PUMA reveals Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3 super shoe, offering science-backed performance improvements

PUMA has officially unveiled the Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3, its fastest ever running shoe, engineered to aid your pursuit of a new personal best.

Debuting at the Boston Marathon, Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3 combines state-of-the-art technology with cutting-edge design, providing runners with a rate of efficiency that could potentially shave minutes off your race day records.

Research-backed gains

These claims were evidenced in a research study conducted by the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

The study, led by industry specialist Wouter Hoogkamer, concluded that Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3 provides 3.15% improved running economy*, which for a 3-hour marathon runner translates to an unprecedented potential marathon time saving of more than 4 minutes and 30 seconds.

“The most striking result from this study was the consistency of the running economy improvements. For every single participant the numbers showed that running was easiest – requiring the least amount of metabolic energy – in the Fast-R 3,” commented Assistant Professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst Wouter Hoogkamer, who specialises in the biomechanics and energetics of running said:

“This is remarkable. From years of research we know that our lab-measured improvements in running energetics translate to faster race times.”

Next-level cushioning and responsiveness

Engineered with elite runners and tested on real athletes, Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3 weighs an astonishing 95g less than its predecessor.

The decoupled midsole has received an upgrade, with a new NITROFOAM™ ELITE compound providing next-level cushioning and responsiveness.

The restructured PWRPLATE offers unrivalled propulsion and elite efficiency, while retaining the silhouette’s iconic extension through the forefoot and out past the toe – a unique design and performance benefit that was first introduced in the Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 2.

A breathable upper is comprised of premium, lightweight ULTRAWEAVE that ensures comfort and support throughout race day, whilst PUMA’s industry leading PUMAGRIP outsole offers multi-surface traction to ensure you make it from start to finish with a new PB front of mind.

PUMA Fast-R NITRO Elite 3 specifications:

• Price: R7,999
• Weight: 170g
• Stack Height: 40mm/32mm
• Drop: 8mm
• Product Lifespan: 300km/200mi

A limited drop will go live at PUMA.com, PUMA V&A Waterfront and PUMA Sandton from 4 May 2025.