Which iconic Puma sneaker was introduced in 1968?

The iconic Puma sneaker introduced in 1968 was the Puma Suede.

The shoe’s story began under another name: Puma launched the Crack as a warm-up and lifestyle sneaker in 1968, around the Mexico City Olympic Games. Its suede upper made it distinctive at a time when many sneakers used canvas, and the material also made it easier to produce vivid color variations.

The model later became closely associated with basketball star Walt “Clyde” Frazier. After Puma signed Frazier in 1971, the shoe was adapted to his preferences and became known in the United States as the Puma Clyde. When Puma later lacked the rights to continue using that name internationally, the model became known as the Puma Suede.

That naming history creates a common mix-up: “Crack,” “Clyde,” and “Suede” refer to stages or versions of the same influential design lineage. Puma’s official history identifies 1968 as the beginning, while the Suede name and its broader cultural identity developed afterward. The shoe was later adopted by hip-hop and breakdance communities, helping turn a sports model into a lasting streetwear icon.