LIFESTYLE
(REVIEW) We Try on The New Puma Suede XL Rocked by NCT 127
Even if you’re not a sneakerhead, you’ve probably seen someone wearing PUMA Suede shoes on the street or worn by celebrities like Kylie Jenner. It was introduced way back in the late 1970s and earned itself a spot in the sneaker hall of fame, being worn by musicians, Olympic athletes, and even B-boys. Now, the classic shoe just got larger than life with the new Suede XL worn by brand ambassadors and fashionistas in their own right, NCT 127.
Their brother subunit NCT U sang about ‘90s love, and the shoes are a footwear ode to this, being inspired by the nostalgia of the ‘90s and early 2000s skateboarding footwear.
The boys of NCT 127 are known for their love for fashion, with members being ambassadors for luxury brands such as Jaehyun and Prada, Doyoung and Dolce & Gabbana, and Taeyong and Loewe; we could see them pulling off these shoes paired with their high fashion looks for one of their music videos.
Whether you’re a male or female Czennie, you can get a pair for yourselves as the shoes are unisex. There are also versions for children, but they don’t seem to be available on PUMA’s website, only on JD Sports. These are available in four colourways: Electric Blue, red, black, and black with a whisp of pink.
PUMA kindly sent us a pair of the latter, which I love because pink is my favourite colour, yet it doesn’t take up the whole shoe, so it is still wearable and easily matches with any outfit.
I could see Taeyong and Yuta wearing these as the two who are more daring with their fashion looks have worn all-pink shoes in the past. Heavily cushioned with exaggerated proportions, the sneakers are cut from smooth and durable suede in their upper which adds a premium and luxe feel. Being made from suede also means that you can’t wash them though, so don’t go stepping in mud!
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The Suede XL also features a padded tongue for added support. The heavy padding inside will definitely help to protect your feet especially if you’re on a skateboard. Last month, I scraped my foot horribly (I still have the scars to prove it) while on an electric scooter and I wish I had these back then. Their iconic PUMA logo is also featured on the heels in an embossed gold shade, another classy touch while maintaining its Y2K vibe.
On the side is the classic leather Formstrip in pink, with the signature PUMA branding in gold which shines when seen in the light. Note: if you’re concerned about products which use leather, PUMA’s leather products support responsible manufacturing via the Leather Working Group.
Its traditional laces have been swapped for ultra-wide versions because bigger is better. There is a chunky foam midsole for a smooth ride while the grippy rubber outsole will give you total traction. Plus, the lace fastening will help to lock you in.
Instead of just the lettering being all white, there is a debossed and foil-printed PUMA branding on the quarter panel which is a nice touch because details matter. The box also generously comes with an extra pair of ultra-wide laces in white in case you want to shake things up. I can’t remember the last time I bought a pair of sneakers which came with extra laces, so this is a nice addition.
Overall, I think that the shoe is very wearable, and PUMA has made yet another instant classic. The possibilities for outfits are ‘Limitless’ and I’ll be wearing these with my cargo pants for a long time yet as I dance to NCT 127’s hits!
Besides the kicks, NCT 127 also modelled the latest PUMA Downtown collection with pieces like graphic tees, hoodies, and pants in fresh colours and spicy prints. The Suede XL Sneakers Unisex retails at RM459. Get them on PUMA’s official website, PUMA flagship stores, and selected retailers.
Image credit: PUMA, Alicia Corbett
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