Dubbed the Suede Sapphire, the Puma sneaker has been able to transcend fashions and eras. Sold for the first time in 1968, they were first in vogue with the New York City Breakers and the Rock Stead Crew, approved for their comfort and nonchalant look. Both classic and trendy, the sneaker spread through the emerging underground music scene. Soon, the Suede would anchor itself in pop culture as an urban icon par excellence. In 1984, its appearance in the film Beat Street officially solidified its status as a chic and cool sneaker. It took no more to make it a figurehead for marginalized groups in search of freedom of movement. The 90s saw the advent of skate culture and the rise of hip-hop; a pair of Puma Suedes was always on their feet. Shoe of choice for these subcultures, today it’s made its way into the mainstream.
Made in Puma’s Japanese factory, the Suede Sapphire requires special and artisanal techniques for its fabrication. Conceived in a brushed suede leather, lined with high quality calfskin, it still maintains its nonchalant look nonetheless. A certain je ne sais quoi awakens upon contact with suede, a luxurious and historic material that the word “Sapphire” appears on, laser cut at the heel. This model will only be sold in 450 pairs though, starting this Friday, November 8th.
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