PUMA Slipstream Lo 'Sashiko'
The Slipstream Mid was a basketball shoe born in 1987 as a successor to the SKY LX. It became an iconic sneaker silhouette, favoured 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 for its unique design. Dropping exclusively to Shelflife!
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. PUMA pioneered the lifestyle space with the two styles, using material embellishments like faux snakeskin, leather, and faux fur. These models gained notoriety in Japan, eventually leading to Made in Japan versions in the early 2000s. The Slipstream Lo version was also released as a lifestyle model, further expanding the shoe's reach, and adding to the wide range of offerings.
Sashiko is a form of Japanese folk embroidery using a variation of a running stitch to create a patterned background. Traditionally made in geometric patterns with white cotton thread on indigo blue fabric, the designs include straight or curved lines of stitching arranged in a repeating pattern that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
Sashiko embroidery has been used in Japan for centuries, dating back to the Edo era of the 1600s to the 1800s. The Japanese word sashiko means "little stabs" and refers to the small stitches used in this form of needlework. This style of embroidery and the "sashiko stitch" was used to reinforce or repair worn fabric or tears with patches, making the darned piece ultimately stronger and warmer.
The PUMA Slipstream Lo 'Sashiko' drops Saturday 2 April online only at 7am! R2199.
Exclusive to Shelflife in SA.
Sizes: UK6, UK7, UK8, UK9, UK10, UK11.