Trends: Puma begins testing biodegradable sneakers

Sportswear giant Puma has begun experimenting with sustainable production methods centered on its iconic suede sneakers.

Re: Suede, the experimental version of this shoe uses many new technical methods in its design, including Zeology tanned suede, biodegradable thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) and hemp fiber.

This trial-manufactured sneaker is part of the brand’s goal to meet the growing demand for sustainable products and further address the need for waste management in the footwear industry.

The experimental shoes will be tested and tested by 500 participants based in Germany, each recipient will be required to wear Re: suede for six months, the durability of the test product style before bringing it back Continue to the next experiment.

Part of the process will see the design work with Ortessa Groep through an industrial biodegradation process. Rubbish experts in the Netherlands will help determine whether the A-grade compost in shoes can be managed in an agricultural environment. The results will be used to determine Puma's future sustainable shoe consumption.

The experiment was carried out under the label's newly developed "Circulation Lab" project, which aims to develop innovative circulation measures.

Puma has also tried sustainable shoes before. In 2012, it launched a biodegradable sports shoe as part of its InCycle series.

Low demand and the need for further research caused the shoe to be discontinued because the brand emphasized the technical limitations it faced at the time.

Regarding the new trial, the sports company said it will share the final results and insights gained from the project to benefit others in the footwear industry and obtain authorization.