On June 10, 2024, Reebok and Panini America unveiled their latest joint venture in the bustling city of Boston—a captivating collection paying homage to the legendary Emmitt Smith. This collaboration blends the worlds of sports footwear and collectible cards, a fusion that first gained traction with the beloved Prizm brand. From updated classics to fresh designs, the Emmitt Smith Inspired Sneaker and Card Collection offers a mix of style and nostalgia to fans and collectors alike.
The tale of Emmitt Smith’s partnership with Reebok traces back to 1993 when the iconic football star became the face of the brand’s “Preseason” turf shoes. His custom ES22 model, introduced in 1996, was a testament to his remarkable athleticism, revolutionizing sports footwear with its unique features. In 2009, Smith’s affiliation expanded to include Panini America, coinciding with the debut of the renowned “Prizm” sports card series in 2012, renowned for its glossy finish and special inserts that speak directly to collectors’ hearts.
The collection showcases three exclusive sneaker editions inspired by the Prizm card series:
1. Preseason ’94 Low “Purple Prizm”: A striking design in purple, white, and black, featuring Prizm-themed details and a leather upper, priced at $120.
2. Preseason ’94 “Gold Prizm”: Dressed in a captivating gold color palette with premium touches reminiscent of Panini’s Gold Prizm cards, available for $140.
3. ES22 “Color Blast”: Priced at $200, this patent leather model in white boasts a vibrant midsole and Prizm elements, drawing inspiration from Panini’s exclusive “Color Blast” cards.
Moreover, each purchase of the ES22 “Color Blast” sneaker will include an exclusive Emmitt Smith trading card crafted by Panini x Reebok, showcasing pivotal moments from Smith’s illustrious career alongside various rare card parallels.
The “Reebok x Panini Prizm Preseason” collection, a blend of sports heritage and contemporary collectibles, is set to hit global shelves on June 14, 2024, accessible on Reebok.com and through select retailers worldwide. This launch marks a follow-up to the successful collaboration between Reebok, Panini America, and basketball legend Allen Iverson back in 2022.
With a spectrum of colors and designs, this Emmitt Smith Inspired Sneaker and Card Collection is not only a celebration of a gridiron great but also a treat for sneakerheads and card collectors looking to infuse their passion with a touch of nostalgia and style.
