PUMA x LaQuan Smith: Boxing Ring Inspired Second Collaboration
PUMA and LaQuan Smith have unveiled their second collaborative collection, a boxing-inspired line that expands upon their previous partnership. This new venture shifts the aesthetic from the racetrack to the boxing ring, reimagining classic PUMA silhouettes and apparel with a blend of athletic functionality and high-fashion sensibility.
At the core of this collaboration are two new iterations of the PUMA Speedcat. The PUMA x LaQuan Smith Speedcat Mid, a high-top design, takes center stage, featuring a striking red and black colorway. This design deviates from the traditional Speedcat's motorsport origins, instead drawing inspiration from boxing footwear. The extended lacing that reaches up the calf adds a distinctive, elevated touch, merging athletic utility with a dramatic visual statement. The low-top version of the Speedcat maintains the same color palette, allowing for a more versatile, everyday wear.
The accompanying apparel collection complements the footwear, maintaining the red and black color scheme. The collection includes tear-away pants, cropped jackets, and boxing shorts, each piece designed to reflect the dynamism of the boxing world. The boxing shorts, in particular, are elevated with satin finishes and studded graphics, adding a layer of luxury to the athletic wear. This fusion of sportswear and high-end detailing is a hallmark of LaQuan Smith's design philosophy.
The lookbook, shot by Greg Swales and featuring Ming Lee Simmons, showcases the collection's aesthetic, emphasizing its blend of athleticism and glamour. The imagery highlights the collection's versatility, demonstrating how the pieces can transition from the boxing ring to a more fashion-forward setting.
This second collaboration between PUMA and LaQuan Smith builds upon their previous work, demonstrating a continued exploration of athletic wear through a high-fashion lens. The collection's focus on boxing, a sport known for its physicality and discipline, adds a layer of depth to the collaboration. The choice of red and black, colors often associated with power and intensity, further reinforces the collection's thematic focus.
The blend of classic PUMA designs with LaQuan Smith's distinctive aesthetic creates a collection that is both familiar and innovative. The combination of athletic functionality and high-fashion detailing appeals to a broad audience, bridging the gap between sportswear enthusiasts and fashion aficionados. The collection's release is anticipated to generate significant interest, building upon the success of the previous collaboration.
Photo Credit : Greg Swales
