Lakers star Austin Reaves set to launch new colorway for Rigorer AR1 ‘Showtime’ shoes: Everything we know so far

NBA star Austin Reaves is set to launch a brand new colorway of his Rigorer AR1 shoes exclusively through Global Marketplace KICKS CREW on Saturday. The new "Showtime" colorway will drop just days after the LA Lakers begin their 2023-24 season as he and the team look to make a run at the coveted Larry O’Brien Trophy. Ahead of the release, let’s take a look at everything we know so far.

During a recent Sneaker Con LA appearance with KICKS CREW, Reaves debuted the new Rigorer AR1 ‘Showtime’ shoes for an exclusive in-person launch for those in attendance. The situation left fans who missed out eager to find out when they can purchase the shoes, and today, we are happy to relay news of the official release.

According to a press release from Global Marketplace KICKS CREW, which was sent to Sportskeeda’s Evan Bell, the shoes will release at 11 a.m. EST on Oct. 28. Fans will be able to purchase the shoes through Rigorer and KICKS CREW’s websites for $100 and can also sign up for a chance to win one of five free pairs on the KICKS CREW AR1 event page.

The intricately designed Austin Reaves shoes feature a significant amount of advanced performance technology from Chinese-based brand Rigorer. Notably, the model will also feature the debut of a Bubble Lacing System, described as:

“An innovative and never-before-seen bubble design utilized on the AR1’s tongue, with encapsulated foam 'bubbles' to eliminate lace bite for players.”

Looking back at Austin Reaves’ AR1 ‘Stars & Stripes’ release this offseason

Heading into this offseason, Austin Reaves was the subject of talks around the league as fans wondered whether he would stay in LA or sign elsewhere. He then kicked off free agency with a massive four-year, $56 million contract to return to the Lakers long term, a move reflected in his upcoming Rigorer AR1 "Showtime" design.

After re-signing with the Lakers, Reaves joined Team USA, playing an integral role in coach Steve Kerr’s rotations. At the time, he took to Instagram, announcing that he would be launching a special run of an all-new ‘Stars & Stripes’ model, which was limited to just 1,000 pairs worldwide.

Amid a busy summer of releases, as he prepares for the upcoming NBA season, which included the launch of another colorway through KICKS CREW, Reaves previously spoke to Shams Charania:

“If you’d have told me I’d have my own signature shoe at 18, I’d have looked at you and called you a liar. There’s probably like 20 some people in the NBA who have a signature shoe so honestly I’m blessed.”

With the start of the 2023-24 NBA season right around the corner, and the release of Austin Reaves’ AR1 "Showtime" shoes Saturday, fans will have plenty to look forward to this week. With the LA Lakers star previously giving away pairs of his shoes on his Instagram, keep an eye out for a giveaway in the coming week as well.