
On a fateful day in Boston, Reebok and Panini America made waves in the sports and fashion industries by introducing their latest joint project: a distinctive collection commemorating the legendary Emmitt Smith. This unparalleled collaboration marries the worlds of specialized sneakers and sports cards, building on the success of their previous work together, which artfully blended iconic footwear with the captivating allure of trading cards, most notably through the beloved Prizm brand. The new lineup boasts updated renditions of the “Preseason ’94” and Smith’s personal “ES22” sneakers, alongside an exclusive “Preseason” apparel range priced from $40 to $80.
The collaboration between Emmitt Smith and Reebok traces its roots back to 1993 when the iconic athlete became the face of Reebok’s “Preseason” line of turf shoes. Smith’s very own signature model, the ES22, revolutionized the footwear industry upon its launch in 1996, flaunting an innovative design tailored to accentuate Smith’s athletic prowess on the field. Fast forward to 2009, Smith’s affiliation extended to Panini America, marking the debut of the now-celebrated “Prizm” sports card brand in 2012, known for its glossy opti-chrome finish and coveted collectible inserts.
The unveiling of this exceptional collection introduces three unique sneaker designs that draw inspiration from the famed Prizm card series:
1. Preseason ’94 Low “Purple Prizm”: This adaptation sports a striking purple, black, and white color scheme with a leather upper and Prizm-inspired details, available for $120.
2. Preseason ’94 “Gold Prizm”: Featuring a bold gold aesthetic, this model is enhanced with premium elements mirroring Panini’s Gold Prizm cards, offered at $140.
3. ES22 “Color Blast”: Priced at $200, this patent leather iteration in crisp white showcases a vibrant midsole and intricate Prizm detailing, drawing inspiration from Panini’s exclusive “Color Blast” cards.
Moreover, every purchase of the “ES22 Color Blast” model will include a special edition Emmitt Smith trading card crafted by the collaborative efforts of Panini and Reebok, featuring designs that encapsulate the essence of Smith’s illustrious career alongside an array of rare card parallels.
This groundbreaking “Reebok x Panini Prizm Preseason” collection, bridging the legacy of sports with contemporary collectibility, will be made available worldwide starting June 14, 2024, on Reebok.com and select retail outlets. This release swiftly follows their previous successful partnership with basketball luminary Allen Iverson in 2022.
The intricately designed cards in this collection encompass a wide array of base, inserts, and special promo varieties, each paying homage to the famed athlete. From the striking hues of the “Reebok Shimmer” editions to the prestigious “Gold Vinyl” rarity, collectors and fans alike will find an array of visually captivating and highly sought-after cards within this unique collaboration.
In a realm where sports prowess converges with artistic flair, the Emmitt Smith-inspired collection by Reebok and Panini America stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of a sports icon, immortalized through a blend of unique sneaker designs and collectible trading cards.