Evolution Through Key Milestones

Puma SE has a rich history marked by innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to performance. Here’s a look at how Puma has evolved over the years through key milestones:

Early Beginnings (1948)

Puma was founded in 1948 by Rudolf Dassler in Herzogenaurach, Germany, after a split with his brother Adolf Dassler, who went on to establish Adidas. The company initially operated under the name "Ruda" (derived from Rudolf Dassler) before officially becoming "Puma Schuhfabrik Rudolf Dassler" in December 1948.


First Major Success (1950)

Puma's first major success came with the launch of the Puma Atom football boot in 1950. This boot became a game-changer in the world of football, setting the stage for Puma's future innovations in sports footwear.



Innovative Football Boot (1952)

In 1952, Puma introduced the Super Atom, the world's first football boot with screw-in studs, developed in collaboration with West Germany's national coach Sepp Herberger. This innovation marked the beginning of Puma's football heritage.



World Records (1954)

In 1954, Heinz Fütterer set a world record in the 100m sprint wearing Puma shoes, clocking an impressive time of 10.2 seconds. This achievement helped solidify Puma's reputation for producing high-performance sports footwear.



Introduction of the Formstrip (1958)

In 1958, Puma introduced the Formstrip, a distinctive design element that stabilizes the foot inside the shoe. This feature became a trademark of Puma footwear and is still used in many of their products today.



Collaborations and Expansion (1999-Present)

Puma has a long history of successful collaborations with designers and brands:

  • Mihara Yasuhiro: In 1999, Puma collaborated with Japanese designer Mihara Yasuhiro to create a line of reimagined classic sneakers.


  • Rihanna: The FENTY PUMA by Rihanna collection, launched in 2015, merged high fashion with streetwear.


  • Selena Gomez: The SG x PUMA collection features stylish and functional activewear.


  • Alexander McQueen: This luxury collaboration brought together high-end fashion and performance wear.


Sustainability Initiatives

Puma is committed to sustainability and has implemented several eco-friendly initiatives:

  • Better Cotton Initiative (BCI): Supporting sustainable cotton farming practices.
  • Recycled Materials: Utilizing recycled polyester and other sustainable materials in their products.
  • Sustainable Packaging: Reducing plastic use and implementing eco-friendly packaging solutions.

Global Reach

Over the years, Puma has expanded its presence worldwide, becoming a favorite among athletes and fashion enthusiasts. The brand's commitment to innovation and performance has earned it a loyal following, and its products are available in numerous countries through various retail and online channels.

Conclusion

Puma's journey from a small German shoe company to a global sportswear giant is a testament to its innovation, quality, and versatility. With a diverse range of products, successful collaborations, and a commitment to sustainability, Puma continues to lead the way in the sportswear and fashion industries.