October 16th, 2013 marked the 45th anniversary of the PUMA Suede. It all started at 1968 Summer Games in Mexico City when famed track athlete Tommie Smith broke the 200m record and sparked a fresh, global conversation on human rights. At the official medal awarding ceremony Smith carried a pair of black Suede’s to the podium, barefoot in his black socks, he stepped up reading to receive his gold medal, set the shoes down, put his fist in the air, bowed his head—and the rest is history.
Since then, the Suede has become an undisputed classic. Linked to a rich history ranging from NBA Hall of Famers, to B-boy circles, through to punk rock and skate. More than a hundred colourways and millions of pairs sold later, the Suede is still here.
To celebrate this historic milestone, PUMA held a special VIP event at Sydney’s Alaska Projects, in collaboration with Hype DC and… us! Guests enjoyed entertainment from the masterful DJ Naiki and a special live set by rising hip-hop artist, Remi. Party goers were kept hydrated by Aguila, Bulmers and Schweppes as they let loose in the secret basement venue that was transformed by a 12 metre art piece by Sydney street artists, Numskull and Roach from The Hours.
The was a tribute to the iconic piece of footwear but also a celebration of the Suede’s latest release, the Since ’68 Pack. The special release consists of a commemorative trifecta featuring 3 colourways that represent the coveted medallion colours of gold, silver and bronze. Each style is decked out in deluxe brushed leather, distressed metallic Formstrip, intricate stitching, metallic accents and Suede 68 logo on the tongue. The Since ’68 Pack is available at selected Hype DC stores.
Check out the snaps from the party in the gallery above. Happy Birthday PUMA Suede!