Puma's Fast-R Nitro Elite: A Bold Contender in the Super Shoe Arena
This shoe is more than just a running tool; it's a statement piece. With its sleek lines and dynamic colour accents, the Fast-R Nitro Elite commands attention. Puma, once known for its more classic designs with a touch of gold flair, has clearly shifted gears, crafting a shoe that screams speed and dares to challenge the established giants of the racing world.
Admittedly, my feet haven't had the pleasure of experiencing these super shoes firsthand. The truth is none of these shoes were meant to fit my feet. But that hasn't stopped my curiosity! I've delved into the technology, the reviews, and the comparisons to uncover the genetic makeup of this intriguing speedster. Does the Fast-R Nitro Elite earn its place among the Justice League of super shoes, or is it a stealthy predator waiting to pounce on the competition? Let's dive in and find out.
Fast-R Nitro EliteTechnology Deep Dive (The Science of Speed)
Technology Deep Dive (The Science of Speed)
Okay, so what makes this shoe so special? It's all about the tech, baby! Puma's pulled out all the stops to make this a true speed demon, and it all starts with a bit of shoe history...
Remember those sock-like shoes Puma was experimenting with a while back?
Well, that wasn't just a fad! They were actually onto something. Puma developed this unique "sock-like" structure for their performance shoes, and it's all about getting the snuggest, most supportive fit possible. This second skin is coming back from the likes of ON Running, Hoka and Mizuno. This fad is on it's way back like a boomerang and it will be interesting to see if Puma will inovate it's original patent. I think 2025 will be another year of this design showing face.
Now, the Fast-R Nitro Elite takes that idea and kicks it into overdrive with some seriously cutting-edge technology:
NITRO Elite Foam: Light and Bouncy!
First up, we've got this awesome stuff called NITRO Elite foam. Imagine the lightest, springiest marshmallow you've ever held. That's basically what this is, but for your feet. It's made with some fancy nitrogen-infused magic, and Puma says it's their most responsive foam yet.
Now, it's not like sinking your feet into a cloud. It's definitely firm, but in a good way! It's that perfect balance of cushion and bounce that helps you fly forward with every step.
PWRPLATE: Your Secret Weapon!
Next, let's talk about the PWRPLATE. This is a super thin, super strong carbon fiber plate that runs the entire length of the shoe. Every company has engineers a type of carbon plate that is shaped to enhance the ride of the shoe. Puma developed a plate slightly different in the length of the plate but fully exposed.
This plate actually extends a bit past the toes. This gives runners a "toe spring" effect that makes your feet want to roll through your stride. It's like the shoe is helping you run faster, even if you're feeling a little sluggish. and of course moving in sync with the bodies dynamics.
PWRTAPE: Locked and Loaded!
Last but not least, we've got PWRTAPE. No this is not an as seen on TV version of Duct tape but an innovation that was added to the upper. This is like a super-strong tape that Puma strategically placed on the upper part of the shoe. It's like a little extra hug for your feet, keeping them locked in place so you don't slide around when you're picking up the pace.
And the best part? It's super lightweight and breathable, so you won't feel like your feet are suffocating in there.
So, there you have it!
From their innovative sock-like design to the NITRO Elite foam, PWRPLATE, and PWRTAPE, Puma has engineered the Fast-R Nitro Elite to be a true speed machine.
A Frontrunners Fast-R NITRO Perspective
My colleague Colin from Frontrunners, who I'm extremely proud of, recently ran the RVM 2024 in the Fast-R NITRO. He was consistent and persistent in his training leading up to the race. Since my feet are too small for this shoe, I asked him for his thoughts on this super shoe.
"I ran in the Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite and felt really good during the race. My feet were completely unscathed afterward. The only issue I had was actually during training when I was wearing my Hoka Mach 5s. That's the only time I got a blood blister. I didn't have any damage during the race, my feet felt really good and fast, and the Pumas were really responsive.
They are quite firm, but I really like that. The Royal Victoria Marathon went well for me."
~Colin
VI. Pros and Cons (A Balanced Perspective)
Pros:
Lightweight and responsive
Propulsive carbon plate
Secure and breathable upper
Unique and eye-catching design
Cons:
Stability concerns at slower paces
May not be suitable for all running styles
Higher price point
Fast-R Nitro Elite 1 vs. 2: What's New, Puma?
I can't say I've worn these shoes personally but again had to dig around to find what the difference was. Most of the tweaks are subtle but listed down below is a comparison between the two and their changes.
1. Fast-R Nitro Elite 1 vs. 2 FOAM
The biggest change is in the foam. The first version had this split personality thing going on – NITRO Elite foam in the front, regular EVA foam in the back. It was a bit...weird.
But for version 2, Puma went all-in on the NITRO Elite. It's like they said, "Hey, if it ain't broke, don't fix it...just add more of it!" So now, you've got that super-light, super-bouncy foam from heel to toe.
2. Fast-R Nitro Elite 1 vs. 2 STACK
Speaking of foam, they also added more of it! The stack height (basically how thick the sole is) got a boost in the Fast-R Nitro Elite 2. This means more cushioning and potentially more bounce. Think of it like adding an extra layer of springs to your trampoline.
3. Fast-R Nitro Elite 1 vs. 2 FOREFOOT
They also widened the platform a bit in the forefoot. This gives your toes a little more room to spread out and breathe, which can be a lifesaver on those long runs. Plus, it might make the shoe feel a bit more stable.
4. Fast-R Nitro Elite 1 vs. 2 PLATE
Remember that cool "toe spring" effect from the PWRPLATE? Well, they extended it even further in version 2. This means even more propulsion and a faster feel. It's like they added a turbo boost to your already speedy shoes.
5. Fast-R Nitro Elite 1 vs. 2 UPPER
Puma also gave the upper a slight redesign. It's still super breathable and lightweight, but they made some tweaks to the fit and lockdown. Think of it like tailoring a suit – same fabric, but a better fit.
One or Two Conclusions
Well, that's a tough call. It really depends on what you're looking for in a shoe. If you loved the unique ride of the original but wanted more cushioning and stability, version 2 might be your jam. But if you prefer a lighter, more minimal feel, the original might still be the way to go. It does seem that this shoe series is still a good for short speedy session like 1/2 marathon and less.
Although it may be hard to find the first iteration to try on from clients that come in I hear that really there is not much difference between the two. Maybe more stability in the platform at slower speeds and the sock like upper got a little more snug in the good way.
No shoes were given to TriNerds or payment to make this article. We would like to hear your thoughts and input on this shoe series. drop us a line or leave a comment.
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