Puma Softride sneakers

Puma Softride is a popular line of athletic and lifestyle footwear known for its 'Softride' foam technology, which provides extreme cushioning and all-day comfort. The brand was founded in 1948 by Rudolf Dassler in Herzogenaurach, Germany, following a famous split from his brother Adolf, who founded Adidas.

Puma footwear is manufactured globally through a complex network of outsourced factories. While some specialized premium editions are occasionally produced in Italy or Portugal, the vast majority of Puma sneakers are manufactured in Asian hubs, primarily Vietnam, China, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Bangladesh. This multi-country approach allows the brand to balance production volume, cost efficiency, and technical craftsmanship.

In terms of ownership, Puma has evolved from a family-run business into a major public company listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. For many years, the French luxury group Kering was the majority shareholder. However, as of early 2026, the Chinese sportswear giant Anta Sports has emerged as the ultimate primary shareholder after acquiring a significant stake, marking a major shift in the brand's strategic direction toward greater expansion in the Asian markets.