LaMelo Ball’s Puma line expanded this spring with the introduction of his LaFrance lifestyle sneaker. The Y2K-inspired model debuted in an all-red colorway and will now return with two more editions in July.
The Puma LaFrance “Moment” and “Untouchable” sneakers will both release on the same day with divergent treatments. The “Moment” iteration is muted with a predominantly cream colorway featuring diminutive brown accents, while “Untouchable” is much louder with pops of pink situated throughout the black sneaker.
Contrast on the La France “Moment” is limited to the shoe’s trim and branding on the heel and tongue. If you flip the shoes over, you’ll also see the words “Puma” and “La France” spelled out in brown on the otherwise cream mismatched outsoles. The “Untouchable” iteration makes greater use of color-blocking through the application of pink on the inset oblong panels that help form the eyelets, as well as the same branding spots on its sister colorway.
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Both new variants feature leather construction, which deviates from the patent leather used on the all-red “Amour” launch colorway. Inspired by skate shoes from the early aughts, the LaFrance’s closest lookalike is Osiris’ famed D3 sneaker. The moniker comes from Ball’s middle name, which is also used for his independent fashion line.
For a time, the NBA made Ball cover up his “LF” neck tattoo because of a ban on displaying commercial marks outside of the league’s partners. He was eventually granted an exception, however, after arguing the connection to his own name and that of an uncle.
The Puma LaFrance “Moment” and “Untouchable” sneakers will both release July 19 through Puma’s website, app and New York City flagship, as well as select third-party retailers. Pricing is set at $110.
About the Author:
Ian Servantes is a Senior News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.
