When the Dassler brothers broke off from each other to form adidas and PUMA, they couldn’t have known that the two footwear companies would grow to become giants in the arena. While it does keep up with the times, PUMA’s collection is founded largely on the inimitable array of classic silhouettes from the early years.
Although they may have originally been designed for the purpose of sports, classic PUMA sneakers survive — often in their original form — to this day thanks to their versatile design and high-quality construction. Take the timeless PUMA Suede Classic, for example — designed for basketball and adopted by the breakdance scene in the ’70s, it remains one of the most popular PUMA sneakers for its understated style. That’s a common story amongst the PUMA catalog, which covers sports, subculture, and the modern day with ease.
Keep scrolling to shop our favorite classic PUMA sneakers.
PUMA Suede Classic+
The pared-back design of the PUMA Suede Classic makes it an ideal blank canvas on which to experiment with color. Looking to add a vibrant flash to your more minimal fits? The Suede Classic should be your go-to.
PUMA Roma Classic Gum
A gum sole is the universal sign of a classic. The PUMA Roma’s athletic, streamlined silhouette perfectly complements the retro gum sole while a gold-tone foil logo to the side elevates the understated style.
PUMA GV Special+
Tennis has been grounds for stylish sportswear for around a century and the PUMA GV Special is one of the most recognizable tennis shoes ever designed. A perforated toe box offers a flash of texture to this immaculate leather shoe.
PUMA Speedcat OG Sparco Motorsport Shoes
The PUMA Speedcat took a path rarely traveled by a sneaker. Instead of associating with running, basketball, or football, the Speedcat became the collaborative field of play between PUMA and motorsport legends Sparco. You’re more likely to see the Speedcat on the F1 track than the running track.
PUMA Clyde Core Foil
Black leather uppers outfit the minimal silhouette of the Clyde perfectly. This black sneaker styles with everything, from jeans to tailored trousers.
PUMA Heritage Basket Classic
Originally designed as a leather alternative to the Clyde, the PUMA Heritage Basket surfaced in 1971 and has remained unchanged since. With a silhouette cleaner than most, we’re hoping there are no changes planned.
PUMA Suede Classic+
From the ’60s right up until the present day and, we suspect, well beyond, the PUMA Suede Classic is just that: an all-time classic. With a soft suede upper, this black and white pair sticks to the lasting appeal it’s known for.
PUMA Clyde Core Foil
The PUMA Clyde dates back to 1973 when it was designed for NBA Hall-of-Famer Walt Frazier. Walt “Clyde Frazier” was not only an athletic icon, but a style icon too, and this pair of minimal sneakers is proof.
PUMA Roma Basic
Every rotation should have at least one pair of triple-black sneakers for the times you don’t want to have to think about it. Just slip them on and let them do their heroic work of tying together your whole fit.
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