category lead- PUMA
As the Category Lead for Women’s Running at PUMA, I led the creative and strategic development of the Nightcat FW17 collection, a performance-driven range that fused cutting-edge innovation, urban aesthetics, and athlete-centric design.
Working cross-functionally with the Materials, Innovation, Color, Graphics, and Footwear teams, I aligned design goals with biomechanical research, aesthetic direction, and technical constraints—resulting in a collection that not only performed at the highest level, but stood out as a bold design statement for urban runners.
FW19
Boston
“Nightcat” was built to empower runners—especially women—to own their space, their pace, and their path. Inspired by the agility of the Puma cat and the strength of determined athletes, the FW17 collection delivered 360° reflectivity, strategic compression, and a sleek silhouette, designed to support the female athlete from dusk to dawn.
I led the creative vision under the inspiration motto “Run Your Way”, reinforcing the message of confidence, versatility, and visibility.
ddThe PWRRun Nightcat Long Tight earned the ISPO Award 2017 – Gold Winner in the Compression Wear category. The jury highlighted its:
“Outstanding combination of innovation, design and functionality. With 360° reflection and muscle support, it sets a new benchmark in performance apparel.”
– Dr. Juan-Yan Hu, ISPO Jury
This award cemented PUMA’s leadership in women’s technical runwear and reinforced the impact of design led by athlete insight and creative strategy.
Reflective Compression Technology
Mapped to key muscle groups (glutes, quads, calves), the print delivered targeted compression and iridescent 360° visibility, combining performance and safety in a single design.
Biomechanical Material Strategy
Partnered with the PUMA Innovation Team to identify fatigue zones in women’s lower body movement and translate them into technical zoning and fabric behavior.User-Centric Construction
Designed every component—bonded waistband, laminated zip pockets, seamless hems—for friction-free movement, all tested with female athletes.Product Range Leadership
Oversaw the full women’s offering: long tight, ¾ tight, shorts, jackets, and midlayers, ensuring consistency in silhouette, storytelling, and performance across all SKUs.
Defined collection strategy and seasonal story for the Women’s Run category
Directed cross-functional alignment across innovation, footwear, and global marketing
Elevated PUMA’s position in women’s performance design through award-winning innovation
Balanced technical excellence with visual storytelling, setting a standard for future collections