News article

Puma ditches kangaroo leather

March 16 2023

Sportswear company Puma has phased out the use of kangaroo leather by redesigning its King football boot and introducing new K-Better technology into some of its flagship products.

Puma ditches kangaroo leather

The Puma King has been worn by the footballing legends such as Johan Cruyff, Diego Maradona and Pelé. Puma is relaunching the football boot with K-Better technology, which is a new, non-animal based upper material.

Puma said that the boot’s new ‘upper’ – covering the top of the foot – would also contain at least 20% recycled material.

The company added that the new material has proved itself in terms of touch, comfort and durability, resulting in the complete removal of kangaroo leather in its products this year.

Peter Stappen, Lead Product Line Manager, Team Sport Footwear at Puma, said: “The Puma King is Puma’s most iconic franchise in football and has always stood for using the best materials and the latest in innovation. Over the years we have seen the boot evolve and become ingrained in on-pitch and off-pitch football culture, from the pitches to the terraces.”

He added: “The new King takes the franchise to the next level and offers a super-soft upper with optimal stretch resistance for ultimate touch and control benefits.”

The King will also be available with a custom fit for women. The new boot will be worn by current players such as Arsenal player Granit Xhaka, FC Barcelona Femení player Ingrid Engen, Real Betis’ Nabil Fekir and Lena Lattwein, who plays for VfL Wolfsburg.

Image: Puma

Read more

    GSS Weekly Newsletter Registration

    Register your interest in receiving our free weekly sport and sustainability newsletter and get it delivered to your inbox every Thursday

    GSS Weekly Newsletter Benefits:

    • Free access to all the latest sustainability news and features

    • Free weekly newsletter featuring all the latest developments in sport and sustainability

    First name

    Last name

    Company

    Title

    Email

    Nation