Night Cat Powered Jacket
At PUMA we understood that a lot of runners run at night. And we designed purpose-built products to increase safety in that environment. But we knew we could do better than create yet another reflective jacket. So we came up with the idea to give her a running mate. Something that would not only keep her safe, but also offer her guidance and the ability to connect and compete with friends. We introduced LED lights into the architecture of the jacket and made it Bluetooth-ready, so it could connect to a smartphone. A totally new and safe running experience.
The drive continues from concept…
The Night Cat Powered technology fuelled our collaboration with BMW Motorsports. The creation of their CSL Hommage concept car called for state-of-the-art, seamless driver-to-car connectivity. The driver could start the car with a touch of the finger and experience in-helmet data transmitted from the car through the suit. A digital pathway made visible through LED lights enhanced the driver-connectivity experience.
to the racetrack...
The core principal behind the CSL suit was to deliver to the needs of elite level drivers like DTM Champion Marco Wittmann. We focused on innovative materials and construction as well as performance-enhancing details including fireproof cotton, knitted panels in the limbs and midsection, and an ergonomically designed 3D arm for increased driver comfort.
…to commercialization.
The professional-only Speedcat DTM Racesuit inspired the consumer-ready Speedcat Evo and Nightcat Evo jackets which incorporated the same Adaptive Fit details as the race suit.
Project Profile
What is it?
A running jacket that uses light and Bluetooth technologies to bring safety and fun to runners. The runner can get route guidance and pace coaching from the app. They can also connect and compete with friends in other locations.
Why is it innovative?
It brings a new experience to runners in an authentic way. It uses state-of-the-art technology to create a seamless and fun experience.
What were the biggest challenges?
Integrating the light and power source into the garment in a way that does not compromise weight and fit.
What was your role?
Project Manager, Creative Director
After shaping the vision I lead a team of designers, engineers and software developers toward realization. I was the primary liaison with the BMW Design Group working on the CSL Concept Car.
Why was it successful?
In some ways it was not a success because it was never commercialized. But we were successful in building the promise of such a product. Further, the technology and the product architecture that we created was the basis for the BMW CSL motorsport suit that we created for the BMW CSL concept car.