Austin Reaves x Rigorer AR1 - Ice Cream

The Rigorer AR1 "Ice Cream" is a shoe that captures the essence of Austin Reaves' love for sweets, a treat he cherished during his Arkansas summers. This unique design is predominantly white, with soft hues of blue, yellow, and pink speckled throughout the woven upper, reminiscent of the colorful spectrum of an ice cream parlor.

Collaboration and Launch

• Announcement Date: On April 28, 2023, Rigorer Sports declared a partnership with Lakers guard Austin Reaves, aiming to make a splash in the international market.
• Signature Shoe Release: The debut of the Austin Reaves personal signature shoes, the Rigorer AR1, marks a significant milestone in the collaboration.

Reaves' Journey and Rigorer Debut

• Early Career: Born in Arkansas, Reaves played college basketball for Wichita State Shock and Oklahoma Clippers before his rise in the NBA with the Los Angeles Lakers.
• Contract Extension: This summer, Reaves signed a four-year extension with the Lakers, solidifying his position within the team.
• Rigorer Introduction: He first donned Rigorer, a Chinese sportswear brand established in 2023 by former CBA player Lin Chenyao, during the 2014 NBA regular season and playoffs.

Design Philosophy and Features

• Silkworm Cocoon Theme: Symbolizing Reaves' ongoing basketball evolution, breaking free from constraints, and emerging stronger, the design is a metaphor for his career's growth and resilience.
• Anti-Rollover TPU: Strategic placement of TPU on the lateral forefoot and medial and lateral heel provides quick transition capabilities in both attack and defense, reducing the risk of rollover and offering stable protection.
• Cord Embroidery: Large-area cord embroidery ensures breathability while enhancing the upper's overall wrap, making the shoe lighter, more transparent, and stable during wear.
• Innovative Tongue Construction: This design alleviates pressure on the instep, offering comfort and support against the intense wraps and external shocks experienced during sports.
• Silicone Anti-Slip Points: Added inside the heel, these points ensure a snug fit, preventing the heel from slipping and providing a secure fit during active play.

The Austin Reaves x Rigorer AR1 "Ice Cream" is not just a basketball shoe; it's a narrative of Austin Reaves' journey, his love for the game, and his connection to the sweeter things in life, all encapsulated in a stylish and performance-driven design.