How PUMA Evolved the Fast Rider into the Future Rider

It’s In The Name

When the Fast Rider debuted in 1980, PUMA’s goal was to provide a comfortable, light and performance-slanted jogger. In fact, the very activity of jogging was in its infancy, so the brand capitalised and offered prospective quick steppers the very best. A fast ride’s a good ride – especially at only 278.7 grams claimed weight.

Four decades later, the Future Rider serves as the spiritual successor to the Fast Rider. Simply put, it is how PUMA interpret the silhouette for the future of today. Wearing retro running shoes off-duty is de rigueur now, so the Future Rider is a nip-tuck for today’s tastes.

Federbein Feet

The Fast Rider’s most distinct feature is its knobbly, studded sole, called the Federbein. Its design dispersed impact through the outsole rather than midsole material, for instant responsive cushioning and grip. The Federbein sole ethos would be a mainstay for future PUMA treads.

Cushioning technology has made leaps and bounds since the simple times of the 80s, so the new model uses latest generation IMEVA (injection-moulded ethylene vinyl acetate) foam. It’s light, spongy, and can be shaped like old-school soles. Win-win! Despite the new-age approach, things go full circle, the familiar studded arrangement is faithfully referenced in the Future Rider’s sole.

Materials

As was the norm for the era, the Fast Rider picks the nappiest suede at the toe bumper and heel counter for durability and abrasion resistance. Elsewhere, nylon shaves precious weight. It is simply the gold standard for making sneakers.

The proven combo is back on the Future Rider, but with a functional update. The nylon inserts are now also woven in a ‘ripstop’ grid pattern, preventing any wayward tearing and abrasion. The OG materials remain though, keeping up the homage – peep the exposed foam on the tongue! 

Upper Cut

It’s all too easy to simply graft a new-age midsole onto an OG upper to form a new hybrid. Brands have been doing it for years – but PUMA go the whole hog by creating an entirely new design in the Future Rider. The heel starts tall, then tapers towards the toe box and tip for a nice gradient.

The original Fast Rider was all about lightweight performance, shedding any excess material and sitting low on the ankle. Its Formstripe placement informs its sequel on the Future Rider, wrapping both lateral and medial sides with bold branding that cuts through the clean uppers.