Puma Upgrades Its ‘Rule Breaking’ Super Shoe for the Most Energy Return It’s Ever Produced

Puma has entered the next chapter of rule-breaking innovation with its latest Fast-RB Nitro Elite 2. Two years ago, Puma launched the first iteration of the experimental super shoe that intentionally flouted race regulations with a massive stack height and an over-the-top propulsion system. That shoe is now getting an upgrade with even less concern for the rules.

A platform for exploring what’s possible when conventional footwear design is pushed to its limits, Puma says every element of the Fast-RB Nitro Elite 2 is carefully engineered to maximise speed and deliver a truly authentic running experience.

The Nitrofoam Elite cushioning is designed to deliver greater energy return, and the refined geometry creates a smoother, more responsive ride. Uniquely, the shoe has two fused carbon-fiber Pwrplates that form a distinctive springboard architecture engineered for dynamic propulsion. A reworked Ultraweave upper delivers lightweight breathability and a secure lockdown fit, while the Pumagrip outsole provides multi-surface traction.

Developed in Puma’s Nitro Lab, the Fast-RB Nitro Elite 2 represents the next frontier of running — and whilst not race legal — internal studies have shown increased 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, within 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.”