Matt Varga Running has always been a sport where the slightest edge can spell the difference. The age of the super shoe has truly been an industry-wide race in who can propel athletes forward with the biggest differential between specific brands and their competitors. Tensions are flaring once again as we stare down the Boston marathon, but PUMA is pledging their Fast-R NITRO Elite 3 as their most significant breakthrough to date.
A UMass Amherst study initiated by the brand reports upwards of a 3% increase in running economy, the amount of energy required to travel a given distance, compared to the Fast-R NITRO Elite 3, the amount of energy required. As researchers spell out in their findings, largely the super-shoe category has hovered around 1% such increases across models introduced in the past several years, boding well for PUMA’s claims regarding the Fast-R NITRO Elite 3. Rubber hitting the road, of course, is the most significant test of whether the shoe truly is a cut above, but in the testing environment things have been extremely promising.
As with most super shoes, it’s a heavy blend of tech that shoots the PUMA Fast-R NITRO Elite 3 forward: PWRPLATE carbon fiber in the sole, bolstered by NITROFOAM Elite cushioning and PUMAGRIP traction underfoot. ULTRAWEAVE engineered fabric handles the foot up top, while an ultra-high 40mm stack height again places this comfortably among its super shoe peers.
For those in town for the Boston Marathon, you’ll have a chance to pick up the PUMA Fast-R NITRO Elite 3 early via the brand’s “The High Point” space created with the help of Marathon Sports. Limited stock will be available as supplies last from April 18th to April 20th. The wider launch via PUMA.com, in-store locations and partnering retailers comes on April 25th. Regardless of where you aim to grab yours, retail is set at $300.
