BLENDS and Rhuigi Villasenor Launch the PUMA Thunder Spectra
With an installation at BLENDS in Los Angeles.
Throwing its hat into the chunky sneaker ring, PUMA launches its new Thunder Spectra silhouette. Channeling ’90s running sneakers and its own previous McQueen collabs, the new model plays with proportions and mixed materials — delivering a primarily black shoe accented with teal, yellow and red.
In honor of the drop, PUMA has linked up with Rhuigi Villasenor of rising streetwear brand RHUDE to create an installation inspired by the shoe. Located inside BLENDS boutique in Downtown LA, the special display showcases the Thunder sneaker seemingly floating atop a cloud of smoke.
Check out the space in the photos above, read a Q&A with Rhuigi below, and swing by your local PUMA retailer to shop the Thunder Spectra for $120 USD.
What inspires you about the PUMA Thunder?
The PUMA Thunder to me is the prelude and the beginning steps to a new PUMA rebrand and of course an homage to the late McQueen’s profound silhouette.
What inspired you to create this installation?
Given the timeline provided I wanted to encapsulate Tak’s affinity for negative space and minimal approach to the store. So I created a chamber, very Hirst like, that traps the smoke we produce in a glass cube. It then forms the illusion of a shoe floating on a cloud.
Where do you see the “chunky” shoe trend going in the future?
I think it’s showing that people need excitement from fashion now or simplicity (either or). I think the shape of the chunky shoe will remain, but will focus more on tech advancements and function.
How has it been working with BLENDS and PUMA?
BLENDS to me is as pure as can be, very proud and methodical on how they brand and position themselves, which to me is what keeps them at the top! PUMA is a great company as well, I think they’re taking all the necessary steps to build a new era for a global sportswear brand.
BLENDS LA
725 S. Los Angeles St.
Los Angeles, CA 90014
