PUMA kicks off 2026 in running with the new Deviate Nitro 4 and Deviate Nitro Elite 4

A new year means new shoes. After an exceptional 2025, highlighted by the Fast-R 3 appearing at numerous Majors, PUMA has clearly moved up a level. The German brand is no longer simply present in the performance market: it is making its mark, with models that have become genuine reference points among runners. And 2026 is off to a fast start. A very fast one, in fact, with the launch of the Deviate Nitro 4 and Deviate Nitro Elite 4, two carbon-plated shoes that perfectly embody PUMA’s DNA: speed, energy and the sheer enjoyment of running. The key to that success? A distinctive technical identity built around nitrogen-infused NITRO foam, first-rate grip and a carbon plate designed to add snap to every run and chase down new records. Two shoes for different jobs, but with the same ambition: deliver speed without ever compromising the pleasure of running.

PUMA Deviate Nitro 4: the ideal shoe for everyday training

The Deviate Nitro 4 is arguably one of PUMA’s most versatile models. It is aimed at runners who want the benefits of a carbon-plated shoe without taking on the demands, and sometimes the discomfort, of a pure racing shoe.

What’s new in version 4
PUMA has refined the formula in several key areas:
✔ 15 grams lighter (250 g in EU 42), thanks to work on the upper
✔ Upgraded NITRO foam, the major change, now featuring PEBA for a softer feel underfoot (replacing A-TPU foam)
✔ Redesigned, more flexible PWRPLATE
✔ More comfortable premium mesh, with a padded collar and cushioned tongue
✔ Stack height: 38 mm/30 mm (1 mm lower than the previous version)
✔ Lowered 8 mm drop for a more natural transition (versus 10 mm on the Deviate 3)

Ride and intended use
On the road, the Deviate 4 is positioned as a fast-training shoe capable of handling an impressive range of runs:
➜ Easy runs
➜ Steady, uptempo runs
➜ Tempo sessions
➜ Very fast intervals
➜ Racing, for runners who want to stick with a responsive model without giving up comfort

The carbon plate adds energy without making the shoe excessively rigid, thanks in particular to the new PEBA foam, which delivers a softer feel underfoot. This smart combination of technologies is exactly what makes the Deviate 4 so effective: a finely judged balance of cushioning, speed and comfort. PUMA claims an impressive 800 km lifespan, a real asset for a carbon-plated model. Another positive: the price remains unchanged at €170.

PUMA Deviate Nitro Elite 4: the uncompromising racing version

For runners ready to step up the pace, PUMA has also upgraded another flagship line: the Deviate Nitro Elite. This is firmly in pure-performance territory. The fourth version represents a major evolution from the V3, with a dramatic weight reduction that puts it among the lightest models on the market.

Lighter, more responsive, faster
✔ Just 170 g in EU 42 (24 g lighter than the V3)
✔ NITRO ELITE foam, lighter and more explosive, while also less firm than the previous version
✔ Full-length PWRPLATE carbon plate, optimized for propulsion
✔ ULTRAWEAVE upper, ultralight and breathable
✔ PUMAGRIP outsole, as reliable as ever on both dry and wet surfaces
✔ Stack height: 40 mm/32 mm (approved by World Athletics)
✔ Drop: 8 mm

Who is it for?
The Deviate Elite 4 is designed for runners chasing performance from 5K to marathon. It is more demanding than the Deviate 4, but also lighter and more responsive. This is a racing-focused shoe, not an everyday trainer. It prioritizes low weight and propulsion while retaining a degree of stability through the geometry of the carbon plate. It suits a wide range of gaits and foot-strike patterns, but will be particularly effective for runners with a high cadence.

The German brand gives it a 400 km lifespan, which is in line with expectations for a carbon-plated racing shoe. At €250, the Deviate Elite 4 sits around the category average. There is, however, a significant €20 increase over the previous model.

The PUMA rotation: a clear, effective lineup

One of PUMA’s major strengths today is its exceptionally complete rotation. The brand with the leaping cat offers a reliable model for every type of running shoe.

➜ Velocity Nitro 4 : classic daily trainer, comfortable and versatile
➜ MagMax Nitro 2 : max-cushion daily trainer for high-mileage and long runs
➜ Deviate Nitro 4 : fast training, key sessions, tempo and versatility (if you could only take one shoe on a trip)
➜ Deviate Nitro Elite 4 : racing, from 5K to marathon
➜ Fast-R 3 : ultimate performance for experienced runners with an efficient stride

The key takeaways

PUMA is not trying to multiply models without a clear purpose. With these two new releases, the brand is sharpening a straightforward strategy. The Deviate Nitro 4 is the accessible, durable and versatile carbon-plated option, while the Deviate Nitro Elite 4 is its race-day weapon. Two complementary shoes, far from being rivals, designed to meet different needs. More importantly, they showcase the breadth of expertise and know-how PUMA has built in recent years around innovation and its Nitro foam.

With the Deviate Nitro 4 and Deviate Nitro Elite 4, PUMA is opening 2026 in style. Its performance range keeps improving year after year, while the brand continues to build its identity around Nitro technology. Whether you want a carbon-plated shoe for faster training or to chase a personal best, there is a Deviate for you.

✔ The Deviate 4 and Deviate Elite 4 will soon be available at puma.com for €170 and €250 respectively.