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    The HOKA Gift Guide Every Runner Will Thank You For

    PB your gift-giving this festive season and spoil the runner in your life with a pair of new HOKA shoes.

    HIGH MILEAGE WORKHORSE

    HOKA Bondi 8

    One of the hardest working shoes in the HOKA lineup. The Bondi takes a bold step forward this season, reworked with softer, lighter foams and a brand-new extended heel geometry. Taking on a billowed effect, the rear crash pad affords an incredibly soft and balanced ride from heel strike to forefoot transition.

    EVERYDAY KILOMETRES, ELEVATED

    HOKA Skyflow

    Designed to elevate your daily running practice, the Skyflow combines premium Skyward X-inspired geometry with upgraded foam compounds, taking everyday miles to the next level. Super-critically foamed EVA offers an extra cushy, springy ride, while a supportive heel-focused Active Foot Frame™ cradles the foot and a smooth forefoot rocker profile encourages effortless strides. Constructed with a sleek upper and extra durable outsole, this shoe redefines the idea of “daily driver.”

    LIGHT AND PLUSH FOR EVERYDAY MILES

    HOKA Clifton 9

    The ninth iteration of our award-winning Clifton franchise has launched, lighter and more cushioned than ever before. Eliminating weight while adding 3mm in stack height, the new Clifton 9 delivers a revitalized underfoot experience with a responsive new foam and improved outsole design. Removing overlays and hotmelts, the stripped back upper has been consciously crafted with a plusher heel, reflective heel panel, and streamlined tongue with single side medial gusset.

    A SURPRISINGLY SLEEK STABILITY SHOE.

    HOKA Arahi 7

    Not your average stability shoe, the new Arahi 7 delivers the same streamlined support as its predecessor with our patented J-Frame™ technology. Updated with a zonally engineered, flat knit upper for improved midfoot lockdown, we’ve fine-tuned the fit with a plusher tongue, and a stretchy dual gusset beneath the lace line to help mitigate tongue migration.

    YOUR GATEWAY TO EVERYDAY SPEED

    HOKA Mach 6

    Behold our lightest, most responsive Mach to date. This lively trainer has been fine-tuned for extra energy return with a super critical foam midsole and updated for enhanced durability with strategic rubber coverage in the outsole. Implementing speed focused design details throughout, we’ve enlisted a new creel jacquard upper with zonal breathability and an internal gusset to deliver the foot-hugging comfort required to set your next PR.

    Find them at top running stores or conveniently online at Runbeatable.co.za.**WH Partnership More

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    Get The Strong Girl Look This Summer With The New Fitness Fusion Collection

    Join the club, the Strong Girl Club. The inspiration behind the latest Fitness Fusion line comes straight from the powerhouse women we see every day. Strong in every aspect of life, whether it’s in the gym, at home, or in the office, these everyday women hustle, grind and make it happen. Fitness Fusion is here to celebrate that strength and grow with you.About Fitness FusionFitness Fusion is all about fuelling your body, moving with purpose, and helping you feel unstoppable. Their goal? To have you feeling confident, supported and ready to take on the world in your activewear.READ MORE: Here’s Why We Love Our Cover Search Partners (And Why You’ll Be Obsessed Too)Support Meets StyleThe design aesthetic is all about Style in Motion; keeping you looking and feeling your best as you work towards hitting that next goal.With high-performance fabrics and flattering fits, Fitness Fusion focuses on superior design and fashion-forward looks – all without breaking the bank. Say goodbye to compromising on quality and hello to the perfect blend of style and functionality. Get The LookSculpt Active Tank (Green)

    Sculpt Active Shorts Black (Green Logo)

    Stanley The All Day Slim Bottle

    Sculpt Active Tank (Pink)

    Lovisa Waterproof Oval Hoops

    Sculpt Active Shorts Black (Pink Logo)

    Fitness Fusion Yoga Block

    Sculpt Active Shorts (Green)

    Lovisa Neutral Coated Claw Clips

    Find them in Cavendish Square, Houghton Estate and online.**WH Partnership More

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    Push Beyond Limits With Garmin’s New fēnix 8 Series

    Whether you’re a serious athlete or an adventurous soul, the new Garmin fēnix 8 Series is here to push you beyond your limits with unbeatable performance. These next-gen premium multisport GPS smartwatches come with either a vibrant AMOLED display or a solar charging option for even more battery life to keep you going. Packed with advanced strength training features, dive capabilities, an internal speaker, mic, and more, the fēnix 8 Series is designed for those who never settle. Plus, with its incredible battery life, you’ll never miss a beat – the 51mm AMOLED model lasts up to 29 days in smartwatch mode, and the 51mm solar model can go for a massive 48 days with its always-on display. Ready to explore further? This watch is.“For years, the fēnix line has been celebrated for its premium features, materials and design. And now, we’re thrilled to introduce our most capable fēnix yet. This latest lineup not only adds new design details, sport-specific training enhancements and convenient communication tools, it also allows users to choose between a beautiful AMOLED display or solar charging for extra-long battery life. If you’re looking for a sophisticated smartwatch that can hold you accountable and help you reach your health and wellness goals, look no further than fēnix 8.”

    Dan Bartel, Garmin Vice President of Global Consumer SalesSomething for everyoneAMOLED or solarChoose between a bright AMOLED display or an always-on display with a solar charging lens that harnesses the power of the sun even better, resulting in fēnix 8 – 51mm providing 50% more solar power than its predecessor1. Both models also feature refreshed graphics. Rugged designAll models feature leakproof metal buttons, a new sensor guard to help protect essential sensors and have been tested to U.S. military standards for thermal, shock and water resistance. And premium materials like an optional titanium bezel and optional scratch-resistant sapphire lens are built to endure, even in the harshest of conditions. Built-in speaker and microphoneMake and take phone calls from the watch when paired with a compatible smartphone. Certain voice commands like “start a strength training activity”, “set a timer for 5 minutes”, “save waypoint” and more can be activated right from the watch—no phone connection is required. Built-in LED flashlightQuickly control the flashlight’s brightness right from the display. Variable intensities, a red light and strobe mode can help provide greater awareness in dark environments—like during a training run, searching for a lost toy under the couch, reading a menu at a dimly-lit restaurant and more.Advanced strength trainingElevate performance with targeted, 4-6-week strength training plans to help meet personal goals, plus sport-specific workouts for athletes of all types, including trail runners, surfers, skiers and more.Dive capabilitiesDive in with a 40-meter dive-rated case, leakproof metal buttons and support for scuba and apnea dive activities.Garmin Messenger™ appCommunicate with family and friends via two-way text messaging right from the watch2.Advanced mapping and navigationView terrain contours on TopoActive maps3 and access preloaded maps for thousands of golf courses and ski resorts around the world. A new map interface allows users to easily customise map layers to get the most out of their navigation. While exploring, enter a distance on the watch and receive suggested routes to stay on track and on time with dynamic round-trip routing.
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    Perform at your bestNo matter the adventure, fēnix 8 Series can help athletes of all types push beyond their limits. Every morning, a training readiness score can help determine if it’s a good day to go hard or take it easy, while advanced training metrics like endurance score, hill score, VO2 max, training status and more can help gauge overall performance4.During a training session, PacePro™ provides GPS-based pace guidance for selected courses or distances while grade-adjusted pace provides an equivalent running pace at the same effort on flat ground or when ascending. Meanwhile, ClimbPro displays real-time information on current and upcoming climbs. To prepare for the next big race, athletes can view personalised daily suggested workouts that adapt after every run or ride, use free Garmin Coach training plans and reference the race widget for training tips, personalised daily suggested workouts and more. READ MORE: Total-Body Toning Spring WorkoutFind your passionNew activities like apnea and scuba diving join dozens of preloaded activities – including running, whitewater rafting, golfing and padel, plus team sports like soccer, rugby, cricket and more – to help users stay active. Whether working out at a gym or at home, fēnix 8 Series tracks activities like strength, cardio, yoga and HIIT. Users can also follow animated cardio, strength, yoga and Pilates workouts right on their watch screen. Explorers can also keep track of their adventures with insights for snowboarding, XC skiing, surfing, mountain biking and more. While out skiing, users can now track how much time they spend on different difficulties throughout the day at thousands of resorts worldwide.READ MORE: Cyclists, This New Device By Garmin Will Have You On The Edge Of Your SeatExplore on (or off) the beaten pathReady for any adventure, fēnix 8 Series is packed with premium mapping features to help explorers stay on track. Available on fēnix 8 sapphire models, preloaded TopoActive maps provide multi-continent mapping from around the world. An optional Outdoor Maps+ subscription provides explorers with premium mapping content, like satellite imagery and enhanced topographic maps right on the watch. Meanwhile, SatIQ™ and multi-band GPS help provide superior positioning accuracy in challenging environments—all while optimising battery life. Before heading out, adventurers can create or find existing courses in Garmin Connect™ and seamlessly sync them to their watch to get turn-by-turn directions. While out exploring, users can navigate trails with the NextFork™ Map Guide or the built-in altimeter, barometer and 3-axis electronic compass.Track your health statsLoaded with 24/7 health monitoring features, fēnix 8 Series includes wrist-based Pulse Ox5, Body Battery™ energy monitoring, jet lag adviser, advanced sleep monitoring, nap detection and more. Upon waking, users can receive a morning report that provides a customised look at last night’s sleep, their training outlook and Heart Rate Variability (HRV) Status.Stay connectedWhile on the go, fēnix 8 Series lets users: share saved locations, courses and workouts with others who have a compatible Garmin device using Garmin Share; receive smart notifications; download songs from Spotify®, Deezer or Amazon Music (premium subscription required) for phone-free listening; workout with peace of mind with incident detection, assistance and LiveTrack6; breeze through checkout lines with Garmin Pay™ contactless payments7; and more.

    Be limitless with Garmin fēnix 8

    The fēnix 8 Series offers a bright AMOLED display or solar charging for even greater battery life. The AMOLED option is available in three sizes – 43mm, 47mm and 51mm – while the solar charging option is available in 47mm or 51mm.

    Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionised life for adventurers, athletes, off-road explorers, road warriors and outdoor enthusiasts everywhere. Committed to developing products that enhance experiences, enrich lives and help provide peace of mind, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday.ReferencesAssumes all-day wear with 3 hours per day outside in 50,000 lux conditions.

    Requires both the sender and receiver of messages to have the Garmin Messenger app installed on their compatible paired smartphones.

    Sapphire versions only. Non-sapphire versions must download maps.

    Activity tracking accuracy.

    This is not a medical device and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or monitoring of any medical condition; see Garmin.com/ataccuracy. Pulse Ox not available in all countries.

    When paired with your compatible smartphone. For safety and tracking feature requirements and limitations, see Garmin.com/safety.

    Available for supported cards from participating banks. View current supported countries, payment network and issuing bank information on garmin.com/garminpay**WH Partnership More

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    What Are Tissue Salts And What Do They Do for You?

    With the pressures of fast-paced living, stress and less-than-perfect nutrition, it’s no surprise that our bodies sometimes feel out of sync. Add the constant battle against bacteria, viruses, pollution and injury, and you’ve got a recipe for cellular chaos. Our bodies work hard to stay balanced, often using up essential minerals faster than we can replace them through diet. That’s where Natura Tissue Salts come in—a natural and gentle way to help restore your bounce and boost your well-being.

    What Are Tissue Salts?

    Developed in the 19th century by Dr. Wilhelm Schüssler, tissue salts are small doses of 12 essential minerals that help correct imbalances and support healthy cellular function. These salts work by enhancing nutrient absorption, which in turn supports overall health.

    Why Your Cells Need Tissue Salts

    Your cells are crucial to keeping your body running smoothly, but when they’re lacking essential nutrients, they can’t perform at their best. Tissue salts help replenish these nutrients, improving nutrient absorption and helping your cells function optimally.

    Benefits and Usage

    Tissue salts provide essential nutrients to your cells, helping to maintain overall health. Available in small, easy-to-dissolve tablets made from a lactose base, they’re convenient and effective. For immediate concerns, take a dose every half hour; for long-term issues, once or twice a day is usually enough.

    The 12 Tissue Salts

    Calc Fluor: Think of this as your elasticity buddy – keeping your tissues strong and flexible.

    Calc Phos: The bone and teeth superstar, crucial for growing kids and anyone recovering from illness.

    Calc Sulph: Your go-to for clear, glowing skin.

    Ferrum Phos: The immune booster that’s perfect for fighting inflammation.

    Kali Mur: Say goodbye to mucus and phlegm with this congestion reliever.

    Kali Phos: The nerve-soothing champion that helps with stress and fatigue.

    Kali Sulph: Keeps your skin and mucous membranes in top shape.

    Mag Phos: A lifesaver for muscle pains and cramps, especially for athletes.

    Nat Mur: Balances moisture levels and supports emotional well-being.

    Nat Phos: Your stomach’s best friend, keeping acidity at bay.

    Nat Sulph: Supports liver function and helps eliminate excess water.

    Silicea: The body’s natural cleanser, flushing out unwanted materials.

    Trusted by Natura

    Natura has been a trusted provider of tissue salts since 1966. Their products come in handy purple glass bottles, perfect for tossing in your bag or pocket. Each bottle has 125 tablets, enough for a month’s supply if taken daily. Natura Tissue Salts are suitable for all ages and easy to administer due to their pleasant taste.

    A Word on Lactose Intolerance

    If you’re considering Natura Tissue Salts for their incredible health benefits, it’s important to know they are made with a lactose base. Always listen to your body and consult a healthcare professional if you’re unsure.

    For further information on the Natura Tissue Salts range, please visit the Natura website. 

    **WH Partnership More

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    Nailed it: Hidden Health Secrets Of Your Hands

    Your hands are more than just functional tools; they can provide significant insights into your overall health. Let’s explore what your hands reveal about your overall well-being, the potential risks associated with certain hand care practices, and tips to keep your hands healthy and beautiful.

    What your hands say about your health

    Your hands can exhibit various signs that might indicate underlying health issues. Here are a few common observations.

    Nail colour and texture

    Pale or white nails can indicate anaemia or liver disease.

    Yellow nails might be a sign of fungal infection or respiratory issues.

    Pitted or rippled nails could suggest psoriasis or inflammatory arthritis.

    Skin condition

    Dry, cracked skin can indicate eczema or thyroid problems.

    Red, swollen skin might indicate an allergic reaction or infection.

    Hand strength and coordination

    A weak grip could be an early sign of conditions like arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome.

    Tremors or shaking might be related to neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease.

    Risks and dangers: Nail polish and remover

    Image by Freepik

    Manicures and pedicures can be a delightful boost to your confidence. But certain products used in these treatments may pose health risks. Here’s what you need to know.

    Nail polish

    Many nail polishes contain formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate (DBP), which can cause allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and even endocrine disruption.

    Be wary of these and other toxic ingredients, especially in nail polish that does not disclose the full ingredient list. Always opt for brands that are transparent about their formulations.

    Nail polish removers

    Acetone is a common ingredient that, while effective, can be harsh on nails and skin, causing dryness and brittleness.

    Non-acetone removers might be gentler but often contain other chemicals that can still cause irritation or allergic reactions.

    Recent studies have found polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in many cosmetic products, including nail polish removers. PFAS are linked to various health issues, including cancer and reproductive problems.

    READ MORE: How To Strengthen Brittle Nails, According To Dermatologists

    Protect yourself from harmful substances

    For a healthy, safe hand care routine, make sure to:

    Choose products wisely

    Look for nail polishes and removers labelled as “3-free,” “5-free,” or “7-free”, indicating they are free from some of the most harmful chemicals.

    Avoid products with unidentified “fragrance” ingredients, which can hide numerous harmful chemicals.

    Ensure proper ventilation

    When using nail polish or removers, ensure you are in a well-ventilated area to minimise inhaling fumes.

    Remember, natural isn’t always better

    Some natural products contain high levels of botanical extracts, which can cause allergic reactions. Always check the ingredient list.

    Handy tips for healthy hands

    Keeping your hands happy and healthy doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some simple, effective tips.

    Moisturise regularly: Use hand creams with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, shea butter, vitamin E and glycerine.

    Protect your hands: Wear gloves when doing household chores or working with harsh chemicals.

    Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

    Go for regular check-ups: Pay attention to changes in your hands and consult a healthcare professional if you notice any concerning symptoms.

    READ MORE: 9 Great Hand Creams That’ll Prevent Dry, Cracked Hands

    By being mindful of the products you use and taking good care of your hands, you can enjoy gorgeous hands while minimising potential risks. Remember, your hands tell a story about your health. Make sure it’s a good one!

    Visit Medihelp’s website at www.medihelp.co.za.

    **WH Partnership More

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    Effortless Running FTW With The New Cloudsurfer Next

    Launch yourself into running with the Cloudsurfer Next. With all-new CloudTec Phase® cushioning, you’ll experience an effortless glide that makes every run feel like a breeze. Plus, the pronounced forefoot rocker is here to give your stride a powerful boost. Comfort? Check. Energy return? Double check.

    The ‘Smooth Operator’ Of Running

    As your feet hit the ground, the CloudTec Phase® midsole collapses in sequence, creating a smooth roll from heel to toe. It’s like running on clouds. The easy step-in design accommodates a wider range of foot shapes, so you’re good to go from the moment you lace up. And when it’s time to push off, the bouncy Helion™ superfoam gives you that extra kick. Every step feels effortless, yet dynamic.

    Looks Fast, Feels Fast

    The Cloudsurfer Next’s updated forefoot rocker pushes power to the front. Built for daily running, it’s light, cushioned and responsive. And feels fast too. Combined with Cloudsurfer cushioning for an effortless feeling, put simply, it makes faster running feel easier. Inspired by the design of our race-day shoes (Silhouette inspired by our pinnacle race-day shoes) the engineered woven upper provides a seamless fit.

    READ MORE: Start Strong With On Running SA

    Next Level Comfort

    Modelled on the top race-day shoes, the updated Cloudsurfer Next upper is engineered ultralight. Highly breathable, its woven mesh hugs your feet for a comfortable and secure ride. As you pick up pace, rubber pads on the outsole grip the road.

    Explore the world of effortless and dynamic running with the Cloudsurfer Next. To learn more about their shoes and apparel, visit tifosisports.co.za and join the conversations on Facebook and Instagram.

    **WH Partnership More

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    Can Your VO2 Max Really Reduce Your Death Risk?

    New research released by Discovery Vitality emphasises the need to view cardiorespiratory fitness (measured as VO2 max) as an important health risk metric. Insights were drawn from Discovery’s unique data, including lifestyle information, clinical screening results and insurance claims data. The findings show the tangible benefits of prioritising CRF which dramatically reduced risk of developing – and dying from – cardiovascular diseases, certain cancers and diabetes, among other conditions.

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    Vitality Fitness: A one-tap, first-of-its-kind fitness platform

    Linked to these insights, Discovery Vitality announced the launch of two exciting updates to the programme aimed at enhancing the health outcomes of its members. They are a new rewards points metric based on cardiorespiratory fitness level, and a first-of-its-kind exercise platform called Vitality Fitness. The new platform brings a new level of convenience and access to Vitality members, enabling them to view and book an extensive range of workouts provided by a network of gyms and fitness studios around the country. Members access the booking platform through the Discovery app and can book classes in a few taps.

    “My vision is that the insights from this research on cardiorespiratory fitness help inform the global effort to combat the growing epidemic of physical inactivity and its associated health risks. We’re continually exploring ways to incentivise and promote healthier lifestyles among our members, and it’s important that these are backed by research and enabled through the smart use of technology to fit easily into people’s lives,” says Vitality CEO, Dinesh Govender

    READ MORE: Ready To Get Fit? Tap Into The New Vitality Fitness Platform

    VO2 Max: A Key Metric For Overall Health

    Cardiorespiratory fitness refers to how well your respiratory and circulatory systems supply your body with enough oxygen to keep exercising. VO2 max is a measure of the maximum amount of oxygen that your body can use when you’re exercising. As your VO2 max increases, so does your aerobic endurance and ultimately your cardiorespiratory fitness. It is a powerful indicator of one’s potential for a long and healthy life, as even a moderate improvement in VO2 max can reduce risk of death by 21-30%. By understanding and improving VO2 max, individuals can reduce their risk of cardiovascular diseases, certain cancers, and diabetes.

    Vitality’s newly published white paper on navigating cardio fitness for optimal health outcomes highlights the critical role of cardio fitness in health management: Vitality members with higher cardiorespiratory fitness levels experience 30% lower hospital claims, and exhibit 95% lower prevalence of obesity, 84% lower prevalence of high-risk blood glucose levels, and 70% lower prevalence of high blood pressure.

    Good Habits Can Influence Your CRF

    While many may think that their genes largely determine their cardiorespiratory fitness level, this research revealed the importance of forming good habits: Vitality’s fittest members tend to exercise more frequently, for longer, and at higher intensities. Vitality members with higher cardio fitness levels also tend to have earlier bedtimes, earlier wake-up times, and longer sleep durations. All in all, members with higher Vitality statuses exhibited higher cardiorespiratory fitness levels

    “Through advancements in wearable technology and the Vitality Fitness Assessment, our members can easily estimate their VO2 max. This cardio fitness measurement serves as a valuable benchmark for overall health. Our new white paper provides comprehensive research insights, practical guidelines, and tailored pathways to help members understand and improve their VO2 max,” says Dr. Mosima Mabunda, Vitality’s Head of Wellness.

    Prof Jon Patricios, Professor of Sports and Exercise Medicine at Wits University, adds, “In a country with stretched health resources and large disparities in access to care, there is an accessible and affordable solution: optimal cardiorespiratory fitness. The prescription of aerobic-based exercise provides some of the most effective disease prevention strategies and should be our core lifestyle intervention.”

    From July 2024 onwards, Vitality members can earn up to 10,000 Vitality points by improving their VO2 max.

    VO2 max readings will be categorised into five Vitality Cardio Fitness Levels: low, fair, good, excellent and superior. While there is no single ideal VO2 max, everyone should strive to improve to the next level due to the health benefits. The greatest health benefits are seen in individuals who move from a low to a fair level, with additional benefits realised as one improves to a good or higher level. For most people, reaching a good Vitality Cardio FitnessLevel for their age and gender is a great milestone and will provide the health protection needed to live a long, healthy life.

    “By rewarding Vitality members for knowing and improving their cardio fitness, we are not only encouraging varied exercise intensities and durations but also helping them protect their health and extend their lifespans,” says Govender.

    Download the research paper here: Navigating Cardiorespiratory Fitness for Optimal Health. More

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    PUMA Just Dropped The New Deviate NITRO™ 3 And It’s Pure Speed

    PUMA just launched their latest innovation, and trust us, this will be the GOAT of running shoes. The Deviate NITRO™ 3 is here to challenge you to the most successful training experience ever. It’s your everyday source of speed, reliable week after week, mile after mile. And can we just take a moment to appreciate that stunning colour fade? Because who doesn’t love a beautiful running shoe? Said no one ever.

    READ MORE: Tried & Tested: New Running Shoes From Asics, PUMA, Salomon & Under Armour

    Engineered For Speed

    The Deviate NITRO™ 3 is packed with even more of PUMA’s cutting-edge NITROFOAM™ technology to deliver supreme cushion and responsiveness. It’s the next evolution of its award-winning predecessor, designed to push you beyond your limits.

    The carbon fibre PWR Plate ensures a smoother, more consistent speed, delivering an explosive toe-off that propels you forward. And with PUMA’s exceptional PUMAGRIP, you’ll get unmatched traction on any surface, even in the testing conditions.

    The lightweight engineered mesh upper comes with strategically placed PWR Tape for added support where you need it most, while a padded collar provides extra comfort and a snug fit. The Deviate NITRO™ 3 will enhance training experiences for people worldwide and continues to grow closer to its race day counterpart.

    READ MORE: Get Cushiness *And* Stability With The New PUMA Velocity Nitro 3

    The Deviate NITRO™ 3 Fireglow colourway is now available on PUMA.com, in PUMA Retail stores, Totalsports and Sportsmans Warehouse. For more information, please visit www.puma.com More