On a vibrant June 10th in Boston, Reebok and Panini America unveiled a thrilling collaboration that pays homage to the legendary Emmitt Smith. This joint effort resulted in a one-of-a-kind collection that combines specialized sneakers and coveted sports cards, celebrating the esteemed career of the football icon. Building on the success of their previous collaborations, the duo aimed to blend iconic footwear with the alluring world of trading cards, particularly spotlighting the renowned Prizm brand as their centerpiece.
The assortment includes revamped editions of the classic “Preseason ’94” silhouette, along with Emmitt Smith’s signature “ES22” model, accompanied by an exclusive “Preseason” apparel range priced between $40 and $80, offering fans a blend of style and functionality.
The partnership between Emmitt Smith and Reebok traces back to 1993 when Smith first endorsed Reebok’s ground-breaking “Preseason” line of turf shoes. This collaboration continued to evolve in 1996 with the launch of Smith’s personalized ES22 model, renowned for its cutting-edge design tailored to complement Smith’s unmatched athletic abilities. In 2009, Smith’s collaboration with Panini America commenced, aligning with the inception of the widely acclaimed “Prizm” sports card brand in 2012, distinguished by its lustrous opti-chrome finish and collectible inserts that have since captivated enthusiasts worldwide.
The meticulously crafted collection introduces three distinct sneaker designs, each drawing inspiration from the captivating Prizm card series:
1. Preseason ’94 Low “Purple Prizm”: Priced at $120, this rendition flaunts a striking purple, white, and black color palette, featuring a leather upper with intricate Prizm-themed details that exude a premium aesthetic appeal.
2. Preseason ’94 “Gold Prizm”: Adorned in a resplendent gold hue at $140, this model boasts deluxe enhancements mirroring Panini’s revered Gold Prizm cards, showcasing a luxurious design that reflects the essence of exclusivity.
3. ES22 “Color Blast”: The pinnacle of the collection at $200, this iteration showcases a pristine white, patent leather construction, accentuated by a vibrant midsole and Prizm detailing inspired by the distinctive “Color Blast” cards from Panini, symbolizing a fusion of creativity and craftsmanship.
Moreover, every purchase of the “ES22 Color Blast” model will include an exclusive Emmitt Smith trading card by Panini x Reebok, spotlighting iconic moments from Smith’s illustrious career alongside an array of rare card parallels, offering fans a glimpse into the football legend’s iconic journey.
The groundbreaking “Reebok x Panini Prizm Preseason” collection, blending rich sports heritage with contemporary collectibility, will be accessible worldwide starting June 14, 2024, through Reebok.com and select authorized retailers, allowing enthusiasts to immerse themselves in this captivating fusion of athleticism and artistry. This release builds on the resounding success of their inaugural collaboration with basketball luminary Allen Iverson in 2022, further solidifying their commitment to innovative and captivating creations that transcend traditional boundaries.
As fans eagerly anticipate the official launch date, the Emmitt Smith-inspired ensemble serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of a football icon and the artful craftsmanship that defines the realms of performance footwear and collectible sports memorabilia.
