Best Puma Running Shoes in 2024

Pros

• Comfortable ride
• Great tration
• Versatile

Cons

• Not plush feeling
• No bounce from midsole
• About 1/4 size too long

Who should buy it

Any runner of any ability would do well with this shoe. I really recommend this shoe to anyone who is looking for a versatile daily trainer that gives you plenty of cushioning for all different types of runs.

Who should not buy it

Don’t buy this shoe if you’re looking for a soft, plush feel in a max cushioned shoe. If you need a lightweight shoe, this will not do the job either.

Pros

• Price
• Responsive
• Versatile

Cons

• Narrow

Who should buy it

The runner who should buy the Velocity Nitro 3 are those who need a safe choice. A runner who does not necessarily need anything specific but rather a do it al shoe. Especially runners who can appreciate a good price when they see one. The ideal running scenario that would make the Velocity Nitro 3 shine is a 10 mile run with a few tempo miles thrown in the mix.

Who should not buy it

Runners with wide feet should not buy the Velocity Nitro 3.

Pros

• Excellent foot lockdown
• Improved heel tab
• Outstanding grip
• Durable outsole
• Softer ride

Cons

• Snug toe-box

Who should buy it

If you’re looking for a more durable training companion for the Deviate Nitro Elite or you want a versatile speed shoe for training/racing, the Deviate Nitro 2 is an excellent choice. The Deviate Nitro Elite 2 is softer and more lively than most of the plated trainers on the market.

Who should not buy it

If you like a firm ride or you have high volume feet, the Deviate Nitro 2 might not be for you. The Deviate Nitro 2 is also a relatively rigid shoe so if you like a very flexible trainer, don’t buy it.

Pros

• Buoyant midsole, smooth transition
• Breathable, cleanable, comfortable upper
• Tongue is thin yet dense (at the top) for protection
• Stability by wide heel, dual heel counter, midsole bevel
• Superb heel loop to aid entry

Cons

• Picks up an occasional rock

Who should buy it

Runners with cushion to neutral to light stability needs who are ramping up their miles will benefit from the support and cushion in this PUMA. Wear it for a wide range of daily training from speedwork to long run to recovery miles.

Who should not buy it

Skip the ForeverRun Nitro if you want a firm midfoot that resists twisting and bending under pressure—in which case, look at the adidas Boston as the ENERGYRODS hold that midfoot stiff. If you are hard on forefoot uppers this might not be your best shoe as the two thin layers of mesh may not wear well against a persistent big toe.

Pros

• Excellent foot lockdown
• Improved heel tab
• Outstanding grip
• Durable outsole
• Softer ride

Cons

• Snug toe-box

Who should buy it

If you’re looking for a more durable training companion for the Deviate Nitro Elite or you want a versatile speed shoe for training/racing, the Deviate Nitro 2 is an excellent choice. The Deviate Nitro Elite 2 is softer and more lively than most of the plated trainers on the market.

Who should not buy it

If you like a firm ride or you have high volume feet, the Deviate Nitro 2 might not be for you. The Deviate Nitro 2 is also a relatively rigid shoe so if you like a very flexible trainer, don’t buy it.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Comfortable Upper
• Responsive Sole Unit

Cons

• Occasional Tongue Rub

Who should buy it

The Puma Liberate Nitro 2 is ideal for a runner that wants to go fast!

The shoe is lightweight and has a minimal amount of cushion, yet is still quite responsive. Whether you’re wearing the PLN2s for speed work or on race day, you won’t be disappointed.

The shoe also works as a daily training for a runner that is ok with a shoe without a lot of cushioning to it.

Who should not buy it

The Puma Liberate Nitro 2 isn’t necessarily for everyone. If you prefer a supportive shoe, or a shoe with more than a minimal level of cushioning beneath your feet, you might want to take a pass on the Liberate Nitro 2.

And while I wouldn’t call this shoe exceptionally narrow, if you prefer a wide shoe or one with a foot-shaped toe box, the LN2 is also not for you.

Pros

• Outstanding durability
• Improved comfort
• Excellent grip

Cons

• Not as propulsive as competitors
• Heavier than the Deviate Elite 1
• Much more expensive than v1

Who should buy it

If you’re looking for a super shoe that you can both train and race in, the Deviate Elite 2 is first in class. It has lots of thick, durable outsole rubber and its midsole foam is incredibly resilient. It also has stable transitions because its stack height is far below the limit.

Who should not buy it

If you’re looking for a really propulsive racing shoe which offers a high level of speed assistance, the Deviate Elite 2 is not your shoe. Its relatively flexible carbon plate and soft midsole prevent it from being a top-tier racer.

Pros

• Increase in cushioning depth and softness
• Stiffer and more prominent carbon plate
• Pumagrip provides outstanding traction
• Porous, highly breathable upper

Cons

• Heavier than most racers and heavier than v1
• Decoupled heel is a bit too squishy
• No prominent forefoot rocker

Who should buy it

If the Puma Deviate Nitro Elite feels too boring or you want a racer with a more unique look/ride, the Fast-R 2 is an option. If you’re a midfoot or forefoot striker and you don’t mind a heavy racer, it’s also an option.

Who should not buy it

If you’re a heel striker or you want a light, agile, long-distance racer, the Fast-R 2 is not the shoe for you.

Pros

• Ultra durable
• Superior quality
• Great for winter conditions

Cons

• Narrow toebox
• Not breathable for hot conditions

Who should buy it

Anyone looking for a stylish trail shoe that checks several boxes should consider the Voyage NITRO 3s. Whether you’re training, racing, hiking or just enjoying outdoor adventures, this shoe will not disappoint.

Who should not buy it

I’d steer clear of these sneakers if you’re looking for a firm, low profile, racing shoe. Also, due to the all season upper material, they might be a bit warm for hot summer days.