because the Deviate NITRO family is associated with PWRPLATE technology. The Pure version is deliberately different: there is no plate.

Instead, the shoe is designed around the natural responsiveness of NITROFOAM™ and a flexible road-running platform.

This makes it particularly useful for runners who like the feeling of a fast shoe but do not necessarily want the stiffness and mechanical assistance of a carbon plate.

NITROFOAM™ Cushioning

The core technology is PUMA's NITROFOAM™ nitrogen-infused foam.

NITROFOAM™ is designed to provide a combination of lightweight cushioning and energy return. In the Deviate Pure NITRO, the foam is allowed to work without a carbon plate sitting between the runner and the road.

This gives the shoe a more natural response compared with a stiff plated trainer.

What Does NITROFOAM™ Feel Like?

• Light underfoot
• Responsive without being overly aggressive
• Cushioned enough for regular road mileage
• More flexible than a plated performance shoe
• Energetic when increasing the pace

No Carbon Plate — Why Does That Matter?

The biggest difference between the Deviate Pure NITRO and the Deviate NITRO 4 is the absence of a performance plate.

A carbon plate increases longitudinal stiffness and changes the way the shoe transitions through the forefoot. The Deviate Pure NITRO takes a different approach.

It allows the shoe to flex more naturally as the foot moves through the gait cycle.

This makes it particularly appealing to runners who:

• Do not enjoy the stiffness of carbon-plated shoes
• Want a lightweight daily trainer
• Want to increase pace without using a super shoe
• Prefer a more natural forefoot transition
• Want one shoe for regular and faster running

Flexible Ride

PUMA specifically positions the Deviate Pure NITRO around a flexible ride with smooth propulsion.

This is an important distinction from the Deviate NITRO 4.

The Pure version does not rely on a plate to create propulsion. Instead, the runner gets the responsiveness of NITROFOAM™ combined with a platform that can flex naturally.

The result is a shoe that feels more like a lightweight running trainer than a traditional carbon-plated performance shoe.

8mm Heel-to-Toe Drop

The Deviate Pure NITRO uses an 8mm heel-to-toe drop, with a listed stack height of approximately 38mm at the heel and 30mm at the forefoot.

This gives the shoe substantial foam underfoot without requiring a very aggressive geometry.

The 8mm drop also sits in a versatile middle ground and can work well for a broad range of runners and running styles.

How Does the Deviate Pure NITRO Ride?

Ride Characteristic	What to Expect
Cushioning	Medium; enough for regular road mileage
Responsiveness	High for a daily trainer
Flexibility	High compared with plated performance shoes
Stability	Neutral
Ground Feel	More natural and connected than a stiff plated shoe
Speed Range	Easy through faster training
Weight	Lightweight

Everyday Running

The Deviate Pure NITRO is designed specifically for everyday road running.

Its 220g weight and responsive foam make it particularly attractive for runners who don't want to carry the weight of a heavily cushioned daily trainer.

It is also versatile enough to handle changes in pace during a normal training run.

Easy Runs

The shoe can comfortably handle easy running, although it does not provide the deep, soft sensation of a maximum-cushion trainer.

It makes more sense for runners who prefer a lighter and more responsive easy-day shoe rather than runners looking for maximum impact protection.

Steady Running

Steady-state running is an excellent application for the Deviate Pure NITRO.

The lightweight construction allows the runner to settle into a faster aerobic pace without requiring a carbon-plated shoe.

Tempo Runs

The Deviate Pure NITRO is well suited to tempo running.

When the pace increases, the responsiveness of NITROFOAM™ becomes more apparent, while the absence of a plate allows the shoe to retain a more natural flex pattern.

This makes it an attractive option for runners who want a lightweight trainer for threshold and tempo work but don't enjoy the rigid sensation of plated footwear.

Intervals

The low weight makes the Deviate Pure NITRO capable of handling interval training.

It does not provide the propulsion of a carbon-plated shoe, but the lighter construction means the shoe does not feel cumbersome during faster repetitions.

For runners developing speed rather than chasing maximum race-day efficiency, this can be a useful training platform.

Long Runs

The Deviate Pure NITRO can handle long runs, particularly for runners who prefer a lightweight shoe.

However, its medium cushioning means it is not primarily designed as a maximum-cushion long-distance shoe.

If your long-run priority is maximum protection and softness, a shoe such as the PUMA MagMax NITRO may be more appropriate. If you prefer to stay light and responsive, the Deviate Pure NITRO becomes more interesting.

Marathon Training

The Deviate Pure NITRO can play several roles in a marathon training rotation.

• Easy runs
• Steady aerobic runs
• Tempo sessions
• Progression runs
• Marathon-pace workouts
• Shorter interval sessions

Its lightweight construction can make it particularly useful for runners who prefer training in something that feels relatively close to a performance shoe without introducing a carbon plate.

Can You Race a Marathon in the Deviate Pure NITRO?

Yes, although it is primarily designed as a training shoe.

A runner who values flexibility and a natural ride may prefer the Deviate Pure NITRO to a stiff plated shoe, particularly for longer-distance racing where comfort and familiarity are priorities.

However, runners seeking the maximum propulsion and efficiency associated with modern racing footwear should look towards PUMA's dedicated plated racing models.

Half-Marathon and 10K

The Deviate Pure NITRO is particularly well suited to shorter road races where its lightweight construction becomes an advantage.

It can also be useful for runners who want to race in a conventional flexible shoe rather than a carbon-plated super shoe.

Comrades Training

The Deviate Pure NITRO can be useful during Comrades preparation, particularly for:

• Steady road runs
• Tempo sessions
• Controlled faster workouts
• General aerobic mileage
• Progression runs

For very long and slower runs, particularly as fatigue accumulates late in a training cycle, some runners will prefer a more cushioned platform.

A sensible Comrades rotation could therefore pair the Deviate Pure NITRO with a high-cushion daily or long-run shoe.

Is the Deviate Pure NITRO a Stability Shoe?

No. It is a neutral running shoe.

PUMA specifically classifies the shoe as neutral.

It does not use a dedicated medial post or structured guidance system intended to control excessive pronation.

The flexible platform also means it should not be confused with a stability trainer simply because it feels controlled underfoot.

Fit and Upper

The Deviate Pure NITRO uses an engineered mesh upper designed to provide breathability and comfort while keeping the shoe lightweight.

The regular-width version has a performance-oriented running fit rather than a deliberately broad, relaxed fit.

The upper is designed to move with the foot rather than locking it into the rigid structure associated with plated racing shoes.

Wide Feet

PUMA lists the Deviate Pure NITRO as a regular-width shoe.

If you have a broad forefoot or high-volume foot, it is worth trying the shoe rather than assuming the 220g weight means the fit will work for everyone.

If the shoe feels tight across the metatarsals, do not compensate by simply increasing length. A longer shoe can create excessive space in front of the toes without solving the underlying width issue.

220g Weight

At approximately 220g in a men's UK 8, the Deviate Pure NITRO is significantly lighter than many conventional daily trainers.

This is one of its most important characteristics.

A lighter shoe can feel less demanding during faster running because the runner is moving less shoe mass with every stride.

The low weight also helps explain why the Deviate Pure NITRO can serve as both a daily trainer and a faster training shoe.

PUMAGRIP Outsole

The shoe uses PUMAGRIP performance rubber for traction and durability.

PUMAGRIP is designed to provide reliable traction across a range of surfaces, while maintaining the durability required from a frequently used training shoe.

The Deviate Pure NITRO remains a road-running shoe. PUMAGRIP provides grip, but this does not make the shoe a trail model.

Deviate Pure NITRO vs Deviate NITRO 4

	Deviate Pure NITRO	Deviate NITRO 4
Category	Lightweight neutral trainer	Carbon-plated performance trainer
Plate	None	PWRPLATE carbon fibre
Weight	Approx. 220g	Approx. 250g
Drop	8mm	8mm
Stack	38/30mm	38/30mm
Ride	Flexible and natural	Stiffer and more propulsive
Best Use	Daily running and faster training	Tempo, intervals and race-specific training
Recovery	★★★★☆	★★★☆☆
Speed	★★★★☆	★★★★★

The distinction is straightforward:

Deviate Pure NITRO = flexible speed.

Deviate NITRO 4 = plated propulsion.

If you want to feel the shoe flex naturally underneath you, choose the Pure concept. If you want the stiffness and propulsion of a carbon plate, the Deviate NITRO 4 is the more appropriate model.

Deviate Pure NITRO vs PUMA Velocity NITRO

	Deviate Pure NITRO	Velocity NITRO
Category	Lightweight performance trainer	Daily neutral trainer
Weight	Approx. 220g	Heavier
Cushioning	Medium	More conventional daily cushioning
Ride	Fast and flexible	Smooth and versatile
Tempo	Excellent	Good
Daily Mileage	Excellent	Excellent

Deviate Pure NITRO vs Nike Pegasus 42

	Deviate Pure NITRO	Nike Pegasus 42
Category	Lightweight performance trainer	Versatile daily trainer
Plate	None	Full-length Air Zoom
Ride	Flexible and lightweight	Responsive and energetic
Drop	8mm	10mm
Best Use	Daily running and faster sessions	Daily running and pace variation

The Pegasus 42 uses Air Zoom to create its responsive character. The Deviate Pure NITRO achieves its performance feel through lightweight construction and NITROFOAM™ without using a plate.

Deviate Pure NITRO vs ASICS Novablast 6

Both are neutral shoes capable of covering everyday mileage and faster training.

The Deviate Pure NITRO is lighter and more performance-oriented, while the Novablast 6 offers a more pronounced bouncy cushioning sensation through its FF BLAST MAX platform.

Runners looking for a lighter, more direct training shoe may prefer the Deviate Pure NITRO, while runners prioritising a more cushioned and bouncy ride may prefer the Novablast.

Performance Profile

Performance Area	Deviate Pure NITRO
Daily Training	★★★★★
Easy Running	★★★★☆
Recovery	★★★★☆
Long Runs	★★★★☆
Tempo	★★★★★
Intervals	★★★★☆
Marathon Pace	★★★★★
Half Marathon	★★★★★
Race Day	★★★★☆
Walking	★★★☆☆

Key Features

• NITROFOAM™: nitrogen-infused foam provides lightweight cushioning and energy return.
• No carbon plate: maintains a more natural and flexible ride.
• 8mm drop: versatile heel-to-forefoot geometry.
• 38/30mm stack: substantial cushioning without making the shoe excessively heavy.
• Approx. 220g: lightweight construction helps the shoe feel responsive during faster running.
• Engineered mesh: breathable upper designed for comfort during regular road running.
• PUMAGRIP: durable performance rubber designed to provide traction across varied road surfaces.
• Neutral platform: designed for runners who do not require dedicated stability guidance.
• Frequent runner design: PUMA positions the shoe for runners who regularly train on the road.
• Approx. 800km: PUMA's stated average mileage figure.

Who Is the PUMA Deviate Pure NITRO Best For?

The Deviate Pure NITRO is particularly well suited to runners who want a lightweight shoe that can move quickly without the stiffness of a carbon plate.

• Neutral runners
• Frequent road runners
• Runners who prefer lightweight shoes
• Runners who dislike stiff carbon-plated footwear
• Tempo runners
• Runners doing regular pace work
• Half-marathon runners
• Marathon-training runners
• Runners wanting one shoe for everyday and faster running
• Runners transitioning towards performance footwear

Who Should Consider Another Shoe?

The Deviate Pure NITRO may not be the best starting point if your priority is:

• Maximum cushioning: consider a high/max-cushion daily trainer.
• Carbon-plated propulsion: consider the Deviate NITRO 4.
• Dedicated racing performance: consider a specialist racing shoe.
• Structured stability: choose a dedicated stability model.
• Very soft cushioning: choose a shoe designed around a softer, higher-cushion ride.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the PUMA Deviate Pure NITRO have a carbon plate?

No. This is one of the defining characteristics of the Pure model. It uses NITROFOAM™ without a performance plate.

What is the difference between Deviate Pure NITRO and Deviate NITRO 4?

The Deviate Pure NITRO has no plate and provides a more flexible, natural ride. The Deviate NITRO 4 uses a PWRPLATE carbon-fibre plate and delivers a stiffer, more propulsive ride.

Is the Deviate Pure NITRO a neutral shoe?

Yes. PUMA classifies it as a neutral road-running shoe.

How much does the Deviate Pure NITRO weigh?

PUMA lists approximately 220g in a men's UK 8.

Is the Deviate Pure NITRO good for everyday running?

Yes. Everyday road running is one of its intended uses. Its low weight and responsive cushioning make it particularly suitable for runners who prefer a faster-feeling daily trainer.

Is the Deviate Pure NITRO good for tempo runs?

Yes. The lightweight construction and responsive NITROFOAM™ make it well suited to tempo and steady faster running.

Is the Deviate Pure NITRO good for intervals?

Yes. It can handle interval sessions, although runners seeking maximum propulsion may prefer a plated performance shoe.

Is the Deviate Pure NITRO good for long runs?

Yes. It can handle long runs, particularly for runners who prefer lightweight footwear. Runners wanting maximum cushioning for very long distances may prefer a more substantial shoe.

Is the Deviate Pure NITRO good for marathon training?

Yes. It can be used for daily mileage, tempo sessions, progression runs and marathon-pace work.

Can I race a marathon in the Deviate Pure NITRO?

Yes. It is capable of marathon racing, particularly for runners who prefer a flexible, non-plated shoe. A dedicated racing shoe will provide a different performance profile.

Is the Deviate Pure NITRO good for a half marathon?

Yes. Its low weight and responsive cushioning make it well suited to half-marathon training and racing.

Is the Deviate Pure NITRO good for beginners?

It can be, but beginners should prioritise fit, comfort and appropriate cushioning over weight or speed. A more conventional daily trainer may be easier for some new runners to adapt to.

Is the Deviate Pure NITRO good for heel strikers?

It can be used by heel strikers. The 8mm drop provides a moderate heel-to-forefoot differential, but individual comfort and gait mechanics should determine whether the geometry works for you.

Is the Deviate Pure NITRO suitable for wide feet?

PUMA lists the shoe as regular width. Runners with genuinely broad feet should test the fit carefully and should not automatically size up in length to compensate for insufficient width.

Is the Deviate Pure NITRO soft?

It has responsive NITROFOAM™ cushioning, but its medium-cushioning classification means it is not designed to provide the deep, plush sensation of a maximum-cushion shoe.

Is the Deviate Pure NITRO flexible?

Yes. The absence of a carbon plate allows considerably more natural flex than the Deviate NITRO 4.

Is the Deviate Pure NITRO better than a carbon-plated shoe?

The two designs serve different purposes. The Pure NITRO prioritises flexibility and natural movement, while a carbon-plated shoe prioritises stiffness and propulsion. The more appropriate option depends on the runner, training session and preferred ride.

How long will the Deviate Pure NITRO last?

PUMA lists an average mileage figure of approximately 800km. Actual lifespan varies according to runner weight, gait, surfaces and training volume.

Durban Runner Expert Recommendation

The PUMA Deviate Pure NITRO is an interesting option for runners who want to run fast without necessarily running in a carbon-plated shoe.

Its biggest advantage is the combination of low weight, NITROFOAM™ responsiveness and flexibility. You get a performance-oriented sensation without the pronounced stiffness of a carbon plate.

That makes it particularly useful for runners who want a versatile shoe that can move from everyday mileage into tempo and faster sessions without changing footwear.

It is also an important alternative for runners who have tried plated shoes and simply do not enjoy the rigid sensation they create.

Find Your Right Running Shoe at Durban Runner

The lightest or fastest-looking shoe is not automatically the right shoe for your running.

At Durban Runner, our RunEasi Running Analysis can help assess your running mechanics and determine whether a flexible neutral trainer such as the Deviate Pure NITRO, a plated trainer such as the Deviate NITRO 4 or a more cushioned daily shoe is better suited to your requirements.

Visit Durban Runner to compare the Deviate Pure NITRO against different running platforms and find the shoe that works with your individual gait.

The Bottom Line

The PUMA Deviate Pure NITRO Men's is a lightweight neutral road-running shoe that combines NITROFOAM™, an 8mm drop, a 38/30mm stack and PUMAGRIP without using a carbon plate.

Its sweet spot is the runner who wants daily versatility with a faster, lighter and more flexible ride.

If you want the responsiveness of a performance shoe without the stiffness of a carbon plate, the Deviate Pure NITRO provides a compelling middle ground between a conventional daily trainer and a plated speed shoe.