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If I had to hedge my bets on a singular lifestyle sneaker trend that’ll continue to kick off in 2024, I’d put my money on retro sneakers. More specifically, the terrace shoe trend, a resurgence of low-cut, gum-soled shoes once associated with spectators in UK soccer stadiums throughout the ’80s. Few silhouettes capture this aesthetic like PUMA’s Palermo sneakers, which the brand re-released this past July with much fanfare.
The original Palermo sneakers debuted in the ’80s as part of a special PUMA series of sneakers named after iconic European cities. The re-issued Palermos maintain the key design features of these Sicilian-inspired shoes, namely a suede and leather upper (now manufactured responsibly with the Leather Working Group), rounded T-toe construction, and a classic gum sole.
I tested the Palermo sneakers during a busy month, wearing them on planes, trains, and plain-old walks to work. My first impressions of the sneakers called my podiatrist to mind, who pointed out that my plantar fasciitis-prone feet benefit from shoes with stiff soles. Once I opened up the Palermo sneakers, I tested out the flexibility of the soles by attempting to bend the shoes in half. These travel-friendly sneakers passed the test, only slightly flexing near the toe, which points to solid rigidity that will take stress off of my midfoot (check!). Whether you deal with this common foot condition or not, the Palermos are some of the most comfortable sneakers for women that just so happen to be on-point stylistically.
Canvas shoes have a reputation for being easier to break in than leather sneakers. The Palermo sneakers deftly debunk this train of thought: The first day I wore my Palermos, I laced them up for a three-mile walk around New York City without experiencing soreness or blisters. I attribute this to the soft padding on the shoe’s collar that continues to cushion my ankles after weeks of wear. As for traction, you won’t be left wanting. Despite the shoes’ inception as a style for spectators versus athletes, the patterned gum sole provided plenty of grip on concrete, slick marble, and tile during my testing. PUMA’s Palermo sneakers fit my narrow feet true-to-size, though those with wider feet may want to consider going up half a size for a comfortable fit.
PUMA first re-issued the Palermo shoes in a royal blue and white colorway, however the Big Cat brand has dropped plenty of new colors since the OG’s return. I opted for the cute mint and orchid colorway (a palette drawn from the vibrancy of Sicilian fruit vendors) to shake up my usual rotation of neutral sneakers. If you’re into the latter, PUMA released black and white iterations of the Palermo shoes in November that’ll be right up your alley, as well as a new soft pink and black iteration in celebration of Palermo FC.
As for styling these everyday shoes, consider a football jersey optional. In the mere months since the PUMA Palermo sneakers made their timely return, celebrities like Dua Lipa and Emily Ratajkowski have been spotted wearing these shoes with mini dresses, baggy jeans, and more. This A-list approval combined with the terrace sneaker trend that’s gaining fans by the minute have contributed to the shoes selling out multiple times this year. Score big by securing a pair while you can.
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis, and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
Our Footwear News team regularly tests top sneakers, including PUMA running shoes, as well as bestselling walking shoes for men and women from various brands. To test PUMA’s Palermo sneakers, Footwear News editor Claire Sullivan wore the shoes for various outings and occasions. Sullivan assessed the feel of the shoes, both with and without socks, noting any rubbing or discomfort (none to report). She also tested the shoes in a variety of weather conditions and on surfaces like concrete, grass, and turf to assess their comfort level and versatility. Learn more about us here.
Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for Footwear News and WWD. She has over six years of experience as a writer and editor for national media outlets including Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She keeps her finger on the pulse of all things related to beauty and wellness, regularly digging into foot-related topics like plantar fasciitis or at-home foot peels. Sullivan also monitors sneaker trends, regularly testing out shoes from popular brands like PUMA.
