Sometimes, it's all about the little things. And while it might not reveal how well you'll be running in them, it's clear that the designers over at Puma has an eye for detail. We go up close and personal with the new Puma Deviate Nitro 3.

The Deviate series has been our favourite out of Puma’s new NITRO-based running lineup, offering a generally light-weight shoe with a carbon plate that worked well for us during training as well as race day.

The Deviate NITRO 3 sticks in the carbon fibre PWR Plate, with even more of PUMA’s NITROFOAM technology, which the company notes offers “supreme cushion and responsiveness”. No mention is made of NITROFOAM Elite, as found in the previous version, but if some sources are believed there is actually a thin layer included in the midsole.

After a weigh-in, the Deviate 3 is a solid 16 g heavier than the Deviate Nitro 2 (review) at 296 g for a UK10, with a the heel measuring 39 mm (1 mm up from v2), and with a 10 mm drop (2 mm more).

There’s also a lightweight engineered mesh upper which features strategically placed PWR Tape to provide support in high stress areas, with a padded collar offering additional comfort and fit.

Not all runners will enjoy the bold "NITRO" logo on the inner side of each shoe, but it certainly ensures the marketing of Puma's NITRO line-up.

A few of our favourite design touches include Puma Wayform on the sides that's cleverly composed of smaller version; Run appearing on the aglets and insole; and the beautiful fade from what Puma calls Sun Stream to Sunset Glow - basically the colours we saw Puma shoes appearing in during the recent Olympics. 

As always, the excellent PUMAGRIP provides strong grip on the outsole - some of the best in the game. 

If you are looking for a pair of the smart looking and hard running Puma Deviate Nitro 3 running shoes, they are available for R3 800, R200 bucks more than the previous version, at all good running shops, Puma shops and online at https://za.puma.com/.