A PUMA experiment in biodegradability

Explore the journey

FOLLOW RE:SUEDE THE STORY THE MATERIALS THE PROCESS

The results

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PUMA RE:SUEDE project turns experimental sneakers into compost

The RE:SUEDEs are here

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Take a look as we prep and pack them for the next step.

This is just the beginning

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Watch Heiko Desens, Global Creative Director & Innovation, talk about PUMA’s experiment in biodegradability

The Intro

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FROM SNEAKERS TO COMPOST – HERE’S THE AMBITION.

THE

MATERIALS

Every element of the shoe has been designed for user comfort and with the aim of biodegradability. The RE:SUEDE experiment will put this to the test.

ZEOLOGY SUEDE

The upper is made of zeology-tanned suede, this process produces less pollution, increases the circularity of the leather and ensures better comfort for the wearer.

BIODEGRADABLE TPE

The outsole is made of TPE (thermoplastic elastomers), which performs like rubber and is certified biodegradable.

Hemp

The padding, sock-liner filler, and laces are created from hemp (bast fibre).

Cotton

The lining and sock-liner cover comprise 45% cotton and 55% hemp.

The upper is made of zeology-tanned suede, this process produces less pollution, increases the circularity of the leather and ensures better comfort for the wearer.

The outsole is made of TPE (thermoplastic elastomers), which performs like rubber and is certified biodegradable.

The padding, sock-liner filler, and laces are created from hemp (bast fibre).

The lining and sock-liner cover comprise 45% cotton and 55% hemp.

THE PROCESS

RE:SUEDE

Applications to join RE:SUEDE are now closed. But those who were selected to be part of RE:SUEDE will receive a free pair of sneakers to wear and love for six months. These RE:SUEDEs are being designed for style and comfort – and they will feature PUMA’s latest innovative materials.

RETURN

After six months, PUMA will ask participants to return their RE:SUEDE sneakers. This is an essential part of the experiment. The Circular Lab team will then assess the feedback from the testers and take the used products to the next phase of the experiment.

REGRIND

The biodegradation process begins. At Ortessa, an industrial composting facility in the Netherlands, the RE:SUEDE materials will be exposed to bacteria and natural composting agents. The ambition is to produce Grade A compost.

RESULTS

Which materials composted well? Which need more research? The results of the RE:SUEDE experiment will help PUMA tackle waste management and plan its next steps in circularity.

Thank you for your interest in RE:SUEDE.

RESERVE YOUR PLACE

A PUMA experiment in biodegradability.

RE:SUEDE is an experimental version of the iconic Suede sneaker, created using more sustainable materials.

500 participants have been asked to wear and love their RE:SUEDEs for six months before returning them to PUMA to test the footwear’s biodegradability.

Materials are sourced from Italy, China, Thailand and Vietnam. The RE:SUEDE sneakers are stitched and assembled in Romania.

Entrance was only open to those living in Germany. Their applications were entered into a sweepstake draw.

Anyone can still sign up for exclusive RE:SUEDE content through our newsletter, where PUMA will share progress and behind-the-scenes stories.

No. RE:SUEDE is not available on the market yet and as this is an exclusive experiment, RE:SUEDEs will only be available to participants.

Yes. This step is essential to help PUMA test the biodegradability of the RE:SUEDE materials. Once PUMA receives your worn RE:SUEDEs, you’ll receive a new pair of sneakers as a thank you.

Participants received a pre-paid parcel return label with their RE:SUEDEs. They will use this label to return their sneakers.

No. The RE:SUEDE experiment is using materials that will biodegrade under controlled, industrial composting conditions. PUMA has partnered with Ortessa in an industry experiment, so that every step of the composting process can be carefully measured.

PUMA takes responsibility for helping create a better future for all. This includes its products and their afterlife. RE:SUEDE is PUMA’s experiment in biodegradability, to see if there are better ways to safely dispose of more sustainable materials.

Biodegradation is the breakdown of organic matter by microorganisms.

Ortessa, a waste management and processing specialist and PUMA’s partner in this experiment, will test if the biodegraded materials will produce Grade A compost for agricultural use. Ortessa will ensure that all laws and regulations are adhered to for compost use.

Grade A compost is used for farming food (“C” is for flower growth, “B” is for animal fodderand grass).

You can sign up for the latest news and behind-the-scenes progress here.
If you want to know more, reach out here: RESUEDE@puma.com

FOLLOW RE:SUEDE

We’re inviting 500 people from across Germany to join us in the RE:SUEDE experiment.

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Please enter your e-mail so that we can keep you informed about the latest status of our journey.

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Entering your age is required to verify your legal capacity. The minimum age to participate in RE:SUEDE is 16 years.

Date of Birth (DD/MM/YYYY)

This field is required

All fields marked with a (*) are mandatory.

I have read and I agree to the Terms and Conditions and confirm that I am least 16 years old or older.*

See our Data Protection Notice & Terms of Use

PLEASE CHeck your ENTRY details and confirm BELOW

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