In part one of the RISE x PUMA collaboration that dropped on World AIDS Day (December 1), the brands launched a gorgeous, red, ‘New York Is For Lovers’ Blaze of Glory. Additionally, RISE, together with PUMA, donated $15,000 to amfAR (The Foundation for AIDS Research). Now, RISE and PUMA are back for part two.
The RISE x PUMA Blaze of Glory ‘Lost Ones’ continues the AIDS/HIV theme but in a much more somber way. This latest collab, coated in rich black leather with only minimal hits of red at the midsole, lace dubraes, pull tabs, and lace tips, is for all the people who lost their battles with HIV and AIDS. Chris Ceparano, co-founder of RISE, had this to say:
About 8 weeks ago we offered up Part One of our partnership alongside PUMA and amfAR. Launching “New York Is For Lovers” was one of the most challenging projects I’ve worked on.
We all experience hardships, trials and tribulations in our lives and revisiting those times can be difficult. But, no matter how difficult that process was for me does not compare to the amount of love and support I’ve received because of NYIFL, from people I am now forever connected to.
With more than 1.5 million HIV/AIDS related deaths each year, you can only imagine the number of family members and friends who are left to mourn every loss. Those are the folks I’ve been fortunate enough to connect with and speak to throughout this process. Those amazing people and I share a very visceral connection.
That is why PUMA and I created “Lost Ones”. Not only to show our continued support in fighting HIV/AIDS, but also to acknowledge and pay respect to the families and friends of those who are no longer with us.
The RISE x PUMA Blaze of Glory ‘Lost Ones’ is, according to RISE, a “highly limited global exclusive” and launches this Saturday, February 6, at 11 AM EST via rise45.com. Retail is set at $145 and sizes available are men’s US 5-12 & 13. Thoughts on part two of this collaboration? Share them below.
Source: RISE
