Puma Deviate Nitro Spectra review – At the end of the rainbow

Puma’s latest Deviate Nitro Spectra runners promise increased comfort, padding, and less weight. Apparently, this was achieved by injecting nitrogen gas bubbles into the foam of the shoe! So that’s a thing.

I have always been an avid promoter of Nike’s running shoes. Having being told at the tender age of 12 that my running style was “neutral” and therefore being recommended shoes such as the Nike Pegasus and Zoom, I never really considered the possibility of switching to another brand.  

However, over the last six months, I was the lucky guinea pig allowed to test Puma’s latest Deviate Nitro Spectra running shoes. 

Engage the Nitros

Puma was one of the last brands to launch a carbon-plated running shoe and judging by the performance of this new shoe, it has used its time wisely. My first impression of unpacking the new Nitros was how light they felt. The weight of this shoe has definitely been a huge benefit for those slightly longer runs where my lazy legs were struggling to pick themselves up off the ground. 

My passion for running, however, lies in short,  sweet, and sprint-style runs (around six to seven kilometres). I have a very competitive nature and must confess that I love beating my Strava PBs on a regular basis. These shoes have been amazing for these types of runs, where every shaved gram and split-second counts.  

For your health

Most notably, the Nitros offer some of the best comfort and cushioning I’ve ever encountered.  Having recently experienced mild knee issues for the first time (at the start of this year), my physio recommended testing out a shoe that offers slightly more cushioning and support. I immediately noticed the difference with the Nitros. They are comfy and supportive even if you don’t opt for fancy running socks. 

I’ve started questioning my running style, as most running shoes cause heel-rubbing on my boney heels over time — but these proved that the issue wasn’t me. I can happily confirm that the Nitros are still sparkling new and with absolutely no reported cases of heel rubbing.  

Puma Deviate Nitro Spectra Verdict

While these are the most functional pair of trainers I’ve ever owned, it’s not all about function — the Nitros are a good-looking pair of shoes. It’s fine to be most concerned about the comfort and support of a running shoe but if they’re also trendy looking, it makes the buy so much sweeter. At R4,000 they’re fairly expensive but if your needs include comfort and longevity, they become very easy to recommend.