The upcoming A$AP Rocky x PUMA drop introduces two new colorways of the iconic Inhale sneaker, each engineered with distinct materials and intricate design elements that reflect A$AP Rocky’s modern streetwear vision. Slated for release on November 7, 2024, these variations – the “Mesh” in “PUMA Black-Warm White-Lime Pow” and the “Distressed Neoprene” in “Warm White-PUMA Black-Pelé Yellow” – take PUMA’s classic athleticism and layer in Rocky’s urban aesthetic for a bold reimagining that stands out on both the track and the street.
The first variant, the PUMA Inhale “Mesh” Inhale, captures a sleek and structured look. The shoe’s black mesh upper provides both breathability and a minimalist canvas that PUMA has elevated with a quilted white Formstrip, giving the sneaker a textured, dimensional feel. Around this emblematic stripe, heat-cut flame overlays bring an edgy contrast, merging athletic function with Rocky’s street-centric style. Bright chartreuse accents on the eyelets, tongue, and quarters bring an electric pop of color, emphasizing the sneaker’s sporty roots. Further defining the shoe is a translucent gradient sole that shifts in color as it extends from toe to heel, adding a futuristic element that nods to PUMA’s design innovation. Final touches such as reflective silver accents, a red “FLACKO” tag on the tongue – a personalized touch from Rocky – and a coordinating red heel overlay enhance the collaborative design, fusing the sneaker’s elements into a cohesive and stylish statement piece.
Meanwhile, the PUMA Inhale “Distressed Neoprene” iteration showcases Rocky’s affinity for a raw, deconstructed style. This sneaker’s base is built with neoprene, a flexible, durable material, presented in a subdued ombré color palette of whites, blacks, and yellows. The distressed treatment applied across the upper creates a vintage, worn-in look that evokes the DIY energy of street culture, giving each pair a unique, lived-in appearance. Blue and yellow accents in flame-like streaks run across the upper, adding a vivid contrast to the monochrome background. The hand-buffed detailing on the midsole and upper further emphasizes the distressed theme, enhancing the shoe’s rugged appeal and setting it apart as a rebellious take on the typical athletic sneaker.