PUMA Unleashes the Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3, Its Fastest Running Shoe Yet

PUMA Unleashes the Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3, Its Fastest Running Shoe Yet

(IN BRIEF) PUMA has unveiled the Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3, its fastest and lightest running shoe to date, launching ahead of the Boston Marathon. Backed by a biomechanics study from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, the shoe offers a 3.15% improvement in running economy, potentially saving over four minutes in a marathon. Weighing 95g less than its predecessor, the shoe features an enhanced NITROFOAM™ ELITE midsole, advanced PWRPLATE propulsion, breathable ULTRAWEAVE upper, and reliable PUMAGRIP outsole. Elite runners and 200 participants in PUMA’s Project3 will race in the new model. A limited release starts April 18 at The High Point in Boston, followed by a global drop on April 25.

(PRESS RELEASE) HERZOGENAURACH, 17-Apr-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — PUMA has officially launched its most advanced running shoe to date — the Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3, a high-performance innovation designed to fuel runners’ pursuit of personal bests. Set to debut at the Boston Marathon, this state-of-the-art racing shoe blends revolutionary design with cutting-edge technology for unmatched speed and efficiency.

A recent biomechanics study by the University of Massachusetts Amherst, led by Assistant Professor Wouter Hoogkamer, revealed that the Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3 delivers a 3.15% improvement in running economy. For a marathoner with a 3-hour finish time, that could mean shaving off over four and a half minutes — a game-changer on race day.

“What stood out most in our study was the consistency of improved running efficiency across all participants,” said Hoogkamer. “The Fast-R 3 consistently required the least metabolic energy, which we know translates directly to faster finish times.”

Weighing 95 grams less than its predecessor, the Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3 features an upgraded NITROFOAM™ ELITE compound for enhanced cushioning and responsiveness. The evolved PWRPLATE delivers explosive propulsion, while its extended toe structure provides a performance edge. A lightweight ULTRAWEAVE upper ensures breathability and support, and PUMAGRIP technology gives runners secure traction across all surfaces.

“This shoe redefines the running category,” said Romain Girard, VP of Innovation at PUMA. “By embracing a fully digital development process, we’ve created a generational product that sets a new benchmark in speed, comfort, and innovation.”

Canadian Olympian Rory Linkletter, preparing to race in Boston, added, “It’s the most radical ride I’ve ever had. Without a doubt, it’s the fastest shoe I’ve laced up.”

The shoe will also be worn by 200 participants in PUMA’s Project3, a unique challenge offering runners the chance to break their personal records — and win $3,000 if they do.

Texan marathoner Rena Elmer, aiming for a sub-2:30 finish in Boston, said, “It’s my favorite racing shoe. I feel fast and fluid — I’m confident I’ll hit a new PR.”

The Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3 will be available in limited quantities starting April 18 exclusively at The High Point, PUMA’s Boston Marathon hub at 745 Boylston Street. A broader global release will follow on April 25 via PUMA.com, PUMA flagship stores, and select retailers worldwide.

Media Contact:

Stefan Popovic
stefan.popovic@puma.com

SOURCE: PUMA