You might be surprised to learn that sportswear company Puma invested in the high- tech in the 1980s, but the world (and technology itself) wasn't ready for the company's innovation. So its efforts almost disappeared without a trace.
However, now, Puma's RS-Computer Shoe is back, thankfully with better technology than the original.
The first version of the shoe, in 1986, had a custom computer chip embedded in a protruding section on the back of the shoe, which automatically recorded the wearer's time, distance, and calories burned. The data could then be downloaded to an Apple IIe or Commodore 64 computer using a 16-pin cable!
The company's revamped shoe retains the original design, including the prominent section at the back. But thanks to the invention of the smartphone and the development of technology, the sneaker has been updated for the 21st century.
The 2018 version repeats the original experience, but now you can use Bluetooth to connect to a smartphone with the dedicated RS-Computer Shoe app, while the shoe's battery is charged via a USB socket.
So what will be the features of the RS-Computer Shoe:
Sensors: Each shoe is equipped with a tiny 3-axis accelerometer, which is used to measure the number of steps taken, distance traveled, and calories burned.
Wireless Technology: The RS-Computer Shoe features a Bluetooth 4.0 transceiver and can be connected to an Android or iOS smartphone. Once Bluetooth is activated, the shoe records and delivers data to the RS-Computer Shoe app.
Memory: The shoe can record 30 days of data. Throughout the month the runner has access to all the stored data in a Monthly Statistics tab.
Buttons and LED Indicators: There are two buttons, one red (Red LED) and one black (Green LED). The red one is used to display the daily step goal, which can be set in the RS-Computer app, while the black one shows the battery status. The two buttons are referred to as Key 1 (red) and Key 2 (black).
Rechargeable Battery: The RS-Computer Shoe has a built-in rechargeable lithium-polymer battery. The battery can be charged using the USB cable provided with the shoes.
If you want to get your hands on a pair of these special Puma shoes, you'll have to be quick... and very lucky. The company will only sell 86 pairs worldwide, starting December 13th at Puma stores in Tokyo, London, and Berlin, as well as select Kith stores. Some pairs will be available online for shoppers in the U.S. and Japan. Pricing has not yet been announced.
