The PUMA Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3 Promises Time Saved in the Long Run

As the world's oldest and most prestigious annual marathon, the Boston Marathon is always an event. In addition to inspiring athletic performances, some of the biggest sportswear brands take the occasion as an opportunity to unveil their latest and greatest innovations in performance gear. PUMA took the race's 129th edition as a chance to debut its most-efficient long-distance racer yet: the Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3.

The third installment in the brand's marquee marathon line, the silhouette launched in the Boston Athletic Association's 5K and Mile events over the weekend. Elite athletes Taylor Roe, Patrick Dever, and Amon Kemboi put the shoe to the test, securing a spot on the podium in their respective categories and events.

Insight from these and other runners helped develop the Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3 over the last year. The result is an offering that the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, found helped athletes see around a 3.15% improvement in running economy, the amount of oxygen needed to run at a given speed or intensity. In practical terms, this translates to a 3-hour marathoner saving about 4 minutes and 30 seconds over the course of 26.2 miles (42.195 kilometers). For the world's best runners, this could mean setting a new world record.

PUMA's Research & Development team incorporated a new NITROFOAM™ Elite foam. In comparison to previous versions, the cushioning solution offers a lighter package by improving on responsiveness. The precision-engineered PWRPLATE carbon fiber element works in-tandem with the nitrogen-infused foam, delivering a propulsive sensation underfoot that allows runners to feel fresher deeper in the race. Industry-leading PUMAGRIP reprises its role, providing reliable rubber traction across the reworked sole unit.

The tech specs for PUMA's innovative offering are as follows:

• Stack height: 40millimeters/32millimeters
• Heel-to-toe drop: 8mm
• Weight: 170 grams (5.99 ounces) in a US Men's 9 (down from 264g of Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 2)
• Lifespan: 310.68 miles (500km)
• Recommended for neutral pronators

The Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3's online launch will take place on Friday, April 25, via PUMA.com. The pair is priced at $300 and offered in both Men's and Women's sizing.

For more running footwear, check out the experimental Adidas Adizero Prime X 3.0 Strung.