The PUMA Velophasis and Slipstream Lo are two iconic sneakers that have captured the interest of sneaker and fashion enthusiasts alike. With the release of the PUMA x FEATURE collaboration fast approaching, here is a comprehensive guide to both silhouettes. Continue reading to delve into the history of the PUMA Velophasis and Slipstream Lo, exploring their design features, origins, collaborations, and their place within PUMA's sneaker heritage.

The Velophasis

The Velophasis takes inspiration from the 2000s style and PUMA’s heritage performance running range, reimagined to create something new and authentic. When it comes to design, the PUMA Velophasis is in a league of its own. Its open mesh honeycombed base, synthetic overlays, and translucent molded TPU detail on the lateral side make for a techy, dynamic look. The sleek design and attention to detail make it an ideal choice for sneaker enthusiasts. Prioritizing sustainability, PUMA ensures that the upper of the sneaker is made with at least 30% recycled materials as a step toward a better future. 

Additionally, the PUMA Velophasis incorporates cushioning technology that provides optimal support and comfort. The SOFTFOAM+ midsole is engineered to absorb impact and deliver responsive energy return. With every step, the Velophasis ensures a cushioned landing and a powerful push-off, enabling runners to perform at their best.

The Slipstream Lo

The PUMA Slipstream Lo brings together two worlds of PUMA history. It blends the DNA of a timeless silhouette from 1987 with a modern aesthetic. The PUMA Slipstream Lo entered the scene as a basketball sneaker in the late 80s, returning today with its signature chunky lines and distinctive shape while staying true to its basketball heritage. Slipstream iterations vary in materials and construction, making each version and collaboration completely customizable. 

A signature detail that is present in all Slipstream Lo’s is the PUMA Formstrip, which cradles the foot securely without compromising the range of motion or adding too much pressure. It also prevents excessive stretching of the leather, ensuring a secure fit needed for basketball.

Notable Collaborations

Renowned for its collaborations with influential figures in the fashion and music industries, PUMA has teamed up with popular brands, artists, and celebrities to create limited-edition versions of the Velophasis and Slipstream Lo that push the boundaries of sneaker design. 

An iconic PUMA Velophasis collaboration from June of this year was with streetwear brand PLEASURES. This iteration of the Velophasis Overdye featured a bold all-over purple hue. The ‘Overdye’ color treatment fastens to the shoe’s sole in a unique way, giving the shoe a pre-worn look. PUMA and PLEASURES collaborated again in October for a Velophasis Layers silhouette, which featured an orange and black colorway. The layered effect could be seen on the midsole, in which various orange hues are stacked atop each other.

The PUMA x FEATURE Velophasis is the latest sneaker addition to the silhouette’s repertoire. The ‘FEATURE 1’ sits at the intersection of sports and fashion and was designed for the big race here in Las Vegas. The sneaker features a monochromatic gray colorway that pays homage to the chassis of an open-wheel race car, matching the vehicle's carbon body and titanium components. Additional details include multiple sets of laces inspired by livery color stories, a unique footbed with the Las Vegas track outline, and a custom box resembling the blueprint of making a race car.

PUMA x Rhuigi is a notable collaboration that set the tone for future Slipstream iterations. This ‘Pristine/Juniper’ colorway showcases a white leather upper with green leather and taupe suede overlays. The sneaker features the signature chunky Slipstream silhouette with an aged midsole and comes with multiple pairs of laces, completed by being housed in a custom box.

The most recent Slipstream Lo is the PUMA x FEATURE ‘24H Las Vegas.’ The sneaker is inspired by motorsport shining a light on the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. The white and red colorway resembles the berm of the track and is intentionally scuffed along the midsole to represent the tire marks and weathering that the racetrack will experience. The hairy suede texture is attributed to the wear and tear of slick race tires after hours of driving. A custom box sports a contrasting view of the Las Vegas strip.

These collaborations and many others have allowed PUMA to tap into diverse audiences, reinforcing the status of the Velophasis and Slipstream Lo and creating a sense of desire among them. These silhouettes have important spots within PUMA’s heritage sneaker designs, each having been inspired by styles from the late 80s and early 2000s. From their distinctive features to their renowned collaborations, both the Velophasis and Slipstream Lo have left an impression on the sneaker community.