Volunteers Wear PUMA’s RE:SUEDE Sneakers for Real-World Test
“While the RE:SUEDE could not be processed under standard industrial composting procedures, it did eventually turn into compost,” stated Anne-Laure Descours, Chief Sourcing Officer at PUMA, describing the outcome of an innovative sustainability experiment with PUMA’s RE:SUEDE sneakers.
In 2021, PUMA introduced 500 pairs of these experimental shoes, crafted from eco-conscious materials like Zeology tanned suede, TPE outsoles, and hemp fibers. The project’s aim was to test the durability and comfort of the shoes through real-world use. For six months, volunteers in Germany wore the RE:SUEDEs, providing valuable feedback on their performance.
Following the wear test, the sneakers underwent a unique composting process at the Ortessa Group’s facilities in the Netherlands. The shoes were shredded, mixed with organic waste, and placed in composting tunnels. This process, which included the application of nutrient-rich leaching water and controlled air circulation, facilitated the breakdown of the materials. After approximately 3.5 months, parts of the shoes that had decomposed sufficiently were converted into Grade A compost, adhering to Dutch agricultural standards.
Marthien van Eersel, Manager Materials & Innovations at Ortessa, highlighted the learning experience: “We learned a lot during the RE:SUEDE trial and how to streamline our industrial composting process to include items that need longer to turn into compost.”
Feedback from the volunteers led to plans for improving the comfort and fit of future versions of the RE:SUEDE, with PUMA focusing on material and design enhancements.
The RE:SUEDE experiment is part of PUMA’s broader “Circular Lab” initiative, which includes projects like the RE:FIBRE polyester recycling program. These efforts represent PUMA’s ongoing commitment to exploring and implementing sustainable practices in the footwear industry.
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