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Puma launches testing phase of Re:Suede experiment

Apr 26, 2022 Germany

The company has started distributing the 500 pairs of its experimental biodegradable model to participants in Germany to determine if it will endure everyday use and biodegrade properly

The Re:Suede experiment will enable Puma to test whether it can make a biodegradable version of its most iconic shoe, the Suede. The Re:Suede is made with materials such as Zeology tanned suede, biodegradable TPE and hemp fibres, which, according to the company, can ensure better comfort for the wearer. This experiment is the first project to launch as part of PUMA’s 'Circular Lab', an innovation hub that brings together the company’s sustainability and design experts who work on circularity programs.

Now, the selected 500 participants will use the model for half a year before returning their pairs to Puma. The company will then send the worn sneakers to industrial composting experts Ortessa in the Netherlands, who will analse whether the sneakers can biodegrade in a controlled, industrial setting.

"We are excited that we received many times more requests for the Re:Suede experiment than we had pairs available, which shows that there is a large interest in sustainability topics", commented Heiko Desens, Global Creative Director at PUMA. "As part of the experiment, we will also gather feedback from participants about the comfort and durability of the sneakers, which will help us design future versions of the shoe, if the experiment is successful", she added.

Image Credits: about.puma.com

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