Puma Deviate Nitro 2 Runphoria Review: Hitting the Road in Run Puma’s Newest Running Shoe
When it comes to delivering running shoes, Puma is determined to give consumers more. More options, more tech, and more responsiveness. The latest release from the Run Puma lineup proves once again what a formidable force the German brand is becoming in the world of running.
Dropping the newest update to the popular Deviate running shoes, Puma’s Deviate Nitro 2 Runphoria is said to be more responsive than its award-winning predecessor, with a few minor tweaks to make it an accessible yet effective shoe for just about any type of runner.
To achieve the improved response, Puma has included a full-length layer of premium Nitro Elite foam at the midsole of the Deviate Nitro 2. This souped-up layer of performance foam sets the bar for supreme cushioning and peak propulsion with every stride, and it’s notable with the added spring and lesser impact with every step.
What’s more, a reworked Puma PwrPlate — with an innovative platform design— acts as a lever for maximum energy transfer at that toe-off moment, while the breathable mesh upper offers extra padding and grip around the ankle to prevent heel slip.
Improved traction rounds out this tech-packed running shoe that thrives at any distance. With this shoe you’ll get a stack height of 30mm at the forefoot and 38mm on the heel. The heel-to-toe drop of 8mm will also go a long way to improve stability for most runners, particularly those who run frequently and longer distances.
If, like me, you struggle with lower legs issues (such as in the calves, Achilles, foot, or ankle), then a higher drop shoe like the Deviate Nitro 2 may be the perfect fit for you and help you avoid picking up too many injuries or having to shorten your runs due to painful niggles.
At 214 grams they’re lightweight and you get a comfortable snug, stretchy fit from the breathable mesh upper. While I usually opt for a size 4 in my running shoes, I went a half a size up to a 4.5UK in these and the result was a perfect fit with plenty of space for my toes when running longer distances.
Underfoot, the Deviate Nitro 2 is very responsive and I love the springy propulsion that follows every stride and the comfort that comes with the cloud-like foam cushioning. This shoe is best for neutral pronators who want a running shoe that will help them tackle their tendencies to overcompensate in all the wrong areas when the going gets tough.
Colourways and gear to match
Puma has knocked it out of the park with this women’s colourway and the accompanying gear. The striking gradient Fire Orchid colourway is accented by subtle splashes of Black and Icy Blue for a look that’ll give you some visibility on the road, has a classic retro feel, but also isn’t over-the-top. The colorway checks the style box and the shoe’s design has an effortless cool factor so you’ll feel like a true champion crossing the finish line.
The gear paired with this latest Runphoria running shoe drop is some of my favourite Puma has ever released. Not only is it supremely comfortable with a soft-touch feel on the skin, but the matching colours also ensure the gear really pops.
First things first, the Run Puma Runphoria High Support Ultraform Running Bra (R899) in matching Fire Orchid is as good as it gets when it comes to sports bras. Whether it’s road running, trail running, and hitting the gym for a high-intensity session with all the jump squats and burpees, this bra gives you the support you need without feeling like you’re corseted in.
Made with engineered compression technology that moulds to your curves, this sports bra really is best-in-class. The fabric feels so soft against the skin and it’s the type of bra you want to wear for every workout. Plus, with Puma’s DryCell performance technology built into the fabric, the bra is designed to wick moisture from the body and keep you free of sweat during exercise.
Pair it with the Run Puma Runphoria Ultraweave Velocity Women’s Running Shorts (R1,099) for a look that is sure to turn heads. The Icy Blue shorts with Fire Orchid accents make for the perfect matching outfit when paired with the running bra and the Deviate Nitro 2 in Fire Orchid.
These ultra-comfortable shorts are sure to be your go-to companion for long training sessions and race day itself. The shorts also feel soft against the skin, due to them being constructed from an ultra-light, stretchy Ultraweave fabric that‘s been engineered for performance efficiency. Not only will they‘ll reduce any unwanted friction, so you can pick up the pace in comfort, but they’re also oh-so-flattering with a really great cut. Puma says its Ultraweave tech is designed for athletes looking to increase speed and strength, so if performance matters to you, these are a sure winner.
The butter-soft Run Cloudspun Women’s Sleeveless Running Tank Top (R899) also packs quite a punch. Featuring Puma’s DryCell technology to keep you cool when you start to get your sweat on and Cloudspun fabric to keep you ultra comfy, this will soon become your go-to running tank top. This lightweight crew neck tank top is so comfortable that I reach for it for almost every workout or run. The fabric has a barely there, weightless feeling which performance runners will love.
Finally, the piece de resistance: Puma’s Ultraweave Women’s Running Jacket (R1,999) in Icy Blue with Fire Orchid accents is a revelation. This running tech jacket was designed with a sharp focus on style and functionality and, boy, does it deliver. It features reflective design elements to keep you safe on the road, as well as DryCell technology to keep you cool, and Ultraweave fabric to keep you comfortable. What’s more, it’s also made with Puma’s Windcell technology that is designed to protect against the wind and keep you comfortable during exercise.
The Puma Deviate Nitro 2 Runphoria is now available at a recommended price of R3,599. Shop the full Runphoria collection online now.
