Enter the Ring in Style with LaQuan Smith's Puma Speedcat High

LaQuan Smith might not be a household name, but the New York-based designer is making a statement with his latest Puma collaboration.

Since 2013, Smith has shared his creative vision with the world through apparel and accessories developed with refreshing materials and a meticulous attention to detail. In 2021, the Queens-born designer unveiled a collaborative collection with Puma in his New York Fashion Week show. The range of products–which included luxurious takes on the popular Kosmo Rider and RS-X sneakers–didn't launch at retail until February 2023. Sequels to the inaugural collection had largely been kept under wraps, but newly-surfaced images suggest the partnership is alive, well, and ready to take on 2025.

LaQuan Smith's first project with the German sportswear giant heavily skewed towards the understated, although some items featured a faint shade of neon green. His latest work for Puma, however, is inherently bold, offering two takes on the Speedcat High. Smith's canvas resembles a slew of the brand's archival footwear for the sport of boxing.

The designer's signature appears on the fold-over tongue, cementing his role in the eyebrow-raising project. The tall silhouette features a quilted, satin-like upper on the red colorway; the predominantly-black style features a plush leather. Puma's Formstripe breaks up the profiles and diverts attention towards the chrome heel clip. Underfoot, Smith further references Puma heritage by utilizing the Speedcat's classic outsole.

Low-top editions of the collaboration also form part of the impending collection.

Enjoy an initial look at LaQuan Smith's Puma Speedcat High ahead. Both pairs–and an extensive lineup–should hit Puma.com and select retailers throughout summer.

For more sneaker news, check out the Adidas Jellyfish, a new silhouette by Pharrell Williams unveiled during Paris Fashion Week.