The first model of the SLIPSTREAM was a basketball shoe born in 1987 as a successor to the SKY LX. It became an iconic sneaker silhouette, favored by basketball players on the courts for its performance, stability and cushioning. Off-court, it made its way to the streets, finding a following among sneaker connoisseurs and the subculture generation of hip-hop dance crews for its unique design.
Given its growing popularity, in 1988 (just one year after the basketball launch), lifestyle models such as THE BEAST and SLIPSTREAM SNAKE were also released. These lifestyle models gained notoriety in Japan, eventually leading to Made in Japan versions in the early 2000s. PUMA pioneered the lifestyle space with THE BEAST shoe with the use of faux snakeskin, leather, and faux fur in the unique and eye-catching design.
In 2021, the shoe has been re-issued for today’s consumer, staying true to its 1980s basketball heritage. The Beauty and the Beast pack is a reference to the Japanese iterations of THE BEAST in the past. The modern designs take a new play on the beast name and pay homage to the storybook tale – the inspiration is clear throughout, playing with key elements that allude back to the menacing beast and the charming beauty.
The Slipstream Lo Beast comes in burgundy with details such as a claw-pattern formstrip and a gold trinket. The Slipstream Lo Beauty comes in white leather with a rose trinket and petal embroidery on the quarter.
