TENNIS 81: 40 Years of Success Born from ZAGO and PUMA’s Collaboration

Some shoes transcend time, becoming more than just footwear — they become cultural icons. Such is the case with the legendary TENNIS 81, created from the combined expertise of German sportswear giant PUMA and Italian mould manufacturer ZAGO. Four decades later, this timeless model continues to shape the history of both sports and fashion.

A Story That Began in 1981

Back in 1981, PUMA partnered with ZAGO Moulds to create what would become one of the most successful tennis shoes in history. The collaboration involved production across seven countries — Italy, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Romania, Ukraine, Macedonia, and Pakistan.

The secret? A dual-material sole, pioneered by ZAGO, which gave the shoes their distinctive properties: lightness, abrasion resistance, and comfort. This innovation turned the TENNIS 81 into a bestseller, with over 50 million pairs produced worldwide — and still being sold today.

Where Technology Meets Design

As Anna Zago, Sales Manager of ZAGO Moulds, explains:
“These are the requirements that led to the incredible success of TENNIS 81 — a success we are proud to have contributed to with our technology and know-how developed over 60 years.”

The TENNIS 81 is more than a product of innovation. It is the result of a cultural blend: the rigor of German engineering and the creativity of Italian design. This unique combination allowed the shoe to achieve worldwide recognition as a cult item, bridging the gap between performance and fashion.

A Timeless Symbol of Casual Style

Although born on the tennis courts of the 1980s, the TENNIS 81 quickly became part of everyday fashion, adopted by athletes, professionals, and style-conscious individuals alike. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to merge sporting performance with lifestyle aesthetics.

This makes the model not only a milestone in athletic footwear but also a reference point in the broader world of casual footwear moulds, where comfort, durability, and design refinement come together.

ZAGO’s Lasting Contribution

For ZAGO, the success of the TENNIS 81 is a shining example of how the company’s expertise can support global brands in creating footwear that withstands the test of time. The moulds developed for this model not only delivered technical precision but also helped define a shoe that remains a symbol of elegance, sport, and street culture.

By combining advanced moulding techniques with a deep understanding of design trends, ZAGO played an essential role in shaping one of PUMA’s most iconic products.

Conclusion: More Than a Shoe, a Legacy

As the TENNIS 81 celebrates its 40th anniversary, it continues to prove that great footwear is built on a foundation of innovation, collaboration, and craftsmanship. Thanks to the partnership between PUMA and ZAGO, what started as a performance tennis shoe became a timeless symbol of style, culture, and design excellence.

Looking to create footwear that stands the test of time? ZAGO’s expertise in mould innovation ensures every project blends performance, durability, and design — just like the iconic TENNIS 81.