Puma Suede:

Puma Suede: An Iconic Sneaker with a Rich History

The Puma Suede is more than just a sneaker; it's a cultural icon that has transcended generations and continues to make a mark in the world of fashion and sports. Here's an in-depth look at the history, design, and cultural impact of the Puma Suede:

History and Origins

The story of the Puma Suede begins in 1968 when it was first introduced as a basketball shoe. Prior to its release, sneakers were primarily designed for sports and training, not for leisure. However, the world was changing, and Puma launched its first "lifestyle" shoe, the Puma Crack, just before the 1968 Olympics in Mexico.

The Name "CRACK"

The term "CRACK" was popular in the 50s-70s, used to describe a highly skilled person or the best player on a team. The name highlighted the shoe's superiority and appeal. Athletes wore the Crack with Puma's first apparel, the Puma tracksuit, as podium and leisurewear during the 1968 Olympics. The Crack was launched in blue and white, with a special shell sole suitable for basketball. Tommie Smith, known for his iconic Olympic protest, wore a black and white version of the Crack.

1970: Along Came Clyde and Suede

In 1971, Puma signed an endorsement agreement with basketball star Walt "Clyde" Frazier. Frazier wanted a low-cut shoe style in new colorways for each game, leading to over 390 different colors. The shoe was made of suede leather for easy dyeing, and the Crack was renamed the Clyde. Frazier's US contract meant the Clyde was only available in the US until the end of the 1970s. When the contract ended, Puma included the shoe in its international collection as the Puma Suede.

1980: Here Comes the Break

The Puma Suede became an essential part of hip-hop culture in the 1980s, adopted by renowned b-boy crews like the New York City Breakers and Rocksteady Crew. Its malleable outsole and accommodating suede upper made it perfect for breakdancing.

The States in the UK 

In the early 1990s, Puma UK renamed the Suede to "States." Initially, the shoe was hard to find in Britain, but its popularity in the NYC hip-hop community made it a sought-after commodity. When it finally arrived in the UK, it was renamed to reflect its American origins.

Skateboard Culture

In the late '80s, skateboarding, influenced by hip-hop, demanded more durable and versatile shoes. The Puma Suede, with its sturdy midsole and compliant upper, became a popular choice among skateboarders.

The Puma Suede's 50th Anniversary

For its 50th anniversary in 2018, Puma released over 37 exclusive Suedes, collaborating with partners from fashion, music, and culture. These designs showcased the shoe's versatility and timeless appeal.

Celebrating Legacy with Tommie Smith

In 2020, Puma issued a special limited-edition Suede to celebrate Tommie Smith's legacy. Only 307 pairs were created, crafted with premium Italian leather, commemorating Smith's Olympic number.

Design and Features

• Material: The Puma Suede is known for its premium suede upper, which gives the shoe a luxurious yet durable feel. The suede material has been a hallmark of the shoe's design since its inception.
• Formstrip: One of the most recognizable features of the Puma Suede is the Formstrip logo on the sides. This iconic design element not only adds to the shoe's aesthetic appeal but also provides additional support.
• Sole: The rubber sole of the Puma Suede offers excellent traction and durability, making it suitable for both athletic and casual wear.
• Colorways: Over the years, the Puma Suede has been released in a myriad of colorways, from classic black and white to vibrant reds and blues. This variety has allowed the shoe to remain fresh and relevant across different eras and styles.

Cultural Impact

The Puma Suede's impact extends far beyond the world of sports:

• Hip-Hop Culture: In the 1980s, the Puma Suede became a symbol of hip-hop culture, thanks to influential groups like Run-D.M.C. and the B-Boys. Its association with the hip-hop scene solidified its status as a streetwear staple.
• Breakdancing: The shoe's comfortable fit and durable construction made it a favorite among breakdancers, who needed footwear that could withstand the rigors of their dance moves.
• Fashion Icon: The Puma Suede has been embraced by fashion enthusiasts and celebrities alike. Its timeless design and versatility make it a popular choice for casual and stylish looks.

Collaborations and Special Editions

Puma has released numerous collaborations and special editions of the Suede over the years, partnering with designers, artists, and brands to create unique versions of the classic sneaker. Some notable collaborations include:

• Puma x Fenty by Rihanna: This collaboration brought a fresh, edgy twist to the Suede, incorporating bold colors and unique design elements.
• Puma x Colette: A limited-edition collaboration with the Parisian boutique that featured the iconic Suede in Colette's signature blue colorway.
• Puma x Diamond Supply Co.: A collaboration that combined Puma's heritage with Diamond Supply Co.'s streetwear sensibilities, resulting in a stylish and modern take on the Suede.

Conclusion

The Puma Suede has transcended its origins as a sports shoe to become a cultural icon, embraced by athletes, hip-hop artists, and fashion enthusiasts alike. Its rich history, versatile design, and continuous evolution make it a timeless classic that remains relevant and stylish across generations. As Puma continues to innovate and collaborate, the Suede's legacy is sure to endure for many more years to come.