Balenciaga does it again, as the brand has effortlessly made another unique yet polarizing fashion statement. At their Fall/Winter 2025 show held at Paris Fashion Week, the luxury fashion house liberally reimagined the Puma Speedcat, undeniably the sneaker du jour. If you prefer your kicks to look a bit more worn in, then they've got you covered.
Balenciaga Releases "Torn" Puma Speedcat Sneakers
Right before his new assignment at Gucci was announced, Balenciaga creative director Demna linked up with Puma to conjure up pieces that fuse the two brand's edgy style codes. This collaboration translates to oversized visors, tapered track pants, and, of course, purposely distressed pairs of the Speedcat in hues of white, navy blue, black, and red.
This remix of the Speedcat has the model's distinctive Formstrip scratched away, with signs of tear present across the suede panels. The namesake Puma can still be found by the tip of the shoe, and is now joined by Balenciaga's name spelled out on the tongue and side.
The iteration also has a pull tab on the back, which makes it easier for wearers to slip in and out. Such detail is indicative of the Speedcat's original design and purpose. Debuted in 1998, the sneaker was made to be worn on racetracks and had the capability to withstand friction. With its reintroduction in recent times, the sneaker now gains a new definition with Balenciaga's experimental touch.
Netizens React to Balenciaga's "Torn" Puma Speedcat Sneakers
As expected, purveyors of style were intrigued by the distressed sneaks, with some actually finding themselves drawn to it.
Other netizens saw its similarities to their OG pairs from way back when, quipping that they were ahead of the distressed look before Demna thought of it. "I already have them trashed from 20 years ago," one said.
"My mother would immediately wash [these]," another wrote in reference to the intentionally messy appearance.
A user attributed the worn-and-torn design to Golden Goose, which has made themselves known for their scuffed-up sneakers.
Officially named the Ultrasoft Speedcat, these kicks follow a trend with Demna's inclination to purposely weathered pieces. One netizen seemed to have grown indifferent with his repeated design codes. "I'm tired of Balenciaga trolling," another chimed in.
The PUMA Ultrasoft Speedcat has yet to hit shelves, in physical stores or online, so no price tags have been attached to it as of now. But do you see yourself adding these to your rotation of kicks? Sound off in the comments!
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