Puma Suede: the sneaker that wrote street culture history

Step into the world of the Puma Suede, one of the most iconic silhouettes in sneaker history. Born in 1968, this suede-clad icon has crossed more than five decades without losing any of its shine: from the Olympic podium to Bronx breakdance battles, from NBA courts to fashion runways, the Suede is everywhere culture is being written. At MTHOR, we curate the most sought-after versions of the Puma Suede — timeless classic editions and sharp collaborations — all authenticated by our team of experts before shipping. Whether you are looking for an everyday lifestyle pair or a rare collab that turns heads, our Puma Suede collection guarantees style and authenticity, no compromise.

The story of an icon: from Mexico 1968 to hip-hop

The Puma Suede was born in 1968, at a time when smooth leather dominated the sports footwear market. Puma made a bold bet: dressing its new sneaker in a suede upper, a material considered fragile but infinitely softer and more elegant. That same year, at the Mexico City Olympics, American sprinter Tommie Smith made history: after winning the 200 metres, he stood on the podium and raised his black-gloved fist, his Puma Suedes placed beside him. That gesture, one of the most powerful in sports history, forever tied the Suede to the civil rights movement. In 1973, New York basketball star Walt "Clyde" Frazier asked Puma for a version tailored to his game and flamboyant style: the Puma Clyde was born — the first signature sneaker of an NBA player, a direct evolution of the Suede.

In the 1980s, the Suede found a second life on the streets of New York. B-boys adopted it massively: its grippy suede and flat sole made it the perfect breakdancing shoe. It became the unofficial uniform of the rising hip-hop culture, immortalised by breakdance crews like the Rock Steady Crew. Since then, the Suede has never left centre stage: reinterpreted by countless artists and brands, it remains one of the best-selling sneakers of all time.

Unique craftsmanship: why suede makes all the difference

The secret of the Puma Suede lies in its signature material: a genuine suede upper, buffed to reveal a velvety surface with an incomparable touch. Unlike smooth leather, suede offers immediate softness: no break-in period — the shoe hugs the foot from the very first wear. The construction stays true to the 1968 original: low-top upper, contrasting leather Formstrip, padded heel counter and a vulcanised rubber outsole with the characteristic gum strip.

Three benefits explain this silhouette's longevity: instant comfort thanks to suede's natural softness and the low-profile fit; total styling versatility — the Suede works just as well with raw denim as with suit trousers or a tracksuit; and proven durability, as the density of Puma's suede and the vulcanised sole hold up remarkably well over the years, with only minimal care needed using a suede brush.

The iconic models in the collection

Our collection covers the full spectrum of the Suede, from classics to the sharpest collaborations. The Puma Suede Classic XXI Black White is the very definition of timeless: black suede, white Formstrip, the perfect everyday uniform. The Puma Suede XL modernises the silhouette with a thicker sole and exaggerated proportions inherited from skate culture, notably available in XL Black White. On the collaboration side, the Suede is a permanent playground: the Puma Suede One Piece series celebrates the cult manga with the Straw Hat Luffy, Red-Haired Shanks and Buggy versions, each picking up its character's colour codes and details. Retro pop culture fans will turn to the Puma Suede XL Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles — including the Krang edition — or the wild Puma Suede XL Scooby Doo. Over the drops, the Suede has also hosted standout collaborations with Staple, Butter Goods and Rick and Morty: our stock evolves constantly to follow the most sought-after releases.

Why buy your Puma Suede at MTHOR

MTHOR Shop specialises in selling authenticated sneakers. Every pair in our Puma Suede collection goes through a rigorous check carried out by our team of experts: we verify the consistency of the box and size label, the material, smell, stitching, shape and sole, as well as the laces and accessories. For the most advanced checks, we rely on specialised tools such as a UV lamp or microscope. Every order ships with a seal, tangible proof that the quality control was carried out and authenticity validated. Learn more about our authentication process.

We offer worldwide home delivery in 2 to 8 days with signature on receipt, real-time tracking by email and WhatsApp, interest-free payment in 4 instalments via Klarna or Scalapay, and a France-based customer service available Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm. If anything goes wrong, our 14-day return policy protects you.

FAQ — Puma Suede at MTHOR

How do I verify the authenticity of a Puma Suede?

Every Puma Suede sold on MTHOR is checked by our team of experts before shipping: box and size label, suede quality, smell, stitching, shape, sole, laces and accessories, with a UV lamp and microscope for the most advanced checks. Your pair arrives with a seal certifying the inspection. Discover our full authentication process.

What size should I choose for Puma Suedes?

The Puma Suede generally fits true to size, with a slightly narrow fit due to the suede structure. If you have wide feet, we recommend going half a size up from your usual size. The suede naturally softens after a few wears and moulds to the shape of your foot.

Which box comes with my pair?

Your Puma Suede ships in its original Puma box with all its accessories. Collaborative editions such as the One Piece or Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series include their special packaging and any goodies, exactly as in the official release.

What is the delivery time?

We ship worldwide, with home delivery against signature within 2 to 8 days. You get real-time tracking by email and WhatsApp, whatever your destination.

Will I have to pay customs fees?

No, you will not pay any customs fees. MTHOR covers all customs duties and taxes, whatever your destination in the world. The price displayed on the site is the final price you pay: no bad surprises on delivery.

Can I return my pair if it does not suit me?

Yes. You have 14 days after receipt to return your pair, provided it is in its original condition (never worn, box intact, seal unbroken). The refund is processed within 24 hours of receiving the return.

Going further

Also discover our full Puma collection and the Puma Speedcat, the brand's other suede icon. To learn everything about the quality of our sneakers, check out our detailed authentication process or our guide How to recognize a real pair of sneakers.