Puma Release Limited Edition FUTURE “Inhale”

This is a wild release that came straight out of left field! Puma drops a limited edition boot called FUTURE Inhale – celebrating the 2000 flagship running shoe with the same name that became an instant classic 20 years ago. It isn’t easy to sneak a release like this under the radar, but somehow Puma kept it under lock and key until their introduction earlier today, and they brought back some special memories for those that remember the original running shoe.

Even though these feature the FUTURE name, they are a lot different to anything we have seen in the series to date. In fact, they are anything but. Yes, they get the FUTURE name, but the entire construction of the High Risk Red/Black/Silver/White colorway is different. For the upper, we are talking about a mesh base with a TPU embossed skin coating to create that wave like appearance. Underfoot, you get an integrated PUMA Future 5.1 soleplate in a tribute to the iconic style.

All-in-all, there are a lot more unanswered questions about these than known. The design is wild, the story behind them is very relatable for some, but the entire package seems like a step backward for a brand looking to step ahead of other brands. For example, I was under the impression the key characteristic of the FUTURE was the lacing system, yet these are completely closed off around the tongue. And that upper looks a lot more like a rigid 90s style rugger boot with a sandpaper toecap than a responsive, modern knit material. But, I digress. And ultimately, this is designed to be a collectors release more than anything else – made to be a throwback, and one true fans can enjoy.

For those that want to own a limited edition pair, find them at soccer.com.