Tag: energy return running shoes

‹ Back

PUMA Unveils the FAST-RB NITRO™ Elite 2

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on PUMA Unveils the FAST-RB NITRO™ Elite 2

PUMA has just pulled the cover off the next big step in rule-breaking speed: the FAST-RB NITRO™ Elite 2.

This isn’t just another racing shoe. It’s a platform for exploring what’s possible when you stop playing it safe with conventional footwear design. Every element has been carefully engineered to maximise speed while still delivering that pure, authentic running feel we all chase.

The updated NITROFOAM™ ELITE cushioning packs in more energy return, while the refined geometry gives you a smoother, more responsive ride. The standout feature? Two fused carbon-fibre PWRPLATES that create a distinctive springboard architecture built for serious propulsion. Pair that with a reworked ULTRAWEAVE upper that’s lighter, more breathable and locks your foot in securely, plus the reliable PUMAGRIP outsole for multi-surface traction, and you’ve got a seriously impressive package.

Developed in PUMA’s NITRO™ Lab, the FAST-RB NITRO™ Elite 2 represents the next frontier of running. While it’s not race-legal, internal studies have shown levels of running economy that make this the most efficient shoe in PUMA’s entire road running line-up.

Romain Girard, VP of Innovation at PUMA, said: “With the FAST-RB 2, we set out to take rule-breaking to the next level. By simplifying the design and giving our NITROFOAM™ technology more room to perform, we’ve created a shoe that delivers the highest energy return we’ve ever recorded in our testing – all in an incredibly lightweight package. Two years of innovation, lab testing and collaboration with athletes have gone into refining the experience, bringing together groundbreaking performance and the pure joy of running.”

The FAST-RB NITRO™ Elite 2 launches on 28 October 2026, with limited pairs available worldwide on PUMA.com.

FAST-RB NITRO™ ELITE 2 TECH SPECS

  • Weight: 250g (UK 8) / 206g (UK 4.5)
  • Drop: 8mm
  • Product lifespan: 320km

Follow @pumarunning on Instagram for the latest PUMA running news.

Puma Unveils New Levels Of Fast With Deviate Nitro™ 4 & Deviate Nitro™ Elite 4

Tanika LaskeyNewsLeave a Comment on Puma Unveils New Levels Of Fast With Deviate Nitro™ 4 & Deviate Nitro™ Elite 4

PUMA has unveiled the latest evolution of its hero running franchise with the launch of the Deviate NITRO™ 4 and Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4.

The two new models build on PUMA’s position as pioneers of speed and innovation, underpinned by the brand’s best-in-class NITROFOAM™ technology.

Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4

Specially crafted for race-day, Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4 improves on its much-loved predecessor by returning even lighter and more efficient, thanks to enhanced NITROFOAM™ ELITE cushioning. The fit and feel build on the award-winning Deviate Elite NITRO™ 3, but the ride is now smoother, more responsive, and more stable across race-day distances.

The redesigned carbon fibre PWRPLATE is now stiffer and has been engineered to reduce stress in the metatarsal area. Its geometry has been optimized for efficient energy transfer, delivering a smoother, faster stride. It features gradual rib structuring to enhance stability by evenly distributing stress from lateral to medial motion, creating an efficient ride from start line to finish.

Adding to PUMA’s elite race-day range, the Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4 is a definitive option for high-cadence runners looking for a lightweight, responsive shoe that will help them unleash a new level of speed and feel beyond fast on race day.

Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4 launches globally on 12 February 2026, available to purchase on PUMA.com and PUMA retail stores.

Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4 Specifications:

  • Price: R5799
  • Weight: UK8: 170g/UK4.5: 140g
  • Stack Height: 32MM/40MM
  • Drop: 8mm

Deviate NITRO™ 4

Built for the everyday runner who is serious about getting faster, the Deviate NITRO™ 4 introduces an evolved NITROFOAM™ midsole featuring a new dual-layer, nitrogen-infused foam that delivers elevated rebound for a more energetic stride, giving runners the speed they crave, without compromising on the comfort they know and love.

The mesh upper offers lightweight breathability, while a plush collar and padded tongue provide all-round protection. Soft where it matters, supportive where it counts, the Deviate NITRO™ 4 locks the foot in place, letting runners focus on the run. Unwavering durability and comfort remain at the heart of the Deviate experience, providing consistency for everyday runs.

A reengineered PWRPLATE has been contoured to improve flexibility, while PUMA’s trusted PUMAGRIP outsole ensures traction across any surface, with coverage that can accommodate any footstrike pattern. This evolution delivers a more consistent, supportive ride while maintaining the natural feel needed for up-tempo training runs and everyday miles.

Deviate NITRO™ 4 Specifications:

  • Price: R3999
  • Weight: UK8: 250g/UK4.5: 205g
  • Stack Height: 30MM/38MM
  • Drop: 8mm

Deviate NITRO™ 4 launches in limited supply on 23 January, followed by a global release on 26 February 2026, and will be available to purchase on PUMA.com, PUMA retail stores, Totalsports, Sportsmans Warehouse and Takealot.

“We’re excited to bring our latest instalment of speed to the market with Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4 and Deviate NITRO™ 4. The Deviate franchise has been at the centre of our performance running business since our re-launch in 2021, winning multiple awards and helping athletes earn podiums,” said Erin Longin, Vice President, BU Run/Train, PUMA.

For more information, please visit: www.puma.com