HOKA Mach X 3 vs Puma Deviate Nitro 4
Mach X 3 or Deviate Nitro 4? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.
The short answer
Want a plated trainer with deep cushion? Get the Mach X 3.
Want carbon-plated speed for everyday training? Get the Deviate Nitro 4.
Get the Mach X 3 if
- You want the softer, more cushioned ride
- It’s mostly for easy days
- You like a less rigid forefoot
- You prefer a lower drop (5mm vs 8mm)
Get the Deviate Nitro 4 if
- You like a firmer, more stable feel
- You want something for race day
- You like a stiffer, rocker-style forefoot that rolls you forward
- You want the lighter shoe, by about 1.4 oz
On the run
Mach X 3: The plated Mach for long, fast miles. Deeply cushioned, with a smooth, quick-rolling rocker and a Pebax plate. The forefoot is lively, but the EVA heel dulls the bounce at landing.
Deviate Nitro 4: Carbon-plated, everyday speed. A PEBA top layer over a stiff carbon plate makes it smooth and quick from tempo runs to long runs. It’s firmer at slow paces than at speed.
Specs side by side
| Mach X 3 | Deviate Nitro 4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $190 | $170 |
| Stack height (heel / forefoot) | Not listed by HOKA | 38 / 30mm |
| Drop | 5mm | 8mm |
| Weight, men’s | 10.2 oz | 8.8 oz |
| Weight, women’s | 8.6 oz | 7.3 oz* |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Plate | Pebax plate | Carbon plate |
| Widths | Standard | Standard, Wide |
| Built for | Tempo & workouts, Long runs, Easy days | Tempo & workouts, Long runs, Race day |
| Expected life | 350–450 miles | 300–400 miles |
Stack, drop and weight come from each brand’s own website. Numbers marked * aren’t published by the brand and come from other published specs. Weights are for the size each brand quotes. Expected life is our estimate.
Fit
Mach X 3. Runs slightly short and very snug, so go up a half if you’re between sizes. Little room for toes to spread.
Deviate Nitro 4. True to size with a secure heel. It’s roomier than earlier Deviates, though the toebox still measures on the narrow side. Wide available.
Try them on
Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.
Shop the Mach X 3 · Shop the Deviate Nitro 4 · Compare other running shoes