After 30+ years since its initial launch, PUMA relaunched its RS collection in 2018. This reintroduction of its computer running system shoes was bolsted by new designs and plenty of collaborations, including the SEGA collab with Sonic. Since then, the brand has reinvented many RS sneakers within the collection. This time around, it has unveiled the new PUMA RS-X range.
Earlier this year, Skepta – a British-Nigerian grime MC, rapper and record producer – was introduced as the latest global brand ambassador. The RS launch of the new RS-X range is the first major collaboration with the new creative consultant and designer.
Related: PUMA Announces Reboot Of Classic RS-0 Computer Sneaker
The RS collection traces its roots back to 1984. Its launch propelled PUMA into the technological age with its revolutionary computer creation. As such, the PUMA RS (Running System) became the world’s first wearable sports computer product.And, as a result, it was the world’s first smart shoe.
Thanks to its built-in computer aggregated data, it translating collected information into metrics for runners. These metrics enabled runners to track their movements to become faster, more efficient and more competitive.
The 2022 variant continues to build on the RS legacy. For its relaunch, the RS-X features a few new variants. This includes the RS-X Efekt, RS-X Drift and RS-X 3D. Additionally, further evolutions will follow in 2023. The collection also signifies the handing over from the old guard.
As part of the relaunch of the PUMA RS-X range, Sketpa also lead the “Revolutionaries” campaign. The campaign video features Skepta in a world being dismantled and then rebuilds it around him. The goal is to empower others, allowing them to rebuild their spaces and master their own creativity. For our local, South African, campaign, it is lead by “Revolutionaries” like Maglera Doe Boy.
In With the New RS-X
Drawing on inspiration from its archives, the RS-X 2022 franchise is a frontier for PUMA’s Faster mantra. It is represented with a new design expression, which features bold colours, modern detailing and new high-tech accents.
The RS-X range continues the PUMA future-retro (or FUTRO) design ethos. The first release for the new range is the PUMA RS-X Efekt. It is a progressive sneaker with prominent angular detailing. Its upper is crafted in a mix of nubuck and suede overlays with mesh styling. Further to this, its leather is sourced from environmentally responsible manufacturing. This has been audited and certified by the Leather Working Group protocols.
For its midsole, it features a PU material finish, with the outsole in rubber. Furthermore, the PUMA Formstrip is also made of a PU material and is features on both the medial and lateral sides of the sneaker. Lastly, the PUMA RS-X Efekt will be available in three colourways on release in South Africa. This includes the Black/Strong Gray, White/Feather Gray and Granola/Dusty Tan colourways.
Head of Design and Sportstyle at PUMA, Daniel Taylor, had this to say about the refreshed RS range:
“Our approach allows us to blend decades of cultural references, and we found that working this way can create a product that is both innovative and authentic to PUMA. By recontextualizing our archive, the RS franchise should evoke a sense of familiarity in people, even if they can’t quite figure out exactly what archive shoe those elements originate from. With RS, our goal was to establish a flagship shoe to embody our FASTER mantra.”
Related: PUMA RS-X Tracks Review – The Future-Retro Aesthetic Has Risen
Revolutionise your style with the new PUMA RS-X range by Skepta.
Dropping this week is the PUMA RS-X Efekt. It will be available online at PUMA.com, as well as at PUMA retail stores for R2,399. Additionally, it’ll also be available at Al Capone, Archive, Cross Trainer, Shesha and Side Step.
