Few sneakers can claim the cultural weight and timeless style of the Puma Suede. First released in the late 1960s, the Suede quickly transitioned from a performance shoe to a lifestyle staple. Its story weaves through sports, music, and street culture, making it one of the most influential sneakers of all time.
Origins: A New Material for a New Era
In 1968, Puma introduced the Suede, breaking away from the standard canvas and leather materials dominating the sneaker market. Suede gave the shoe a bold, premium look and a softer feel, instantly setting it apart. Initially designed as a basketball sneaker, it was Puma’s response to competitors like Converse and Adidas, bringing a fresh edge to the court.
The Walt “Clyde” Frazier Era
The Suede’s big breakthrough came in the early 1970s, when New York Knicks star Walt “Clyde” Frazier became the first NBA player to get his own signature shoe. Frazier, known for his flashy style on and off the court, partnered with Puma to release the Puma Clyde.
The Clyde is a slightly modified version of the Suede with Frazier’s name stamped on the side. This move not only cemented the Suede as a basketball icon but also helped establish the modern idea of an athlete-endorsed sneaker.
Puma Suede: A Symbol of Protest and Power
One of the Suede’s most iconic moments came during the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, when U.S. sprinters Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised their fists on the podium in a powerful Black Power salute. Both athletes wore Puma Suedes, forever linking the sneaker to activism and social justice.
Puma Suede in Hip Hop and Street Culture
By the 1980s, the Puma Suede had found a new home: the streets. Breakdancers and hip-hop crews embraced the shoe for its durability, style, and comfort. The Suede became part of the uniform of early b-boys and b-girls, often paired with tracksuits and gold chains. Puma leaned into this movement, sponsoring hip-hop crews and cementing the sneaker’s place in the culture.
The Suede Global Legacy
Over the decades, the Puma Suede has remained relevant through collaborations and reinventions. From limited-edition drops with brands like BAPE, Diamond Supply Co., and UNDFTD, to cultural celebrations like the Suede 50th Anniversary in 2018, the shoe continues to evolve without losing its original identity.
Why the Suede Endures
The Puma Suede’s staying power lies in its versatility. It has crossed boundaries between sport, music, politics, and fashion, all while maintaining its minimalist yet bold design. Whether on the feet of an NBA champion, a protester, a breakdancer, or a modern sneakerhead, the Suede has always been more than just a shoe—it’s a statement. For more sneaker news check out the best Air Jordan 8 colorways.
