Puma King 2013 – Black/PUMA Silver

The New King 2013

There is a definite modern twist to the latest Puma King release. Through the history of the range, we have become familiar with a K-Leather and a simple design. This time around, Puma has switched to a premium leather and upped the overall visuals of the boot. The leather upper is obvious the big talking point, but the one thing to note is that the leather used is still ultra-soft and also thinner so that you get more feel on the ball. Its inclusion also allows Puma to drop the weight of the King range to a perfectly balanced 8.4oz.

Let me just note that visually, this release is a far improvement on the previous King Finale model – especially with the tongue cut at the ankle. On the heel, you will notice that an external heel counter has also been added. It is there to secure and stabilize your foot while protecting it from rash challenges.

Turn the boot over and you will spot a modernized soleplate with a very unique stud pattern. A mix of conical and almost square shaped studs are strategically positioned to allow for balance and stability in play. I’m being slightly unscientific when I call them square studs, as they are rounded and dynamically chiseled, but compared to a regular conical studs they look like a 4 sided shape!

All in all, this is a very modernized take on the range from Puma. Even with many detractors, the case for the brand moving with the times seems to be true and you have to admit that it is a move that makes sense. Other brands seem to be finding ways to drop weight as quickly as the contestants on Survivor, so why would Puma seemingly sit back and wait for their consumers to move onto the next best thing. There is a lot to be said about boots with K-leather upper and their performance benefits, but you need to note that Puma has not moved to a synthetic like most companies…..and traditional colorways like this are a welcome addition to the market!

In terms of retail, you can find this colorway available for around $149.99.