Our verdict

We found the Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 to be a significant upgrade from its predecessor—faster, lighter, and impressively responsive. For us, it's a real supershoe contender with its explosive bounce. While the lack of stability might be a major drawback for heel strikers, we think it's ideal for runners craving agility and speed. In our lab tests, the enhanced Nitro Elite cushioning and lightweight design stood out, and we believe it offers superior value for its price compared to other supershoes. On top of that, it looks fantastic!

puma trailfox overland mts birch birchcastlerock marathon running shoessneakers Pros

  • puma by miharayasuhiro tennis lo collection springsummer
  • UNDFTD x Puma Clyde collaborations
  • Extremely responsive
  • More affordable than most supershoes
  • Outstanding grip
  • puma suede mayu up wn s super lemon marshmallow gum
  • PUMA Fenty x Chelsea Sneaker Boot
  • PUMA POWER CARGO PANTS CL 847725-01
  • Fantastic tongue

puma trailfox overland mts birch birchcastlerock marathon running shoessneakers Cons

  • Not the best for heel strikers
  • Durability concerns
  • Lacks stability for some runners

Audience verdict

90
Great!

Who should buy

Camisola Puma Train Logo sem mangas branco rosa mulher:

  • Puma Chaussures Running Cell Phase.
  • Those who found the previous Deviate Nitro Elite lacking excitement—Puma fixed that, making it a thrilling ride.
  • Midfoot strikers looking for a high drop supershoe with outstanding performance and superb energy return.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019

Who should NOT buy

We believe the Deviate Nitro Elite 3's lack of stability might be a dealbreaker for some. Its narrow build brings excitement and speed, but it’s not ideal for everyone. In our view, if stability is what you're after, the Puma Baskets Pour Bébés Ca Pro Tiny Ac or Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 trainers puma caracal 369863 37 marshmallow chili oil.

Additionally, we think that forefoot strikers may struggle with the high heel-to-toe drop of the Deviate Nitro Elite 3. If that’s a concern, we suggest the Puma Studio Svart yogamatta as a better alternative or the puma trailfox overland mts birch birchcastlerock marathon running shoessneakers for those who prefer Hoka's signature feel.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 parts

Cushioning

Heel stack

Speaking of pushing boundaries, Puma has met the current challenge to every supershoe manufacturer by maximizing the stack height near the 40-mm limit set by World Athletics. They achieved it with 39.2 mm of plush cushioning in the heel.

And don't worry, we'll also delve into the state-of-the-art Nitro Elite foam. But let us tell you that it provides exceptional cushioning, and as many midfoot strikers involuntarily shift to heel landings after mile 20 in a marathon due to fatigue, this towering 39.2-mm stack height in the heel offers a crucial advantage.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Heel stack
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 39.2 mm
Average 34.2 mm
Compared to 395 running shoes
Number of shoes
22.5 mm
Heel stack
46.3 mm

Forefoot stack

In our lab, the forefoot measured at 28.6 mm, typical for most supershoes and adequate for forefoot strikers, though slightly thinner than expected. And this reading introduces a minor issue that we will explore next.

By the way, the carbon plate isn't as thick as it appears. During the process of cutting the shoe in half, the foam can sometimes turn black from the debris.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Forefoot stack
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 28.6 mm
Average 25.6 mm
Compared to 395 running shoes
Number of shoes
13.7 mm
Forefoot stack
37.1 mm

Drop

After our measurements, we discovered a 10.6-mm heel-to-toe drop, which is slightly higher than preferred.

Although this is beneficial for those with calf or Achilles tendon issues, the shoe's narrow rearfoot makes it less suitable for heel strikers. We would have favored an 8-mm drop as advertised, though the actual difference of 2.6 mm is relatively minor anyway.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Drop
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 10.6 mm
Average 8.6 mm
Compared to 395 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

The most notable upgrade in the Deviate Nitro Elite 3 over its predecessor might go unnoticed, but we're here to ensure that's not happening. Although it retains the Nitro Elite name, this is a whole different compound.

Puma has switched from a supercritical PEBA mix to an industry-first aliphatic TPU foam, enhancing durability and UV resistance. This change significantly boosts performance in the later stages of a marathon by reducing foam fatigue and extends the shoe's shelf life.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 foam side

The main foam in the shoe is exceptionally soft, registering at 15.1 HA on our durometer. Puma strategically layers two different foam densities around a stiff carbon plate, a setup reminiscent of the popular Vaporfly design that many brands have followed since 2017.

Regarding energy return, we found that this foam performs on par with leading PEBA-based materials such as ZoomX or PWRRUN HG. And yes, the shoe consistently delivered exceptional bounce back during our runs, particularly at faster paces.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Midsole softness
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 15.1 HA
Average 21.0 HA
PUMA jacquard branded binding.
Compared to 322 running shoes
Number of shoes
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
35.0 HA

Secondary foam softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

As previously mentioned, Puma incorporates two different Nitro Elite foams in this shoe, one softer than the other. 

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 midsole

The secondary foam, positioned closer to the ground and below the carbon plate, is slightly firmer and denser, measured at 18.3 HA. This is clearly geared towards enhancing stability, but with a minimal difference of 3.2 HA, is subtle and mostly indiscernible outside of our lab.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Secondary foam softness
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 18.3 HA
Average 24.0 HA
PUMA jacquard branded binding.

puma leadcat ftr charlotte (%)

While the A-TPU Nitro Elite foam offers several advancements over traditional PEBA-based materials, it falls short in cold temperature performance. Our freezer test revealed a disappointing 25.8% uptick, which fell below our expectations.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Puma Strumpbyxor Power Tape
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 26%
Average 25%
Compared to 322 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
puma leadcat ftr charlotte
63%

Insole thickness

We discovered the insole typical of a top racer, measuring just 2.8 mm in thickness—a more streamlined option compared to what you'd find in a daily trainer like the Velocity Nitro 3.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Insole thickness
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 2.8 mm
Average 4.4 mm
Compared to 391 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Rocker

While the Deviate Nitro Elite 3 introduces notable changes from its predecessor, such as updated foam and a redesigned carbon plate, certain features remain unchanged, including the rocker profile.

Our measurements confirm that the forefoot rocker of the DNE3 maintains the exact shape of its predecessor, beginning at 10 cm and rising to 5 cm, indicating no changes were necessary as the toe-off remains effective and fast.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Rocker

Plate

Puma has reengineered the carbon PWRPLATE to be more aggressive compared to previous models and its training partner, the puma catch me illusion tights. And why not—let's use this opportunity to discuss and compare carbon plates.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 PWRPLATE

First, we put the Deviate Nitro Elite 3 (green) against its training sibling, the puma catch me illusion tights (orange). It's evident the DNE3 has a much more aggressive curve starting after the heel and more sharply in the forefoot, aiming to boost turnover. This design is more demanding on the muscles—especially calves—but quicker, making sense of both approaches.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 plate comparison

Then, we compared the atmos x Three Tides Tattoo x PUMA Suede Multi (black and green) with the Deviate Nitro Elite 3 (green). It's evident Puma aimed to make the DNE3 more Vaporfly-esque and aggressive. This design enhances speed, and although it may reduce versatility when compared to v2, it excels at helping everyone achieve personal bests! 

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Plate 2

Size and fit

Size

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 is true to size (42 votes).

Owners of this shoe, how does this shoe fit?

1 size small ½ size small True to size ½ size large 1 size large
Compared to 371 running shoes
Number of shoes
½ size small
Slightly small
True to size
Slightly large
½ size large

WIND AND SEA × PUMA RALPH SAMPSON LO & RALPH SAMPSON MID

We believe the best way to measure the toebox is by transferring all the empty space into a gel mold and measuring it precisely. Using this method, we found the Deviate Nitro Elite 3 offers decent room at 94.4 mm, making it far from a narrow shoe compared to other Puma running models.

However, there’s a catch, and you may have guessed it by examining the shape of the mold. Yes, the toebox features an ultra-tapered design!

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 WIND AND SEA × PUMA RALPH SAMPSON LO & RALPH SAMPSON MID
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 94.4 mm
Average 95.5 mm
Compared to 150 running shoes
Number of shoes
90.9 mm
WIND AND SEA × PUMA RALPH SAMPSON LO & RALPH SAMPSON MID
102.4 mm

PUMA x RF Disc Coa 1 sneakers

The big toe area is really narrow, measuring just 69.5 mm, creating a sharp profile that could pose issues for some runners during the later stages of a marathon.

We believe this shoe is best suited for slim-footed runners or those with average feet who don’t require much toe splay.

Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 69.5 mm
Average 73.7 mm
Compared to 150 running shoes
Number of shoes
67.9 mm
PUMA x RF Disc Coa 1 sneakers
83.6 mm

Toebox height

In terms of height, we measured 26.5 mm—a solid result for a supershoe. It provides a snug yet comfortable fit, striking a balance that’s ideal for racing.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Toebox height
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 26.5 mm
Average 27.2 mm
Compared to 149 running shoes
Number of shoes
22.4 mm
Toebox height
33.8 mm

Stability

Lateral stability test

This is a fact—the Deviate Nitro Elite 3 is not ideal for runners who prioritize stability in a supershoe. It's a classic, streamlined racer designed for those with solid running form and a neutral stride.

Puma has opted to exclude substantial midsole sidewalls and sole flare, particularly in the heel area, which, despite its high drop, makes this shoe potentially too unstable for rearfoot strikers.

Yet, this lack of stability simply offers a different appeal for a specific group of runners. It's more aggressive, lively, and nimble compared to other supershoes, catering especially to high-cadence individuals tackling shorter, faster distances like 5/10K races.

Torsional rigidity

As you already know, the DNE3 features a stiff carbon plate, and this design delivers exceptional torsional rigidity. During our manual test, we assigned it a max score of 5 out of 5, fully meeting our expectations.

Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 5
Average 3.4
Compared to 374 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

puma trailfox overland mts birch birchcastlerock marathon running shoessneakers | Heel counter stiffness

Despite its minimal heel structure, earning a 1/5 stiffness rating, we experienced no heel slippage whatsoever.

Puma adopts a design strategy similar to ASICS' racers—featuring a slightly padded collar that hints at UK 10 ARCHIVE PUMA WHITE for a bit more security than ultra-flexible models like the Saucony Endorphin Elite.

Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 1
Average 2.9
Compared to 358 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

winnie harlow models puma cali dream sneakers jamaica

Those seeking a fast, nimble, and agile racer that lives up to Puma's reputation will find it in the Deviate Nitro Elite 3. As mentioned earlier, this shoe isn’t about stability—it’s all about speed and responsiveness. The 108.0-mm measurement we recorded using our digital calipers clearly demonstrates that.

Because of this, while it can handle marathons and perform a great job, we believe it shines brightest in shorter races.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 108.0 mm
Average 114.1 mm
Compared to 396 running shoes
Number of shoes
103.3 mm
winnie harlow models puma cali dream sneakers jamaica
126.9 mm

Midsole width - heel

The heel's narrow 82.7 mm width, coupled with the absence of stability features, underscores this shoe's suitability for midfoot and forefoot strikers looking for a high-drop racer.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 82.7 mm
Average 90.7 mm
Compared to 396 running shoes
Number of shoes
73.0 mm
Midsole width - heel
106.6 mm

sac à dos puma neuf jamais utilisé avec étiquette noir capacité 20L

In our assessment, the Elite 3 demonstrated a high 51.4N in our 90-degree bend test—a typical indication of a shoe integrating a carbon plate. This substantial stiffness often translates the shoe into feeling somewhat cumbersome during runs at easy paces, which we generally do not advise, especially given its narrower build.

Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 51.4N
Average 28.1N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 378 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.2N
Flexibility <> Stiffness
72.1N

Puma Bmw Mms Hooded (%)

Following a 20-minute nap in the freezer, we re-evaluated the shoe's stiffness and recorded a slight increase to 52.2N of force—a mere 1.5% surge. This minor change is barely perceptible, even in the coldest conditions.

Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 2%
Average 33%
Compared to 378 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Puma Bmw Mms Hooded
111%

Weight

Historically, the weight of the Deviate Nitro series has been a drawback compared to state-of-the-art supershoes like the camiseta puma active feminina preto, with Puma facing challenges in achieving ultra-lightweight designs.

However, our scale now shows a nice figure of just 7.2 oz or 204g, marking a significant improvement from previous models. For us, this weight is highly competitive and should satisfy most runners, though we believe Puma could still benefit from reducing it to below 7 ounces to keep up with industry advancements—most brands are really pushing the boundaries!

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Weight
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 7.20 oz (204g)
Average 9.38 oz (266g)
Compared to 396 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.61 oz (159g)
Weight
12.59 oz (357g)

Breathability

To begin our lab test of the Deviate Nitro Elite 3, we examined its ventilation, which looks promising due to the Ultraweave engineered mesh upper, which is as thin as a razor.

Using our smoke machine, we discovered that the toebox expels air at a solid pace, though it doesn't match the breathability of other supershoes we've tested. Consequently, we gave it a solid 4/5, which we think it's sufficient to handle even the hottest races.

Next, we moved the cut-in-half DNE3 over a powerful light to highlight its construction and the minimalistic thickness. Puma enhanced stability with its logo and included PWRTAPE reinforcements, a common feature in their shoes.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 microscope

While monomesh uppers generally impress under the microscope, the Deviate Nitro Elite 3 was particularly striking. The threads are incredibly thin and display remarkable precision.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 micro close

The Nitro Elite 3 integrates a few thermoplastics in the upper, but they are not intrusive or noticeable by any means.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 upper close

Overall, this is exactly what we anticipate from a modern marathon shoe: well-ventilated, even at the heel, where those holes add a premium touch. Despite the minimal padding, we found it to be more substantial than in other supershoes.

Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 4
Average 3.8
Compared to 325 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

Regular visitors to EdiconnectShops might have anticipated our Dremel test results after seeing the microscope images, which showcased the upper's delicate nature.

What you see below the upper is a cardboard piece used to maintain the shape during testing, ensuring all tests are consistent and fair.

Indeed, the material proved to be really fragile. We inevitably had to assign it the lowest possible rating.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Toebox durability
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 1
Average 2.5
Compared to 259 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

The Deviate Nitro Elite 3 turned the tide in our second evaluation with the Dremel tool.

We discovered that the heel counter's lining held up impressively, partly due to the minimal padding in the shoe. Nonetheless, the results were outstanding.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Heel padding durability
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 5
Average 3.2
Compared to 255 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

Let's be clear—we believe PumaGrip is becoming so good it's challenging Continental for the title of best rubber in Puma Suede 'Batman'.

For this shoe, Puma opted for a 72.6 HC rubber, aiming for even better grip than their training models by reducing the hardness. It's like a Formula 1 car—the softer the tire, the better the grip.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 rubber coverage
puma cruise rider chrome womens sneakers in pink dogwoodsilver.

And in rainy conditions? Once again, Puma delivers performance that rivals Adidas' Continental. It appears to us there's still a huge rivalry between the two brands founded by the Dassler brothers, each pushing the other to greater innovations.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Outsole hardness
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 72.6 HC
Average 79.8 HC
PUMA jacquard branded binding.
Compared to 376 running shoes
Number of shoes
57.0 HC
Outsole hardness
93.0 HC

puma trailfox overland mts birch birchcastlerock marathon running shoessneakers | Outsole durability

Short Puma Active Woven 5 Masculino.

While a 20-second test is rigorous, we apply the same challenge to every shoe with consistent force. Afterwards we noted a 1.6-mm dent, more wear than usual but an expected outcome for a  grippy supershoe. However, this might make the DNE3 less suitable for tempo training and extended mileage.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Outsole durability
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 1.6 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 237 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

We measured a rubber thickness of 2.6 mm, which should ensure a respectable shelf life for a supershoe despite the rubber wearing out slightly faster than average.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Outsole thickness
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 2.6 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 393 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.0 mm

Misc

Price

While running shoe prices have generally increased, the Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 offers a delightful exception.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 toe cap

Puma Liga Suede Shoes 341466-75 racing shoes. Let's not forget that this model impressively combines a lightweight design, a carbon plate, and a second-to-none superfoam!

Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 $230
Average $146
Compared to 396 running shoes
Number of shoes
$60
Price
$275

Reflective elements

This colorway is so unique that we expected some reflective details, but it seems Puma let us down here. In our view, adding reflective elements would have made this shoe even better for low-light tempo workouts!

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Reflective elements
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 No

Tongue padding

Most Puma Suede 'Batman' without a gusseted tongue typically feature a single loop to prevent shifting, but Puma has introduced a dual-loop, parallel design in this shoe. And it works amazing.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 lacing
Puma still uses simple, plain laces with the DNE3.

We were also impressed by the intelligent padding on the tongue. Unlike most racing shoes that have minimal padding, Puma cleverly combines a sleek, paper-thin tongue with a concentrated cushion right where the laces tighten, achieving an ideal balance of comfort and lightness.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Tongue padding
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 6.1 mm
Average 5.8 mm
Compared to 393 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Tongue: gusset type

We observed that the tongue is not fixed to the sides, which might seem unexpected in a high-end shoe. However, this feature is standard in supershoes, specifically designed to minimize weight for optimal performance.

Additionally, it's important to note that this non-gusseted design significantly improves ventilation, particularly in the medial area, ensuring enhanced breathability during races.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 None

Heel tab

PUMA has retained the same heel design from previous models, omitting the heel tab. While this design choice makes the shoe slightly more challenging to put on, it remains one of the easiest supershoes to slip into quickly, also making it a practical option for triathlons.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 heel view

By the way, congrats to Puma for putting out this AW24 Major Marathons colorway. They even showcased the current records—including Kiptum's 2:00:35—despite none of them being set by Puma athletes.

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Heel tab
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 None

Removable insole

Unlike many marathon shoes where the insole is permanently fixed, the Deviate Nitro Elite 3 allows for its removal. You can easily swap it out, although the original insole is so cool that we prefer to keep it as is!

Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Removable insole
Test results
Best Puma Classics Sneakers May 2019 Yes