On June 10, 2024, in Boston, the dynamic duo of Reebok and Panini America set the sports world abuzz with the announcement of their latest collaboration, a spectacular collection honoring the legendary Emmitt Smith. This partnership marks a captivating blend of specialized sneakers and coveted sports cards, taking inspiration from Smith’s illustrious career and the captivating allure of trading card collectibles, particularly the iconic Prizm brand.
The tale of Emmitt Smith’s relationship with Reebok dates back to 1993 when Smith first signed on to endorse the brand’s “Preseason” turf shoes. The collaboration flourished with the introduction of Smith’s signature model, the groundbreaking ES22, in 1996. This particular shoe was designed to complement Smith’s unique athletic abilities, embodying innovation and style. The year 2009 marked the extension of Smith’s collaboration to Panini America, coinciding with the launch of the famed “Prizm” sports card series in 2012, renowned for its sleek opti-chrome finish and sought-after inserts.
The Emmitt Smith-inspired collection unveiled three captivating sneaker designs intricately intertwined with elements from the revered Prizm card series:
– Preseason ’94 Low “Purple Prizm”: This iteration showcases a vibrant purple, white, and black color scheme with a leather upper, accentuated by Prizm-themed details, available at the enticing price point of $120.
– Preseason ’94 “Gold Prizm”: Adorned with a striking gold palette, this model features premium enhancements mirroring the opulence of Panini’s Gold Prizm cards, a standout offering priced at $140.
– ES22 “Color Blast”: Priced at $200, this version boasts a striking white patent leather exterior complemented by a vividly colorful midsole and intricate Prizm detailing, drawing inspiration from Panini’s exclusive “Color Blast” cards.
Enthusiasts and collectors alike will be thrilled to learn that each purchase of the “ES22 Color Blast” model will include an exclusive Emmitt Smith trading card crafted by Panini in collaboration with Reebok, showcasing designs reflecting pivotal moments from Smith’s storied career, alongside a range of rare card parallels.
The global debut of the “Reebok x Panini Prizm Preseason” collection, a fusion of sporting legacy and contemporary collectible appeal, is scheduled to launch on June 14, 2024, accessible through Reebok.com and select retailers worldwide. This release serves as a fitting sequel to the resounding success of their previous collaboration with basketball luminary Allen Iverson in 2022.
The collection encompasses a diverse array of base and insert cards, each offering a distinctive aesthetic and collectible appeal. With a range of colors, finishes, and limited editions, these cards add a layer of intrigue to the already captivating collaboration between Reebok, Panini America, and Emmitt Smith.
In capturing the essence of Emmitt Smith’s remarkable career, this collaboration between Reebok and Panini America not only pays homage to a legend of the sport but also provides enthusiasts with an opportunity to own a piece of history in the form of intricately designed sneakers and highly sought-after trading cards.
