When Slehei Benbury collaborates with any brand, sneaker enthusiasts pay attention. From his work with New Balance to his iconic Crocs designs, Benbury has redefined what creative footwear can look and feel like.
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Now, his partnership with Puma has produced something completely new — the Puma Vellum SP Nitro, a bold and futuristic silhouette that pushes both comfort and design boundaries.
After wearing this shoe for an entire week, I can confidently say that it might just be one of the most comfortable sneakers of the year. In this in-depth Puma Vellum SP Nitro Review, I’ll break down everything you need to know from design and materials to sizing, comfort, and performance.
The Story Behind the Puma Vellum SP Nitro
Slehei Benbury’s journey in the sneaker world has been nothing short of revolutionary. Known for merging natural forms with bold colorways, his fingerprints (literally and metaphorically) are all over every project he touches. With Puma, however, this isn’t just another colorway collaboration — it’s a brand-new silhouette designed from the ground up.
Unlike typical collabs where a brand gives a designer an existing shoe to tweak, the Vellum SP Nitro is built on an entirely new platform. It represents Benbury’s full creative expression, from the sculpted midsole to the organic overlays across the upper.
Even the traction pattern on the outsole features his actual fingerprint — a design signature that symbolizes his imprint on the sneaker world.
First Impressions and Unboxing Experience
The Puma Vellum SP Nitro immediately commands attention — even before you open the box. The packaging itself is a visual statement, featuring a bright explosion of blues and reds in an organic splatter pattern. It feels more like an art piece than a shoe box.
Inside, the pair I received turned out to be a friends-and-family edition, sent directly from Slehei Benbury himself — a thoughtful touch that made the review experience even more special. The box features both Puma’s logo and Benbury’s fingerprint, a subtle but powerful symbol of the collaboration’s authenticity.
Even the tissue paper carries co-branded prints, showing the level of attention to detail Puma and Benbury have invested in this release.
While Puma has yet to announce an official retail price, early indications suggest a price range between $150 and $200 — in line with other premium lifestyle runners. Only 100 pairs of a special colorway were released during Paris Fashion Week, but broader colorways are expected later this fall.
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Design Philosophy: A Fusion of Nature and Technology
Every Slehei Benbury sneaker draws inspiration from organic textures, natural movement, and human connection. The Vellum SP Nitro continues that legacy — its name even references “vellum,” a type of membrane found in nature and in anatomy.
This concept translates beautifully into the shoe’s upper. The structure looks fluid and dynamic, almost like living tissue or leaves overlapping. The layered textures don’t just look great; they also provide functional support and structure to an otherwise lightweight mesh base.
The midsole is perhaps the most visually striking part of the sneaker. Its flowing lines and sculpted waves evoke movement and aerodynamics, reminiscent of smoke trails in a wind tunnel. It’s a design that feels alive — not just drawn on paper, but molded through imagination.
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Materials and Craftsmanship
Puma’s craftsmanship on this project is top-notch. The upper features a recycled engineered mesh, which feels thin, breathable, and flexible. While Puma hasn’t detailed exactly what materials were recycled, the mesh clearly integrates both textile and synthetic elements — possibly recycled plastic threads.
The upper is reinforced with fuse overlays across high-wear zones like the toe area, providing extra durability without adding unnecessary bulk. The organic overlay that wraps around the upper resembles plant membranes, enhancing both visual depth and lateral support.
Other notable details include:
- Flat green laces that match the organic overlays.
- A minimal foam tongue with slight padding under the Vellum SP Nitro logo.
- A cork insole (foam-backed for comfort) featuring co-branded logos.
- Moderate ankle padding for stability without sacrificing flexibility.
This balance between style and function makes the shoe versatile enough for both athletic use and everyday wear.
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Comfort and Cushioning: Where the Magic Happens
Let’s talk about what really makes the Puma Vellum SP Nitro special — its comfort.
At the core of the sneaker’s performance is Nitro Foam, Puma’s advanced midsole compound known for being soft, lightweight, and responsive. Here, Benbury and Puma took it to another level.
The foam feels remarkably plush underfoot, absorbing impact effortlessly while maintaining a springy bounce. It’s the kind of comfort that doesn’t just feel good during your first step — it continues to feel fresh after hours of wear.
Unlike some overly soft foams that bottom out, the Nitro midsole strikes an excellent balance. It cushions deeply without collapsing, providing consistent energy return whether you’re walking, training, or casually running errands.
If you’ve worn models like the Nike Invincible Run or New Balance FuelCell Rebel V5, this shoe lands in similar territory — but arguably improves on both in terms of overall ride and underfoot support.
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Sizing and Fit: True to Size with Adaptive Comfort
After a full week of daily wear, I can confidently say that the Vellum SP Nitro fits true to size. I have average-width feet with slightly higher arches, and this shoe accommodated them perfectly.
- Length: Perfectly aligned with my usual size.
- Width: Standard fit — neither narrow nor too roomy.
- Arch Support: Moderate and well-balanced.
For wide-footed users, going up half a size could offer a bit more comfort, though the mesh upper’s flexibility should accommodate most foot types.
Puma’s recent models — especially their performance-inspired sneakers — have been very consistent with sizing, and this one continues that trend.
Performance and Everyday Use
Although the Vellum SP Nitro is categorized as a max-cushion running sneaker, its versatility shines brightest as a lifestyle trainer.
I wore it for casual walks, light jogs, and full days on my feet — and the comfort remained exceptional. The shoe’s stability comes from its sculpted midsole and supportive overlays, preventing that “sinking” sensation common in softer foams.
While professional runners might still prefer specialized models tuned for speed, this sneaker hits the sweet spot for everyday athletes and sneaker lovers who value both comfort and design.
In short, it’s a shoe that performs well enough for workouts but looks stylish enough for daily wear — a rare balance in the sneaker world.
The Outsole: Function Meets Art
Flip the shoe over, and you’re greeted with one of the most creative outsole designs in recent memory. The traction pattern is literally Slehei Benbury’s fingerprint, pressed into the rubber for both aesthetics and grip.
This personal touch doubles as functional art. The rubberized zones in the forefoot and heel deliver traction in high-wear areas, while exposed foam reduces overall weight. After a week of use, the outsole showed expected minor wear, but the traction remained solid.
It’s not a trail runner by any means, but for urban environments and gym floors, it’s more than capable.
Styling and Aesthetics
Let’s be honest — the Puma Vellum SP Nitro is not for everyone. Its design is loud, expressive, and unapologetically futuristic. But that’s what makes it special.
This shoe turns heads. Whether you’re pairing it with joggers, shorts, or tapered jeans, it demands attention. The layered textures and dynamic colorways make it one of the most visually engaging sneakers in Puma’s recent lineup.
It feels like wearable art — a sneaker that sparks conversation and reflects individuality. For fans of creative expression in footwear, this is a must-have.
Sustainability: A Step Toward Responsible Design
While Puma hasn’t yet confirmed all sustainability details, the use of recycled engineered mesh is a promising start. Benbury’s choice to highlight recycled materials aligns with a growing movement toward more responsible sneaker production.
Given his reputation for thoughtful design, it’s reasonable to expect more sustainable choices in future iterations — potentially including eco-friendly dyes, renewable materials, and more transparent sourcing.
Pros and Cons of Puma Vellum SP Nitro
Pros:
- Extremely comfortable Nitro Foam cushioning
- Lightweight and breathable recycled upper
- Unique design that blends lifestyle and performance
- True-to-size fit with good support
- Excellent midsole sculpting and traction details
Cons:
- Polarizing design — may not appeal to minimalists
- Limited release (for now) makes it hard to find
- Cork insole could use more cushioning for long runs
Final Verdict: Puma and Slehei Benbury Redefine Comfort and Creativity
After a full week of testing, my conclusion is simple: the Puma Vellum SP Nitro is one of the most comfortable sneakers of 2025.
It merges Puma’s innovative cushioning with Slehei Benbury’s organic, boundary-pushing design language to create something truly special. Whether you wear it as a lifestyle statement or a performance trainer, it delivers on every front — comfort, style, and storytelling.
This sneaker feels like the future of footwear — expressive, sustainable, and built for all-day wear.
Conclusion: Puma Vellum SP Nitro Review
So, did Slehei Benbury and Puma just create the most comfortable sneaker of the year? Quite possibly, yes.
The Puma Vellum SP Nitro is not just another designer collab — it’s a showcase of innovation, artistry, and comfort done right. From its intricate sculpting to its incredibly soft Nitro midsole, every detail feels deliberate and refined.
If you’re a fan of design-driven sneakers or simply want something that makes every step feel like walking on clouds, this one deserves a spot on your radar.
Keep an eye out for its official release this fall — because when it drops, it’s bound to be one of the most talked-about sneakers of the year.
As a dedicated footwear reviewer, I have spent years analyzing and testing athletic shoes across every category, from high-performance running sneakers to lifestyle-inspired basketball silhouettes. My work goes beyond simple first impressions; each review is built on a foundation of hands-on experience, thorough research, and attention to the details that matter most to athletes and casual wearers alike. I aim to bridge the gap between brands’ marketing claims and real-world performance, giving readers an honest, balanced perspective.
My writing style combines technical evaluation with an accessible tone, so both professionals and everyday enthusiasts can understand the strengths and weaknesses of each shoe. Whether discussing midsole cushioning technology, outsole traction, or upper material breathability, I break down complex features into practical insights. Readers trust my reviews because they know I highlight both the benefits and potential drawbacks, helping them make more confident purchasing decisions.
Over time, my work has evolved into a comprehensive resource for anyone seeking guidance on athletic footwear. I regularly compare new releases with previous models to highlight improvements or missed opportunities, while also exploring how different shoes fit specific activities—such as marathon training, weightlifting, or casual streetwear. By staying updated with industry trends and listening to community feedback, I ensure that my reviews remain relevant, informative, and genuinely useful.
Ultimately, my mission is to provide clarity in a crowded market. With countless options available, choosing the right pair of shoes can feel overwhelming. Through in-depth, unbiased, and engaging reviews, I strive to make that decision easier, equipping readers with the knowledge they need to find footwear that truly matches their performance goals and personal style.
