Last week, we introduced you to the new PUMA Future Disc Blaze Lite, hitting retailers this past weekend in the form of the “Tech’d Out” pack. But since sneakers are so much more than just uppers and soles, we got with PUMA footwear designer Jon Tang to tell you everything you need to know.
Interview by Aron Phillips (@the_real_aron)
The PUMA Future Disc Blaze Lite is a mouthful. If you can, break down each part of the name for us.
PUMA is well… us. ‘Future’ is a term we’ve begun to use for evolved heritage product. The Disc Blaze is one of our many heritage styles, and we plan to continue to evolve it as well as others through different vehicles of storytelling. ‘Lite’ is the idea of minimalism, whether that is through weight, substance, or execution. Can we do more with less?
What can you tell us about the original Trinomic family that released back in the ’90s, and how that relates to this shoe today?
Trinomic was always a performance technology back in the day. It tackled the idea of ‘stability’ and how to soften impact pressure in different areas of the foot. This is still very relevant today. Though the actual parts of it are a bit outdated, the idea of tackling this issue is still an ongoing problem we shoe designers will always face.
When we were updating the Disc Blaze, we had to find the connection of Trinomic and how to evolve that. After talking to our performance running teams, we worked with them on understanding how they deal with this problem today on a performance side. We wanted to bring that realness of performance back. We used many of the same materials on both the upper and bottom to really connect back to the idea of what the original intent of the design was about.
What characteristics of the original silhouettes made it into this shoe?
We really tried to keep as much as we could in there. Many of the iconic lines that gave it that unique look we kept. The housing unit for the Disc System is the same, as well as the similar sock construction. The cage unit was an essential part of the original design, so that was a must keep.
What makes the Disc System so unique?
No laces! With a couple clicks you’re ready to go. Easy on, easy off. Can’t beat that. There’s no other shoe like it. And there’s so much more we can do with it. Just you wait…
And what about the FAAS BioRide cushioning?
FAAS BioRide is a lightweight material that allows the transition of the foot to ride smoothly and efficiently without resistance. It really feels like clouds on your feet.
What can you tell us about the forthcoming “Tech’d Out” pack?
The market is moving closer and closer to fusing the world of fashion and technology. With this pack we’ve begun to take that step closer and closer utilizing innovative technologies to execute materials and patterns. This is only the beginning.
What do you guys have planned in terms of other special colorways or collaborations?
Wouldn’t be that special if I told you now! (laughs) I will say though we’ve got some amazing projects coming up. Get your wallets ready.
