On June 10, 2024, the streets of Boston were abuzz as Reebok and Panini America unveiled their latest collaboration—an exclusive collection paying homage to the legendary Emmitt Smith. The release showcased a seamless fusion of innovative sneakers and coveted sports cards, combining fashion and collectibles in a way that captivated enthusiasts.
The venture marked a significant milestone in the partnership that began back in 1993 when Emmitt Smith first lent his endorsement to Reebok’s “Preseason” line of turf shoes. Fast forward to 1996, and the iconic ES22 model was born, a signature shoe designed to match Smith’s exceptional on-field abilities. The synergy expanded in 2009 with Smith teaming up with Panini America, coinciding with the introduction of the highly lauded “Prizm” sports card brand in 2012, renowned for its glossy opti-chrome finish and sought-after inserts.
The Emmitt Smith collection features three distinct sneaker designs, each drawing inspiration from the beloved Prizm card series:
1. Preseason ’94 Low “Purple Prizm”: Priced at $120, this iteration sports a striking purple, white, and black color scheme, complete with a leather upper and intricate Prizm-themed accents.
2. Preseason ’94 “Gold Prizm”: Retailing at $140, this model boasts a dazzling gold aesthetic, featuring premium upgrades reminiscent of Panini’s Gold Prizm cards.
3. ES22 “Color Blast”: With a price tag of $200, this rendition in white patent leather stands out with a vibrant midsole and Prizm details akin to Panini’s exclusive “Color Blast” cards.
Moreover, the purchase of the “ES22 Color Blast” model comes with a special edition Emmitt Smith trading card crafted by the collaborative forces of Panini and Reebok. These collectible cards showcase iconic moments from Smith’s illustrious career, with various rare card parallels to entice fans and collectors alike.
The global release of the “Reebok x Panini Prizm Preseason” collection is set for June 14, 2024, making the highly anticipated collaboration accessible worldwide through Reebok.com and select retailers. This launch follows the resounding success of their prior project featuring basketball luminary Allen Iverson, solidifying the partnership’s reputation for blending sports legacy with contemporary collectibility.
From exclusive base designs like Tiger Stripe Blue and Camo to shimmering brilliance variants in Cardinal and Yellow Reebok Shimmer, the collection encompasses a diverse range of options to cater to every collector’s tastes. The inserts, such as Color Blast and Manga, offer additional layers of excitement for enthusiasts seeking rare and unique finds within the collection.
In addition to the base and brilliance series, special promos like the Base White Sparkle and Brilliance White Sparkle provide collectors with extra intrigue, enticing them with limited edition variations that add a touch of exclusivity to their acquisitions.
Embrace the allure of sports history and modernity with the Emmitt Smith-inspired collection by Reebok and Panini America, where fashion, athletics, and collectibles converge to offer a truly unforgettable experience for fans and enthusiasts alike.
