Puma Deviate Nitro 2 has been my favorite this year as a do everything shoe. I'm a casual runner with no plan and it's so versatile that it can do whatever I feel like doing on the day.
The DN2 is the absolute standout of the year for me. For the price especially. But i gotta say, the most impressive part of that shoe is the PumaGrip for me, i started disliking all my other shoes rubber outsoles after using the DN2 😂. I do think it's not a very stiff shoe, the plate is very flexible and therefor i think it's a great allrounder. I would gravitate to the DN2 whenever it was wet/slippery outside in the winter because of that grip. But i prefer the Endorphin Speed 3 for my speed sessions still.
@@Tommygimbal I think it would be a great choice for a marathon. I’m not sure I would call it a super shoe in the racing sense. But a lot of those super trainers would be great for marathon distance. The Deviate Nitro Elite 2 is the racing companion, but I think you get almost as much awesomeness out of the Deviate Nitro 2 for less money and a more trainable package.
@@Tommygimbal It's not really a supershoe imho. It's a great allrounder. But for a supershoe i'd be looking at the Superblast or SC Trainer V2 (or for the real OG's, the V1, which is my fav still tbh).
Absolutely agree on the DN2. Got it from your reviews earlier and every pace is such a joy in that shoe. Currently pairing it with 1080 v13 - another recommendation of yours - and absolutely enjoying the runs. All the best and happy holidays 🎉
This category is what I like. You can buy one of these shoes for your only shoe. Since shoes are getting way too expensive it's become difficult to buy multiple shoes for different workouts plus to race in. The rebel v3 has been my go-to.
Hoka Mach 5’s too, love that shoe despite overthinking every run that it’ll be gone from me right away because of its durability. Solid shoe but the durability, have heard some people complaining about the durability. I’m eyeing for the Puma DN2 or 3 (if there will be a new version if I decide to retire my Mach 5) as a new speed stuff shoe.
Forget the Nike shoe of the same name, it's pew pew pew-magrip that _really_ makes me feel invincible! I'm amazed at how quickly the DN2 has risen to the #3 slot in my rotation behind the NB FC SC Elite V3 and ASICS Superblast. And on mixed terrain or if the ground is at all wet, it "cat"-a-pults into my first choice. Congrats Puma!
Topo Cyclone 2 and Deviate Nitro 2 for sure. I put a ton of fast miles on these shoes. I use the Cyclone for really fast turnover workouts such as fartleks, hill repeats, and VO2 max. I use the Deviate for tempo and threshold workouts. Love these two shoes. Thanks, Mike.
Absolutely love the Puma Deviate Nitro 2. Always keep going back to it. Have fun running in it and a little more stability compared to the Saucony Speed 2 which I was using previously. Might have to try get another pair before Puma start introducing the 3rd interation
Mike! You never fail to throw in something unexpected! The Invincible under tempo😂. Love my Invincible 2, which I used for endurance runs. Just caught your video with Sage! Excellent content. May I suggest a future video on explaining the different types of workout? Think there’s an overload of info out there and would really appreciate some clarification in the definitions, like tempo , threshold, critical velocity etc. keep up the great job !
Interesting you reference the Boston series when discussing the deviate nitro 2. I use both and find the Boston 12 more propulsive for tempo work with the nitro2 for daily miles, especially in winter. Both are pretty awesome though
So glad DN2 got the recognition it deserves! Such a fantastic shoe - 300 miles in and still feels as good as new and hasn't lost any grip or bounce! Been my go to shoe all year ❤
Thanks. Love the Deviate Nitro 2. Fantastic daily trainer for me here in Munich. Not German, but all 5 of my trainers are now Puma who have really knocked it out of the park in 2023. At 60, having run competitively long distance for 40 years, I have tried most of the known shoe brands and Puma are some of the best I have run in. Really looking forward to their lineup in 2024.
I actually won a free pair of the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 from my local Marathon Sports when they had a raffle. Best freebie ever! Also, I would love to see a full "day in my life" video sometime! I know you sometimes post get-ready-with-me shorts and you used to make what-I-eat-in-a-week videos, but it would be neat to see your training/eating/editing/etc schedule for a full day :).
My race shoes are that, race shoes. Currently I’m using NB Fresh Foam More V13, easy, ASICS Evoride for tempo or faster paces, and switch between Asics Glyderide 3 and Saucony Triumph 20 for long runs. Pretty happy with overall rotation…Thanks to your videos I’ve discovered some great shoes!
I'm also using the DN2, but due to winter in Europe the WTR (winterized) version with water repellant upper. I use it for speedwork on the track as well as light trails - so versatile
I got the winterized version of the Deviate Nitro 2 and love it, especially the grip for the winter runs. I only have one problem: I find it hard to get a good heel lock, even with the heel lock lacing, I need to tighten the laces really hard - don't know if the upper is "too" stretchy, or the laces or what is going on. For warm weather I have the Endorphin Speed 2 and Pro 2. And a barely used Adios 3(! - the old Boost one, not the pro 3) for some hardcore old-school 5k tempo workouts.
so many comments but i gotta thank you Kofuzi ...Prime X changed the game for me. when i was in my twenties i ran a 6:30 mile. now in Prime X i can run a 7 minute mile.....61 years old 210 pounds. been a fan since you ran in NB Beacons.....4 years? Thanks so much!
Was listening to the Doctors of Running podcast today and they were talking about the NB Beacons. I miss that show, even if k did have to buy 3M spray adhesive to keep the insole in place
I have 4 shoes in my rotation list and the top 1 is Deviate Nitro 2. I really love it, the run on it is just seemless as it's very versatile, can just speed up and slow down, no matter what pace is good on this.
Totally agree, my top shoe ever (apart from Alphafly 1) picked up some Boston 12s for a change instead of getting a third pair of DN2 and I don’t think it offers anything better at any pace/distance.
Very interesting list again. I couldn’t find Topo my size all sold out so I got the Adios 8 on Puma DN2 both on sale. This year I’ve mainly used the Rebel 3 and On Cloudflow for my speed workouts. I’m surprised you never reviewed the Noosa Tri 14/15 or the Hyper Speed 3. I have a feeling they must be both underrated tempo shoes.
I think they are shoes of a different time. I tested the first Evo ride and maybe the second version. I really liked the first Evo ride for tempo work, back in the flytefoam days. The Noosa’s have the same midsole as the Evorides (and both now have FF Blast, I think?) but the difference with the Noosa is a triathlon friendly upper, if I’m not mistaken. I suspect I would find them fun for tempo but firmer than I would like
I bought the Puma DN2;a while ago but haven’t run in much due to some nagging injuries. I wore it around somewhat for casual use and always liked it but had to stick with 1 or 2 shoes for a while. Anyway, I wore it for the first time today for a real workout and it felt great! I got to appreciate the Pumagrip today as it was a little wet here in the east and purposely ran on some road paint to check out the grip - it was amazing! It will be a multi-purpose shoe for me and I’ll check RW for sales. 👍🙏
110% agree with the Deviate Nitro 2. I didn't get this shoe in the rotation until Aug 2023 and I've since put 400 miles on this great shoe. I skipped the Endorphin Speed 3 because of this shoe because I love it so much. It's subjective but some shoes have that certain something that's different/special for everyone and this fits the bill for me
I love the Deviate Nitro 2. Loved it enough to get the Water Repellent version which by the way worked amazing in the rain. Waiting to use it in the snow. My original DN2 I ended up returning though because the plastic in the heel cracked and was starting to split the back of the shoe.
@kofuzi I was really bummed when my normal DN2 version was breaking because it was a staple in my rotation. Thankfully I was given a refund. I replaced that shoe with the Boston 12 and couldn't resist when I saw the DN2 in a water repellent version on sale.
It fluctuates over time and by region. When I filmed this, it was on sale in the US. People were getting it for under $100. It seems that some regions still have it for sale (people message me or leave comments when they get a good deal) Now, it’s no longer on sale in the US. But who knows what will happen the day after Christmas or one month from now 🤷🏻♂️
I have been using my Adidas Adizero Adios 7 and Asics Magic Speed 3 for those faster training sessions. Next year, I'm thinking of trying the ON Cloud Flow 4 to replace my old Adios 7.
I don’t race much, so typically just use stuff like the Endorphin Pro 3. I adore the PX2S and it’s my long run shoe. Really comfortable for me even at easy pace. Cyclone 2 is in the mail. The Invincible is my biggest question. It sounds great, but wondering if V4 is close enough to just wait and see.
Hey Ko. Very interesting and always enjoy your thoughts behind each. This year I used 2022 models such as rebel v3, and Magix speed 2. Smart money moves. Surprised magic speed 3 didn't make your list? Where would you put that one if this list extended?
I think it starts to get either very arbitrary or very idiosyncratic after the 4th or 5th spot on these lists. But I will say it is somewhere between 6 and 8 or 9
Puma Deviate Nitro 2 for speed works although I sometime take them for a little bit of trail (great grip lol) Asics Gel Nimbus 25 for those long and slow runs - 5:30 to 6:00 min per km Asics Noosa Tri 15 mostly for shorter / faster runs but also when the Gel Nimbus needs a day for the foam to reset
Deviate Nitro 2 also my favorite tempo shoe, also did some racing in them. And here can be found as low as 85-90 euros on sale.(Velocity 2 - 55 euros). Nothing comes close to price/perf ratio.
it can certainly handle those kinds of paces, but with a shorter race distance of the 5k, you can also consider some lighter options, such as the Takumi Sen
I've just bought the Deviate Nitro 2 and own the Deviate Nitro Elite v1. I've already used the Elite for a couple of races but as soon as I've worn the Deviate 2 I started doubting that maybe it's even better for an half marathon race since I feel it more protective and cushioned than the Elite v1.
I absolutely love my Cielo Road's. I wear them for longer reps on the track, progressive long runs, and recently wore for a 9 mile race. The heal counter is somewhat sharp, so I stick moleskin on my Achilles, which protects against blisters.
I’m using my DN2 for daily and speed work for sometimes. Then once I used my ESpeed 2 for speed work I just disregard my DN2 they are fast shoes but weights matter once you run fast.
DN 2 is the greatest running shoes of all time, i can use as daily trainer, speed workout also i run a half marathon on it, just a perfect budget shoes for everyone
The Invincibles in the Tempo shoes list is a shocker to me, personally 🤯. Its mindblowing considering how Nike positioned & marketed the shoes. But, when listening to your point, i believe it does make sense. Considered myself who never try yet the Invincibles 3 because im still has some mileage left with the version 2. But im also agreed with your stance, which is no matter how the shoes been made, positioned or marketed, only us, the runners will know how does the shoes actually work. The Cyclone 2 is so underrated, im totally agreed with your opinion on that shoes. Definitely i will try the Topo brands next year. At first i thought there will be Magic Speed 3, NB SC Pacer or Adios 8 in this year’s list, Mike. Are those close 6 or honorable mentions?
There’s a common thread with all three of those shoes for me. They are great for running short and fast. But they were all a bit harsh for longer distances or easier efforts. Fwiw, my junior high school daughter has been running track and some of her friends race in spikes. I think she might be a bit young for such aggressive shoes, and these three shoes are high on the list of what I’m considering to get for her this spring.
I have been using the DN2 a lot this year in the same way you’ve been using the invincible 3. Lots of long runs and medium long runs with marathon pace in them. I also used the Invincible 3 as a long run shoe at moderate efforts surprisingly! But I also used it a lot for easy days. My favorite workout shoe though was the Nike Streakfly, surprisingly. Used them for everything from 200s to tempo runs. I think their sweet spot is in the shorter interval realm - up to about 1K repeats, but really good shoe overall as long as you have strong ankles. Very kinvara-y and probably a lot like the cielo road.
On cloud monster has been my daily and all around workout shoe lately. The puma has got my attention though, I will definitely grab a pair if I see one.
The Mach X is my pick in this category. Off topic, but I would love to hear your thoughts on shoes better suited to treadmill work as a lot of us wander into the cold dark winter. Cheers, Merry Christmas!.
Treadmills are bouncy. It opens up the range of daily trainers I can use. I’ll save the most run most springy shoes for the roads. Things that are a bit firmer can go on the treadmill Otherwise, i dont really change my recommendations for the treadmill (I suppose in certain situations there could be bigger variations in recommendations, like if you have injury prone joints and you live in a rocky road type situation)
I try to think of shoes by how they feel, rather than what are the components. If you like running in it every day and it’s not causing problems, then I think it’s fine. As far as I know, there isn any science that says otherwise (I.e. there hasn’t been a study on carbon that is used in a non-racing shoe)
Love the DN2! I've been using it all year as a daily trainer and for my build up to the Valencia marathon (used the Superblast for long runs). I'm close to a 1000K now and they're still in excellent shape, although the lugs are disappearing a bit. Very curious about the DN3.
I really fall in Love with Puma DN2 and DNE2 design esthetics, and have tried very hard to make (either of) them work as my tempo/interval shoes. However I failed, due for some reason both my heels seem to always “fallen off” the medial side of these lovely looking shoes inward. Same thing happen when I tried to test run with Adizero Takumi Sen 10, which would’ve been another awesome tempo/interval training shoes, had it not been for the same heel fallen inward thing.
Daily train in Novablast 3 and some workouts. Most workouts are in Hyperion Max which I especially love for tempos. For my fastest workouts I use my Takumi Sen 8s.
Non-plated, I've always been a Kinvara fan. Some probably only do shorter efforts in them, but I've done a marathon in them, so it's ok for me. Plated, Sketchers Razor Excess 2 (2022 release, but I didn't get it until this year).
I'm still in love with the Prime X Strung v1 for almost any run, tested the v2 but for me it lacks the liveliness of v1. I think I will get the Nitro 2 as a daily/tempo for shorter runs
@@kofuzi I still have my OG but rarely use it due constantly rolling my ankle, I'm not sure what is with the Strung that feels way more stable. I do love the weight and feel of the OG when going fast thou...
Good list! It seems like this category has really shifted or broadened in previous years! Any inklings on where speed/workout shoes will go in the future?
I used to think that running shoe brands would all simplify their lineups and create a cohesive storyline from max cushion to super shoe (with one and only one option in each category). But now I think that lineups will get confusing for the next couple of years as brands are realizing that multiple types of a single shoe can exist to accommodate different preferences (like ASICS with the Cumulus and the Novablast, New Balance with the More v4 and the SC Trainer 2, or Saucony with the Endorphin Pro and Endorphins Elite.
I have the puma Deviate nitro 2s. They are OK but I wouldn't take them out foe more than 10km. My favorite trainers are Clifton 9s and my race shoes are Hoka Rocket x2 or previously Vaporfly 2
Threw some curve balls in this one, Jesus lol. I saw a Nike invisible 3 at Dicks the other day and I’m not a Nike fan but it was so appealing when I picked it up. Kinda wanna try it now.
Puma Deviate Nitro 2 has been my favorite this year as a do everything shoe. I'm a casual runner with no plan and it's so versatile that it can do whatever I feel like doing on the day.
ASICS Noosa Tri 15 have quickly become my favourite shoe. They’re awesome for easy runs, speed work and long runs
Still nothing better than the Saucony speed 3. Soooo good!
The DN2 is the absolute standout of the year for me. For the price especially. But i gotta say, the most impressive part of that shoe is the PumaGrip for me, i started disliking all my other shoes rubber outsoles after using the DN2 😂. I do think it's not a very stiff shoe, the plate is very flexible and therefor i think it's a great allrounder. I would gravitate to the DN2 whenever it was wet/slippery outside in the winter because of that grip. But i prefer the Endorphin Speed 3 for my speed sessions still.
Pumagrip FTW! The DN2 is my go-to workout shoe for slick conditions.
Cant agree more..
do you guys think DN2 wll be great choice for my first super shoes that im gonna use on my first marathon?
@@Tommygimbal I think it would be a great choice for a marathon. I’m not sure I would call it a super shoe in the racing sense. But a lot of those super trainers would be great for marathon distance. The Deviate Nitro Elite 2 is the racing companion, but I think you get almost as much awesomeness out of the Deviate Nitro 2 for less money and a more trainable package.
@@Tommygimbal It's not really a supershoe imho. It's a great allrounder. But for a supershoe i'd be looking at the Superblast or SC Trainer V2 (or for the real OG's, the V1, which is my fav still tbh).
Excellent picks! The Deviate Nitro 2 is one of those shoes I wish were around when I started running. Such a versatile, fun shoe!
Absolutely agree on the DN2. Got it from your reviews earlier and every pace is such a joy in that shoe. Currently pairing it with 1080 v13 - another recommendation of yours - and absolutely enjoying the runs. All the best and happy holidays 🎉
that's a great combo!
This category is what I like. You can buy one of these shoes for your only shoe. Since shoes are getting way too expensive it's become difficult to buy multiple shoes for different workouts plus to race in. The rebel v3 has been my go-to.
Hoka Mach 5’s too, love that shoe despite overthinking every run that it’ll be gone from me right away because of its durability. Solid shoe but the durability, have heard some people complaining about the durability. I’m eyeing for the Puma DN2 or 3 (if there will be a new version if I decide to retire my Mach 5) as a new speed stuff shoe.
The Topo Cyclone 2 is, without a doubt, my surprise fun shoe of the year. Thank you for the recommendation.
Agreed-Especially since my brick width foot doesn’t fit in the other recs.
Forget the Nike shoe of the same name, it's pew pew pew-magrip that _really_ makes me feel invincible! I'm amazed at how quickly the DN2 has risen to the #3 slot in my rotation behind the NB FC SC Elite V3 and ASICS Superblast. And on mixed terrain or if the ground is at all wet, it "cat"-a-pults into my first choice. Congrats Puma!
a purrrfect comment
Topo Cyclone 2 and Deviate Nitro 2 for sure. I put a ton of fast miles on these shoes. I use the Cyclone for really fast turnover workouts such as fartleks, hill repeats, and VO2 max. I use the Deviate for tempo and threshold workouts. Love these two shoes. Thanks, Mike.
I've been enjoying these end-of year top five lists. Keep it up!
Thank you. For a vocal minority, it seems to be triggering 🤷🏻♂️
I'm a slow runner and love using the DN2 as my speed/racing shoe and the Asics gel Cumulus 24 and Nimbus 25 as my daily trainers.
That’s a good rotation
Absolutely love the Puma Deviate Nitro 2. Always keep going back to it. Have fun running in it and a little more stability compared to the Saucony Speed 2 which I was using previously.
Might have to try get another pair before Puma start introducing the 3rd interation
Mike! You never fail to throw in something unexpected! The Invincible under tempo😂. Love my Invincible 2, which I used for endurance runs. Just caught your video with Sage! Excellent content. May I suggest a future video on explaining the different types of workout? Think there’s an overload of info out there and would really appreciate some clarification in the definitions, like tempo , threshold, critical velocity etc. keep up the great job !
personally, it's a head scratcher to me that people use the Invincible as a daily trainer or recovery run shoe
Deviate nitro2
Altra vanish tempo
Saucony speed3
Hyperion max
Takumi sen
P’4:00-3:30
HM 1:18 runner
Thanks for all your shoe reviews . I find them very informative and useful.
Looking forward to your max shoe of 2023.
Coming up next!
Interesting you reference the Boston series when discussing the deviate nitro 2. I use both and find the Boston 12 more propulsive for tempo work with the nitro2 for daily miles, especially in winter. Both are pretty awesome though
He referenced Boston 9. The Boston series changed a lot from version 9 to 10 in 2011. It’s kind an another shoe.
I use Deviate Nitro 2 as daily trainer and it’s just perfect. It can do it all and all surfaces. Really love it
I just picked one up and I'm not finding it super great for easy runs. Maybe the foam needs breaking in?
Is it bad to run on plated shoes all the time?
@@videoforum4047 whats the drawback of wearing plated shoes?
So glad DN2 got the recognition it deserves! Such a fantastic shoe - 300 miles in and still feels as good as new and hasn't lost any grip or bounce! Been my go to shoe all year ❤
Glad to hear it’s holding up well!
Love the Puma DN2's ❤. Have to try the Topo or Hoka Tempo shoes but my favorite Fast shoe is still the Puma Liberate Nitro v1.
Thanks. Love the Deviate Nitro 2. Fantastic daily trainer for me here in Munich. Not German, but all 5 of my trainers are now Puma who have really knocked it out of the park in 2023. At 60, having run competitively long distance for 40 years, I have tried most of the known shoe brands and Puma are some of the best I have run in. Really looking forward to their lineup in 2024.
I actually won a free pair of the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 from my local Marathon Sports when they had a raffle. Best freebie ever!
Also, I would love to see a full "day in my life" video sometime! I know you sometimes post get-ready-with-me shorts and you used to make what-I-eat-in-a-week videos, but it would be neat to see your training/eating/editing/etc schedule for a full day :).
My race shoes are that, race shoes. Currently I’m using NB Fresh Foam More V13, easy, ASICS Evoride for tempo or faster paces, and switch between Asics Glyderide 3 and Saucony Triumph 20 for long runs. Pretty happy with overall rotation…Thanks to your videos I’ve discovered some great shoes!
I love the glideride. An underrated shoe.
I'm also using the DN2, but due to winter in Europe the WTR (winterized) version with water repellant upper.
I use it for speedwork on the track as well as light trails - so versatile
The Cyclone 2 is a gem! It was my top performance trainer (non-supershoe) of the year!
I got the winterized version of the Deviate Nitro 2 and love it, especially the grip for the winter runs. I only have one problem: I find it hard to get a good heel lock, even with the heel lock lacing, I need to tighten the laces really hard - don't know if the upper is "too" stretchy, or the laces or what is going on. For warm weather I have the Endorphin Speed 2 and Pro 2. And a barely used Adios 3(! - the old Boost one, not the pro 3) for some hardcore old-school 5k tempo workouts.
Is it on both of your feet? I find that my left foot has “less volume” thus i dont get good fit or lockdown on my left foot, regardless of shoe brand.
so many comments but i gotta thank you Kofuzi ...Prime X changed the game for me. when i was in my twenties i ran a 6:30 mile. now in Prime X i can run a 7 minute mile.....61 years old 210 pounds. been a fan since you ran in NB Beacons.....4 years? Thanks so much!
Was listening to the Doctors of Running podcast today and they were talking about the NB Beacons.
I miss that show, even if k did have to buy 3M spray adhesive to keep the insole in place
I'm also a big fan of the Deviate Nitro 2. I gave my son a pair for Christmas last year, and later got 2 for myself.
that's some good gifting there
I love the Pumo DN2, its the only one that I feel comfortable switching with the Saucony Endorpin Speed 3
I have 4 shoes in my rotation list and the top 1 is Deviate Nitro 2. I really love it, the run on it is just seemless as it's very versatile, can just speed up and slow down, no matter what pace is good on this.
It doesn’t make sense how it can be so good at so much, but it just is
Fantastic definition of tempo shoe!!
Love the Deviate Nitro 2, looking forward to version 3 🙂
Totally agree, my top shoe ever (apart from Alphafly 1) picked up some Boston 12s for a change instead of getting a third pair of DN2 and I don’t think it offers anything better at any pace/distance.
I am really rooting for the Boston. Every year, I want it to be great.
Now, I just want it to be a Deviate Nitro 2
I think we all saw this number 1 coming. I'm currently using my Rebels for speed work but once those wear down I'll be picking up the Puma.
Rebel, the outsole wears out fast. Puma, the outsole peels off before they even wear out.
Very interesting list again. I couldn’t find Topo my size all sold out so I got the Adios 8 on Puma DN2 both on sale. This year I’ve mainly used the Rebel 3 and On Cloudflow for my speed workouts. I’m surprised you never reviewed the Noosa Tri 14/15 or the Hyper Speed 3. I have a feeling they must be both underrated tempo shoes.
I think they are shoes of a different time. I tested the first Evo ride and maybe the second version. I really liked the first Evo ride for tempo work, back in the flytefoam days.
The Noosa’s have the same midsole as the Evorides (and both now have FF Blast, I think?) but the difference with the Noosa is a triathlon friendly upper, if I’m not mistaken.
I suspect I would find them fun for tempo but firmer than I would like
Good choice for first place..love those shoes...✌️👍🤘🙌
A quick mention for the Adidas takumi Sen 9 which I have used for a lot of tempo runs this year and my wife loves the Asics MagicSpeed 4 for hers.
Great video, especially the casual paradigmatic drop! For my tempo runs I typically use my race shoes.
It’s funny because I tell my daughter to avoid using large words when simple ones will be more clear
Got the deviate nitro 2 Christmas sale here on our area for an unbelievable $40! it is an absolute steal! Feels like I could keep running on and on 😁
that is the lowest price I've seen anyone get it
Pretty sure the puma deviate nitro 2 is also a great daily trainer. Seen a lot of people on reddit saying that.
I love my Puma DN2.....it's a really nice shoe!
I bought the Puma DN2;a while ago but haven’t run in much due to some nagging injuries. I wore it around somewhat for casual use and always liked it but had to stick with 1 or 2 shoes for a while. Anyway, I wore it for the first time today for a real workout and it felt great! I got to appreciate the Pumagrip today as it was a little wet here in the east and purposely ran on some road paint to check out the grip - it was amazing! It will be a multi-purpose shoe for me and I’ll check RW for sales. 👍🙏
110% agree with the Deviate Nitro 2. I didn't get this shoe in the rotation until Aug 2023 and I've since put 400 miles on this great shoe. I skipped the Endorphin Speed 3 because of this shoe because I love it so much. It's subjective but some shoes have that certain something that's different/special for everyone and this fits the bill for me
I love the Deviate Nitro 2. Loved it enough to get the Water Repellent version which by the way worked amazing in the rain. Waiting to use it in the snow. My original DN2 I ended up returning though because the plastic in the heel cracked and was starting to split the back of the shoe.
Glad you were able to get that effect issue sorted!
@kofuzi I was really bummed when my normal DN2 version was breaking because it was a staple in my rotation. Thankfully I was given a refund. I replaced that shoe with the Boston 12 and couldn't resist when I saw the DN2 in a water repellent version on sale.
That's a solid lineup. You mentioned DN2 was on sale right now. Where did you see it on sale? It's still 160 on Puma's site and Running Warehouse
It fluctuates over time and by region. When I filmed this, it was on sale in the US. People were getting it for under $100. It seems that some regions still have it for sale (people message me or leave comments when they get a good deal)
Now, it’s no longer on sale in the US. But who knows what will happen the day after Christmas or one month from now 🤷🏻♂️
I have been using my Adidas Adizero Adios 7 and Asics Magic Speed 3 for those faster training sessions. Next year, I'm thinking of trying the ON Cloud Flow 4 to replace my old Adios 7.
I don’t race much, so typically just use stuff like the Endorphin Pro 3. I adore the PX2S and it’s my long run shoe. Really comfortable for me even at easy pace. Cyclone 2 is in the mail. The Invincible is my biggest question. It sounds great, but wondering if V4 is close enough to just wait and see.
The Zoomfly Flyknit 3 and Turbo 2 were the last tempo shoes I bought. These days I only use racing shoes with over 200KM in my speed workouts.
For just that reason, I sometimes feel like this category is dying
Will you also be making Top 5 trail running shoes vid? Would be very interesting to see your picks!
Hey Ko. Very interesting and always enjoy your thoughts behind each. This year I used 2022 models such as rebel v3, and Magix speed 2. Smart money moves. Surprised magic speed 3 didn't make your list? Where would you put that one if this list extended?
I think it starts to get either very arbitrary or very idiosyncratic after the 4th or 5th spot on these lists. But I will say it is somewhere between 6 and 8 or 9
Puma Deviate Nitro 2 for speed works although I sometime take them for a little bit of trail (great grip lol)
Asics Gel Nimbus 25 for those long and slow runs - 5:30 to 6:00 min per km
Asics Noosa Tri 15 mostly for shorter / faster runs but also when the Gel Nimbus needs a day for the foam to reset
Deviate Nitro 2 also my favorite tempo shoe, also did some racing in them. And here can be found as low as 85-90 euros on sale.(Velocity 2 - 55 euros). Nothing comes close to price/perf ratio.
Nice Review Mr K, the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 is on my radar to have as a 5k shoe, what are your thoughts?
it can certainly handle those kinds of paces, but with a shorter race distance of the 5k, you can also consider some lighter options, such as the Takumi Sen
@@kofuzi I thank you for your response
I've just bought the Deviate Nitro 2 and own the Deviate Nitro Elite v1. I've already used the Elite for a couple of races but as soon as I've worn the Deviate 2 I started doubting that maybe it's even better for an half marathon race since I feel it more protective and cushioned than the Elite v1.
I have the Deviate Nitro 2 and you are spot on there. Very versatile shoe and comfy. But nowadays, im using my Superblast more than the Nitro 2.
Both great shoes
I absolutely love my Cielo Road's. I wear them for longer reps on the track, progressive long runs, and recently wore for a 9 mile race. The heal counter is somewhat sharp, so I stick moleskin on my Achilles, which protects against blisters.
Hmmm. Maybe they need to have a flippy tab part like in the Adidas racers
I’m using my DN2 for daily and speed work for sometimes. Then once I used my ESpeed 2 for speed work I just disregard my DN2 they are fast shoes but weights matter once you run fast.
DN 2 is the greatest running shoes of all time, i can use as daily trainer, speed workout also i run a half marathon on it, just a perfect budget shoes for everyone
The Invincibles in the Tempo shoes list is a shocker to me, personally 🤯. Its mindblowing considering how Nike positioned & marketed the shoes. But, when listening to your point, i believe it does make sense. Considered myself who never try yet the Invincibles 3 because im still has some mileage left with the version 2.
But im also agreed with your stance, which is no matter how the shoes been made, positioned or marketed, only us, the runners will know how does the shoes actually work.
The Cyclone 2 is so underrated, im totally agreed with your opinion on that shoes. Definitely i will try the Topo brands next year.
At first i thought there will be Magic Speed 3, NB SC Pacer or Adios 8 in this year’s list, Mike. Are those close 6 or honorable mentions?
There’s a common thread with all three of those shoes for me. They are great for running short and fast. But they were all a bit harsh for longer distances or easier efforts.
Fwiw, my junior high school daughter has been running track and some of her friends race in spikes. I think she might be a bit young for such aggressive shoes, and these three shoes are high on the list of what I’m considering to get for her this spring.
@@kofuzi Noted Mike, thanks! Good luck & all the best for your daughter on her running.
I have been using the DN2 a lot this year in the same way you’ve been using the invincible 3. Lots of long runs and medium long runs with marathon pace in them. I also used the Invincible 3 as a long run shoe at moderate efforts surprisingly! But I also used it a lot for easy days.
My favorite workout shoe though was the Nike Streakfly, surprisingly. Used them for everything from 200s to tempo runs. I think their sweet spot is in the shorter interval realm - up to about 1K repeats, but really good shoe overall as long as you have strong ankles. Very kinvara-y and probably a lot like the cielo road.
On cloud monster has been my daily and all around workout shoe lately. The puma has got my attention though, I will definitely grab a pair if I see one.
I like using my older race shoes for tempo. Saucony Pro OG.
The Mach X is my pick in this category. Off topic, but I would love to hear your thoughts on shoes better suited to treadmill work as a lot of us wander into the cold dark winter. Cheers, Merry Christmas!.
Treadmills are bouncy. It opens up the range of daily trainers I can use. I’ll save the most run most springy shoes for the roads. Things that are a bit firmer can go on the treadmill
Otherwise, i dont really change my recommendations for the treadmill (I suppose in certain situations there could be bigger variations in recommendations, like if you have injury prone joints and you live in a rocky road type situation)
The #1 combo for me would be Strung X2 (I paid only $168 cad best value so far) AF3 (coming soon) race day. Happy Holidays Kofuzi Armies!!!
Sounds like a lot of fun and fast miles (kilometers) in your future!
I try to use one of my non plated trainers for daily runs but I constantly find myself putting on my Pumas. Got them for only €100 too.
I try to think of shoes by how they feel, rather than what are the components. If you like running in it every day and it’s not causing problems, then I think it’s fine.
As far as I know, there isn any science that says otherwise (I.e. there hasn’t been a study on carbon that is used in a non-racing shoe)
I'm still a Saucony fan boi lol... So I've been using the Speed 3 for my workouts. I really wanna try those pumas though👀
Lot of people enjoy the endorphin speed 3. It didn’t get updated in 2923 though. Looking forward to what they do for it in 2024
@@kofuzi I’m so excited for the next version 😬 I went through 2 pairs this year lol
Still on Endorphin Speed 3. Awesome shoe from 22!
It’s a very popular choice
Just bought a Puma DN2 after watching this video and finished my first run, felt good 😊
glad you liked it!
excited to figure out whether the invincible 3 will be a tempo shoe or it'll still work as an easy day shoe
should be a fun test
Love the DN2! I've been using it all year as a daily trainer and for my build up to the Valencia marathon (used the Superblast for long runs). I'm close to a 1000K now and they're still in excellent shape, although the lugs are disappearing a bit. Very curious about the DN3.
I really fall in Love with Puma DN2 and DNE2 design esthetics, and have tried very hard to make (either of) them work as my tempo/interval shoes. However I failed, due for some reason both my heels seem to always “fallen off” the medial side of these lovely looking shoes inward. Same thing happen when I tried to test run with Adizero Takumi Sen 10, which would’ve been another awesome tempo/interval training shoes, had it not been for the same heel fallen inward thing.
Im still using my endorphin speed 2 for faster days.
Daily train in Novablast 3 and some workouts. Most workouts are in Hyperion Max which I especially love for tempos. For my fastest workouts I use my Takumi Sen 8s.
When did the Takumi Sen 9 release? I assume 2022? Best speed day non "super shoe" in my rotation
I put it in my supershoe list. Previous years, I let it double dip and be in two lists.
Love the intro music!!!
Non-plated, I've always been a Kinvara fan. Some probably only do shorter efforts in them, but I've done a marathon in them, so it's ok for me. Plated, Sketchers Razor Excess 2 (2022 release, but I didn't get it until this year).
Again Kofuzi FtW!!!
I literally just googled is puma deviate nitro 2 good for tempo run.. and turns out this vid was uploaded 2 hours ago...😍👍
Puma Deviate Nitro 2 was soooooo good! Bought a 2nd pair immediately after the first run with my first pair. They're my daily trainers 🔥
u can do easy runs in them?
@@io-rj6sk yes! It's a perfect "do it all" shoe that's good for every speed!
I'm still in love with the Prime X Strung v1 for almost any run, tested the v2 but for me it lacks the liveliness of v1. I think I will get the Nitro 2 as a daily/tempo for shorter runs
I’m hoping for v3 that they go back to the 10mm drop and thin heel of the v1 (not strung)
@@kofuzi I still have my OG but rarely use it due constantly rolling my ankle, I'm not sure what is with the Strung that feels way more stable. I do love the weight and feel of the OG when going fast thou...
Puma Nitro 2 is super!
DN2 as my all around , switch with the Hyperion Max , and Takumi 8.
a speedy lineup
The puma are the best, would like to try the Boston 12 though
Good list! It seems like this category has really shifted or broadened in previous years! Any inklings on where speed/workout shoes will go in the future?
I used to think that running shoe brands would all simplify their lineups and create a cohesive storyline from max cushion to super shoe (with one and only one option in each category).
But now I think that lineups will get confusing for the next couple of years as brands are realizing that multiple types of a single shoe can exist to accommodate different preferences (like ASICS with the Cumulus and the Novablast, New Balance with the More v4 and the SC Trainer 2, or Saucony with the Endorphin Pro and Endorphins Elite.
Picked up the Adios 8 on sale and I'm digging it
Loving the Puma deviate nitro 2 ❤
suprised to see nike invicible in tempo. might wanna try this to rotate with my endorhin speed 3
It’s a shoe that never made any sense to me until I picked up the pace a bit. Then everything fell into place
I actually got myself a Puma Deviate Nitro 2 as well :) I also used it for long runs so far.
Hope it’s been treating you well!
Surprised not to see magic speed 3 on the list
u dont get any heel slip in the invincibles?
also hoping 1 of the last 2 vids r for a trail shoe!
Love the cyclones
they're very lovable
Superb!
PrimeX 2 Strung for me. Been a great shoe for me, not perfect, but keeping my body free from injury.
It’s so agreeable
Puma is like one of those brands not to sleep on
I have the puma Deviate nitro 2s. They are OK but I wouldn't take them out foe more than 10km. My favorite trainers are Clifton 9s and my race shoes are Hoka Rocket x2 or previously Vaporfly 2
Threw some curve balls in this one, Jesus lol.
I saw a Nike invisible 3 at Dicks the other day and I’m not a Nike fan but it was so appealing when I picked it up. Kinda wanna try it now.
Hi everyone. For me: The Kinvara 14 and the magic speed 3. Like to Kofuzi. Happy Holidays.
Nice and speedy options!
How would you compare the DN2 with New Balance’s Rebel v4? Which one would you pick?
Where does the Boston 12 fit, in your mind?
The Boston should be in this category, but I’ve found that for version 12, it is a better daily trainer than it is a tempo shoe
what song at the intro? that was TOUGH