The Puma Suede x NBA 2K Shot Meter is a fun crossover between Puma and the NBA 2K video game franchise, inspired by the iconic shot meter that fills from white to yellow to green. This pair released as part of a small pack alongside a Puma Scoot Henderson model, tying gaming culture directly into a classic Puma silhouette.
I’ve covered the Puma Suede plenty of times on the site, but in short, it debuted in 1968 and has remained a streetwear staple ever since. On this version, the concept really comes through via the leather formstrip, which fades from white to yellow to green to mimic the in-game power meter. We also get NBA 2K cobranding on the tongue and insole, keeping the theme consistent without overdoing it.
I dig Puma collabs, and picked these up using a gift card from my wife. I narrowed it down to a few options, and this was her favorite, so the choice was easy. I don’t play a ton of 2K, but anyone who’s familiar with power meters will instantly get the reference. Even outside the gaming tie-in, the gradient detail just looks great and makes this a standout while still being super wearable. I ended up paying about $71 shipped, which felt like a solid deal.
These come in a special NBA 2K cobranded box featuring the same yellow-to-green gradient as the shoe, and include black laces with red aglets as well as a yellow-to-green pair sporting the same shot meter fade as the formstrip and box.
Materials
As expected, the upper is mostly suede with a leather formstrip. The suede is very solid for the price point – not very soft, but the cut at least seems thick enough for a collab. Overall construction feels sturdy and well executed.
Fit & Comfort
True to size with the classic Puma Suede fit. Comfort is basic and old school, with most of the cushioning coming from the insole since the outsole is essentially a strip of rubber. Fine for a few hours of casual wear, but not something I’d reach for as an all-day sneaker.
If these are sold out at different stores online, you can try looking for them on eBay.
Colorway: Puma Black / Sun Storm / Puma White
Style Code: 397840-01
Retail Price: $85
Year of Release: 2024