On a buzzing day in June 2024, the collaboration between Reebok and Panini America was unveiled—Emmitt Smith Inspired Sneaker and Card Collection. This dynamic partnership showcases a fusion of specialized sneakers and sports cards, bringing together the best of both worlds in a unique and exciting collection.
The roots of this collaboration date back to 1993 when Emmitt Smith first joined forces with Reebok, endorsing the brand’s “Preseason” line of turf shoes. This relationship blossomed, leading to the launch of Smith’s signature ES22 model in 1996, a shoe designed to match his exceptional athletic abilities on the field. In 2009, Panini America joined this iconic partnership, introducing the now-famous “Prizm” sports card brand in 2012, known for its shiny opti-chrome finish and highly sought-after collectible inserts.
The collection offers three distinct sneaker designs, each drawing inspiration from the popular Prizm card series:
1. Preseason ’94 Low “Purple Prizm”: Priced at $120, this iteration features a unique purple, white, and black design with a leather upper and Prizm-themed accents.
2. Preseason ’94 “Gold Prizm”: Valued at $140, this model showcases a striking gold colorway, mirroring the premium enhancements found in Panini’s Gold Prizm cards.
3. ES22 “Color Blast”: With a price tag of $200, this patent leather sneaker in white boasts a vibrant midsole and intricate Prizm detailing, inspired by Panini’s exclusive “Color Blast” cards.
For aficionados of both sneakers and trading cards, each purchase of the ES22 “Color Blast” sneaker will come with a unique Emmitt Smith trading card created by Panini x Reebok. These special edition cards feature designs that celebrate Smith’s illustrious career, accompanied by a range of rare card parallels that collectors will undoubtedly cherish.
Launching globally on June 14, 2024, the “Reebok x Panini Prizm Preseason” collection will be available for purchase on Reebok.com and selected retailers. This release follows the remarkable success of Reebok and Panini’s initial collaboration with basketball superstar Allen Iverson in 2022, further solidifying their position at the forefront of blending sports heritage with contemporary collectibility.
With an array of exclusive base cards, inserts, and special promos within the collection, fans and collectors alike will have the opportunity to own a piece of the Emmitt Smith legacy in a truly innovative and stylish manner. This collection not only celebrates the achievements of a football legend but also encapsulates the spirit of collaboration and creativity between two powerhouse brands in the world of sports and collectibles.
