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The Sneakers That Built PUMA’s Legacy

From pioneering silhouettes to groundbreaking performance technologies, PUMA’s sneaker archive reflects nearly six decades of cultural impact and athletic innovation. These standout models have not only defined the brand’s global reputation but also earned a permanent place in sports and streetwear history.

1966: PUMA KING

The PUMA KING debuted during the 1966 FIFA World Cup on Portuguese striker Eusébio, marking the start of its rise as a global football icon. Crafted with a lightweight leather upper and a nylon sole, it quickly became the preferred choice of elite players including Pelé, Cruyff, Maradona, and Matthäus. The KING has since transcended the pitch, reimagined in lifestyle collaborations with Jil Sander, Alexander McQueen, Rhude, and more.

1968: PUMA SUEDE

First worn during the 1968 Mexico Olympics—most notably by Tommie Smith during his historic podium salute—the PUMA SUEDE emerged as a powerful cultural symbol. Updated in the 1980s with a wider construction and more robust sole, it became integral to New York’s growing hip-hop and breakdance scene. Today, the SUEDE is celebrated as a timeless emblem of street culture and individuality.

1973: PUMA CLYDE

Basketball legend Walt “Clyde” Frazier helped introduce the world to the PUMA CLYDE, making him the first NBA player with a signature sneaker. The model’s easy-to-dye suede upper allowed Frazier to wear new colorways nearly every game, further elevating its visibility. Over the years, the CLYDE’s influence has expanded through creative interpretations by artists and designers such as Banksy, Noah, and Dapper Dan, reinforcing its place as a streetwear essential.

1981: PUMA CALIFORNIA

Inspired by the California Technique of shoemaking—an approach dating back to the Civil War—the PUMA CALIFORNIA featured a simplified two-piece construction. Its modern successor, the PUMA CALI, launched in 2018 with an updated platform sole and tennis-inspired aesthetics. With its emphasis on women’s style and versatility, the CALI has become a staple of contemporary casualwear.

1985: PUMA RS

The PUMA RS (Running System) was a forward-looking experiment in data-driven performance. Early prototypes included a computer strapped to the heel, designed to collect metrics that improved running efficiency and form. The research led to the RS-Series and the development of the Multiplex IV midsole, offering advanced cushioning through a blend of physical and chemical engineering elements.

1987: PUMA SLIPSTREAM

The SLIPSTREAM arrived during a booming era for basketball footwear. Its high-top build and durable leather upper offered added stability and support, quickly becoming a favorite among players. While originally released in college-team colorways, the silhouette later gained cult status within Japanese streetwear communities in the early 2000s.

1990: PUMA TRINOMIC

PUMA continued its experimentation with cushioning through the TRINOMIC system, inspired by the structural resilience of honeycomb. The hexagonal technology provided enhanced rebound and impact absorption. This innovation spread across both performance and lifestyle silhouettes, later reimagined through collaborations with Ronnie Fieg, BAPE, and other cultural tastemakers.

1997: PUMA CELL

Advancing the honeycomb concept introduced by TRINOMIC, the PUMA CELL offered visible polyurethane “cells” designed to deliver superior flexibility and cushioning. The structure pushed beyond traditional foam technology of the era, solidifying PUMA’s reputation for engineering innovation.

1999: PUMA MOSTRO

The MOSTRO embraced the futuristic creativity of the late ‘90s with a silhouette that fused track spikes and surfing footwear. Its low-profile, fashion-forward design captured the experimental spirit of the approaching millennium, becoming a standout of the Y2K movement.

2000: PUMA SPEEDCAT

Inspired by PUMA’s entry into performance motorsport, the SPEEDCAT delivered a sleek, low-profile design rooted in racing culture. Its suede construction and range of vibrant colorways helped it evolve into one of the best-selling PUMA sneakers of all time, establishing an entirely new product category for the brand.