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PUMA immerses itself into the world of Pokémon as the sportswear brand drops an extended capsule collection with the globally celebrated franchise. The collection includes a range of footwear and apparel options inspired by fan-favorite Pokémons like Pikachu, Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle, and Gengar.
The Pokémon that started it all appears on the PUMA Rider FV “Pikachu.” The icon is represented with yellow ripstop fabric and electric yellow suede overlays. Further adding to the Pikachu theme is the character’s face appearing on the tongues and insoles, as well as cut-out hangtags, lightning strikes on the profiles, and the Pokémon’s element symbol on the heels.
Taking the same silhouette, the PUMA Rider FV “Bulbasaur” edition is made with pale blue leather and is accented with teal suede overlays to represent the grass type Pokémon. The PUMA sidestripe has a cracked leather finish that complements the Bulbasaur portrait on the tongue.
Inspired by another OG starter Pokémon, the PUMA Suede “Squirtle” features a signature suede construction with patent leather heels all dressed in various tones of blue. Even the midsole joins in, which is encapsulated in an icy blue shell. The further pay homage to the starter Pokémon, the pair comes equipped with Squirtle hangtags, insoles, and tongue tags.
Perhaps the most fire of the collection, the PUMA Slipstream Lo “Charmander” features a suede construction dressed in various hues of orange and yellow to represent the fire Pokémon. The flame motifs continue onto the marbleized outsole. The pair is emblazoned with Charmander’s face on the hangtags, tongue tabs, and insoles.
For the accompanying apparel, textured prints add a tactile detail to items like a sherpa jacket and sweatpants, while Pokémon graphics are featured across an assortment of T-shirts, crewnecks, hoodies, beanies, and messenger bags.
In honor of the launch, PUMA and Foot Locker are partnering with Pokémon GO to turn 400 Foot Locker, Champs Sports, and Kid’s Foot Locker stores across the U.S. into Poké Stops and Pokémon GO gyms for the next six months. The PUMA NYC flagship store on 5th Avenue will also be turned into a Poké Stops and gym in Pokémon GO.
The Pokémon x PUMA Collection releases on November 12, 2022. The collection will be offered in full family-sizing with retail prices ranging from $30 to $130. To purchase, visit PUMA.com, the PUMA NYC flagship store, Foot Locker, Kid’s Foot Locker, and Champs. For more sneaker news and release dates, follow @NiceKicks on Twitter.
