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We've been a little too hard on the PUMA Dallas just because it wasn't the Udo Lattek endorsed version we were raised to love. We're sorry, because we acted like nasty stepfathers towards the brand's latest reintroduction. Even though an O.G. pair of this version crept into the Unorthodox Styles book, we're still not sure of this Dallas design's origins. You know what? We can't diss a shoe just for being a variant, just because Teutonic brands like PUMA and adidas just kept pumping out sneakers with similar names but different intent throughout the '70s and '80s. It's actually a good silhouette, steeped in the brand's trademark simplicity, with the forefoot paneling and toebox giving it a certain point-of-difference. After the navy reissue comes more colourways that seem to be themed on some shades we've seen on Suedes.

The slim profile works best on this impending yellow and blue makeup, just one of this party of 5. We'd definitely like to see PUMA's reissue programme continue, singling out Blue Birds, Houstons, Denvers and other gems that resonate with Euro-fanboys, and some more archive details on designs like the Dallas. PUMA's history is a fascinating one (we propose you pick up Barbara Smit's strangely gripping 'Sneaker Wars' which, bar a questionable Run-D.M.C. anecdote is hugely informative), and we know there's some superb designs laying dormant at present. Lime greens, browns and reds are looking decent too, as a solid addition to the range (though we would love its chunky brethren on the shelves some time soon) gets a little more suited to the hotter months when suede makes a lot more sense. These drop soon.


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