As a runner, choosing the right shoes is just as important as how you train—the wrong trainers can sabotage your performance and even result in injury.
In the world of elite running footwear, two names have been making waves: the Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 and the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4.
In this toe-to-toe comparison, I dive deep into the features, technologies and performance, of these two elite trainers. Whether you’re chasing speed, looking for long-distance comfort, or seeking that perfect blend of both, this extensive test will help you decide which shoe is the best fit for you.
Step into my Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 vs. Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 comparison to see which one comes out on top.
Quick Look.
Deciding between the Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 and the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 is no easy task, as both shoes are similar in many ways, but also bring their own unique take on what a premium running shoe should be.
Whether you’re focused on speed, endurance, or a combination of both, these two trainers promise high performance but cater to slightly different preferences.
In this post, I’ll dive into the key areas that define these shoes, helping you understand which might be the better fit for you and your running objectives.
Here’s a quick rundown of what I will cover:
- Fast Workouts: How do these shoes handle intense workouts like interval training or sprints? We’ll discuss which shoe gives you that edge when speed is the priority.
- Long-Distance Runs: Marathon training or extended sessions demand comfort and durability. I’ll compare which model offers superior cushioning, support, and stability over long distances hit-outs.
- Comfort and Fit: Whether it’s the breathable upper or the way the midsole cradles your foot, I’ll break down the differences in how each shoe feels during runs.
- Durability and Value: Both shoes come with a premium price tag, but do they deliver on durability and value for money? I’ll look at how each performs during this extended text, and if they’re worth the investment.
By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear understanding of how each shoe performs in various scenarios, helping you make an informed decision on which is best for your running needs. Stay with me as I unpack these two standout running shoes from Puma and Saucony!
Disclaimer – I purchased this these shoes with my own money and have not been paid by anyone to make this review. This is my honest, independent opinion.
Quick Links.
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 Snapshot.
Puma might not always be first to mind for high-performance running shoes, but the Deviate Nitro Elite 3 is changing that perception. Once considered a brand more focused on lifestyle and mass appeal, Puma is targeting the premium running shoe market with this new elite level trainer.
When a member of the RMWA community and experienced runner recommended the Deviate Nitro Elite 3, it piqued my curiosity about how Puma stacks up in the performance category.
Equipped with Puma’s top-tier Nitrofoam midsole and a carbon fibre plate, the Deviate Nitro Elite 3 is engineered to offer high-end performance, and a lightweight, yet cushioned ride. These trainers are also designed for versatility, excelling in shorter races where explosive energy return is key, but also suitable for long-distance runs like marathons.
Features & Specs:
- Design Focus: Performance
- Category: Neutral
- Surface: Road and light trails
- Ideal For: Racing, short to long-distance training
- Cushioning: Lightweight, responsive
- Width: Medium
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm
- Arch Type: Medium
- Weight: Ultra-lightweight design. 370g (Pair of men’s size 8)
- Carbon Plate: Yes, carbon fibre
- Midsole: Nitrofoam
- Upper: Lightweight mesh
- Eco-Friendly: No recycled materials
- Price: $320 AUD
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 Snapshot.
Building on the success of its predecessor, the Endorphin Pro 4 takes everything that worked in the Pro 3 and refines it further for this popular trainer.
This model continues Saucony’s focus on performance and endurance, earning its place as an elite option for those targeting longer races or high-mileage training, whilst also maintaining its speedy reputation.
The Pro 4 introduces an upgraded midsole with a combination of Saucony’s renowned PWRRUN PB foam plus a layer of PWRRUN HG, borrowed from the Endorphin Elite. This foam blend is designed to provide a balance of comfort, responsiveness, and stability—with a resulting smooth and cushioned ride.
A carbon fibre plate enhances energy return, paired with Saucony’s SPEEDROLL technology to create a seamless, propelling motion designed to keep you moving forward efficiently.
Features & Specs:
- Design Focus: Performance
- Category: Neutral
- Surface: Road and light trails
- Ideal For: Long-distance, daily training, racing
- Cushioning: Responsive
- Width: Medium
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm
- Arch Type: Medium to high
- Weight: Slightly heavier than the Pro 3 at 413g (Pair of men’s size 8)
- Carbon Plate: Yes, Carbon Fibre
- Midsole: PWRRUN PB and PWRRUN HG foams
- Upper: Breathable mesh
- Eco-Friendly: Vegan and includes recycled materials
- Price: $339.99 AUD
Features and Design.
Before we take these two speedsters for a spin in this Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 vs Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 test, let’s first break down how they compare in terms of features and design—what works and what doesn’t.
We’ll rate each shoe out of five across our key test areas and see which one comes out on top. Will the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 steal the show, or will the Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 surprise us? Let’s find out!
Midsole Foam and Plates.
The midsole is the heart of any running shoe, and brands put in endless effort to craft the perfect midsole foam that balances cushioning, responsiveness, stability, and support—all while keeping the shoe lightweight and comfortable.
Another challenge for manufacturers is finding the right balance of foam for each type of shoe. For example, short-distance racing shoes typically have a lower stack height, less foam, and less weight, while long-distance shoes tend to prioritise thicker cushioning to absorb shock over extended periods and reduce stress on the joints. Both of our test trainers aim to deliver high performance while ensuring long-distance comfort—a tricky balance to master.
Let’s take a look at how our two contenders compare:
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3:
Puma’s NITROFOAM is an ultra-light, responsive midsole foam that delivers excellent cushioning and a satisfying bounce with every step. Designed to create a smooth, roll-forward feel, it strikes an effective balance between performance and comfort. I found it not too soft, offering just the right amount of firmness for stability and confidence while running.
From the moment I slipped these shoes on, they felt plush and comfortable. A quick walk around revealed more support in the lateral heel area than I was used to, which gave me a sense of balance and confidence with each step. It will be interesting to see how this will impact my running, and if it alters the biomechanics of how I run in any noticeable way. I’ll test this when I try out the Puma’s in long runs.
Featuring Puma’s carbon fibre PWRPLATE, these shoes deliver impressive energy return and a springy, forward propulsion.
The PWRPLATE works seamlessly with the NITROFOAM midsole, adding structure and stability without diminishing the foam’s cushioning and responsiveness.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4:
Saucony has upgraded the Pro 4’s midsole by combining two of their top foams: PWRRUN PB, which is Saucony’s premium foam, and PWRRUN HG from the Endorphin Elite.
While PWRRUN PB is known for its lightweight feel and lively bounce, PWRRUN HG adds a slightly firmer touch for runners who prefer a performance-focused ride over plush cushioning.
The midsole layers start with PWRRUN PB at the base, topped by Saucony’s excellent carbon fibre plate which is designed to maximise energy return, and finished with a thinner layer of PWRRUN HG for added structure.
This combination offers a balanced feel—responsive and cushioned without feeling overly soft. The result is a welcome increase in stability over the Pro 3, albeit in a slightly firmer package, and with somewhat less ‘pop’ than its predecessor or the Puma.
Saucony’s SPEEDROLL technology, is one of my favourite features of the Endorphin series, and it’s back in the Pro 4, providing that smooth, forward-rolling motion. Although a little less pronounced than in the Pro 3, it is still very apparent and effective.
The combination of all these midsole features results in impressive performance in a well-cushioned package, especially for runners who prefer a slightly firmer feel.
Personally, I still favour the midsole of the Pro 3. Whether it’s the construction or the addition of the firmer PWRRUN HG foam, the Pro 4 feels a bit less springy and doesn’t have quite the same springy responsiveness as its predecessor.
Shoe Upper, Lacing, and Tongue.
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3:
Puma’s ULTRAWEAVE Upper is designed to be lightweight and durable, but I found the fabric to be quite coarse and with a tight weave that doesn’t offer much breathability. This lack of ventilation can make the feet feel hot during runs in warmer conditions. While the material has minimal stretch, once laced up properly, it securely holds the foot in place. The logo and NITRO branding are simply printed on the fabric.
The tongue, on the other hand, is excellent. It’s made from two light layers of material with a thin layer of foam wedged in between, plus a larger foam pod under the knot area for extra comfort — thoughtful design Puma. There are larger breath holes in the tongue, which helps improve airflow. It’s held in place by the laces threading through slots in the tongue, and is attached to the shoe at the base of the lacing area near the top of the toe box, there are no locating gussets. Overall, this is one of the best tongue setups I’ve experienced in a running shoe.
The lacing is pretty standard, made from a slightly stretchy material that provides enough length for a secure tie. I had no issues with the laces loosening or coming undone during runs.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4:
The new Upper design on the Pro 4 really impressed me. The Upper itself is made from a lightweight, breathable mesh with pentagon-shaped holes backed by finer mesh to keep out debris. This material doesn’t stretch much, which actually helps lock your foot in place, reducing unwanted movement and minimising the risk of blisters or chafing. The design is proving durable, and the embossed Saucony logos add a sleek, stylish touch. This Upper design is less coarse than the Puma, and is far more breathable.
Saucony has integrated the tongue into the upper by stitching all the way around its perimeter, moving away from the traditional gusseted approach. The tongue is made from a thin, breathable, and super flexible knit material, offering a fresh take on the usual setup seen in the Pro 3 and most other running shoes.
While the tongue’s flexibility ensures a snug fit, it may take a bit of adjustment to avoid bunching or creasing. Fortunately, Saucony has included a handy pull tab at the top of the tongue, making it easier to stretch it smoothly over your foot as you lace up. In practice, I’ve found the stretchy tongue material to be a bit frustrating when putting the shoes on. It tends to bunch up, requiring quite a bit of stretching, pulling, and adjusting to get it to sit properly over my instep.
As for the lacing, Saucony has carried the stretchy design of the tongue into the laces. These slightly elastic laces, combined with the sturdy upper and flexible tongue, allow you to fine-tune the fit. The laces are long enough to use the rear eyelets for extra lockdown if needed, and I never had any issues with them loosening or coming undone during my runs. There is no extra padding in the tongue under the knot tie area; however, you can fold over the pull-tab on the tongue to sit under the lace knot if you experience any irritation on the top of your foot.
Heel, Collar and Toe Box.
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3:
The heel counter of the Puma Nitro features a firm structure that securely holds the heel in place. While the surface material used is soft, there’s minimal padding — I haven’t experienced any heel movement resulting in rubbing or chafing.
The collar has a bit more padding, made from the same soft lining, and contributes to heel lock-down, preventing any slipping as you run. A padded ridge extends from the collar along the upper edge of the shoe under the ankles, providing extra comfort and ensuring a secure fit.
I found the heel and collar design to be minimalist and reasonably firm, offering sufficient lockdown for the foot, while maintaining a comfortable fit.
There is no wide-fit size for this shoe on the Puma Australia website.
The shoes had plenty of room for my regular-sized feet, with no cramping or discomfort. Despite the tip of the toe box being slightly more pointed compared to the Saucony’s rounded design, I’ve experienced no pressure on my toes, either on the sides or at the tip.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4:
I’ve always valued well-designed heel and collar components in running shoes, providing just the right amount of padding for a comfortable, yet secure heel lockdown—essential in high-performance trainers like the Pro 4.
In an effort to stand out, some brands introduce ‘innovations’ that often end up being less functional, less comfortable, and, frankly, just plain frustrating. Thankfully, Saucony rarely missteps in this department, and the heel and collar setup in the Endorphin Pro 4 is top-notch. It strikes the perfect balance with just enough padding, a heel counter that provides structure without being too rigid, and a lining material that’s grippy, comfortable, and durable, ensuring a secure and snug fit.
The toe box and mid-foot area in the Pro 4 is amply accommodating and offers plenty of room. However, since no wide-fit option is available, this might be a deal-breaker for those with wider feet. Personally, I haven’t experienced any excessive movement or cramping in this area, and the shoes have remained comfortable even during long runs, where foot splay can sometimes be an issue.
Outsole and Insole.
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3:
Puma’s PUMAGRIP outsole rubber covers the high-wear areas where the shoe contacts the ground, leaving the NITROFOAM exposed to ground contact under the midfoot and much of the heel surfaces.
While the wavy design isn’t as grippy as the lattice pattern found on the Saucony, it performs well as a road-running shoe, even on damp surfaces. However, this pattern design may not be the most effective for water displacement when running on wet roads.
The rubber itself is soft enough to offer good traction without producing that annoying ‘slapping’ sound as you run. So far, I haven’t noticed any premature wear, although it’s still early days. As with the Endorphin Pro 4, there has been no hint of the rubber coming adrift from the midsole.
There is a large cut-out of the midsole foam under the arch which reveals the carbon fibre PWRPLATE.
As for the insole, the cushioned sockliner adds to the overall comfort by enhancing the midsole’s cushioning. It’s lined with a non-slip material, which helps keep your feet securely in place during runs. As with the Saucony, the sockliner is glued inside the shoe and is therefore not replaceable down the track.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4:
The outsole of the Endorphin Pro 4 is primarily covered in Saucony’s XT-900 rubber, the same durable material used in the Pro 3. After extensive use of the Pro 3 in marathons and training, I’ve found the XT-900 rubber to hold up exceptionally well, showing minimal signs of wear.
For the Pro 4, Saucony switched to a lattice tread pattern, aimed at improving grip and water displacement. This change helps protect high-wear areas while offering excellent traction without the outsole feeling too hard.
You’ll notice some exposed midsole foam in certain areas, as in the Puma, but based on my experience with the Pro 3, this won’t affect durability much, apart from a little feathering over time. The large cut-out in the midsole also reveals the carbon-fibre plate, which helps with weight reduction.
In my test runs with the Pro 4, I found the grip reliable, even on wet surfaces, with no issues when stopping or changing direction suddenly.
Saucony introduced the new SRS (Super Responsive Sockliner) for the Pro 4, designed to add cushioning and provide a bit of extra bounce. Made from a unique foam, it offers a soft, comfortable feel, topped with a fine mesh material.
While it’s hard to measure the exact bounce coming from the insole alone—especially since it’s not removable—it definitely serves as a supportive layer between your foot and the shoe. It conforms well to the shape of your foot, providing comfort and stability, helping to minimise any unwanted movement inside the shoe during runs. Both the Pro 4 and Nitro are very effective in this area.
Comfort and Fit.
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3:
Comfort is a standout feature of the Puma Nitro. The combination of the midsole foam and the soft, springy insole creates a beautifully cushioned yet supportive and stable running experience. I have not experienced any overly soft, squishy sensation in these trainers, which is always a detriment to performance and form.
In terms of fit, the sizing is quite similar to the Pro 4, with Saucony shoes known for being true to size. However, the Puma does run slightly narrower, so runners with wider feet may want to try them on before committing.
Thanks to the ample adjustability in the lacing system and the well-padded tongue, you can easily fine-tune the fit for maximum comfort, ensuring a snug, locked-down feel. I have not experienced any unwanted movement of my feet laterally in the midfoot/toe box or slippage in the heel area.
The harsh, non-breathable upper of the Puma takes away from its overall comfort, especially in warmer conditions.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4:
The Endorphin Pro 4 feels slightly firmer than its predecessor and the Puma right out of the box, and while running, but it still offers a nicely cushioned and stable experience. Some runners may prefer this slightly firmer feel.
Despite the occasional frustration with the tongue bunching or creasing when putting them on, I’ve always been able to achieve a comfortable fit in the Pro 4, with no adjustment required mid-run. The upper wraps snugly around the foot in a soft, breathable material that delivers a secure, locked-in feel—one of the standout features of this trainer.
For long-distance training, the Pro 4 shines. I haven’t noticed any issues with the midsole compressing or losing its cushioning over time, which is a big plus for marathon or endurance runners.
The lacing system allows for fine adjustments, with the laces threaded through loops rather than holes. This design helps pull the upper together for a more precise, integrated fit.
Performance Comparison.
Now that we’ve explored the features of both trainers in this Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 vs Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 comparison, it’s time to lace them up for the ultimate test … on the road!
Fast Runs.
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3:
Fast workouts or sprints are where the Nitro Elites truly shine as a performance shoe. The combination of the carbon plate and responsive midsole delivers lively and energetic performance.
What sets the Puma apart is its versatility—serving as both a high-performance shoe and a reliable long-distance trainer. This makes it a true all-rounder, even for everyday running.
Toe-off feels quick, and the shoe’s roll-forward geometry adds lively urge to your workouts while maintaining stability, which boosts confidence when pushing your limits. While it may not be as fast as a minimalist racing shoe, runners can rely on it for quicker sessions.
My weekly running club sessions often involve intense workouts, like intervals or stair running, and I’ve found the Nitro’s to be both fast and highly effective in these scenarios. They’re quickly becoming my go-to trainers for these tougher, more demanding sessions.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4:
Saucony’s Endorphin lineup includes both the Speed and Pro series, and for fast sessions, I often preferred my Speed 3’s over the Pro 3’s, and for long-distance hit-outs – the Pro 3’s over the Speeds. While the Endorphin Pro 4 is certainly capable of handling fast workouts, it is particularly well-suited for longer-distance runs.
As I’ve mentioned before, the Pro 4 doesn’t quite have the same ‘pop’ as the Pro 3’s, which is why the Endorphin Speed 4 might be a better choice for speed-focused workouts.
That said, the running club sessions I referenced earlier have always felt fast and responsive in the Pro 4’s, so I can confidently recommend them for intense workouts. However, in this case, I prefer the performance and feel of the Nitro’s.
Short Distance Runs.
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3:
For short to middle-distance runs like 5Ks or 10Ks, the Puma feels both responsive and comfortable. It’s easy to settle into your target pace quickly, and the Nitro really shines in workouts like slower paced Out-and-backs, or Time Trials, where you may be pushing the pace a bit more.
If you’re a recreational runner who enjoys the occasional Parkrun, the Puma will serve you well. It offers a great combination of speed, comfort, support, and stability, making it an excellent choice for these types of runs.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4:
As one of the best ‘all-rounders,’ the Pro 4 performs just as well as the Puma in short to middle-distance runs. It’s fast and responsive, offering a slightly firmer feel for those who prefer this over plushness.
After months of testing the Pro 4’s in various short to middle-distance workouts, I’ve consistently found them to be well-suited for this kind of training. When you’re pushing the pace, the spring-forward geometry of the Saucony really comes into play, making these shoes a great fit for these efforts.
Long Distance Runs.
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3:
During my recent marathon training, I put the Nitro’s to the test on several long-distance runs, to see if they can handle the rigours of extended sessions, and they’ve consistently proven to be accomplished performers.
Right out of the box, they’re comfortable, and once laced up, they stay secure without the need for further adjustments. I have not experienced any issues with fit, chafing, biomechanical or running form changing discomfort.
For many long-distance runners, cushioning is key to minimising the impact on the body, joints, and ligaments during extended hit-outs. In this respect, the Puma Nitro’s nail the brief. The midsole foam holds its shape without compressing or firming up, providing stable support throughout the entire run.
The extra support in the lateral area of the heel, which I mentioned earlier, is more noticeable when walking, but when running, it becomes almost imperceptible. However, I do think it contributes to overall stability without interfering with the way you run.
The lightweight build, responsiveness, springy feel, and overall comfort of the Nitro’s throughout long sessions make them an excellent choice for this type of workout.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4:
The Endorphin Pro series from Saucony has long been known for supporting long-distance runners, and the Pro 4 continues this tradition with precision-engineered midsole foams and thoughtful design in components like the upper and insole.
Comparing the Nitro’s to the benchmark set by the Endorphins is a great way to evaluate any long-distance trainer. The Pro 4 is undoubtedly an excellent option for marathons and extended runs. The cushioning, while slightly firmer thanks to the inclusion of PWRRUN HG from the Endorphin Elite, provides an effective balance of support, comfort, and responsiveness over long distances.
Ultimately, your decision between these two shoes will depend on your preference for the firmer feel of the Saucony versus the slightly softer cushioning of the Puma.
Another important consideration is the surface you’ll be running on. If you’re mainly on hard roads, the Puma’s softer feel might be more to your liking.
After logging hundreds of kilometres in the Pro 4’s, they’ve proven to be fast, reliable, and highly capable. As I mentioned in my full review of the Endorphin Pro 4’s, I still prefer the extra liveliness of the Pro 3 for shorter, faster workouts, but the Pro 4 excels in longer sessions—and that opinion hasn’t changed.
Quality, Durability, and Value for Money.
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3:
Quality.
The quality of the Nitro’s appears excellent. I haven’t encountered any defects, poor craftsmanship, or manufacturing issues like glue runs or errant stitching. The materials used are in line with what you’d expect from a premium running shoe. The upper is sturdy, and the fabric around the heel—often one of the first areas to show wear—is holding up well, with only minor signs of wear and slight discoloration from socks.
Durability.
With around 300 kilometres logged thus far, the Nitro’s show no signs of excessive wear. The outsole rubber in high-wear areas remains in great condition, with no detachment or premature deterioration. Based on their performance so far, I have no reason to doubt that these shoes will last their expected lifespan of around 800 kilometres.
Value for Money.
Priced slightly lower than the Saucony at $320 AUD, the Puma Nitro still falls within the typical range for elite running shoes. Given the high performance, quality materials, and great workouts I’ve experienced with these shoes, they offer solid value for money.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4:
Quality.
Saucony has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality running shoes with top-grade materials and meticulous manufacturing. In my years of running with Saucony shoes, I’ve never encountered any quality issues or manufacturing defects. The Pro 4 continues this tradition with no signs of excessive wear, breakages, or anything coming apart during my hundreds of kilometres of running in these shoes.
Durability.
With a typical lifespan of around 800 kilometres, durability is key for any running shoe. Saucony shoes have consistently held up well, often lasting beyond their running life, and remaining in good shape for repurposing to everyday wear. So far, the Pro 4’s seem to be following in the footsteps of my Pro 3’s which are now well past their run-by date, and yet are still not showing much sign of deterioration.
Value for Money.
While the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 comes with a price tag of $339.99 AUD, this is typical for premium running shoe pricing these days.
Given the superior materials, quality craftsmanship, and design focused on performance and longevity, they offer value for money, albeit at a premium price.
Saucony kept the price unchanged from the Pro 3, boosting the value proposition a little.
Final Thoughts and Verdict.
Both the Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 and the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 are impressive contenders in the world of elite running shoes, offering unique strengths that cater to slightly different preferences and running styles. Throughout this comparison, I’ve explored how each shoe performs in various running settings, from fast workouts to long-distance training. Plus, I’ve taken an in-depth look at the comfort, durability, and overall value of each trainer.
The Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 stands out as a versatile, all-round performer. It combines lightweight responsiveness with a comfortable and stable ride, making it ideal for fast-paced workouts as well as long-distance runs.
The combination of Puma’s Nitrofoam midsole and the carbon plate ensures that runners enjoy springy, energetic performance.
Additionally, the Puma’s slightly softer cushioning may appeal more to those running on harder surfaces, like roads.
At $320 AUD, they offer good value for their performance, though runners with wider feet might want to try them on for fit before committing.
On the other hand, the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 brings a little more firmness into the equation, which many runners will prefer. While it may not have the same pop as the Pro 3 for fast sessions, the Pro 4 excels in long-distance runs, offering sprightly performance, stability, comfort, and durability over time.
Saucony’s superior build quality and thoughtful design elements, such as the super breathable upper, add to its appeal.
With a price tag of $339.99 AUD, the Pro 4 is at the expensive end of running shoe pricing, but I think the value is there, and they are a must-try option for long-distance runners.
Ultimately, your choice comes down to personal preference—whether you favour the firmer, long-distance performance of the Saucony, or the slightly softer, more springy performance of the Puma. Both are top-tier options that will serve you well, regardless of what your running goals are.
Final Scores:
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3:
38.5 out of 45
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4:
38.0 out of 45
Happy Running
Steve.
FAQ’s of Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 and Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 Comparison.
Which shoe is better for speed workouts—Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 or Saucony Endorphin Pro 4?
Both shoes perform well in speed sessions, but the Puma Nitro’s springy Nitrofoam midsole makes it particularly suited for quick, short-distance runs. The Saucony Pro 4 offers a firmer feel, which can still perform well, but may not offer as much bounce for faster workouts.
Are these shoes good for marathons or long-distance training?
Yes, both shoes are excellent for long-distance running. The Saucony Pro 4 provides excellent stability and slightly firmer cushioning, while the Puma Nitro’s slightly softer ride may be favoured by some runners.
Which shoe is better for runners with wider feet?
Both shoes are designed for regular sized feet, and neither manufacturer offers a wide version on their websites. It would be ideal to try them on first before committing, to see which one feels more comfortable.
Are these shoes suitable for beginners or only elite runners?
While both the Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 and Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 are designed with high-performance features, they are not limited to elite runners. Beginners can benefit from the advanced midsole foams, carbon fibre plates, and responsiveness these shoes offer, but they are not necessary for beginners. Both brands offer excellent running shoes at much lower prices, which may be a better option for beginners.
Can I use the Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 or Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 for everyday training?
Yes, both shoes are versatile enough for daily training. However, due to their premium pricing, many runners may prefer to reserve them for race day and use a more budget-friendly option for everyday workouts.
Which shoe is better for recovery runs?
The Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3, with its slightly softer cushioning, is better suited for recovery runs, as it provides a more comfortable, forgiving ride. It would be ideal to have other non-plated running shoes available for slower-paced recovery runs and recreational running
Can I use these shoes for trail running?
Both shoes are designed primarily for road running. While they can handle light, well-maintained trails, they are not specifically built for rugged off-road conditions, and a dedicated trail shoe may be a better choice on loose surfaces where better grip is required.
