Introducing the PUMA Suede
The PUMA Suede, first released in 1968, began as a performance sneaker favoured by athletes thanks to its soft suede upper and durable build. It gained lasting cultural significance during the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, when sprinter Tommie Smith wore PUMAs while delivering the iconic Black Power salute, forever tying the shoe to social activism.
By the 1980s and 90s, the Suede had evolved into a lifestyle staple, embraced by hip-hop artists, breakdancers, and urban communities. Over the years, collaborations with stars like Rihanna and The Weeknd, along with playful pop culture partnerships such as One Piece and Ghostbusters, have cemented its place as a fashion mainstay.
In 2023, PUMA introduced the Suede XL, a bold reinterpretation featuring oversized details (thicker tongues, wider laces, and a heavily padded collar) while staying true to the original with its signature Formstrip and gold foil branding.