On June 10, 2024, the bustling city of Boston welcomed the grand unveiling of the latest collaborative creation from the dynamic partnership of Reebok and Panini America. This time, the spotlight shone brightly on the legendary Emmitt Smith, as the two brands came together to craft an exceptional collection fusing specialized sneakers and coveted sports cards.
The origin story of this collaboration traces back to a shared history, with Emmitt Smith first lending his name to Reebok’s “Preseason” line of turf shoes in 1993. This partnership paved the way for the unveiling of Smith’s signature ES22 model in 1996, a groundbreaking design that encapsulated the essence of Smith’s athletic brilliance. In 2009, Smith’s journey with Panini America commenced, coinciding with the launch of the widely acclaimed “Prizm” sports card brand in 2012, renowned for its distinctive opti-chrome finish and sought-after inserts.
The collection’s centerpiece shines with three distinctive sneaker offerings inspired by elements from the revered Prizm card series:
1. Preseason ’94 Low “Purple Prizm”: An eye-catching rendition in purple, white, and black hues, adorned with Prizm-inspired details, available for $120.
2. Preseason ’94 “Gold Prizm”: A show-stopping model featuring a luxurious gold color palette that mirrors Panini’s Gold Prizm cards, offered at $140.
3. ES22 “Color Blast”: Priced at $200, this patent leather marvel in white dazzles with a vibrant midsole and Prizm embellishments, drawing inspiration from Panini’s exclusive “Color Blast” cards.
Furthermore, every acquisition of the “ES22 Color Blast” edition promises a delightful surprise—a special edition Emmitt Smith trading card crafted by the artistic collaboration of Panini x Reebok. These cards showcase iconic designs from Smith’s illustrious career alongside a range of rare card parallels, making them a coveted addition to any collection.
The global launch of the “Reebok x Panini Prizm Preseason” collection, heralding a harmonious blend of sporting legacy and contemporary collectibility, is slated for availability starting June 14, 2024, through Reebok.com and select retail outlets. This release builds upon the remarkable triumph of their previous collaboration with basketball luminary Allen Iverson in 2022.
For avid collectors and enthusiasts alike, the collection boasts an array of intricately crafted base, inserts, and special promos, each a gem waiting to be discovered. From the elusive Base Gold Vinyl to the radiant Brilliance Gold Vinyl, these rare gems add a touch of exclusivity to the collection, promising excitement for aficionados embarking on their treasure hunt.
In a world where sport, fashion, and innovation intertwine, the Emmitt Smith Sneaker and Card Collection stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of collaboration and creativity. With each step, whether on the court or the streets, wearers of these exceptional pieces carry with them a piece of history, a dash of style, and a sprinkle of magic—a fitting tribute to the enduring legacy of a true sports icon.
