The Puma Suede Classic sneakers are, without a doubt, the most iconic model from Puma.
Created 53 years ago, for basketball use, the model was against all odds, as it was made of suede, a material considered to be luxury at that time.
This little, yet big detail made it a bestseller and the number one choice in the United States of America.
The street style helped to make them eternal, but the truth is that Puma Suede is not just part of fashion history.
The fight for civil rights by Americans of African descent was led by Tommie Smith and John Carlos at the Olympic Games in Mexico, when they received their respective medals.
First they climbed onto the podium barefoot and raised their arms, a clenched fist on one side and a Puma Suede Classic on the other.
As the American national anthem was playing, they bowed their heads and raised their arms with a clenched fist in honor of the Black Power movement.
Silently and simultaneously, the Puma Suede of each of them were present in the first and third places on the podium.
PUMA CLASSIC SUEDE VS WALT “CLYDE” FRAZIER
In 1973, Puma had the pleasure of having one of the NBA's greatest players — Walt “Clyde” Frazier — become its representative. Not only was he a star, but a reference in urban culture.
“On and off the court” the New York Knicks player had style, and after leading his team to the championship victory in 1970, it was impossible not to influence his admirers with the sneaker that he could call his own.
PUMA SUEDE CLASSIC VS BREAKDANCE CULTURE
Authentic, tough and stylish were three of the requirements sought by b-girls and b-boys in a sneaker. The thick sole made it possible to take risks in the movements and the soft and flexible suede upper, perfectly conditioned the feet of the wearer.
In 1984, breakdance elevated the Puma Suede to stardom in the movie “Beat Street”, as well as through the creators of the Break battles: the New York City Breakers and the Rock Steady Crew.
The skater movement did not remain on the sidelines and also adopted them for the practice of the sport.
Currently, the Puma Suede Classic maintain their place in the “Sneakers Hall of Fame” and will continue to make history, as big as your steps.
Discover here all the available colorways.