GALLERY: Puma Suede 45th Anniversary, Alaska Projects

October 16^th, 2013 marked the 45^th anniversary of the PUMA Suede. A lot of you may have already know that, especially if you're like us and own a pair or two of your own. But did you know, that the suede had a very humble start back in 1968?

It's been almost 5 decades since the 1968 Mexico City track and field events, where the suede made it's debut. It was also the same event where now famed track athlete Tommie Smith broke the 200m record and sparked a fresh, global conversation on human rights.

16^th of October 1968, a momentous day in world sports history. At this point, Tommie has won his event, and is at the official medal awarding ceremony, where he was to receive his gold medal. He carries a pair of black PUMA Suede’s to the podium, barefoot in his black socks - he then steps up, sets the shoes down, puts his fist in the air, bowed his head—and yes, the rest is history...

Cool right? Bet you didn't know that the PUMA Suede's have been so influential over their 45 year existence. There's something they don't tell you in school. Since that point, the Suede has been seen everywhere from basketball to B-boy circles, from artistic and subcultural movements, from music lovers to their biggest critics. There's been more than a hundred colourways and millions of pairs sold so far... so it's safe to say the Suede has stood the test of time and is an undisputed classic.

And what do you do to celebrate such a tremendous shoe, you release 3 limited edition throwback styles of the shoe - and then throw a kickass party.

So last Tuesday night saw this come to fruition as PUMA paid respect to the Suede’s street culture roots with a special VIP event, in collaboration with Hype DC and ACCLAIM. The night which was a tribute to the iconic piece of footwear and a celebration of the Suede’s latest release took place at Sydney’s Alaska Projects.

Those attending were treated with some choice cuts from the masterful DJ Naiki as well as a special live set by rising hip-hop artist and Purple Sneakers friend, Remi. They were also kept well hydrated by Aguila, Bulmers and Schweppes, which was real nice of them, as everyone pretty much let loose in the secret basement venue. The venue was also transformed by a 12 metre art piece by Sydney street artists, Numskull and Roach from The Hours collective.

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We were lucky enough to be provided with a gallery of the night's proceedings, so if you were one of the revelers or you wished you were one of them - go take a sneaky peek!!

PS: The throwback Since ’68 Pack is available at selected Hype DC stores.