The Fast-R Elite is the top-of-the-range PUMA long-distance racer. It has a wild, innovative design with a carbon plate and PUMA's latest, best super foam. Version 3 has received some significant updates that gives it a very different ride compared to version 2. Version 3 costs a whopping $300 while version 2 costs $260.

This comparison will tell you which version is better for you.

Both versions of the Fast-R use NITROELITE foam which is an aliphatic TPU. The midsole of V3 is slightly softer and lighter than V2. NITROELITE foam has a very energetic ride with a high level of bounce although it doesn’t return as much energy as some of the other midsole foams on the market from other brands.

V3 has a plusher ride than V2 but with less stability. V3 also has a narrower base than V2 with more lean bias so if you need more support, V2 is the better option.

The PWRPLATE of V3 has more flexibility than V2. This results in a less aggressive ride with a less prominent forefoot rocker. The PWRPLATE of V2 is super stiff and doesn’t flex much. It is also exposed in the midfoot which makes it more susceptible to getting damaged. V3’s plate is integrated into its midsole and this offers better protection.

V2 is a better long-distance racer than V3 due to its stabler ride. It supports your ankles, shins and calves better during runs over 30 km.

V3 has a faster ride than V2. This is because it’s lighter and it has faster transitions from heel to forefoot. It has an extra piece of midsole foam under the midfoot and this makes transitions smoother.

On the outsoles, V2 has thick PUMAGRIP rubber which is very durable. V3 has a much thinner layer of rubber so it isn’t as durable as V2. The softer midsole foam of V3 also scrapes easier than V2. Both versions have incredible traction, even in wet conditions.

The upper of V3 is much thinner, lighter and more breathable than V2. It has a paper-thin tongue which is not gusseted and it not longer has a hard external heel counter however heel lockdown is still excellent. It fits true to size and doesn’t come in additional widths. The length is a bit longer than V2 but it is still true to size.

The upper of V2 is a bootie construction with the tongue being attached to the upper. It has a knitted collar and tongue which makes it feel warmer than V3. It also has a hard external heel counter to provide extra heel support. It fits true to size and is also not available in additional widths.

If you’re looking for a faster, lighter racer for half marathons or shorter races, the softer Fast-R 3 is the better shoe for you. It has a much thinner, more breathable upper and it has a ride which feels more natural thanks to its flexible carbon plate. It also has smoother transitions than V2.

If you’re looking for a marathon racer, the Fast-R 2 is the better option. It has the more stable, firmer ride and it offers more support during long runs. It has a more prominent rocker with a stiffer plate that makes it feel more efficient. It’s more durable so you can use it for training and it is also much cheaper than V3.