Road-tested in Bedfordview, cow-approved
By Richard Laskey – Modern Athlete’s Roving Cow
The PUMA Deviate NITRO 4 is built to be a proper all-rounder, not a full-on carbon- plated race weapon, but a fast, versatile daily trainer that can handle everything from easy kilometres to tempo runs. It’s lighter and more responsive than your typical training shoe, but still comfortable enough for those longer sessions around Bedfordview.
To get a proper feel for it, Modern Athlete’s Roving Cow took it out on the local roads, from early morning solo runs to relaxed social outings with the usual running crews where the pace is honest but the coffee stops are compulsory.
General Feel (Out the Box & On the Road)
First impression out the box: the Deviate NITRO 4 feels light without feeling flimsy. It’s not one of those shoes that disappears in your hand, but it definitely feels ready to move. Step into it and you immediately get that soft Nitro cushioning underfoot with a bit of bounce waiting for you.
On the road, it feels smooth and easy to run in. This is the kind of shoe where you head out for a relaxed 5km and end up stretching it to 8 or 10 without really thinking about it. It’s comfortable enough for easy runs but has enough response when you decide to pick up the pace.
It doesn’t feel overly aggressive, which makes it much easier to live with day to day compared to a full race shoe.
Upper (Comfort That Just Works)
The upper is breathable and light without being paper-thin. On warm Gauteng mornings, ventilation is solid and your feet don’t feel like they’re cooking halfway through the run.
The fit is secure without feeling tight, and it holds your foot nicely through the midfoot. It’s a comfortable, everyday fit that should work for most runners. There’s enough structure to keep things stable without feeling stiff or restrictive.
The laces stay put once tied, which is always a win. No mid-run lace drama while your running mates disappear up the road.
Midsole (Bounce Without the Drama)
The midsole uses PUMA’s NITRO foam paired with a PWRPLATE for a bit of extra snap. Instead of the aggressive carbon plate found in race shoes, this setup feels more forgiving and much easier to run in over longer distances.
You get a nice bit of cushioning on landing, and when you push the pace, the shoe responds without feeling harsh. It’s not overly soft and not overly firm, it sits nicely in that middle ground that works for most types of runs.
Whether you’re cruising along or pushing a steady tempo, the ride stays smooth and predictable.
Sole (Road Feel & Protection)
Underfoot, the Deviate NITRO 4 gives you a good balance between cushioning and road feel. There’s enough protection to keep your legs happy on longer runs, but you still feel connected to the road.
Transitions feel natural from heel to toe, and the shoe rolls along nicely once you find your rhythm.
Outer Sole (Grip You Can Trust)
PUMAGRIP continues to impress. Bedfordview roads can be a mixed bag, smooth tar, rough patches, dusty corners, and the grip handles it all without any issues.
Even on slightly wet sections, the shoe feels planted and reliable, which gives you confidence when you’re moving at pace or cornering.
Inner Comfort (No Fuss Running)
Inside the shoe, everything is simple and comfortable. No rubbing, no hotspots, and no slipping around. It’s the kind of shoe you can just put on and run without thinking too much about it.
That’s exactly what you want from a daily trainer.
On the Road Reality Check
This is a versatile shoe that fits nicely into a regular running routine. It can handle easy runs, steady sessions, and even the occasional faster effort without complaining.
It’s not as aggressive or demanding as a carbon race shoe, which makes it far more practical for everyday running. You don’t need perfect form or fresh legs to enjoy it, it just works.
For most runners, this is the kind of shoe that will end up doing a lot of mileage.
Conclusion (Would the Cow Run Again?)
Definitely. The Deviate NITRO 4 is a solid, dependable running shoe that can handle a bit of everything. It’s comfortable enough for daily training but lively enough to keep things interesting when you pick up the pace.
It feels right at home on Bedfordview roads, whether you’re out for a steady run, chasing a Strava segment, or just cruising with the crew.
The Roving Cow’s verdict:
A proper all-rounder. Comfortable, responsive, and easy to run in, the kind of shoe that quietly becomes your go-to without making a big noise about it.