Rudolf Dassler Founder of PUMA

Описание: Rudolf Dassler — the older brother of Adolf (Adi) Dassler and founder of Puma — was born in 1898 in the same small German town of Herzogenaurach as his brother, into a cobbler’s family. Together, they started their business in the 1920s, founding the Gebrüder Dassler Schuhfabrik (“Dassler Brothers Shoe Factory”), which quickly gained fame for its innovative athletic footwear — notably the spikes worn by Jesse Owens when he won gold at the 1936 Olympics.

However, after World War II, a bitter conflict erupted between the brothers—the exact reasons remain unclear to this day (some cite personal animosity, others point to wartime tensions and mistrust). In 1948, they permanently ended their partnership and split the business.

Rudolf left with his share of the company and founded Puma that same year—initially naming it Ruda (from Rudolf Dassler) before soon changing it to the more distinctive and globally appealing name Puma. His first shoes, featuring the signature formstripe along the side, also became popular, especially among professional athletes. In the 1950s, Puma gained international recognition through footballers and track stars, and in 1968, it achieved iconic status with the launch of the Puma Suede, which became a staple in breakdancing and hip-hop culture.

Although the brothers lived in the same town, they never spoke again. Their rivalry even divided Herzogenaurach into “Adidas people” and “Puma people.” Yet it was precisely this feud that drove the growth of two legendary brands that continue to compete on the global stage today. Rudolf Dassler died in 1974, leaving behind a company that became a symbol of sport, style, and street culture.

   • Rudolf Dassler Founder of PUMA