Sleek and stylish like the big cat they are named after, most models of PUMA footwear do not look like typical athletic shoes. Unlike boxier brands, PUMA models are generally designed to fit closer to the foot and are often quite fashion forward. It probably shouldn't be a surprise that these shoes tend to be more chic than traditional sneakers as PUMA is owned by French holding company, PPR, which also owns a number of luxury brands, including Gucci, Stella McCartney and Yves Saint Laurent. PUMA shoes are very popular in Europe and this brand has a growing devoted fan base in the United States as well.
The company now known as PUMA actually emerged from a bitter dispute between two German brothers, Adolf--also known as Adi--and Rudolf Dassler. The brothers had originally been working together in a family shoemaking business, but the two had trouble getting along and so in the mid-1940s, Rudolf decided to strike out on his own. When Rudolf left the business, he opened his own shop, which he named PUMA. Adi renamed his company Adidas. Thus, was born two great athletic shoe brands that are both very popular today.
Consumers will find many different types of athletic and fashion shoes for both men and women on PUMA's website. The company has a number of specialty collections, including ones dedicated to soccer, auto racing, golf, tennis and running. PUMA also sells fashion footwear such as ballerina flats for ladies, as well as street shoes and sandals for both men and women. Savvy consumers who want to save money while shopping on the PUMA website should locate promo codes or free shipping codes before finalizing their purchases.
While PUMA's athletic shoes, with their leaping big cat symbol, are not as well known in the U.S. as brands like Nike or Adidas, it has enjoyed a successful association with sports in other countries, especially soccer. PUMA is, in fact, credited with being the brand that developed screw-in studs for soccer shoes in 1952.
Additionally, numerous very successful athletes have worn PUMA shoes while winning Olympic medals, soccer and tennis championships. Two of the best known athletes who have sported the PUMA brand are soccer phenom Pele and tennis star Serena Williams.
Many of PUMA's most popular street fashion shoes are based on the company's athletic shoes. For instance, it offers a sleek, low-profile driving shoe that is based on its auto racing specialty footwear. While the actual PUMA auto racing shoes boast such features as non-skid, oil-resistant outsoles and a design that helps a driver have a better feel for the pedal, the company's beautiful driving shoes are form-fitting and incorporate attractive color combinations.
PUMA's lineup also features apparel, including a full lineup of workout clothes for both men and women. Because PUMA has a licensing agreement with luxury car maker Ferrari, some of its clothing and accessories also bear the famous Ferrari prancing horse logo. Shoppers will also find a number of different accessories available, including backpacks, hats and watches.
