On a sunny day in Boston, Reebok and Panini America joined forces once again to introduce their latest venture – a one-of-a-kind collection paying homage to the legendary Emmitt Smith. This collaboration marks a fusion of specialized sneakers and sports cards, blending the worlds of fashion and sports memorabilia seamlessly. Following the triumph of their previous collaboration that saw the fusion of iconic footwear with the allure of collectible trading cards under the renowned Prizm brand, the duo is back with a novel creation that is set to capture the hearts of fans and collectors alike.
The release encompasses a range of revamped versions of the classic “Preseason ’94” alongside the signature “ES22” model by none other than Emmitt Smith himself. To complement the sneaker selection, a stylish “Preseason” apparel line has also been unveiled, with price points ranging between $40 and $80, promising fans the chance to embrace the essence of Emmitt Smith’s style both on and off the field.
Emmitt Smith’s collaboration with Reebok traces back to 1993 when he first became the face of the brand’s “Preseason” turf shoe line. The introduction of his very own signature model, the ES22 in 1996, was a game-changer, reflecting not only Smith’s playing style but also his innovative spirit. Fast forward to 2009, Smith’s partnership extended to Panini America, aligning perfectly with the launch of the widely-acclaimed “Prizm” sports card brand in 2012. Renowned for its glossy opti-chrome finish and sought-after collectible inserts, the Prizm series has garnered a substantial following over the years.
The collection showcases three distinct sneaker models, each drawing inspiration from elements found in the Prizm card series:
1. Preseason ’94 Low “Purple Prizm”: A blend of purple, white, and black hues with a durable leather upper and Prizm-themed accents, available for $120.
2. Preseason ’94 “Gold Prizm”: Boasting a striking gold color palette and premium enhancements reminiscent of Panini’s Gold Prizm cards, this model is priced at $140.
3. ES22 “Color Blast”: Priced at $200, this iteration features a sleek white patent leather construction with a vibrant midsole and Prizm detailing, paying homage to Panini’s exclusive “Color Blast” cards.
Moreover, an exceptional bonus awaits buyers of the “ES22 Color Blast” model, as each purchase will include a limited edition Emmitt Smith trading card crafted by the collaborative efforts of Panini x Reebok. These exclusive cards immortalize key moments from Smith’s illustrious career, with a selection of rare card parallels adding to their allure.
The “Reebok x Panini Prizm Preseason” collection, which brings together the rich heritage of sports with the contemporary appeal of collectibles, will be globally accessible starting from June 14, 2024, via Reebok.com and select retailers. This launch builds upon the triumphant debut collaboration with basketball icon Allen Iverson in 2022, extending the narrative of blending sports legends with innovative design concepts.
With the unveiling of the Emmitt Smith Inspired Sneaker and Card Collection, Reebok and Panini America have once again demonstrated their adeptness at merging two distinct worlds into a harmonious symphony of style and memorabilia. Fans and collectors alike are set to revel in the opportunity to own a piece of sports history combined with the thrill of exclusive trading card inserts, cementing the collection’s status as a must-have for enthusiasts everywhere.
