Deviate Nitro 4

Firm, but not harsh. Fordy Runs puts it between the Adizero Boston 13, which is firmer, and Saucony's Endorphin Speed, which is softer, and that's a handy way to picture it. At tempo and progression pace the plate gives you an energetic toe-off, and reviewers found it quicker there than v3. Easy runs are comfortable without the shoe nagging you to speed up. The back half is where it's weaker: landings through the heel can feel flat, and one tester thought the roll from heel to toe was a touch slow.

There's enough foam for long, relaxed runs, but this isn't a max-cushion shoe and doesn't pretend to be. Reviewers say the softer top layer gives more on impact than v3, while a firmer base underneath keeps things controlled. Expect the forefoot to feel bouncier than the heel. It'll handle the long runs in a marathon block. For ultras, or if your legs want more protection late in a run, a taller super trainer makes more sense.

It's a neutral shoe with no stability aids, yet reviewers found it steady for a plated trainer. The firmer base layer helps, as does a platform that isn't especially tall, and one UK reviewer called it very stable at every pace. The slightly narrow base makes it feel nimble rather than planted, so if you overpronate and need real support, look elsewhere.

The mesh is the most improved part of the shoe. It breathes well and dries quickly after rain, and the extra stretch takes away the pinch some runners felt in earlier versions. Heel padding is modest but enough for long efforts. Durability is harder to call. Lab testing gave the toe box and heel lining poor wear scores, while Canadian Running's tester got through snow, rain and treadmill sessions without any wear issues. If you tend to wear through uppers at the toe, keep an eye on it.