The Ultimate PUMA Cali FAQ

The History of the PUMA Cali

The PUMA California, now commonly known as the PUMA Cali, begins its story in the 1980s.

Introduced in 1982, the Cali was designed as a training shoe suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Created using the ‘California Technique’, hence its name, the upper and sole are combined using a spraying machine. As a result, the sneaker has only two main components, enhancing its flexibility and comfort.

The Cali features a breathable net nylon upper and a perforated forefoot made of nubuck, while the sole incorporates two degrees of hardness: a softer front for initial ground contact, and a firmer rear for stability.

Notably worn by Argentinian tennis legend Guillermo Vilas, the California quickly gained prominence on the tennis courts, but its sleek design helped it transition to the streets, and in the 1980s, the model was a symbol of casual style.

PUMA reintroduced the silhouette in 2018 as the ‘Cali’, giving the original design contemporary elements such as a chunkier sole and updated materials.

Today, the Cali remains a timeless icon, celebrated for its design, comfort, and cultural significance.

PUMA Cali: Answering Your Questions

Do PUMA Cali fit true to size?

The Cali is known to run a bit smaller than most PUMA models, so it’s advisable to size up half a size to a full size above your normal fit.

Are PUMA Cali comfortable?

PUMA Cali are good for casual, all-day wear, with moderate cushioning including a lightly padded insole and cushioned midsole. It’s not designed for high-impact activities or long-distance walking.

Are PUMA Cali supportive?

The PUMA Cali is only moderately supportive, with a low-cut design meaning limited ankle support, and minimal arch support. The thick sole and broad base provide decent stability.

Are PUMA Cali unisex?

While technically unisex, the PUMA Cali is marketed towards women and is primarily available in women’s sizing. Men will need to size up one and a half sizes when purchasing.

Are PUMA Cali vegan?

The PUMA Cali is not vegan, made animal-derived materials including leather and suede.

What is the PUMA Cali made from?

The Cali is made from a combination of leather, synthetic materials, EVA foam and rubber. Occasionally suede is used for style accents.

What is the California Technique?

The ‘California Technique’ dates back to the civil war, where women in the western United States worked in factories while their husbands were drafted into the war. Unable to operate the heavy shoemaking machinery, they developed a shoe that could be sewn with a simple lockstitch machine. A hundred years later, the shoe industry adopted this method using modern machinery.

How do I tie my PUMA Cali laces?

For guidance on tying your PUMA Cali laces, check out our Ultimate Sneakerjagers Lacing Guide!

How can I clean my PUMA Cali?

A PUMA Cali is best cleaned by hand. For the best results, remove the laces, then use a toothbrush to remove obvious dirt from the surface. Mix a mild detergent with some water, and use a sponge or cloth to gently scrub harder stains, or for suede, use a suede brush (water can damage suede). Use a damp cloth to wipe off the residue, then let them air-dry.

For a smelly sneaker, you can sprinkle baking soda inside the shoe, then leave overnight. The powder will absorb moisture and neutralise the smell. Shake out the excess before wearing again. Alternatively, you can use silica gel or activated charcoal bags for the same results.

Laces can be cleaned with a mild detergent and rinsed afterwards, or you can put white laces in a 1:5 bleach and water solution for a few minutes and then rinse thoroughly with clean water.

In addition, we do not recommend putting your shoes in the washing machine. Sneakers made of leather and suede can come out damaged. With shoes made of canvas or cotton, the risk is less, but the chance of damaged sneakers remains. So we recommend always washing your sneakers by hand. If you do put them in the washing machine, then place the shoes in an old pillowcase beforehand.

Where can you buy PUMA Cali?

Do you have your eye on this model? With our sneaker search engine, you can browse the PUMA Cali at different retailers and at different prices. Our release calendar also keeps you up to date on Cali restocks and new releases!

PUMA Cali Variations

Over the years, the classic PUMA Cali has been joined by a number of different versions.

Cali Sport

Released in 2018, the Cali Sport is a sportier version of the original Cali model, remaining fashion-forward but with an athletic edge. It has a chunkier build with a higher platform midsole and often features suede or nubuck overlays and a TPU heel piece.

Selena Gomez popularised the model through PUMA’s campaigns.

Cali Wedge

Adding around 2-3 inches of height to the original silhouette, the Cali Wedge adds a hidden wedge heel on the model, providing height without sacrificing comfort.

A leather or synthetic upper joins a thick rubber outsole in this edgy sneaker.

Cali Star

A sleeker, more refined version of the Cali, the Cali Star has a cleaner silhouette and less chunkiness, with a star detail on the outsole and often given glossy or metallic accents.

It’s a polished version of the OG model, ideal for dressing up casual outfits.

Cali Dream

The Cali Dream isn’t too different in looks from the original Cali model, but features premium materials like leather and suede, with extra-padded collars and colourful accents.

Its slightly exaggerated platform sole gives it a trendy, youthful vibe.