PUMA Men's Running Shoes

What NITRO means in a PUMA name

NITROFOAM is PUMA's nitrogen-injected midsole foam. PUMA describes it as responsive and cushioned. Each model on this page uses it.

The outsole differs by model. Velocity Nitro 5 and Deviate Nitro 4 use PUMAGRIP, a rubber compound PUMA designed for traction on all surfaces.

Velocity Nitro 5 for daily runs

PUMA built it for daily road running, at any pace and distance. Cushioning is rated medium. The drop is 8 mm, and the shoe is listed for runners with neutral pronation.

A Gore-Tex version, the Velocity Nitro 5 GTX, is listed separately. Earlier versions, the Velocity Nitro 3 and 4, are also on this page.

Deviate Nitro 4 or Deviate Pure Nitro?

On paper the two look alike. Both have a 38 mm heel, a 30 mm forefoot and an 8 mm drop. The difference is the plate.

Deviate Nitro 4 has a PWRPLATE carbon-fibre plate. PUMA says it gives a dynamic push. PWRTAPE reinforces the upper. PUMA rates its cushioning higher than the Pure's. Listed weight: 250 g in size 42.

Deviate Pure Nitro has no plate. It relies on NITROFOAM and a flexible feel, with medium cushioning. Listed weight: 220 g in size 42.

Both are road shoes for daily running. Try the plate if you like a propulsive ride. Choose the Pure if you prefer a lighter shoe that bends with the foot.

Magnify Nitro 3 for comfort

PUMA's comfort model, with extra NITROFOAM and a breathable mesh upper. It is made for runs where softness and support count. The stack is 40 mm at the heel and 30 mm at the forefoot.

Why it matters: the Magnify has a 10 mm drop. The other models described here have 8 mm. Moving between them is a small change. Keep the first runs short anyway.

Listed weight: 260 g in UK 8. Recommended for runners with neutral pronation.

How long does a pair last?

PUMA gives an average lifespan of about 800 km for the Velocity Nitro 5, Deviate Nitro 4 and Deviate Pure Nitro. Log your kilometres from the first run. It tells you when to start looking for the next pair.