Louis Gabriel Nouchi & PUMA Say Sock-Sneakers Are Here To Stay

Summary

• Designer Louis Gabriel Nouchi has collaborated with PUMA on a new Mostro Sock sneaker, featuring a slip-on sock upper and slim, spiked sole.
• Inspired by para-athlete needs, the minimalist design will be available in black and khaki starting September 27.

French designer Louis Gabriel Nouchi is expanding his PUMA collaboration with a new sock-sneaker take on the recently revived Mostro model. Following up on his recent Mostro Mule, Nouchi introduces the Mostro Sock, a slim-soled sneaker with a full sock upper.

The latest evolution of the original 1999 model reduces the design even further than the Mostro Mule variant, boasting nothing else but the spiked rubber details near the midsole. Offered in black and khaki, the shoes feature a breathable knitted textile upper. Drawing inspiration from accessible design, the laceless slip-on is consciously geared for the needs of para-athletes, while a simple heel tab makes pulling the extended sock up easy for all.

Nouchi’s latest PUMA silhouette is reminiscent of other ultra-minimal sock sneakers that have come from labels like Balenciaga and Yeezy. Among the most recognizable pieces from Demna‘s tenure at Balenciaga is the 2017-born Speed Sock, featuring a black sock upper printed with a small logo and white athletic soles. Later, the YZY Pods emerged in 2023, stripping back the concept even more with ultra-thin rubber soles.

While sock sneakers have come and gone over the last decade, the thin-soled development seems to be the detail that has more staying power. Over the last year, Vibram FiveFinger shoes and Vivobarefoot models have come into the mainstream like never before, influencing various footwear purveyors. As LGN and PUMA reveal their take on the trend, perhaps neither thin soles nor sock uppers are going anywhere soon.

The Louis Gabriel Nouchi x PUMA Mostro Sock is available on September 27 at louisgabrielnouchi.com and selected PUMA stockists.