Reebok and Panini America have come together once again to introduce a remarkable collaboration honoring the legendary NFL running back, Emmitt Smith. The latest collection pays tribute to Smith’s illustrious career through a fusion of specialized sneakers and collectible sports cards, combining the worlds of athletic footwear and trading cards with finesse and style.
The collaboration between Emmitt Smith and Reebok dates back to 1993 when Smith first lent his endorsement to the brand’s “Preseason” line of turf shoes. This partnership flourished, leading to the release of Smith’s signature model, the iconic ES22 in 1996. Renowned for its cutting-edge design tailored to Smith’s on-field dominance, the ES22 quickly became a favorite among fans and athletes alike for its innovative features.
In 2009, Emmitt Smith expanded his association to Panini America, coinciding with the launch of the acclaimed “Prizm” sports card brand in 2012. The Prizm brand gained popularity for its distinctive opti-chrome finish and sought-after collectible inserts, captivating both collectors and sports enthusiasts worldwide.
The new collection features three distinct sneaker designs that draw inspiration from the aesthetic of the Prizm card series:
1. Preseason ’94 Low “Purple Prizm”: This iteration showcases a stylish purple, white, and black color scheme, coupled with a leather upper and Prizm-themed accents, available for $120.
2. Preseason ’94 “Gold Prizm”: Boasting a striking gold color palette, this model exudes luxury with premium enhancements reminiscent of Panini’s Gold Prizm cards, priced at $140.
3. ES22 “Color Blast”: Priced at $200, this patent leather iteration in white features a vibrant midsole and Prizm detailing inspired by Panini’s exclusive “Color Blast” cards, adding a touch of flair to any ensemble.
Furthermore, each purchase of the “ES22 Color Blast” model will include a unique Emmitt Smith trading card by Panini x Reebok. These special edition cards showcase highlights from Smith’s remarkable career, accompanied by a selection of rare card parallels, making them a coveted addition to any collector’s inventory.
The exclusive “Reebok x Panini Prizm Preseason” collection, marrying sports legacy with modern collectible appeal, will be available worldwide starting June 14, 2024, on Reebok.com and at select retailers. This highly-anticipated release follows the prior successful collaboration between Reebok and Panini America featuring basketball icon Allen Iverson in 2022, further solidifying their reputation for innovative and stylish collectibles.
From the shimmering allure of the Reebok Shimmer variations to the eye-catching Nebula and Checker designs, each card in the collection captures a unique aspect of Emmitt Smith’s career. The inserts, such as the Color Blast and Manga editions, bring a fresh and modern twist to traditional sports card collecting, offering fans and collectors a diverse array of options to explore.
With special promos like the Base and Brilliance White Sparkle editions adding a touch of exclusivity to the mix, the Emmitt Smith Inspired Sneaker and Card Collection by Reebok and Panini America promises to be a must-have for fans of sports memorabilia, sneaker enthusiasts, and collectors alike. Get ready to add a touch of Emmitt Smith’s legacy to your collection and step out in style with these unique offerings from two iconic brands.
