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Netball Warriors dressed to kill

Adnaan MohamedNetball, NewsLeave a Comment on Netball Warriors dressed to kill
By Adnaan Mohamed

The Proteas have a new look. Now the pressure is on to make it mean something.

South Africa’s netball warriors are stepping onto the international battlefield dressed in national colours and carrying expectations that weigh far heavier than a kit bag.

PUMA and Netball South Africa have unveiled the new Home and Away strips for the SPAR Proteas and Protea Warriors ahead of the 2026 Africa Netball Cup and the 2026/27 international season.

And this kit is not shy.

The Home strip explodes in green and yellow, while the Away version cuts a cleaner figure in white. Both are splashed with angular geometric graphics that appear to slice through the fabric like lightning across a stormy Cape Town sky.

The message is unmistakable: move forward, aim higher and never stop.

The upward-pointing arrowheads represent growth, ambition and evolution, while the zigzag graphics are designed to capture the speed, movement and intensity of netball.

It is a striking visual statement.

Now comes the difficult part.

The players must give it a heartbeat.

Netball South Africa president Mami Diale believes PUMA has delivered more than sporting fashion.

“Netball South Africa is delighted with the new home and away kits for the SPAR Proteas and Protea Warriors for the 2026 Africa Netball Cup and beyond,” said Diale.

“We are confident that our kit partner PUMA has created a design that is both stylish and functional. We believe that the team will perform at their best in these new kits.”

Diale said the design also carries cultural and sporting significance.

“As a passionate sport, we believe the design encompasses a touch of African tradition, a variety of sports, lifestyle and performance elements.”

PUMA South Africa marketing director Brett Bellinger said the strip captures the identity of the national teams.

“The design embodies the spirit of the Protea men’s and women’s teams, bringing together performance, national identity and contemporary sporting style,” he said.

“The new kits celebrate the movement and passion that make netball such a growing and powerful part of South African sport.”

That growth brings scrutiny.

A beautiful kit cannot win a centre pass, produce a defensive turnover or bury the winning shot. Those jobs still belong to the warriors wearing it.

But clothing has power in sport. It can become armour, identity and a rallying cry.

The arrows on these shirts point upwards.

Now South Africa’s netball stars must follow them.

#UnitedWarriors

Joburg 10K set for Heritage Day takeover

Adnaan MohamedEvent Update!, Features, News, PreviewLeave a Comment on Joburg 10K set for Heritage Day takeover
By Adnaan Mohamed

Thousands of runners will storm the streets of the City of Gold on Thursday, 24 September, turning Heritage Day into a spectacular Joburg 10km takeover.

The sold-out Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K will unleash a stampede of running shoes onto Lilian Ngoyi Street from 08:00, with the M1 and M2 highways transformed into a giant sporting playground before the finish on Rahima Moosa Street.

For one morning, Joburg’s legendary hustle will have a new soundtrack: thousands of pounding feet, screaming spectators, pumping music and the thunder of a city celebrating its heritage.

Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K by Tobias Ginsberg

This is road running with a Mzansi twist.

The route will be crammed with entertainment, cheer zones and sponsor activations from Absa, PUMA, Powerade, AVIS and Heineken, creating a colourful carnival designed to showcase the diversity, history and unmistakable swagger of Johannesburg.

Stillwater Sports managing director and Series founder Michael Meyer says the race will offer runners a different view of the metropolis.

“We’re excited to bring thousands of runners together in Johannesburg on National Heritage Day for what promises to be a fantastic celebration of running, culture and community.”

Meyer says the energy of the route, entertainment and spectators will create an atmosphere that is uniquely Joburg.

Absa Head of Sponsorship Jabulile Nsibanyoni says the event will turn the streets into a moving celebration of South African identity.

“At Absa, we are passionate about creating memorable experiences that bring communities together, and this event is a true reflection of that commitment.”

She says the entertainment has been carefully curated to celebrate Joburg’s rich heritage and cultural traditions.

“Both participants and spectators can look forward to a dynamic showcase of performances reflecting the warmth, diversity, and energy Joburg is known for.”

Then comes the speed trap.

Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K by Charles Ndou

PUMA Run Train Marketing Manager Rae Trew-Browne says the Heritage Day edition has a personality of its own.

“Every Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series event has its own personality, and Joburg’s Heritage Day edition promises to be particularly special.”

The PUMA Speed Zone will add another turbocharged dimension to the race.

“It’s a chance for every participant to embrace their own version of TOO FAST while enjoying the incredible atmosphere that makes the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series so special,” says Trew-Browne.

The stakes are already high after a sizzling 2026 series.

Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K by Charles Ndou

Adriaan Wildschutt won Gqeberha in 27:47, Joshua Cheptegei blitzed Durban in 27:19 and Salem Kibet conquered Tshwane in 28:45. Kenya’s Brenda Jepchirchir won Gqeberha in 30:15, while Doreen Cherop claimed victories in Durban and Tshwane in 30:43 and 31:35 respectively.

Cape Town’s 10K was cancelled because of a severe weather forecast.

Now Joburg gets the spotlight.

And on Heritage Day, the City of Gold will not be walking.

IT WILL BE RUNNING!

For further information please visit https://runyourcityseries.com/

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

Tshwane set for Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series 10K spectacle

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Tshwane set for Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series 10K spectacle

By Adnaan Mohamed

In the heart of the capital, where jacaranda-lined boulevards meet gritty tarmac, a stampede is brewing—one not of hooves, but of hearts pounding in unison. The Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K, the fourth leg of South Africa’s premier road running series, is set to light up the streets of Arcadia on Sunday, 24 August 2025. 

Like a sprinter exploding from the blocks, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES is barrelling into Tshwane for its penultimate leg where pounding feet will soon echo through the capital’s corridors of culture.

“The Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K continues to attract elite athletes from across South Africa and beyond, delivering exciting racing and unforgettable performances,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and architect of the series.

“This event is a true celebration of Tshwane’s spirit, culture, and growing prominence on the national and international running calendar.”

Fresh off a triple crown of sold-out spectacles in Gqeberha, Cape Town and Durban, the road running juggernaut now turns its gaze inland, where anticipation sizzles like summer tar.

Meyer isn’t overselling it. The Tshwane edition is a finely tuned balance of high-performance athleticism and street-festival euphoria. It’s where Olympic hopefuls and barefoot dreamers toe the same line, racing past cheering residents, live DJs, and heritage-laced landmarks like Arcadia’s Stanza Bopape Street — the race’s start and finish line.

And it’s not just about cadence and heartbeats.

“At Absa, we are passionate about creating memorable experiences that bring communities together, and this event is a true reflection of that commitment,” says Jabulile Nsibanyoni, Head of Sponsorships at Absa.

“The entertainment along the route is thoughtfully curated to celebrate the city’s rich heritage and cultural traditions, turning the race into a vibrant tribute to the capital’s spirit.”

Indeed, if marathons are chess games in motion, this 10K is a party on the run — a rhythmic riot of neon trainers, sweaty smiles and Tshwane’s unmistakable beat.

To keep runners fueled with joy, PUMA South Africa is bringing its crowd-favourite GO WILD activation — a carnival of colour and kinetic selfies that’s followed the series from coast to capital.

Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES route activations by Anthony Grote

“This high-energy experience is inspired by our latest ‘Runner’s High’ campaign,” says Rae Trew-Browne, PUMA Run Train Marketing Manager.

“It’s all about celebrating movement, motivation, and moments of joy… Whether you’re chasing a PB or just soaking in the atmosphere, don’t forget to snap a selfie and share your race day spirit.”

Meanwhile, automotive partner Chery South Africa will once again ignite the field with its on-route activation — injecting mid-race adrenaline like a second wind from a gel pack.

“Our activation is all about uplifting runners with a surge of inspiration just when they need it most,” says Chery South Africa CEO Tony Liu. 

“We’re proud to be part of an event that celebrates passion, perseverance, and the power of community.”

Oh, and one lucky runner will cross the finish line and drive off in a brand-new Chery Tiggo 4 Pro LiT valued at R269,900 — if they’ve earned it by finishing all 10 kilometres.

For those with fire in their legs and patriotism in their lungs, the Heritage Double Entry offers runners a two-city combo: Tshwane in August and Joburg on 24 September. The package includes two races, exclusive gear, Gautrain rides, and a boerie roll with a beer — a fitting post-race reward as they cool down in heritage-rich public squares.

Runners can also lace up for a cause. The Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES proudly supports CANSA, the Cancer Association of South Africa. Every stride can be a statement — every kilometre a contribution.

So, whether you’re an elite gunning for glory, a weekend warrior in search of runner’s high, or a spectator chasing vibes not medals, Tshwane promises a race as electric as a final sprint down the home stretch.

Ready, Tshwane? The countdown has begun. Lace up, line up, and run your city.

Entries close Friday, 15 August 2025 — or when capacity bursts like a popped hamstring. Don’t miss your stride.

Race Info:

  • Date: Sunday, 24 August 2025
  • Time: 08:00
  • Venue: Stanza Bopape Street, Arcadia
  • Entry Fee: R255 (Licensed), R70 (Temp License)
  • Double Heritage Entry: R595 (includes both Tshwane & Joburg events)

Hashtag: #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity
Website: https://runyourcityseries.com/

ForeverRun NITRO™ 2 Hits the Streets!

Roxanne MartinAdvertorial, NewsLeave a Comment on ForeverRun NITRO™ 2 Hits the Streets!

PUMA has launched the ForeverRun NITRO™ 2, the second iteration of the ForeverRun stability shoe designed for everyday runners. Built with consistency and longevity in mind, ForeverRun NITRO™ 2 features improved stability, increased heel support and upgraded comfort to keep runners out on the road for longer.






The shoe features a new, wider midsole made from improved dual-density NITROFOAM™ for enhanced cushioning and support, whilst upgraded RUNGUIDE technology keeps the foot aligned and centred through each stride for a smooth and enjoyable running experience.

Additional TPU support and a 38mm heel stack with a 10mm drop means ForeverRun NITRO™ 2 is plush under foot without feeling heavy. The calculated firmness keeps the heel stable and supported through every foot strike, so runners can move with full confidence.

ForeverRun NITRO™ 2 also provides a new level of comfort, achieved through a rolled heel collar and an upper made from a premium-engineered knit material reinforced with PWRTAPE for enhanced breathability and stretch, alongside the durability needed to stay consistent.

Whether deep into a training block or out for a group run, ForeverRun NITRO™ 2 is designed to keep runners feeling stable, supported and comfortable, providing the cushioned choice for those looking for a new stability shoe option.

Conor Cashin, Senior Product Line Manager at PUMA said: “ForeverRun NITRO™ 2 is the runners go-to shoe for support and guidance from PUMA. When we set out to update this model, we made sure to provide runners with those two benefits without sacrificing the responsiveness they know and love about our NITROFOAM™. We achieved that through a new co-moulded NITROFOAM™ innovation, combining a soft NITRO™ core for cushion and bounce, with a firmer NITRO™ rim for guidance in their stride. This gets topped off with a new knitted upper for comfort around the foot that fits like a dream. ForeverRun NITRO™ 2 is stability in motion!”

ForeverRun 2 specifications

Price: R3 399

Weight: 295g

Stack Height: 38mm – 28mm

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

 

PUMA Signs Teenage Sprint Sensation Christian Miller

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on PUMA Signs Teenage Sprint Sensation Christian Miller

PUMA has officially signed 18-year-old American sprinter Christian Miller, a rising star in track and field.

Miller, who just graduated from St. Johns Creekside High School in Florida, has had a remarkable journey over the past year and a half. His rapid rise in the sport has placed him among a select group of athletes who have chosen to turn professional straight out of high school, skipping NCAA eligibility.

Miller first made headlines in July 2023 with a stunning performance at the USA Track & Field U-20 Outdoor National Championships in Eugene, Oregon, where he clocked 10.08 seconds in the 100m. This time made him the fourth-fastest American high schooler ever at that distance.

He didn’t stop there. In April 2024, Miller ran a personal best of 9.93 seconds in the 100m at just 17 years old, breaking the Under-18 world record, setting a new American Under-20 record, and recording the third fastest time ever by an Under-20 sprinter.

“Christian is undoubtedly one of the most exciting young sprinters we’ve seen in years, and he’s already rewriting the record books,” said Pascal Rolling, PUMA’s Director of Sports Marketing. “His maturity and decision to go pro at such a young age is a testament to his ambition, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome him to the PUMA family.”

Miller himself is eager to get started: “I want to be the best, and to do that, you have to be with the best – for me, that’s always been PUMA. The brand represents speed, and their athletes are champions. That’s what I aim for, and I can’t wait to kick off the season.”

PUMA Deviate NITRO™ 3 destined to deliver your PB

Roxanne MartinAdvertorialLeave a Comment on PUMA Deviate NITRO™ 3 destined to deliver your PB

The new PUMA Deviate NITRO™ 3 is designed to help you break PBs and achieve peak performance during both training and raceday. It’s the everyday source of speed that runners can trust week after week, kilometre after kilometre.

Deviate means to do things differently. To not accept normal standards. To challenge the status quo. Deviate inspires you to not just go beyond your boundaries, but to shatter them in emphatic style.

Launched in the striking Fireglow colourway this third iteration of the Deviate NITRO™ 3 is engineered with more of PUMA’s cutting-edge NITROFOAM™ technology to deliver supreme cushion and responsiveness, elevating the legacy of its predecessor.

The carbon fibre PWR Plate offers a smoother and more consistent source of speed, resulting in an explosive toe-off that propels runners beyond their normal limits, while PUMA’s unrivalled PUMAGRIP enables multi-surface traction in even the most testing conditions.




A lightweight engineered mesh upper features strategically placed PWR Tape to provide support in high stress areas, with a padded collar offering additional comfort and fit.

While the Deviate NITRO™ 3 is a premium everyday hero, PUMA has also launched the Deviate NITRO™ Elite 3 – an elite raceday shoe that has already seen Fiona O’Keeffe make a statement in her professional marathon debut.

“We’re living in a world where athletes and runners have high expectations. They want to set PBs and break records, time and time again. To do that, you need a shoe that gives you the competitive edge – that’s where Deviate comes in,” said Romain Girard, VP Innovation at PUMA, about the double dose of Deviate.

 

 

Deviate NITRO™ 3 Specifications:

  • Weight: 265g (UK8)
  • Stack Height: 29mm – 39mm

Deviate NITRO™ Elite 3 Specifications:

  • Weight: 194g (UK8)
  • Stack Height: 32mm – 40mm

The Deviate NITRO™ 3 (R3 799) and Deviate NITRO™ Elite 3 (R5 399) Fireglow colourway will be available from 12 July on PUMA.com, in PUMA Retail stores, Totalsports and Sportsmans Warehouse. For more information, please visit www.puma.com





BUY NOW


PUMA SIGNS TWO OCEANS ULTRA CHAMP

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on PUMA SIGNS TWO OCEANS ULTRA CHAMP

Cape Town, South Africa, March 2024 

PUMA has signed a partnership with ultra-marathon champion Givemore Mudzinganyama.

Mudzinganyama, the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon defending champion, said he was inspired to partner with the brand by seeing PUMA international and local athletes achieving their goals: “For example, Precious Mashele ran a 10km South African record last year. I’m also loving the comfort and cushioning of the shoes.”

Rae Trew-Browne, PUMA SA Run Train Marketing Manager, said having an athlete of Givemore Mudzinganyama’s calibre joining the family showed how far the PUMA NITRO running footwear had progressed, in particular the PUMA Deviate NITRO Elite 2 and the PUMA Fast-R2 NITRO Elite which will be Mudzinganyama choice of race shoes.

“We are delighted to welcome Givemore to PUMA and look forward to working with him as he attempts to defend his 2023 Two Oceans Marathon title,” said Trew-Browne.

A member of the Entsika Athletics Club, Mudzinganyama trains at Zoolake under the watchful eye of coach Hendrik Ramaala. “I love to train with the Zoolake training group. Everyone is ambitious and has their own goals, so we are always challenging each other. Then after training we regroup, reflect, and talk about our future endeavours,” he said.

Although capable of racing across many different distances, he prefers marathons and ultra-marathons. “I love these distances because they are influenced by many factors like nutrition during the event, endurance, fatigue, and mental focus as we’re running for many hours. Trying to perfect all these factors at once is always mind blowing and interesting,” he said.

Asked about his past successes and future goals, Mudzinganyama said: “Winning and running well is always rewarding. It’s a mental boost because you know that your training is working. I’m happy with the past and the present and I’m looking forward for good achievements in the near future.”

Givemore Mudzinganyama PUMA Q&A 

Q: What do you enjoy most about your sport?
A: When I’m running I feel more free and relaxed. I feel in control of every thought in my mind and I also become ambitious and curious about my goals both relating to running and outside of running. I also like running because it’s a healthy lifestyle.

Q: What has running taught you?

A:That you need to be patient and you need to put together your fitness goals and physical abilities at an equilibrium level. Consistency is measured in weeks, months and years. When you put everything together success is on the way.

Q: Anything that has boosted your performance over the past year?

A:After I lost my job, I joined the Entsika Athletics Club and this has enabled me to fully commit to running and I haven’t missed a single training session at Zoolake with my coach Hendrik Ramaala.

Q:Tell us about winning the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon?

A: Winning and running well is always rewarding. It’s a mental boost because you know that your training is working. I’m happy with the past and the present and I’m looking forward for good achievements in the near future.

Q: Your favourite place to train?

A:I love to train with the Zoolake training group. Everyone is ambitious and has their own goals, so we are always challenging each other. Then after training we regroup, reflect and talk about our future endeavours.

Q: Your favourite race?

A: For now I can say the Two Oceans Ultra. The puzzle worked really well last year so my thoughts are on trying to perfect the way I trained last year.

Q: Which are your favourite distances to race?

A:I’m enjoying marathons and ultra-marathons. I love these distances because they are influenced by many factors like nutrition during the event, endurance, fatigue and mental focus as we’re running for many hours. Trying to perfect all these factors at once is always mind blowing and interesting.

Q: Tell us where your journey as a runner began?

A:I grew up loving many sports but during my school years I started doing athletics and I was always selected to represent my school. It became the gateway to travel to see different cities as we were from rural areas. It took self-commitment to drive me to keep on loving running, but I was also lucky to find mentors who have guided me with life lessons which have positively impacted my sporting career.

Q:What are your goals for 2024?

A: To run well at the Two Oceans Ultra and add another marathon or ultra-marathon later in the year, around September or October. In between I’ll try to enjoy some fast, short races to rejuvenate myself.

Q: What shoes do you compete in?

A:I’m currently exploring the PUMA shoe range and so for I am loving the Deviate NITRO 2.

Q: Do your train in different shoes and if so why?

A: I train in different types of shoes. It’s mainly determined by terrain conditions, the speed you’re running and the distance you want to cover. Longer easy runs will require higher comfort and cushioning. Faster runs will demand lighter and responsive shoes. Sometimes you need more grip on slippery and rough pathways.

Q: Why have you decided to partner with the brand?

A:I am inspired by PUMA international and local athletes achieving their goals. For example, Precious Mashele who ran a 10km South African record last year. I’m also loving the comfort and cushioning of the shoes.

Q: Any key factors that have boosted your career?

A: Getting married in 2013. My partner is also an athlete, so our daily routine is dedicated to sports as we are constantly trying to find how we can improve.

Q: When challenges hit you during a race, how do you make yourself push on?

A: I look back at some of the hard training efforts. At times I seek support from the fans cheering along the route.

Q: Advice for young aspiring athletes?

A: Find and join a professional running group and grow within that community.

Puma launches its most explosive and innovative race-day shoe

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Puma launches its most explosive and innovative race-day shoe

Make your fast, faster than ever with Puma Fast-R 2 Nitro™ Elite Fueled by Nitro™, Fast-R 2 is Puma’s most innovative race-day shoe ever! Limited edition Fast-R 2 Ekiden Rush celebrating 100 years of Japan’s most iconic road running race drops on 8 December 2023! Fast-R 2 Psychedelic Rush to launch globally 22 February 2024!

The high-speed takeover has arrived with the all new Fast-R 2 Nitro™ Elite – Puma’s most explosive and innovative race-day running shoe yet.

Built to help you break your PB, Fast-R 2 utilises the enhanced benefits of Nitro™ Elite technology, giving you a maximum competitive stack height (40mm) with unbeatable speed and cushioning, propelling your race-day to new territory; from short runs to marathons and every distance between.

A sequel to the ground-breaking Fast-R Nitro™ Elite, the Fast-R 2 allows 22% more energy storage and up to 46% more raw energy return versus its predecessor, resulting in a lighter, more economical ride, that translates to an average saving of 2 minutes 28 seconds for a 3:30:00 marathoner and 1 minute 23 seconds for a 2:30:00 marathoner.

The two-part midsole and exposed signature PWRPLATE remain key features, with the carbon plate elongating through the Nitrofoam™ Elite and out past the toe. This unique concept allows for increased surface contact; a lever that guides pressure forward and propels the foot as it leaves the ground.

A next generation, psychedelic Ultrawave upper – 20% lighter than the material used in the original Fast-R – is lined with a bespoke PWRTAPE, whilst the Pumagrip outsole ensures maximum multi-surface traction, allowing you to step out to conquer the racecourse in full confidence of achieving serious speed. Making your fast, faster than ever.

Romain Girard, Head of Innovation at Puma said: “We received significant feedback from consumers and athletes on the original Fast-R, helping us streamline our focus for Fast-R 2. The result: the most innovative elite race-day running shoe Puma has ever made. We are already witnessing this shoe break records, with a number of our elite runners smashing their PRs, with many more to come!”

The Fast-R 2 Nitro™ Elite Psychedelic Rush will be available from 22 February 2024 from Puma.com, Puma Retail stores, and Totalsports.

Fast-R 2 Nitro™ Elite Ekiden Rush

To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the most prestigious event in Japan’s running calendar – Puma will drop a limited edition Fast-R 2 Nitro™ Elite Ekiden Rush.

Paying homage to the historic long-distance race, the Ekiden Rush colourway has unique design features including a 100th anniversary logo on the lateral, and the iconic purple sash – used during the race as a relay baton – on the medial.

1 000 pairs of Fast-R 2 Nitro™ Elite Ekiden Rush will drop on 8 December 2023 at Puma.com, in Puma stores and select global retailers.

Visit Puma.com or follow @PUMARunning to find out more.

Fast-R 2 Nitro™ Elite Specifications

  • Price: R6999
  • Weight: 240g
  • Stack Height: 40mm
  • Drop: 8mm
  • Lifespan: 400km

What a World Champs! (Just not for South Africa…)

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on What a World Champs! (Just not for South Africa…)

The 2023 World Athletics Championships took place in Budapest, Hungary in the last week of August, and what an incredible meet it turned out to be! We saw nine days of World Records, Championship Records, Area Records, National Records, season bests and personal bests, watched enthralling competitions and incredible moments of sporting camaraderie, and basked in what was one of the best World Champs meets of all time. (OK, it wasn’t so good from a South African perspective, but that aside, it was a great meet.) Modern Athlete had two reporters at the event, courtesy of PUMA South Africa, doing daily coverage and interviews, and now it’s time for a look back at some of the highlights of wonderful week of athletics action. – By Sean Falconer & World Athletics