The sneaker deities were so on my side last week. I managed to snag the all-black Rihanna Puma Creepers, which sold out in 35 minutes upon going on sale. I had totally bought into the hype and coveted a pair, since they are super cute, high fashion kicks. Now that they have arrived and I've been wearing them, are these shoes worth the incredible mania that surrounded the drop? Are they comfortable? As stylish in person and on my feet? Are they well made? Are they worth the $140 spend? I have answers to all of those questions based on my personal experience with these kicks.
Yes, the sold out Rihanna x Puma Creepers are worth the hype. At first, I was a bit concerned about buying them without trying them on. I have small but wide feet, so I can wear anything from a 7 to an 8, depending on how narrow a shoe is. That makes the try-before-you-buy concept pretty much essential for me. But I didn't have that option, so I used the following formula.
Pumas, like Converse Chuck Taylors, tend to be narrow, so I purchased a 7.5, since that's what I wear in Cons. That turned out to be a wise choice. This size fits perfectly — it's roomy but not loose, yet comfy without being snug.
So, yes, the Puma Creepers are comfortable. The thick, ribbed Creeper sole is sturdy, adds just a bit of lift, and is well made. It also adds support, which is nice for all-day wear and if you are going to be on your feet for a long, looooong time.
These Creepers come with a long, satin lace, which you can turn into ankle straps. I removed mine for now, but may re-add them if I want to wear the kicks with a babydoll dress and add a little feminine fanciness. But the fact that the sneakers can be transformed with the satin straps makes them extra versatile and worth that price.
There's the chunky sole, which IMO, elevates these Creepers to a fashion "must have." It's a simple sneaker update but is a game-changer.
I love a sneaker with some bulk and these certainly offer that quality.
Breaking in a new pair of shoes can be murder on feet, but I have experienced no pinches or pain while rocking these.
I've only worn them with skinny jeans and a Van Halen tee so far.
But I plan to pair them with leggings and dresses, too. Even my dog Higgins approves of the Rihanna x Puma Creepers.
I love how rock 'n' roll these look with a simple tee and skinnies.
Last one!
The hype is real. These shoes are pretty awesome. I am not disappointed with a single element, from fit to price to how they look on my actual feet. I also loved the Rihanna x Puma Fur Slides, even though I didn't expect to dig them as much because I generally don't love that silhouette. It's patently obvs that Rihanna and Puma know what they are doing with footwear. I had two #ByeMoney moneys with their shoes and it was worth it.
Puma PR told Bustle via email that these best-selling kicks are not being restocked. But here's hoping that the customer response forces a return or some new colorways sooner than later.
Images: Amy Sciarretto (8); Courtesy of Puma (1)