In many cases modifying a classic is a crime, but with PUMA’s approach I doubt that any uprisings will result. The PUMA Suede has been a legendary symbol of style since the late ’60s with athletic-inspired design and a street-smart attitude that’s irresistible.

The new and improved version of the PUMA Suede retains all of the vital qualities of the classic, while adding a dash of sustainability, a touch of eco, and a scoop of green. Meet the PUMA Eco Suede. The newest rendition has an Eco OrthoLite ® sockliner which is made from bio-oil as well as laces that are made entirely from recycled materials. The shoe’s sole is made from a rice husk filler which is a food by-product that replaces the previously unsustainable rubber content. The new shoes are also 140 grams lighter, a small adjustment with a big impact. By reducing the weight PUMA was able to reduce their carbon emissions by 15 tons for every 1,000 pairs shipped! Plus, when it’s available in five million beautiful color combinations, what’s not to love?

In April 2010 PUMA set a new standard for the footwear industry with their “Clever Little Bag”, a revolutionary packaging concept with huge environmental pay-offs. By replacing traditional packaging with the new bag, PUMA was able to reduce paper usage by 65% and cut their carbon emissions by 10,000 tons a year! The new packaging not only has a direct impact through its manufacturing process, but also through its usage. Due to some sharp architecture, the bag replaces a box and also eliminates the need for an additional shopping bag. Brilliant!

When they aren’t revamping classics or stunning us with design genius, PUMA stays pretty busy with other environmental initiatives through their PUMA.Safe program. PUMA has big plans to reduce their “paw print” by 2015. The company aims to reduce their CO2 emissions, energy, water and waste by 25%, as well as implement a 75% reduction in paper usage. PUMA also has set a goal of making all of their shoes PVC-free by the same year. PUMA is also actively working with Greenpeace in a Detox campaign to extend PUMA’s restricted substances list for all of its suppliers.

So call back the riots and re-think the nasty emails. This classic, at least, remains unscathed by progress, unaffected by fickle tastes and un-tempted by quick and dirty creation.

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Image Credit: PUMA