In the 90s Puma were hitting back at Adidas and Nike with hexagonal cushioning. The company has been giving this a bit of a refresh, bringing in some new innovation onboard for what they call LQD Cell technology. According to Puma, LQD Cell is versatile technology, which depending on the product’s needs, is mixed with proprietary energy-returning foams in different regions of the foot. 

In the 90s this was a cushioning system formed by large hexagonal cells but is now a lightweight, cushioning system which also provides improved shock absorption. Upon impact, the hexagon cells compress and work together with ProFoam to provide stability without compromising cushioning. The company believes users will experience heightened stability as well as more comfort.

Puma models featuring this tech that have debuted overseas include a number of more streetwear-orientated sneakers, including the LQD Cell Origin AR, a shoe that also provides an augmented reality experience through an app. South Africans are set to receive a performance orientated debut, called the LQD Cell Tension. Meant for training, Puma describes the shoe as “a progressive silhouette engineered for dynamic training combined with a bold design and colour pops for one intense trainer.” There is also EVA wrap-up for lateral support and a TPU heel clip to help with optimal heel stability.

For the ladies there’s the LQD Cell Shatter training shoe that features a unique midsole shape while, according to Puma, offering immediate cushioning and energy return in a lightweight package, with an added internal heel counter for additional heel support. 

Whether or not we will see LQD Cell combined with Puma’s interesting Hybrid cushioning and energy return tech on their running shoes, remains to be seen.

PUMA’s LQD Cell Shatter and LQD Cell Tension, will be available in South Africa from August 2019, with prices unknown at this stage.