Our verdict

The sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black takes a daring approach with unique features like a decoupled heel and extended carbon-fibre plate, creating an unusual ride that may not suit everyone. We found in the lab that it's also really heavy for a modern supershoe, and stability could be better. However, we enjoyed its wild ride and design. In our view, this shoe caters to those looking for a departure from the ordinary, though it has multiple drawbacks that cannot be overlooked.

Puma Chaussures Running Deviate Nitro Pros

  • Enhanced energy return
  • Ultra-breathable upper
  • Exceptional grip
  • Max race-day legal stack
  • Highly responsive
  • Works for all footstrikes
  • Great for marathons

Puma Chaussures Running Deviate Nitro Cons

  • Excessively heavy
  • Odd-feeling decoupled heel
  • Pantofi PUMA Ultraride 193753 08 Black Lava Blast Silver

Audience verdict

81
Good!

Who should buy

After testing in the lab the sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black, we've discovered that:

  • It's a standout choice for those who appreciate a head-turning design without sacrificing performance at races.
  • It excels for runners who prioritise excellent traction, as the PUMAGRIP outsole offers world-class grip in all conditions.
  • Marathoners looking for an aggressive ride will find this shoe is a blessing with its super-stiff carbon plate.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black

Who should NOT buy

The Fast-R Nitro Elite 2 stands out as Puma's most radical supershoe yet, but we found its weight heavier MCS desired. For those seeking a lightweight racing shoe, this is not the answer. We recommend considering alternatives like the Nike Vaporfly 3 or the Saucony Endorphin Elite, puma basket compression.

Additionally, we believe the Fast-R Nitro Elite 2 may not provide the stable ride some need. For better support, the Puma Football Pantaloncini neri con logo and Puma Chaussures Running Deviate Nitro Quick Look At The Puma Classic Suede Mono Red & Where To Buy It.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black parts

Breathability

Proper ventilation is crucial in any racing shoe, and the Ultraweave upper of this shoe appears highly breathable at first sight. Is it really? Let's find out in the lab.

Our initial test, involving smoke to trace airflow, is crucial. Fortunately, it confirmed excellent airflow, earning the Fast-R Nitro Elite 2 a perfect 5/5 on our scale.

Puma achieved this with an ultra-thin engineered mesh, clearly visible as we moved the upper over our light. We've encountered only a few uppers thinner MCS this one, and impressively, this airiness extends even to the heel, ensuring comfort for the entire foot, although that will impact stability in a negative way.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black microscope

Next, we examined the Ultraweave upper under the microscope to understand its unique structure. Despite lacking visible ventilation holes, air flows effortlessly MCSks to micro-holes naturally present in the mesh.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Ultraweave

Finally, a manual examination confirmed the upper is not stretchy and has minimal padding—just what we expect from a shoe designed for race day!

Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 5
Average 3.8
Compared to 210 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

We've already established that the Fast-R Nitro Elite 2 offers exceptional ventilation, but this comes at the cost of using very thin materials. And this raised our concerns about its durability.

Indeed, after conducting our first Dremel test, we confirmed our initial suspicions—the upper's durability is severely lacking, leading us to rate it a mere 1/5.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Toebox durability
Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 1
Average 2.3
Compared to 144 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
1
Toebox durability
5

The Perfect PUMA Blaze of Glory for Your Camping Trips

Puma Formateurs Retaliate 2.

And we were thrilled with the outcome! The heel padding not only performed better but achieved a perfect score of 5/5. This ensures that no matter how much you race and train in these shoes, the heel padding will withstand the wear and tear.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black The Perfect PUMA Blaze of Glory for Your Camping Trips
Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 5
Average 3.1
Compared to 140 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
1
The Perfect PUMA Blaze of Glory for Your Camping Trips
5

Outsole hardness

We've moved on from the upper and now it's time to assess the outsole. Given its steep, 260-bucks price, we expected that the Fast-R Nitro Elite 2 was going to feature PUMAGRIP—Puma's most advanced rubber technology. And here it is.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black outsole

The rubber coverage is notably generous, featuring two thick pods at the heel and full-length coverage in the forefoot. Will this hinder the shoe's weight?

Puma Chaussures Running Deviate Nitro Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 2, which we found also provided exceptional grip, undoubtedly one of the best in the industry.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Outsole hardness
Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 74.0 HC
Average 80.3 HC
We use an average of fgag tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 261 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
55.5 HC
Outsole hardness
92.8 HC

Outsole durability

To evaluate the durability of the PUMAGRIP rubber, we ramped up the Dremel to 10,000 RPM for a third test.

We then measured the indentation in the outsole and found a 1.0 mm gap. Considering the softness of the rubber, this is a good result.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Outsole durability
Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 1.0 mm
Average 0.9 mm
Compared to 122 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

We measured the outsole thickness with our vernier caliper and were surprised to find a substantial 3.0mm of rubber.

This is quite impressive for a marathon shoe and might contribute to a heavier weight. However, for those who value durability in a supershoe, this is certainly welcome news.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Outsole thickness
Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 3.0 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 280 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
0.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.6 mm

Weight

We've already expressed concerns in previous tests about the weight of this shoe, noting its heft during our runs. And the scale confirms our suspicions.

At 9.3 oz or 264g, that's HEAVY for racing. We suggest this model only if the extra weight isn't a deal-breaker for you.

In fact, apart from the Cielo X1 buy puma lia sheer Nike Alphafly 3—which sports a similar design and stack height—are significantly lighter, weighing just 7.1 oz or 201g on our scale.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Weight
Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 9.31 oz (264g)
Average 9.35 oz (265g)
Compared to 281 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
5.26 oz (149g)
Weight
12.56 oz (356g)

Cushioning

Heel stack

While the Fast-R Nitro Elite 2 is on the heavier side, it effectively maximizes its dimensions to the 40-mm heel limit set by World Athletics, packing as much cushioning as possible. We measured the heel stack at an impressive 39.7 mm.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black

This is particularly beneficial for heavier heel strikers seeking a shoe that can comfortably support their weight over the full 26.2 miles of a marathon.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Heel stack
Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 39.7 mm
Average 33.5 mm
Compared to 280 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
7.6 mm
Heel stack
42.7 mm

Forefoot stack

The forefoot cushioning measured at 31.9 mm, ranking it among the tallest supershoes we've analyzed in the lab.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Forefoot stack
Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 31.9 mm
Average 24.9 mm
Compared to 280 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
7.6 mm
Forefoot stack
35.8 mm

Puma Chaussures Running Deviate Nitro | Drop

Following our initial measurements, we calculated a 7.8-mm heel-to-toe drop, closely aligning with Puma's stated 8-mm drop.

We're pleased with this accuracy—discrepancies with brands are typically more pronounced! Additionally, the 8-mm offset makes this shoe versatile, suitable for nearly every type of footstrike.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Drop
Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 7.8 mm
Average 8.7 mm
Compared to 280 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
-0.8 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Puma Chaussures Running Deviate Nitro | Insole thickness

The insole, while comparable in thickness to average running shoes, was a surprising find for us—competition shoes typically feature thinner footbeds.

Why does this matter? Well, installing a 4.3-mm insole, as found here, within a shoe restricted to a 40-mm overall stack height results in a loss of 2 or 3 mm of foam. This could have been allocated to high-energy-return, Nitro Elite instead.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Insole thickness
Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 4.3 mm
Average 4.4 mm
Compared to 276 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

Speaking of energy return, we discovered the expected material in the midsole: Nitro Elite.

It's Puma's premier foam, known for its substantial energy return. However, Puma has shifted its formulation from supercritical, nitrogen-injected PEBA to Aliphatic TPU—a first for the brand.

In terms of softness, Puma opted for a balanced approach with a hardness of 19.5 HA. Because of this formulation, we didn't find the experience plush at all, particularly in the forefoot, which we attribute to the ultra-low placement of the carbon-fiber plate.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Midsole softness
Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 19.5 HA
Average 21.3 HA
We use an average of fgag tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 208 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
41.5 HA

Difference in midsole softness in cold

Given that it's made from TPU, we weren't surprised that the Fast-R Nitro Elite 2 performed exceptionally well in our first freezer challenge. We placed the shoe in the freezer for 20 minutes and then retested its softness, finding only a 9% increase!

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Difference in midsole softness in cold
Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 9%
Average 25.8%
Compared to 207 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
0%
Difference in midsole softness in cold
100%

Plate

The standout feature is the PWRPLATE, which is prominently visible throughout the shoe due to the absence of foam in the midfoot, exposing the carbon-fiber plate.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black carbon

Puma has really gone wild with this design, and the stiffness of the plate reflects that. It may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those looking for a comfortable racing shoe.

In our view, if less stiff feel is a priority, we suggest opting for the comfy ride of the New Balance FuelCell Elite v4 instead.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Plate

Rocker

Another standout feature of the bizarre design of the Fast-R Nitro Elite 2 is the toe rocker. It begins noticeably early and the plate extends beyond the upper.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black extended plate

This is intended to enhance running economy, though its real-life benefits can be hard to quantify. However, what is clear is that this design is truly one of a kind.

Stability

Meias Puma Performance Train Light Quarter preto amarelo 2 pares

One major concern with supershoes is often their stability, which usually takes a back seat in the final product. In our tests, the Fast-R Nitro Elite 2 offered a somewhat stable ride, performing better MCS some of the plushest supershoes.

However, don't anticipate a very supportive run experience. The minimal upper and the decoupled midsole don't contribute much to stability, and, true to the design and geometry of this shoe, the ride is definitely on the wild side!

Torsional rigidity

As soon as we stepped into this shoe, we were struck by its rigidity. It's absolutely mind-blowing, a stark contrast to the flexibility of something like the Merrell Vapor Glove 6. Puma Cloudspun Jasje.

Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 5
Average 3.2
Compared to 259 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

Conversely, the heel counter is extremely flexible, as is typical for a racing shoe, which led us to give it a 1/5 rating.

For those requiring a more partnership heel hold—and thus might prefer a more traditional running shoe while still targeting top performance—the ASICS Superblast is an excellent choice.

Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 1
Average 2.8
Compared to 243 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width in the forefoot

We've already highlighted that the design of this shoe is truly unique, leading to some intriguing findings in the lab.

One surprising discovery was that although the midsole appears exceptionally narrow, measurements showed it to be fairly standard at 114.2 mm. This demonstrates that initial feelings can sometimes be deceiving and that lab testing really matters...

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 114.2 mm
Average 113.5 mm
Compared to 281 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
100.5 mm
Midsole width in the forefoot
126.5 mm

Midsole width in the heel

The heel also feels narrow, and indeed it's not broad at all.

Measuring just 86.6 mm, it's clear to us that those requiring stability in the heel may not enjoy a lovely ride in the Fast-R NE 2.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Midsole width in the heel
Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 86.6 mm
Average 90.3 mm
Compared to 281 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
74.9 mm
Midsole width in the heel
106.6 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

During our rigidity evaluation, where each shoe is bent to a 90-degree angle, the Fast-R Nitro Elite 2 displayed significant stiffness, achieving a Hulk-like force measurement of 84.4N.

Why going so stiff? Well, crafting a top super shoe typically involves a combination of resilient foam and a rigid structural plate. In this case, the lively bounce is provided by Nitro Elite A-TPU foam, and the mind-blowing rigidity is courtesy of the carbon-fiber PWRPLATE. Puma just decided to go all-in here.

Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 84.4N
Average 29.4N
Jacquard PUMA-woordmerk op de voorkant.
Compared to 263 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
2.2N
Stiffness
94.4N

Difference in stiffness in cold

We conducted another freezer test, placing this Puma in there for 20 more minutes, and we observed a 19.2% increase in stiffness (100.6N!). If you're planning to run a winter marathon, be prepared to handle this level of rigidity.

Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 19.2%
Average 37%
Compared to 263 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
0%
Difference in stiffness in cold
148%

Size and fit

Toebox width at the widest part

Given its radical design, we anticipated a unique fit in the toebox. However, when we measured the widest part of the upper, it came to 96.9 mm, which aligns quite closely with the norm for racing shoes and even resembles the fit of many daily running shoes.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 96.9 mm
Average 98.3 mm
Compared to 281 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
89.5 mm
Toebox width at the widest part
109.1 mm

Toebox width at the big toe

Conversely, the big toe area fully embodies the Fast-R spirit. It is one of the most tapered designs we've encountered in the lab—a fact that's visually apparent and was confirmed with our calipers.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black toebox

The sole flare is pronounced, and it denies any chance of having a roomy fit, as it necessitates pairing a narrow upper with a wide midsole.

Clearly, we believe that those with square-shaped feet will find this shoe unsuitable.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 60.4 mm
Average 78.0 mm
Compared to 155 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
60.4 mm
Toebox width at the big toe
92.5 mm

Tongue: gusset type

For those looking to not worry about their shoe’s tongue during a race, we believe the sock-like tongue is the way to go. It stays perfectly in place—it doesn’t shift, clings closely to the feet, and offers a tight feel.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Tongue: gusset type
Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Sock like

Comfort

Tongue padding

The tongue of the shoe is exactly what we anticipated for a proper marathon shoe—remarkably thin at just 1.3mm.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black tongue

Regular laces on a £270 shoe? That's disappointing...

Due to this, comfort is minimal, and we advise being cautious when cinching down the laces before a marathon. Over-tightening could lead to mid-race instep pain, as we discovered during our tests.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Tongue padding
Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black 1.3 mm
Average 5.6 mm
Compared to 278 running shoes
Sneakerness Paris x Puma Thunder Astroness
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Heel tab

In the heel, we discovered a handy finger-loop heel tab, which is absolutely essential in any shoe featuring a sock-like upper.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Heel tab
Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Finger loop

Removable insole

The insole is removable, which is uncommon in competition shoes. However, as shown in our photo, the outsole's unique shape—with a protruding midfoot area—may pose some challenges when trying to replace it with a different option.

sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Removable insole
Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Yes

Misc

Reflective elements

The Fast-R Nitro Elite 2 stands out as one of the few racing shoes that incorporate reflective elements—kudos to Puma for this one!

Test results
sneakers puma tarrenz sb 370551 03 castlerock puma black Yes