After already releasing three signature basketball shoes from Puma (with a fourth reportedly on the way), LaMelo Ball is shifting his focus from the court to his next pair of sneakers.
Pictured here is the PUMA LaFrancais Lifestyle Sneaker, which will make its retail debut in May. According to PUMA Hoop Head of Design Jeremy Salley and LaFrance designer Noah Buys, the brand worked closely with Ball to design this latest silhouette. According to Sally, Ball named the shoe after his own streetwear brand, LaFrance, and the all-red coloring symbolizes Melo's desire to stand out.
“What better way to stand out than by wearing your first pair of shoes dipped in red patent leather,” Vice says. “Most importantly, Melo liked it, so we named it 'Amour.'
Puma also confirmed that the sneaker references popular chunky skateboard models from the 1990s and early 2000s. “If you know Melo, you know he does everything big,” Vice explains. “From chains to logos to cars, men live big, so we had to come up with a silhouette that fit that profile.”
Alongside the LaFrancé shoes, matching apparel will also be released, ranging from graphic T-shirts, mesh tank tops, shorts and track pants.
Readers can pick up the Puma LaFrancé starting May 17th on Puma.com, the Puma app, and at select Puma retailers. The entire collection retails from $40 to $110.