Today, we are thoroughly introducing the history, size reviews, and styling tips for the classic popular model "SPEEDCAT OG" from PUMA, available at FASCINATE_ANNEX, FASCINATE_THE R (Osaka Shinsaibashi), and FASCINATE_KYOTO (Kyoto Kawaramachi)!

SPEEDCAT OG lineup

The History of the SPEEDCAT: Fusing Motorsport Tradition with Modern Fashion

History and Origins: Born from Motorsport

The SPEEDCAT is designed based on fire-resistant racing shoes worn by F1 Grand Prix drivers throughout the 1980s and 1990s.

The history of PUMA and F1 racing dates back to the 1980s, when foundations for collaboration with Formula 1 drivers were laid, eventually leading to an official partnership established in 2001.

Many F1 racing drivers wore PUMA shoes, with the very first model being a boot made from thin leather and suede, released in 1984.

The SPEEDCAT draws inspiration from the agile and supple nature of large cats, as well as the need for precise control and grip in motorsport.

The low-profile silhouette was designed to help drivers better control their vehicles.

Debut and Evolution in 1999

In 1999, during the rising popularity of motorsports, the lifestyle version of the PUMA SPEEDCAT was introduced.

Initially launched as a mid-cut silhouette, a low-cut version followed in the early 2000s. After 2002, the familiar embroidered PUMA Cat logo was added to the toe.

Over the years, the shoe has undergone numerous transformations, featuring a wide variety of color schemes, updated logos, collaborations, and detailed design elements. It has been produced using a range of materials including leather, suede, nylon, patent leather, nubuck, pony hair, and even linen.

In 2024, the OG (Original) SPEEDCAT line was reissued, and it remains beloved by fashionistas to this day.

Establishing Its Status as a Fashion Icon

Beloved as a symbol of Y2K fashion in the early 2000s, the SPEEDCAT seamlessly fused a smart, casual look with a cool sneaker vibe, thriving everywhere from office work to nights on the dance floor without sacrificing style.

By merging athletic performance with lifestyle fashion, the SPEEDCAT resonated with multiple subcultures such as hip-hop, skateboarding, and street style, playing an important role in the evolution of sneaker culture.

Even after its recent revival, it remains loved by Gen Z, who are reigniting Y2K fashion, as well as vintage enthusiasts, firmly establishing itself as a fashion icon.

Collaborations That Sparked Global Attention

The SPEEDCAT has collaborated with motorsport brands such as Ferrari and Sparco.

In the fashion world, collaborations with brands like Balenciaga (Ultrasoft SPEEDCAT), LaQuan Smith (boxing-inspired SPEEDCAT and SPEEDCAT Mid), JUUN.J (all-black high-cut and low-cut versions), OPEN YY (various colorways), and Daniel Gizio (mesh materials) have drawn attention, establishing the SPEEDCAT as a fashion icon among celebrities and fashionistas worldwide.

BLACKPINK’s Rosé Appointed as PUMA’s Global Ambassador

The SPEEDCAT, already loved by celebrities around the world, gained even more attention when worn by Korean celebrities and influencers, contributing significantly to its current popularity.

BLACKPINK’s Rosé, now serving as a global ambassador for PUMA, is also a known fan of the "SPEEDCAT."

Balancing Design and Functionality

Low-Profile Silhouette and Streamlined Form

The SPEEDCAT is designed with a distinctive low-profile silhouette inspired by agile large cats and the refined footwear worn by F1 drivers.

Its aerodynamic, streamlined profile was an essential feature for precise pedal control in racing.

The SPEEDCAT Low, in particular, gained popularity for its standout slim design, becoming a major trend in the early 2000s.

Suede and Leather: A Blend of Materials

The upper part of the shoe is typically crafted from a combination of soft suede and high-quality leather.

The suede provides a soft texture and breathability, ensuring comfort even during long periods of wear, while the leather enhances durability and support.

Thin Rubber Sole and Functionality

The SPEEDCAT features a thin rubber sole with a distinctive profile, providing excellent grip and stability for both driving and everyday use.

The thin sole offers a close-to-the-pedal feel, highly praised by racing professionals.

The cushioned midsole delivers comfort without compromising the slim profile of the shoe.

Additionally, it features a specially molded heel designed to facilitate easier pedal control.

The choice of detail：Logo and stitching

The toe features the easily recognizable embroidered PUMA Cat logo, while the iconic PUMA Formstrip is designed along the sides.

Some models also showcase a gold foil PUMA brand logo on the side and tongue, adding a luxurious touch.

The racing-inspired smooth, flowing lines and aerodynamic design create a silhouette that fits perfectly with modern fashion styles.

SPEEDCAT OG Size Fit Review

From here, we will introduce the actual size impressions based on our staff wearing the shoes.

If you are unsure about size selection, we hope this will serve as a helpful reference.

Men’s Staff Size Review

・Usual Size: 26.0cm (Adidas STAN SMITH reference size)

・Instep Height: Normal

・Foot Width: Slightly narrow

・Toe Space: Normal

・Worn Size: 26.0cm

・Fit Impression: True to size

Women’s Staff Size Review

・Usual Size: 23.5cm (Adidas STAN SMITH reference size)

・Instep Height: Normal

・Foot Width: Normal

・Toe Space: Normal

・Worn Size: 23.5cm

・Fit Impression: True to size

Staff Wear Review

Compared to Adidas STAN SMITH, we recommend choosing the same size you usually wear.

Similar to the STAN SMITH, the shoe has a relatively narrow width, so if you have wider feet, going half a size up might be advisable. However, the upper material is softer than STAN SMITH, so it did not feel uncomfortably tight.

Is the SPEEDCAT OG Fit Large or Small?

Based on our staff reviews and customer feedback at our stores, although individual differences exist, the SPEEDCAT OG generally fits true to size — neither particularly large nor small.

SPEEDCAT OG Styling Examples

From here, we will introduce different styling examples using the SPEEDCAT OG, categorized by color.

Casual Coordination Using Brown Color

The soft, mature brown color is very easy to incorporate into casual outfits.

It pairs well with light-toned styles or earth-toned looks, especially during seasons like spring and autumn.

Among the colors we introduce here, brown seems to be the most versatile, matching a wide range of styles.

Red Color That Becomes the Star of the Coordination

The vibrant red color, synonymous with the SPEEDCAT, is a standout piece that can take center stage in any coordination, regardless of the season.

With its luxurious appearance, this color is often seen worn by celebrities and public figures, making it one of the most eye-catching choices.

This red color also stands out beautifully as an accent in all-black outfits.

Monochrome Coordination with a Mode Atmosphere Using Black Color

The classic black color, which pairs easily with any outfit, creates a mode-inspired look when styled with a monochrome coordination.

The design stands out with its unified black upper and sole, complemented by the white Formstrip that serves as a striking accent.

At our stores, we offer the SPEEDCAT OG in a wide range of sizes, from men's to women's.

PUMA products are available not only at FASCINATE_ANNEX (Osaka Shinsaibashi) but also at FASCINATE_THE R (Osaka Shinsaibashi) and FASCINATE_KYOTO (Kyoto Kawaramachi). Please feel free to stop by and check them out if you are in the area.