The Ultimate PUMA Suede FAQ

The History of the PUMA Suede

The PUMA Suede was initially introduced in 1968 as a performance sneaker, aimed at track athletes and basketball players. It stood out for its plush suede upper and durable, distinct style.

The model gained major attention during the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, when American sprinter Tommie Smith, after winning gold in the 200-metre race, raised his fist in the Black Power salute during the medal ceremony while wearing PUMA shoes. While the exact model he was wearing is debated, the moment linked PUMA to social activism and made the Suede synonymous with defiance and cultural expression.

Moving into the 70s, flamboyant NBA star Walt ‘Clyde’ Frazier signed a groundbreaking deal with PUMA, and the brand customised the Suede to his specifications. Lighter, wider, and emblazoned with his nickname, the PUMA Clyde is a close relative of the Suede, both beloved for their low profile and street-ready design.

By the 90s, the Suede had found a new audience in hip-hop and breakdancing circles. The model’s clean look, comfort, and affordability made it a staple in urban streetwear. Also embraced by music fans, skaters, and graffiti artists, the Suede evolved from a performance shoe into a lifestyle sneaker.

Collaborations with big names like Rihanna, The Weeknd, and STAPLE helped breathe new life into the Suede as it entered the 2000s, and as the brand continued to release new colorways and limited editions of the model, it became firmly entrenched as a fashion icon.

The Suede’s 50^th anniversary was celebrated in 2018 with a year-long campaign, where PUMA partnered with global artists, brands and influencers to release exclusive versions that highlighted the model’s versatility, timeless appeal, and deep cultural roots in music, fashion and sport.

Recently, fun collaborations with popular pop culture icons like One Piece, Scooby Doo, Ninja Turtles and Ghostbusters have also helped boost the silhouette’s influence.

PUMA Suede XL

The PUMA Suede XL is a bold reinterpretation of the classic Suede silhouette, amplifying its iconic features with exaggerated proportions with a chunkier, more fashion-forward look.

Introduced in 2023, the Suede XL has a thicker tongue, wider laces, and more robust padded collar than the original. Signature elements are kept intact, however, including the Formstrip, gold foil branding, and soft suede upper.

PUMA Suede: Answering Your Questions

When did PUMA Suedes come out?

The PUMA Suede originally came out in 1968, designed as a performance sneaker aimed at athletes and basketball players.

Do PUMA Suede fit true to size?

The PUMA Suede has a snug, supportive fit, and while generally fits true to size, if you have wider feet, you should consider sizing up half a size for a more relaxed fit.

Are PUMA Suede comfortable?

PUMA Suede are comfortable for everyday wear, with an upper made from soft suede, a padded collar and tongue, and a flexible fit. However, they do offer minimal arch support, and the fit can feel quite snug at first, stretching over time. They're not designed for high-impact activity or extended walking or standing.

Are PUMA Suede skate shoes?

The PUMA Suede wasn't originally designed as a skate shoe, but due to its grippy tread, flat sole, and durable suede upper, it has gained popularity amongst skaters. It does lack impact cushioning and heel support, however, and there are other models more suitable for skating.

Do PUMA Suede come with thick laces?

PUMA Suede laces are quite wide, typically flat and around 12-13mm wide, while PUMA Suede XL laces are even wider at around 19-20mm wide for an oversized look.

How do you style the PUMA Suede?

The PUMA Suede has a versatile look that goes well with different outfits. For inspiration on styling the model, check out the article here!

How do I tie my PUMA Suede laces?

For guidance on tying your Suede laces, check out our Ultimate Sneakerjagers Lacing Guide!

How can I clean my PUMA Suede?

A PUMA Suede is best cleaned by hand. For the best results, remove the laces, then use a suede brush to remove obvious dirt from the surface. Use white vinegar to dampen a microfibre cloth (not water!) and blot stains, then brush when dry.

For a smelly sneaker, you can sprinkle baking soda inside the shoe, then leave overnight. The powder will absorb moisture and neutralise the smell. Shake out the excess before wearing again. Alternatively, you can use silica gel or activated charcoal bags for the same results.

Laces can be cleaned with a mild detergent and rinsed afterwards, or you can put white laces in a 1:5 bleach and water solution for a few minutes and then rinse thoroughly with clean water.

In addition, we do not recommend putting your shoes in the washing machine. Sneakers made of leather and suede can come out damaged. With shoes made of canvas or cotton, the risk is less, but the chance of damaged sneakers remains. So we recommend always washing your sneakers by hand. If you do put them in the washing machine, then place the shoes in an old pillowcase beforehand.

Where can you buy the PUMA Suede?

Do you have your eye on this model? With our sneaker search engine, you can browse the PUMA Suede at different retailers and at different prices. Our release calendar also keeps you up to date on Suede restocks and new releases!

Notable PUMA Suede Collaborations

PUMA Suede x STAPLE

Jeff Staple, founder of STAPLE design, is famous for integrating themes of urban grit, rebellion, and NYC identity into his work. In a nod to his infamous 2005 collaboration with Nike, the Nike SB Dunk Low ‘Pigeon’, the design was revisited in 2013 on the PUMA Suede.

The sneaker featured the same signature grey and pink colour palette associated with the original, with high-grade suede uppers holding signature design touches including pigeon embroidery on the heel, STAPLE branding on the tongue, and custom insoles with NYC graphics.

PUMA Suede x BAPE

Japanese brand BAPE has collaborated numerous times on the Suede, dropping their initial design as part of a broader PUMA capsule collection in 2015.

Taking the classic silhouette and upgrading it with BAPE’s signature camouflage in different colour schemes, the sneakers are constructed with premium suede with textile or leather overlays.