Puma Deviate Nitro 3

[@CMDV8N3]

I absolutely love this shoe. One of the best in my 40 years of running. My take after 100+ miles is it’s a joy. Cushioned, great bounce, responsive, well made, stable, and I bought mine in white, so no giant Nitro logo. Shocked that your experience is so catastrophically negative, “I’d rather walk home barefoot.” Ouch. 7:45 But that’s the problem with shoe reviews I guess… Every individual is different - different stride, different gait, different weights and body types, different fitness levels, limitless number of pronations, toe out vs toe in, straight legged vs bow legged, stronger/weaker ankles, the list goes on and on. I do agree the lace loops and silver plastic “spoiler” on the back are question marks. Nevertheless, I plan to buy another pair.

[@SagasuRunning]

Yup…. It’s what makes what I do here on the channel complicated…. But I always try to give my unfiltered opinion about everything, good or bad. I’m glad these worked for you. 🤙🏻

[@CMDV8N3]

@@SagasuRunning I’ve had a few pairs of shoes that gave me a reaction similar to yours, Kayano 28 and Ultraboost 19, both received great reviews, but both gave me painful hotspots on outsides of feet. Donated both.

[@SagasuRunning]

@CharlesMayer-wu5rb Sometimes shoes just don’t work for one’s foot. It happens.

[@PeterRemnemark]

You just saved me 200 bucks. Have the 2nd version and love it, and was to upgrade shortly. Bought the Supernova Rise after your review and agree on every point, thus trust your outcomes very well. Thank you!

[@SagasuRunning]

Enjoy the DN2 and the SNR… once it’s time to swap out the DN2 there are plenty of great options out there beyond this one.

[@chapchappington2475]

@@SagasuRunningwhat would you recommend for the same class of shoe?

[@gtromble]

It's $160 on the Puma site. Are you confusing it with the $200+ Deviate Nitro Elite 3? Also, Puma lets you try for 30 days and return if it doesn't work for you. The "on your own foot" review is always the best one.

[@PeterRemnemark]

@@gtromble no, I don’t. Instead of me saying 2099 SEK it was easier to just say 200 bucks as reference. Different countries different rules mate.

[@wonkydonkey7899]

Puma Magnify Nitro 2 has a pretty much similar stack and same drop without a plate. I’m glad I got a pair instead of DN3.

[@jerrydooley7551]

I am loving the Deviate Nitro 3 Elite.

[@SagasuRunning]

Totally different shoe that has little to do with this one other than the name. I'm glad they work for you though! Enjoy them.

[@TimGrose]

Oh dear a shoe like the Zoom Fly 3 is not a good endorsement at all - I hated that one TBH. As you say putting a plate into a fairly firm foam just did not cut it for me. The Adizero Pro (not the Adios Pro) was kind of similar and that shoe just seemed like a desparate attempt by adidas to stay relevant in 2020 while they were working on the Adios Pro. That all said I have only bought one shoe in recent years where I literally had to turn back and swop it for something else. That was the adidas SolarGlide 4 GTX - a total brick - almost 450g for me! I only managed a slow mile before did a U-turn. Looking at my spreadsheet, I noted 4 other reviews of the Deviate Nitro 3. One Like (Alex F), 2 Neutral (EddBud, DOR) and 1 Dislike (Run Testers) so adding your Dislike would certainly put it in danger of being universally considered "Bad" - much lower scores than the Peg 41 :) That said, Deviate Nitro Elite 3 I noted 5 likes from 5 reviews with even RunTesters going from Dislike of the standard one to Like of this one. As such is it worth seeing why the Elite is seemingly so much better? I would certainly argue the Zoom Fly 3 was no "companion" to the VF1 even if Nike "sort of" tried to make out it might have been. Looks like then that Puma have also failed in that regard.

[@SagasuRunning]

To be fair, I think EddBud was referencing the original Zoom Fly in his comment. The ZF3/4 association was mine. Though...you raise another point. The OTHER shoe I thought about, during my long walks in the DN3, was the Adidas Adizero Pro. That was the last shoe I remember being as unfun and harsh to run in as the DN3. So a shoe that has direct comparisons to the ZF2/4 and AAP is really not a good thing. It's certainly not the Peg41...haha.

[@TheMirekp]

I love my Deviate Nitro 2. I wonder why the second version works for a lot of runners and the 3rd doesn't. On paper it doesn't look like a lot of changes.

[@SagasuRunning]

Actually, Yowana broke it down well (in a very long winded way) in his DN3 video. basically, the first generation is new and can be a surprise. Generation 2 just requires fixing small things and making minor updates. Generation 3 is where things can go off course as a brand feels they now need to "innovate" with the product in order to "differentiate" it. I've seen this same thing play out in many products (not shoes) in my professional life.

[@dewaynescott5114]

Thank you for the shoot straight from the hip review . Very refreshing to get a real review on a shoe

[@SagasuRunning]

Thank you for watching. 🤙🏻

[@MyFatAdaptedLife]

When I saw "Final Impression" in the thumbnail, I knew your review would dovetail with your comment on Strava. I'm glad you mentioned that the heel drop felt like 10 mm. That was convincing enough for me not to consider this shoe. Thanks, Chris.

[@SagasuRunning]

I’m glad it helped. So many better shoes to try this year, even in the same class.

[@MyFatAdaptedLife]

@@SagasuRunning indeed

[@addappt]

This shoe works well so well for me. I have 600kms in the 2's and after my first few runs in this shoe i really like it. The rocker is noticeably bigger and an upgrade and its much softer. The shoe has a lot more guidance though. You can feel it when trying to walk in the shoe. It really controls your pronation through your gait. Going back to the 2 feels dead and flat compared to this. Everyone is different.

[@SagasuRunning]

I noticed the guidance… it’s another thing I hated in this shoe. I’m glad they work for you and you are enjoying them. Everyone IS different! 🤙🏻

[@v6i838]

I bought the Elite version of this shoe. It is a very fun shoe to run in and fast with one exception. It gave me bad heel rubbing. If I can get rid of that the elite version will be great. The elite version was surprisingly long length wise, which may be related to my heel rubbing issue 🤷‍♂️ Anyhow, you’re not the first reviewer I’ve watched not be overly happy with the regular version. I also have the DN2 which I absolutely love, so will try and get another pair of them in a sale instead of buying the DN3. I’ve had absolutely no issues whatsoever with the DN2, and that one was a little shorter length wise than the elite 3

[@SagasuRunning]

Extra length will definitely cause the issue you mentioned. I'm glad the DN2 works so well for you. Enjoy them!

[@mauri.garzon]

Chris you should try the deviate nitro elite 3, here in argentina the puma athletes use them before the fast rb 2, they ran 10km in 29:15, half marathons under 1:04 and even a road mile in 4:13

[@SagasuRunning]

I did try them on in the Puma store around the time of this video and they are SO not for me. So not happening. In 2025 the only Puma I may be in is the VN4, if that. Unless they actually do release a shoe like the Adios 9 in their aliphatic TPU.

[@CharlesLately]

Wow. I must admit, it's been a while since I've seen a review with such honest and brutal takes. Having to walk back home is the worst thing that can happen to a runner. Since I have a similar gait to yours (as discussed in another video), I'll be skipping this one. Thanks for your work - it's invaluable to many serious runners out there.

[@SagasuRunning]

I've never had it happen either. Even for shoes I don't like, I can force myself to run home (to get it over with faster). In this one though...there was no way. I was bummed that this one went this way, I've been a fan of puma this year. I hope the right the ship.

[@pseudoty]

DN2 is my go to wet weather shoe and for mild trails. Definitely won’t be picking the 3 up now if it’s slippery. Thanks for taking one for the team. Oh, and nice job in the Tim Grosse video 🎉

[@SagasuRunning]

The Velocity Nitro 3 is MUCH better in the wet and trials…. Possibly the best road to trial option on the market.

[@sturmunro]

The grip on the 3 is perfect, same rubber as 2 and slightly adjusted pattern.

[@SagasuRunning]

@sturmunro PumaGrip is good, but not all that. The patent on the Velocity Nitro 3 was far better.

[@TolunayOrkun]

I wish you reviewed Deviate Nitro Elite 3 since it is supposed to be significantly different shoe, it might help restore some faith in PUMA. I have ran on several of the Nitro series shoes: Liberate OG, Velocity OG, Velocity 2, DNE OG, DN2, DNE2. Between DN2 and DNE2 there was significant performance difference. DNE2 is a lot more fun ride than DN2.

[@SagasuRunning]

Well, the ship has sailed on that one. Likely won't happen unless Puma wants to send me a pair (which I won't hold my breath for). I'll see what they are up to in 2025.

[@justoutlaw6423]

So theese feel nothing like the DN2. That's a bummer. Outsole on the DN2 is top notch. Thanks for the review.

[@SagasuRunning]

Never ran in the DN2… but these definitely have issues on their own.

[@DanielJames-ue7ms]

It seems like I have to run another 1000km with oldie DN2. I really love it and may looking forward for DN4.

[@SagasuRunning]

Hold onto those DN2s…. They seem to be the model to get this year.

[@Perry-l7m]

Puma dropped the ball big time on this one. Good thing I have another pair of DN2 sitting brand new in box. My first pair of DN2 is now 530km old, about time for retirement but is still good for treadmill work and some walking around. I felt your frustration from walking 3+km back home then another 2k a day after. It's what I experienced when my knee injury flared up. Could not run anymore, even walking was painful as I hobbled home.

[@SagasuRunning]

I've never had an injury, from running, that forced me to walk like that (only dealt with bad plantar fasciitis a few years ago). Thankfully, there were no injuries here. Just frustration with a shoe that just does not work...

[@LaughWithTheJoke]

I like your honesty. I don't like that you're writing off a whole brand because of one bad shoe. I don't know but that doesn't make sense to me. I like the DN2 and will skip version 3 for sure.

[@SagasuRunning]

Let’s break it down then. The Magnify Nitro and ForeverRun are two shoes I’d never be interested in. I’d there is a new Liberate Nitro, and it’s the supercritical TPEE foam I would be interested. The Fast-R2 and Fast-RB are shoes I’d try but would never buy (and I doubt I’ll have any type of relationship with Puma after this video). The Velocity Nitro 3 is excellent. So the Deviate Nitro 3 was a real test, that it failed. I was never really interested in the Deviate Nitro Elite 3, if the DN3 blew me away I would have been interested to try to see how their trainer/performance trainer/racer worked as a rotation…. However, the problems with the DN3 are engineering related, which gives me little faith in what they are doing…. Especially so given how “exciting” and “revolutionary” they feel what they have been working on is (when it isn’t). Additionally, one of the real interesting points about the value proposition for the brand is their use of supercritical TPEE foam (Nitro), which is a very good material with characteristics that work well for training and racing. If they are moving away from that to their supercritical EVA/PEBA blend (old Nitro Elite foam) as the new Nitro foam… which is not a good foam…. Combined with their poor engineering choices…. That isn’t a very positive outlook for the brand. Even if their new Supercritical A-TPU Nitro Elite foam is wonderful… I don’t want to waste money to find out that it’s also not for me. I hope these shoes work for some… but I think the 2024 generation is taking some of the shine off the brand since their return to running. I will keep an eye on them. Hopefully they change course into 2025 but I’m not holding my breath… I’m being honest and very direct with my thoughts here. As I will continue to be across anything I cover on the channel.

[@allfanmu]

Will you run in DN2 just to know whether your feelings are same for DN family or is it only third iteration so much messed up? Or maybe you are done with DN after this?

[@SagasuRunning]

I will rarely go back to previous generations, even when I due it's mostly due to nostalgia. So no...I think I'm done with the DN (and Puma Running) until there are some changes. I'll stick the the VN3 and enjoy it.

[@pbnotj1]

Too many agreed upon awesome trainers to try this one. I tried the 2nd version on good sale and the plate hits me weird . I can tolerate it in treadmill only . Outside I am just barely able to run in it. I love the adios pro 3 and the Boston 12 for some reason works well (not a super soft shoe). Appreciate your reviews .

[@SagasuRunning]

The Boston 12 is a MUCH better shoe. The midsole (and stiffness) work to perfection and Adidas engineering nailed the layup of foams to near perfection (for a trainer). Same can be said about many other shoes. This one was just a miss...it happens....however it's a bummer that it had to happen on such a popular shoe.

[@minimumtrade]

DN2 was definitely 5.5-6mm drop. It's a narrow shoe. And you felt this DN3 felt 10mm like the Peg? DN2 Elite foam i believe was 100% at the ball of the foot. Maybe they knew it sucked so ensured the Elite tag was removed on the shoe? Glad I got some runout DN2 before this vid.

[@SagasuRunning]

Todd from Puma explained that they featured "Nitro" only on this shoe as "Nitro" is meant to be their training hero...while "Nitro Elite" is their racing hero. Thats all well and good, but it seems like a misstep and marketing speak. Especially when one of the primary selling points for the DN2 was the Nitro Elite foam in a "everyday racer". The comments of the DN3 were absolutely brutal initially until it was clear there was still Nitro Elite in the shoe... It is a big marketing and messaging miss here.

[@thetruth9974]

Thanks for your thorough and honest assessment. I was wondering if you have you tried the Puma Magnify Nitro 2? I found Pumas too narrow in the midfoot and forefoot regions.

[@SagasuRunning]

I have not and likely won’t. Pumas certainly do seem narrow in their lasts overall. So I’d agree with your assessment.

[@thetruth9974]

@@SagasuRunning Thanks a lot.

[@atlasthegracious]

Of the Puma shoes I have tested (which is Deviate 2, Velocity 2-3, foreverrun) the Magnify Nitro 2 is the one with most roomy fit. A bit too roomy for my taste, also fit a tad long. Perhaps can work if you feel the Velocity being too narrow. Not sure if it helps, off course best to try out for yourself 🙂. @thetruth9974

[@thetruth9974]

@@atlasthegracious Thanks for your advice. It is such a hassle constantly ordering shoes and having to return them because they were too narrow for my feet. I have wide/extra wide feet and have not run for more than 22 years now! I would like to get back into it and for the time being, I am looking to for a pair of running shoes for walks. I have been happy with Nimbus so far but the issue is that I cannot find wide, comfortable and stylish running shoes in the UK. We have very little choice here. Wider versions are offered in very boring colourways only; often black.

[@atlasthegracious]

@@thetruth9974 It can be challenging to find the right shoe with the right fit. Difficult to say if the Magnify could fit you. Its not miles wider than any of the other Puma shoes, but definitely a bit more roomy. However If you can find it in a local shop or from a website with good return policy it might be worth a try. Otherwise brands like New Balance often offer different widths of their shoes. Saw that they had a sale at their website now. Hope you'll find a gret shoe for you! Puma or other 🙂

[@nickwalker8975]

The DN2 was well liked, but I always felt like the Speed 3 and/or and the Boston 12 were preferred by most. For me, the DN2 was just one of those shoes that suited my needs perfectly and I should have stocked up on them when I had the chance. I use the DN2 mostly for faster sessions and races on non-technical trails so when they die, I'll likely use the DNE2 for these purposes and possibly get the DNE3 for my key races. The Brooks Hyperion Max 2 sounds like another alternative or possibly the ASICS Magic Speed 4, I just don't know how they will perform offroad. It does worry me where Puma is headed with their trainers. I really like the Velocity 3 (I have 320 km on them so far and I intend to get them to the advertised 800 km) but, if I'm being honest, I prefer version 2 (1,200 km over two pairs and the second pair is still going for selected runs). The midsole was more flexible, the upper far more comfortable, it felt grippier and it looked better. I could be wrong, but version 2 also felt better at faster paces. Version 3 is still great for my easy/aerobic pace and recovery runs, it just seems very different to version 2, which makes me nervous about version 4.

[@SagasuRunning]

I’m also very nervous about the VN4… it’s such a good shoe I really don’t want them to “innovate” on it…. 🤞🏻🤞🏻🤞🏻

[@OSUCarol]

I never got on with Deviate Nitro 2 for similar reasons to what you describe as issues with this shoe: the stiff plate + Nitro foam undermines the Nitro elite foam for me. And the Puma toebox taper has turned me off from trying a lot of their shoes. I'm still somewhat intrigued by the DNE3 and the new ATPU foam, but even the positive reviews (BITR) indicate stability and discomfort issues for runs over an hour...

[@SagasuRunning]

I watched the BITR review and it didn't strike me as overly positive on the DNE3. The issue for both the DN3 and the DNE3 is they are entering crowded product categories with some real superstar shoes. In the tempo trainer/super trainer (which is what the DN3 is) category there are 2 or 3 clearly better shoes. For the super shoe category there are 4-5 VERY dominant shoes that are in another league right now that are hard to touch. Puma needs to iterate to get there. Sure they have 3 generations in right now.... but they aren't going to nail it exactly right everytime. The A-TPU for tech is the most interesting thing they are doing. It's an interesting material choice, compared to the rest of the industry. The manufacture is nothing different than what Adidas is already doing in the Evo 1...though it seems they have controlled costs, which is part of what the A-TPU brings to the table, but also it speaks to some of the processes they are doing (and maybe not doing). I'd love to know more about this program...but is seems like it is shaded in mystery.

[@binhck]

I started running 5 months ago with only one pair of Pegasus 40 until now. I'm at the pace of 6:30"/km for an easy run. Recently, the Pegasus seems to not handle the fast tempo and long run very well. I'm looking for a pair as the rotation with the Pegasus and think of this Nitro 3 and Adidas Boston 12. Which one do you recommend me?

[@SagasuRunning]

Coming from. Pegasus, and looking to rotate with the Pegasus, I’d recommend looking at the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 instead. It will work much more naturally with the Pegasus and give a faster and more versatile shoe.

[@binhck]

@@SagasuRunning thanks mate. So the Boston 12 will not work well for my situation? I like the look of it and also heard that it’s a stable one that can last for long. And the B12 is cheaper vs the Saucony Speed 4 at my place

[@SagasuRunning]

The B12 will work fine. Good shoe. But will feel WAY different than the Pegasus. Like night and day. The ES4 is a great natural extension of a Pegasus. Both will work well. Great shoes, both of them. The two best plated performance trainers you can buy.

[@binhck]

@@SagasuRunning Understand it's night and day between the B12 and Pegasus, maybe it's the reason to try? Pegasus is the first and only shoes I tried so far. The question is whether B12 works for a 5-month beginner runner like me? (pace 6:30"/km, 7km everyday plus a long run at the weekend)

[@SagasuRunning]

@binhck It will be fine for you. You can likely find deals on it too. I have a lot of B12 content on the channel so you can understand the shoe. I still would recommend the ES4…

[@theghostofpcs2391]

That's a shame! Your story reminds me of my experience with the Boston 12, and when you mentioned the Zoom fly 4 (which I liked slightly better than the Boston, but had similar issues), it just made the shoe sound really bad. I have both the VN2 and the DN2, and like the DN2 way more than the VN2 (which I prefer more for walking than running). But even the DN2 is a fairly rigid shoe, that can be quite unforgiving at easy pace. If I have any calf niggles, I'm not touching them. It's a great tempo/threshold cruiser though.

[@SagasuRunning]

To be fair, the DN3 isn't as much of a brick as the ZF3/4...but it's close. The super rigid heel and midfoot with a "not really there" forefoot plate is a very odd feel. That contributes to a lot of the issues with this shoe, beyond the foams.

[@theghostofpcs2391]

@@SagasuRunning I don't think you would have liked the DN2 either. That shoe also doesn't have a fast, snappy feeling, like you'd get from an Endorphin Speed 2.

[@SagasuRunning]

@@theghostofpcs2391 Funny you should mention the Endorphin Speed... You'll enjoy my next video...

[@theghostofpcs2391]

@@SagasuRunning I usually enjoy your videos, even though I'll probably never run in a Pegasus again!

[@SagasuRunning]

Hahaha. To each their own, right? Hopefully my content is diverse enough you’ll continue to find something interesting here.

[@FLX097]

Would you recommend this shoe for heavier (85KG+) runners as they are able to put more energy into the shoe?

[@SagasuRunning]

Absolutely not. You are going to crush the Nitro Elite foam faster and the shoe will be more problematic. If you must go with Puma go for the Velocity Nitro 3 over this. if you want a stiffer plated shoe for tempo running look at the Adidas Boston 12...which will hold up to a heavier runner putting alot of force into it.

[@FLX097]

@@SagasuRunning Thanks so much for your insights!

[@robertoflores2786]

I wonder if they changed the nitro elite foam in the deviate nitro 2 from the deviate nitro elite 2 because I have 100 miles in mine and i think it’s quite bouncy and responsive.

[@SagasuRunning]

From those reviews I have watched and read on the DN3...people do note the Nitro Elite foam feels very different in the DN3 over the DN2. EddBud's review gets into it some as well.

[@GEGoogle]

I had the same feeling of working more for the same run on my deviate nitro 2 compared to Boston 12 and even Triumph 21

[@SagasuRunning]

Interesting to know it went back to the DN2 for some people.

[@elliotendures]

I’ve always felt like I’m missing out on Puma. They’re typically too narrow for me to even consider and was finally going to try this one in the wide fit. Thanks for the save.

[@SagasuRunning]

Try the VN3 in wide…. It’s a much better experience. Excellent shoe.

[@hernan0201]

Is the performance fit of DN3 similar to the fit of Velocity Nitro 3?

[@SagasuRunning]

The DN3 fits tighter. I'd consider the VN3 a proper training fit. So even less volume, same narrow width.

[@owendawson5424]

Is there anyway you could try out the Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 because apparently as you may know the regular version, the one you reviewed is pretty horrible, but the elite version is supposed to be much, much better, maybe even a contender against the sky paris, the vaporfly 2, and the endorphin pro 4. Supposedly its the best light trail racing 5k shoe for a dirt/gravel/sand/hilly course.

[@SagasuRunning]

The ship has sailed on me trying the DNE3, it's not a shoe I'm interested in or will ever use for anything. I will try Puma's A-TPU foam (new Nitro Elite foam) in 2025. There is a shoe I'm very interested in that I've heard rumors of with that foam. We will see if they announce it at TRE next month.

[@owendawson5424]

@@SagasuRunning Fair enough, the regular version did sound pretty terrible, can't wait for your next video.

[@dukeofcebu]

have both dn2 and dn3. your review is correct dn3 is like a toned down version of dn2. if you can find on sale dn2 is a no brainer. lastly dn3 is so narrow i go sized up.

[@SagasuRunning]

🎯

[@macoyupadoodle]

I like the 2 so much i have 2 pairs , i was going to skip this unless it was much better . The elite is what i just might

[@SagasuRunning]

Enjoy those DN2s then...sounds like you have a shoe you love. Maybe check the DNE3 out after a bit of time and longer term reviews start coming out.

[@robertarmero6320]

This show is getting a lot of flack but personally I like over v2. In both v2 and this shoe you have to break in the foam and the plate to really bring to life. I find myself running faster than normal in this shoe and overall feeling less effort. So much of these things come down to personal preference but I have a bad feeling this shoe isn’t going to get much credit even tho I think it’s actually quite good.

[@SagasuRunning]

I'm glad it is working for you and you are enjoying it. Seriously, it's a beautifully made shoe. I'm well aware of the break in period needed, but after 20-25k I should start feeling it trending in that direction, which I don't. The VN3 took 40k to really come into it's own (which was both the Nitro foam and EVA carrier) and after that it was totally different. Unfortunately, even if I put that time into this shoe I'd still have the issue with the Nitro Elite foam not being very good. That compliance/no resiliency is only going to get worst the more the foam is used...

[@robertarmero6320]

@@SagasuRunning yea v2 deviate nitro took me about 50 miles to break in, and I’m a heavier runner too. What I did find about v2 that I hope isn’t the case for v3 is that after a while the foam actually became too soft and the plate lost its stiffness and the shoe became unstable for me. I didn’t really have much loss of energy but I did give up on the shoe once it started to hurt my Achilles. Guess we will see how v3 goes

[@SagasuRunning]

I heard that softening foam or foam going flat issue often with the VN2 and DN2. In my VN3 I’ve not noticed any foam changes, though the shoe did loosen up after breakin, but since it’s been consistent. I won’t spend anymore time in the DN3 so I won’t get it there to find out. I suspect the Nitro Elite foam in the shoe won’t hold up though…

[@LiveYoung0]

How about Deviate Nitro Elite 3? Do you recommend that one?

[@SagasuRunning]

Sadly, beyond the Velocity Nitro 3...I can't recommend a Puma running shoe at this moment. I know people are having success with them...but not for me. (The DNE3 is also a super shoe, a VERY different class and use case of she than the DN3)

[@insomniaforever6444]

Great information regarding the different foams being used in the Velocity Nitro 3 vs Deviate Nitro 3. I didn't know that. I have the Velocity Nitro 3 and the Deviate Nitro 2 (not 3) and enjoy both shoes. Based on your review and others, I'll leave the DN3 on the shop shelf. I'm also in the camp of not loving the loudish designs and comsmetic additions to this year's Puma shoes. They've deviated (pun intended) from pure functionality which is disappointing to see. That silly lace loop is just plain silly! I did purchase the DN3 Elite the other day so I am hoping this will be a very good race day shoe option.

[@SagasuRunning]

The DNE3 upper is very clean, not silly additions on that that are not functional. Lots of design restraint on that one.

[@6LJOE]

DN2 is best right now because the sale just drop the price about $100

[@SagasuRunning]

Get them while they are hot (or can). It seems there may be an unexpected demand for the DN2 this year.

[@patrickvillaveza8305]

I ran this on my first half marathon, It’s not that comfortable for long runs or not responsive enough for a runner aiming for new PR but it’s good enough for both speed and daily run

[@SagasuRunning]

I mean... to be fair to the DN3...it isn't a race shoe. it's not meant for pushing a PR, that is the DNE3... but neither would be my choice for a PR anyway.

[@francescobroggini7657]

Despite the price, I don't see why prefer this over the Elite version.

[@SagasuRunning]

One is a trainer and one is a racer... that is the marketing reason. However, I too can't see why one would not pick the DNE3 at this point. It is the same issue Nike has with the Vaporfly and Zoom Fly... there is rarely a world where the ZF is the better choice than a VF...

[@hommefield9612]

After seeing you give the DN3 a fair shake, I’m now curious as to why Rebel v4 didn’t get an First Impression video. Seems like the most of the content creators on YT that I’ve seen had good things to say about the shoe.

[@SagasuRunning]

Because, unlike the DN3, the fit of the Rv4 was absolutely atrocious and the foam a total spongey mess. The DN3 fits very well and on foot, jogging in place and rocking back and forth in the store...feels fine. I knew the Rv4 was a mess from simply trying it on. However, the DN3 was deceptive and didnt show it's true colors until the run. Additionally... for whatever reason, other than a few pairs of standard width Rv$s available on release day, NB decided to send Taiwan ONLY wides of most of their 2024 shoes, which is absolutely ridiculous given how abnormally wide the standard widths already are across the line.

[@hommefield9612]

@@SagasuRunning Fair enough 👍

[@deks440]

Legendary review, watched the dismantling 3 times. The shoe seems like a disgrace to humanity

[@SagasuRunning]

I mean it’s bad… a disgrace even… but to humanity… that’s harsh. 😂

[@mreuphonium]

I did my 1st workout in the Elie 3 yesterday (2 km tempo and 10 x 400m) It was a good workout and they felt natural and fast. Also tried the New sky and edge recenntly , and prefer the New pumas . Had to work a bit to much in the Asics . Gonna run a parkrun in them Saturday. We ll see! Thank you for the interesting review of the non elite version.. you should trie the elite , the are superb

[@SagasuRunning]

At this point, it's VERY unlikely. I will try the DNE3 on if I see it in a Puma store...but it's got a big mountain to climb. I'm glad they are working so well for you though. Enjoy them!

[@mreuphonium]

Thank you very much

[@TheValonquar]

5k 10k PR in the elite version. Fantastic shoe.

[@SagasuRunning]

Totally different shoe with almost nothing in common with this one, other than the name...

[@TheValonquar]

@@SagasuRunning I know...any plans to try it?

[@SagasuRunning]

None…

[@stevros48]

Did you ever get back in these shoes Chris ?

[@SagasuRunning]

Nope...they will never be on my feet again...and Puma running in general has a large hill to climb.

[@stevros48]

@SagasuRunning also Chris it seems shoe company's are afraid to keep things the same ...sometimes it's change for the sake of change even if it's for the worse ... Asics do it a lot ... The magic speed 4 isn't even the same type of shoe as the 3 ...

[@SagasuRunning]

@stevros48 I have a whole video ranting about the MS4…. 🤣 trust me… I know.

[@mtmatt6111]

Highly recommend the Puma Magnify Nitro 2 - fantastic shoe albeit with a warm upper.

[@SagasuRunning]

I'm done with Puma for 2024. I'll see what they change for 2025 later this year.

[@cedricgrandseigne]

I just got the Magnify 2 "tech", which has a more breathable, and snugger upper: I've put my regular Magnify 2 in the closet until next winter.

[@karls8989]

I have been thoroughly disappointed with puma this year. I will be running my deviate nitro 2 into the ground. The lug pattern in the v2 was so much better.

[@SagasuRunning]

The VN3 is very good… but the rest of the line seems to be edge cases.

[@Lepique12]

​@@SagasuRunningForeverRun still will be one of the best daily trainers :)

[@karls8989]

@@SagasuRunning again for me the VN3 was a step back vs V2. But outside of race day their daily offerings this year have gone down

[@SagasuRunning]

They sure seem to have. I have no context for the VN2, I wanted to come into the brand fresh this year and am currently and even 1-1….

[@karls8989]

@@SagasuRunning i went and actually picked up the deviate nitro 3 and i could not disagree with your take more. as someone who ran in the 2 this shoe performs as good if not better. my legs feel refreshed, i am able to drop the pace down and ease off and grip has been great. i have had NONE of the issues you have had and BITR and Fordy Runs got this more right than you Chris.

[@rorydelapaz4083]

It's a bummer that this is not a better version of the Deviate Nitro 2. Now I wish I stockpiled a couple more of those in wide. I'll look into the Brooks Hyperion Max 2 or maybe even just the Brooks Hyperion 2!

[@SagasuRunning]

DN2s are still pretty available. You can definitely grab a pair or two now....but I don't think that will last very long. It seems the DN2 will be in demand this year.

[@cedricgrandseigne]

I don't know what foam is used in DN3, but Nitro Elite foam is comfy and bouncy, and it feels great in DN2, DNE2, and FastR. Your experience with DN3 sounds extreme compared to the other reviews I've seen, I'm a bit puzzled.

[@SagasuRunning]

The two foams are there SC TPEE Nitro and the SC PEBA blend Nitro (above the plate). I'm a fan of the SC TPEE formula...but the issue here for me is the SC PEBA blend and the horrible plate dynamics/engineering. Some shoes work (for you)...others don't. This was an extreme case but it happens.

[@cedricgrandseigne]

@@SagasuRunning I do think your DN3 are too short of a full size, which makes the rocker, and the plate lever act too soon in the foot roll.

[@SagasuRunning]

I did go to the Puma store and try on a half size larger after I recorded this, as someone else suggested this to me, I ran in place for about 45sec…. And the shoe felt just as awful underfoot AND now the upper fit was sloppy and too big. So that wasn’t the issue for me. Thank you for the suggestion though. I appreciate it.

[@michaelcaricoo]

Oof. Thats a damning review. I never cared for the DN2 as others have but this is concerning. I just dont understand some of Pumas decisions. With most brands I/we can sit down and look at the decisions theyre making and try and figure it out but I dont understand why they make changes like this, and then even worse try to downplay it in all the interviews as Todd has done with the "not much has changed" that he repeatedly said. I want them to do better because I think theyre capable of it

[@SagasuRunning]

100% agree. You nailed my core frustration here! While I didn't run in the DN2, I did try it on and have handled it multiple times in the store. It feels nothing like the DN3. Sure there are similarities, but also massive differences. Alot changed between the shoes. It's almost as they are try to sweep that one under the rug and shift ALL focus on the Deviate Nitro Elite 3 and it's journey to the Olympics. Every interview has been about that shoe, even when it's not been about that shoe, it inevitably comes up. I appreciate that Puma Running is out there, trying different approaches with some of their shoes. It just would be nice if they focused that same attention on their everyday models and didn''t just "phone it in" on them...

[@Hana_shorts8436]

Good One Chris, I have DN2, no idea to get DN3 after watching this review.

[@SagasuRunning]

So many better options than this when it’s time to change those DN2s (and if you can’t find anymore).

[@danielchen9222]

DN2 is great. I ran 500 plus K in it. No problem at all.

[@SagasuRunning]

The DN2 is not the DN3…

[@SaschaRobitzki]

I didn't feel any energy return in v2 and v1 either. The previous two versions felt like dead bricks, very clunky.

[@SagasuRunning]

I definitely have that feeling with the DN3, frustratingly so.

[@Nivek_Fartswamy]

I like the DN2 but agree that the midsole and plate doesn't provide much propulsion.

[@wonkydonkey7899]

Magnify nitro 2 is basically the non-plate version of DN3, which would have been your better choice.

[@SagasuRunning]

Not sure I see the relationship. The MN2 is a last generation cushioned trainer. Very different shoe in purpose and design.

[@PluckyLuke]

Hi Chris 👋 New subscriber here, and I'm really enjoying your reviews, knowledge and informative videos - thank you! I'm glad I watched this video as I have run in both the DN and DN2. Over 2000km in V1 and about 800km in V2. As someone who can only afford one shoe for everything I think they have served me well. I say think because now I am not so sure, having developed consistent achilles/calf pain which does not seem to go away... Trending into knee pain now too. I'm starting to wonder if the issue is running in plated shoes? Prior to running in DNs I ran in 3 versions of Pegasus and was very happy with no issues, but I - like many I'm sure - seem to have been swept up in the 'must have a plated shoe' craze. I'm starting to think that maybe these shoes are completely unnecessary and maybe even detrimental to average, man-on-the-street runners. My question to you is: could you perhaps make a video highlighting plated shoes, what they should be used for, should they be used as daily trainers, what are the possible issues etc? For context, I'm happiest at about 6 mins/km and max out at 5 mins/km. Again, thank you for the great content 🤜🏃

[@SagasuRunning]

Welcome to the channel. I’ve kind of made this video, in multiple videos last fall talking about my marathon build. However, I am working on a few things more specific. One video out this month talking about plated shoe efficiency. In the fall I’ll have some content around trainers and training in types of shoes and why. I would bet, if you are only running in a single shoe, and that shoe is plated…. That’s a big part of your issues. It could be any number of other things, including worn out shoes (2000k and 800k are ALOT of time in shoes…. They often they are not designed to do)…. But I’d try a non plated shoe and see how your problems deal with it.

[@PluckyLuke]

@@SagasuRunning thanks for the reply. I'm slowly working through your older content so hope to find those videos soon 😊 Yeah, my shoes need to last at the cost of new shoes - I just can't afford new ones two or three times a year. Once a year for me, but I guess that can cause issues too. Thanks again, and thanks again for the great content!

[@WilliamStorey-i1e]

I have similar problems with many carbon shoes. can't do fast running in them. I had Deviate Elite 2, nice for easy jog, but terrible for 1km reps

[@SagasuRunning]

Odd. So many non plated shoes will do a jog so much better (and better for your feet). I can say the DN3 is not great for jogging…. At all.

[@WilliamStorey-i1e]

@@SagasuRunning problem might be, that carbon shoes are stiff and rockered. with non rocker racing flats my feet is nicely flexing and achilles gives lot of power. yesterday tried to run 3km threshold with nike tempo next%. simply couldn't do that. Today will try old achool Adios 3 from 2018

[@SagasuRunning]

That IS the issue. Though it still shouldn’t limit you from running fast. The fact you value natural foot movement in an old style flat is great. Many don’t value that anymore.

[@WilliamStorey-i1e]

@@SagasuRunning yes, it is strange. I raced 10k in Asics metaspeed edge+, shoe and run felt good, but time was slow, 2 min off pb. then week later I did 5k race in Puma Liberate Nitro from 2021. super flexible shoe with no tech. I was just 4s off pb, despite run feeling lot harder.

[@WilliamStorey-i1e]

also, I had streakfly and I could run fast in them, much better than Vaporfly. Other runners prefer Vaporfly

[@Guillermohistoriador999]

Bro, you are not hunger for speed. Those shoes are amazing for intrepid people.

[@SagasuRunning]

There are far faster and more engaging shoes out there, even in this class.

[@i.p2088]

I must be in the only one that loves the Alphafly V2.. Trying to stock up 😂

[@SagasuRunning]

You may be...hahaha. Which means you can REALLY stock up. If you write Nike and email I bet they might even send you a crate of them. 🤣

[@brianreiter5572]

Wow

[@SagasuRunning]

?

[@brianreiter5572]

Wow it’s not good. Wow unafraid to call a miss. The straight dope.

[@SagasuRunning]

@brianreiter5572 @brianreiter5572 I mean… when something doesn’t work… I’ll point that out. It is why I said (repeatedly) “for me”… but in this case I do think it will be many. Spades need to be called spades…. When they are.

[@johnwilampo]

most of the people reviewing this shoe or (any Puma shoe) doesn't really know the function of that rear plastic fin, w/c is kind of odd. it's actually very useful & functional. lol

[@SagasuRunning]

It’s the training between the unstructured achilles flare and the structure heel counter. When doesn’t make sense is why it is external to the shoe.

[@MiracleWarriors]

From Puma I will wait to see if they launch the next version of the Magnify this year. The version 2 I did not have, but seems similar to the old Saucony Triumph 20&21 and the new Mizuno Wave Sky 8 : lightweight high cushioning shoes that are much more versatile then most high cushioning shoes on the market.

[@SagasuRunning]

Agree fully with your point! Well said. 👏🏻

[@MiracleWarriors]

They just did launch the new Magnify, it is called MagMax. It seems it has a good bounce not too far from the Invincible 3 bounce. But it is a huge and might have lost the versatility and agility of the Magnify Nitro 2 had .

[@SagasuRunning]

This is a whole class of shoes I no longer see myself running in… but weight and versatility still need to be considerations.

[@yausa]

Im hoping you could make one with the deviate nitro 2 then a why the 2 worked and the 3 didn't :)

[@SagasuRunning]

I won’t be going back and covering the older model. Sorry. I never ran in it so I have no perspective. All I know is the DN3 did not work for me.

[@yausa]

@@SagasuRunning dont be sorry , good to know and thanks for the reply, keep up the good work i love watching your videos and how very very veeeeerrryy infromative they are 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@robinsonlopes8216]

Please review the deviate nitro elite!

[@SagasuRunning]

Won't be happening. I'm done with Puma for 2024...we will see if anything changes for 2025.

[@moschato]

Did they not agree to send you a free pair? 😂

[@SagasuRunning]

Cute...

[@sturmunro]

This is one of the craziest reviews I've watched. Talk about a hot take after one run... a proper review takes a decent amount of mileage to break the shoes in. I've got a pair of these and they're great! Tons of cushion, pop and comfort for workouts or daily miles (5.15min/km down to 3min/km). The grip is superb.

[@SagasuRunning]

Much more than one run. I tried three runs, with the same result… couldn’t even be bothered with a 4th because the shoe wasn’t worth the time. Even if this shoe worked for me it’s not a type I spend much time in. Far better options out there as well. I’m glad they worked for you.

[@user-qc6mo7tr7c]

Is it just me, or are all brands going for a 10 or 8mm drop these days! As a mid-to-forefoot striker I am getting worried that the brands are all fixated on making ALL their shoes "enjoyable" for the masses, and in the process are losing that special sauce that made tempo trainers such good training partners for your racing shoes.

[@SagasuRunning]

I've actually seen the opposite. Many more 6-8mm drop shoes out there form brands like Nike who would only ever do 10mm drops in the past. Also with the compressive foams we have in 2024, drop is just a reference starting point. As a forefoot striker, I have no issue running in a 10mm drop shoe (unless there is massive heel flare, even then I just get a little extra wear). I do prefer 6-8mm drops though if given a choice...

[@mrgrant7067]

Puma are like goldllocks

[@SagasuRunning]

Lol...well said. 🤣

[@joandomar1]

A las Magic Speed 4 les ha pasado lo mismo !!

[@SagasuRunning]

Sí, otra tragedia. ¡Posiblemente, incluso peor!

[@pstltv]

It's as sad as possible to hear all this. Of course, it's not that I didn't like the sneakers. This is not surprising. But the fact that you won't try others, especially Elite 3, is incredibly upsetting. Most of all, I was waiting for your opinion on them. and comparisons with another supershoes😔😔😔.

[@SagasuRunning]

Sorry...I really wasn't that interested in the Elite 3 but was going to give them a chance...but now, I have zero desire too. I'll see what they do with them next year. I have enough super shoes to work on at the moment. I don't need another. There is some super shoe testing content coming on the channel next month.

[@skobodabaws8946]

seems like a disappointment,I'm just enjoying DN2 at the moment !

[@SagasuRunning]

Stick to them if you love them. I think there will be many people doing this.

[@onesleepyboii]

puma going from the best 2023 versatile shoe to a mid shoes in 2024.

[@SagasuRunning]

📉

[@davidlynch9049]

I got this one a month before it was released - European country released it early when they shouldn't. I have 150 km on it. It's 10 mm drop. You can go to the Running Warehouse review that I think confirms the drop. My entire 6 running rotation is Puma for the last 2 years. The ride is fairly similar to the version 2. I don't get your outsole review because it's as good as the previous version from my experience. I hate what Puma did the heel. The counter is weak and the shark fin thingy is a silly mistake that does nothing for me. The heel fit is bad. I never use the runners loop, but have to with this one. It fixes the heel slip, but my daily trainer is the velocity 3 which has an excellent heel fit and no need to do the runners loop. The lower counter is not great. The heel is the weakest part of the shoe. As for feel, it's not dramatically different than version 2 other than it's heavier, which is another strange thing Puma did. I don't see the reason to make it heavier. I guess some people will care about the giant logo, but it's inconsequential unless you are concerned about look over performance. I will continue to use it, but not daily. It's not a step up from version 2. Comparing the elite foam to a daily trainer doesn't seem wise. They do different things. The Deviate 3s are daily trainers. I don't hate the ride, but prefer the Velocity 3s. Honestly, I don't think you are experienced enough with Puma shoes to review their race shoes, so probably a good decision. Thanks for your thoughts.

[@SagasuRunning]

I’m just reporting on what I feel in the shoe. The outsole was a surprise for me as well. I expected a lot, based on my experience from the VN3. I don’t think one needs “experience” with a specific brands to form an opinion. You need to start somewhere. I’ve run a long time and in many shoes and super shoes… to have a frame of reference. Bringing they to a new product line is how you do it. As for the top end super foam…. It makes sense that the top tier race shoes get the top end foam and the mid tier shoes get the next tier down. Most brands do that. What I’m concerned about is the move from the supercritical TPEE foam to supercritical EVA/PEBA AS “Nitro” foam. That’s going to change product line a lot.

[@davidlynch9049]

Sure, but it would have made a better video if you had experience in the last version. And, yes, every runner is different and will have opinions about the shoes they run in. This really is a decent daily trainer with some issues, but mixing it up with a race shoe is not helpful. Cheers.

[@SagasuRunning]

I actually agree. But I have to start somewhere. Next year if I cover the DN4 I’ll have a frame of reference. 🤙🏻

[@metalsadman]

glad i have 2 pairs of dn2 love this shoes, when i heard this was narrow was a deal breaker for me, was planning to also get dne3 but it's the same narrow as this so also pass on that show glad alphafly 3 have stocks again on my size just ordered that one instead since I love vaporfly3. hearing it loose grip just justify me passing on this. do better puma zzz.

[@SagasuRunning]

Glad you have the shoes you like then. Enjoy them all! 🤙🏻

[@i.p2088]

I have the Deviate Nitro 2 and Deviate Nitro Elite 2. Deviate Nitro 2 is just boring and rocker is terrible. Heavy for fast runs and to unstable for slow runs.. I used them for offroad only. Deviate nitro elite 2 just narrow.. Bad rocker and energy return dies after 10 miles or so..

[@SagasuRunning]

I found similar things to you, in much shorter runs. The plate geometry just does not work...at all.

[@TimGrose]

Watches a few seconds, notes Dislike. I "like" these videos as cuts to the chase straight away but I will watch on to find out why.

[@SagasuRunning]

One of the things that was engrained in me by a creative director I deeply respected, back in my agency days, was to give the client the answer at the beginning of the presentation and they use the rest of the time to back it up and explain why/how you got there.

[@mfcc1084]

That's a pretty bold statement to say that a lot of people will not like this shoe 😅. Based on my initial runs, this shoe works for me as a daily trainer and an uptempo/tempo run shoe. This is, for me, NOT a long run and race-day shoe. I think if this has a little lower stack, it would have been a better shoe for me. I'll go back to this comment to see if my opinions will change as I get in more miles in this shoe. So far the shoe is getting the job done.

[@SagasuRunning]

I'm sure there will be (and have been) some who enjoyed this shoe, but overall the DN2 seems like the one more people prefer.

[@philippepemonge3861]

dommage le NITRO écrit en gros sur la chaussures , ça gâche le design de cette belle chaussure !

[@SagasuRunning]

💯

[@jeffreywong8892]

I bought my DN3 because it was the shoe of the year of another shoetuber. When I ran on it, it was the first time in my life I was not happy with that shoe. Too rigid and painful on the plantars. No energy return. I don't get why others like this shoe

[@SagasuRunning]

I don't get it either... 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@27泓佑劉]

Welp, another pair of dn2s it is

[@SagasuRunning]

If you loved them… that seems like the way.

[@alb.1911]

A tragedy 😂

[@SagasuRunning]

...with alot of walking.

[@dynamike9248]

That shark fin is hideous, can't fathom why puma managed to let the fast r aesthetics creep into this line.

[@SagasuRunning]

I think those aesthetics are “puma aesthetics”…. That why I said they do loud and garish, as a brand, very well. The DNE3 is very clean though… so they controlled themselves there.

[@LeonardodiCastroMedeiros]

Parece ser um tenis muito bom e muito bonito porem a versao 2 a puma caprichou mais que nesse. Foi um retrocesso

[@SagasuRunning]

Concordo. Parece um grande passo para trás.

[@i.p2088]

So refreshing to hear a NEGATIVE review 🎉🎉🎉🎉 Kafuzi and Co. Will need to get drunk to have the courage to give a negative review.

[@SagasuRunning]

🤣

[@heickc]

DN3 is too stiff. Thanks for your truth experience sharing and I would rather opt for VN3 and save some $.❤

[@SagasuRunning]

The VN3 is the better option anyway. Great shoe!