Puma’s BMW X-Cat Disc sneakers aren’t the first time a footwear brand has found inspiration in the automotive world. Back in the year 2000, the Lakers’ Kobe Bryant and adidas partnered to unveil a controversial design inspired by the Audi TT, a sneaker met with limited success despite the marquee mashup. We think Puma might have tapped into a more palatable design with these sleek and futuristic kicks inspired by the 2008 BMW GINA Light Visionary Concept Car.
The inspiration: BMW GINA Light Visionary Concept Car
Metallic stretch fabric outer and an internal wire and dial tightening system (emblazoned with a BMW logo) give these shoes an engineered, and maybe even a CAD-aided architectural vibe that would look right at home flaunted in front of a Frank Gehry design. Puma’s Laceless Disc Fit System should also make these kicks appealing to the Yeezy/Roshe crowd who value a streamlined design and easy on/off wear; the rotating disc tightening system is a direct nod to the BMW GINA’s ability to shape-shift.
The shoes are designed using a single thin layer of stretchable and super-light GINA material, and wrapped around like a second skin, permitting more flexibility while worn and in movement.
We propose BMW throws in a pair of BMW X-Cat Disc sneakers with every purchase of one of their cars…or better yet, Puma throws in a BMW with the purchase of their shoes!
The BMW Group subsidiary, Designworks led the charge with this futuristic design: “The approach was to look at every aspect of making a shoe and to try and reimagine it. Freeing yourself of what is here now can be an enjoyable and rewarding exercise. Typically, it also speeds up change,” says Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design.
The designers also rethought the concept for the sole and the Puma DISC, applying BMW engineering. They viewed the sole as the engine of the foot, the driver of movement, producing a unique design which was inspired by interconnecting gears and integrates both engineered flexibility and interlinked stability.
The silver sheen silhouette BMW X-CAT DISC is available now in select Puma stores and also online for $135.
from Design Milk http://design-milk.com/puma-bmw-x-cat-disc-finds-inspiration-bmw-gina-light-visionary-concept-car/
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