Puma Palermo

If you’re on the hunt for a sneaker that screams style while keeping it rooted in Puma’s heritage, the Puma Palermo checks all the boxes. It’s not just another retro-inspired shoe—it’s a faithful throwback to the ’70s and ’80s terrace culture, delivering strong visuals with a distinct silhouette. After several weeks of use, here’s what we’ve learned about this striking sneaker.

First impressions & fit

Right out of the box, you notice that classic ’70s and ’80s terrace vibe, with the signature T-toe and gum sole reminiscent of iconic vintage sneakers. The upper is a mix of real suede and leather, and the material quality is impressive for the price—they look and feel premium, with sturdy construction and solid finishing. The fit is snug, especially in the forefoot, but the last is a bit wider than the Adidas Samba or Gazelle, so if you have flat feet or want a bit more room, you’ll be more comfortable here.

Comfort & cushioning

In terms of comfort, these are quite firm and minimal. The sole is low and thin (22.6 mm at the heel, 15.6 mm at the forefoot), so you’re close to the ground and get a very direct feel, with hardly any cushioning. That’s great if you like to feel the surface and want something light and flexible, but if you plan to be on your feet for hours, you might find them a bit hard and lacking in protection. The interior isn’t very padded and the insole is not removable, so don’t expect the plushness of a running shoe or a modern sneaker with lots of foam.

For short walks, urban outings, or casual looks, they’re totally fine and your foot feels stable and well held. But if you want something for all-day wear or long walks, we’d go for a more cushioned model.

Materials & durability

Durability is one of their strengths: the suede and leather hold up really well to daily use, and the toe area is especially resistant to scuffs and wear. They actually score top marks for upper durability in lab tests. The gum sole, while softer than average, stands up to daily wear and offers good grip on dry surfaces, though it can get a bit slippery on wet ground. The heel and interior finishing are decent, though the heel padding could be a bit more robust.

Design & style

Style is definitely the Palermo’s biggest asset. They’re super versatile—pairing well with jeans, wide pants, shorts, or even slightly dressier outfits. The retro design, vibrant colors, and low silhouette make them stand out without being over the top. We get compliments every time we wear them, and they’ve become one of our go-to choices for city outings or casual plans.

The low profile makes them ideal for streetwear looks, and they’re among the most wearable options for fans of the terrace aesthetic. Whether you’re pairing them with tapered joggers or relaxed chinos, they elevate the outfit effortlessly.

Final verdict

The Puma Palermo isn’t about performance or cushioning—it’s about evoking a mood, a decade, and a vibe. If you value aesthetic, heritage, and urban versatility over plush comfort, this shoe is a standout pick. Just know what you’re getting: a fashion-forward, durable, flat-soled sneaker with strong character.

We wouldn’t recommend them for high-mileage days, but for city strolls, café meetups, and casual wear, they deliver both in looks and build. For retro sneaker lovers, this is a must-have addition to the rotation.