
China Design Competition: Chengrui Xu
Meet Chengrui Xu, participant in our 2021 China Student Design Competition.
The Cell Venom, Puma’s modern classic, has just had a makeover in sleek black full-grain leather – and we think it’s pretty snazzy.
The style, first seen in the 90s, is seeing a renaissance as chunky designs continue to dominate the sneaker scene. Like the Fila Disruptor, the Puma Cell Venom has divided opinion with its own interpretation of ugly cool.
The brand new version teams the luxurious leather with a matt black sole. Contrasting white stitching is used to add contrast and detail to the darkness.
Introduced in 1998, Puma’s hexagonal cell technology was designed for serious runners, giving them extra support and stabilisation. The 2020 version is aimed squarely at the street wear crowd, with a bulkier upper sitting above the cell bubble in the heel.
‘King’ branding features on the tongue in tonal black on black while the classic Puma side stripe is subtly conveyed by the white stitching.
The lacing is designed to sit flat against the shoe, keeping the silhouette smooth.
Puma uses leather that holds a medal rating from the Leather Working Group. The company was founded in 1948 by Rudolf Dassler. He had originally formed a sports shoe company with his brother Adolf. The pair split after constant rowing and formed separate companies. You may have heard of Adolf Dassler’s enterprise… the one and only Adidas!
We’re on team Rudolf when it comes to these creps. The understated colour of the leather combined with the big, bold shape could add up to make Puma Cell Venom the sneaker of the summer.
(Currently available to purchase on Atmos)
Featured image: Unsplash
Meet Chengrui Xu, participant in our 2021 China Student Design Competition.
Renowned stylist, Mike Adler takes us behind the scenes on an exclusive campaign shoot in Paris!
Each month, Mike will take us on a journey through the world of leather in the fashion industry and how it is being used, worn and loved. Let us introduce you to Mike Adler: Leather Loves.
Winners of the 2020/21 Italian Student Design competition