Puma Velocity Nitro 4 vs PUMA Deviate NITRO 4

The Deviate Nitro 4 is the faster, more propulsive shoe: a forked carbon-composite PWRPLATE over two layers of NITROFOAM, including an Elite top layer, at about 230g with a 38/30mm stack. The Velocity Nitro 4 is the simpler daily trainer: one full-length NITROFOAM midsole, a 10mm drop and a more forgiving, lower-tech ride. Reviewers call the Deviate quick and bouncy for tempo days and say its upper fits better than the Velocity's, but some find it roomy with heel lift and firm out of the box. Buy the Deviate for speed work and the Velocity for everyday miles.

• Choose the Velocity Nitro 4 if you want one neutral daily trainer for easy and long runs and prefer a higher 10mm drop without a plate underfoot.
• Choose the Deviate Nitro 4 if your training includes tempo runs and speed sessions and you want a plate-assisted, lighter shoe that still handles regular mileage.