While LaMelo Ball and Puma have moved on to the fourth iteration of the MB series, and early images of the MB.05 have appeared online, the duo still look back to the model that started it all — the MB.01. Back in 2021 when the model first hit shelves, it was a surprise hit for ballplayers and sneakerheads alike as pairs sold-out across the board. Eventually, the market became saturated with other models and plenty of colorways on the sneaker. Still, Puma has another pair to drop in early 2025 with the Alien Safari pair.
Keeping in line with the out-of-this-world and “not from here” motifs attached to LaMelo Ball, the sneaker comes in an alien green hue across most of the upper. Near the toe, we see a ripstop material and fused TPU coat the textile base layer, which features a vibrant and deep purple safari print. This print extends across the profile, passing the embroidered phoenix wing logo near the collar and wrapping past the Melo and Puma branding on the heel.
More purple is found on branding details, including the Puma formstrip and 1 Of 1 text near the toe, the Not From Here text on the vamp, the phoenix logo, and 1 Of 1 logos along the tongue. Down below, the silhouette comes with a foam and rubber midsole that contains Nitro Foam cushioning and X-shaped reinforcements near the heel paired with a semi-translucent purple rubber outsole.
The Puma MB.01 Alien Safari will release on January 10, 2025, through Puma and select retailers online and in-store. Available in men’s and GS sizing, the retail price is $140 and $125, respectively. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Images via Puma
Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy attending concerts and catching the latest movies. Email: nick@soleretriever.com