THE STORY OF THE PUMA SLIPSTREAM
Born in 1987, the first model of the SLIPSTREAM was a basketball shoe that succeeded the SKY LX. It became an iconic sneaker silhouette, favoured by basketball players on the courts for its performance, stability and cushioning. Off-court, it made its way to the streets and found a following among sneaker connoisseurs and the subculture generation of hip-hop dance crews for its unique design.
SLIPSTREAM DEBUT - 1987
The simple basketball shoe with a white base and charcoal grey colour scheme was equipped with the “ANTI SHOCK SYSTEM”. At first, the SLIPSTREAM was sold as a college basketball shoe to match the school’s programme colours, but given its growing popularity, it became available in multiple colours in 1988. Basketball shoes were becoming more fashionable during this time, and soon lifestyle models such as THE BEAST and SLIPSTREAM SNAKE were also released. PUMA pioneered the lifestyle space with these two styles, using material embellishments like faux snakeskin, leather and faux fur.
"Today the ‘80s basketball style is very trend relevant. The clean canvas lends itself well to additional executions and storytelling. The key to a timeless design is making sure it is accessible and not the most complicated or unique item out there. It has to be driven by culture, not by hype."
Jan Kessel, Senior Product Line Manager Sportstyle Footwear
SLIPSTREAM REVIVAL - 2002
After a long hiatus, the SLIPSTREAM was re-issued in 2002 with the return of THE BEAST and SLIPSTREAM SNAKE. It was particularly successful in the Japanese market, later leading to a Made in Japan version of the style.
THE BEAST JAPAN 2002
SLIPPING INTO THE FUTURE - 2021
In 2021, the shoe was re-issued for today’s consumer, staying true to its 1980s basketball heritage. One of the first to debut for the launch, THE BEAUTY AND THE BEAST pack is a reference to the Japanese iterations of THE BEAST in the past. The modern designs take a new play on the beast name and pay homage to the storybook tale. The inspiration is clear throughout, playing with key elements that allude to the menacing beast and the charming beauty.