Classic Leather history

When an American camping wholesaler named Paul Fireman approached Joe Foster at the National Sporting Goods Association trade show in 1978, he secured exclusive rights to distribute Reebok in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

1979 saw Reebok introduce classic runner styles like the Aztec.

Think Arnold Schwarzenegger in Conan The Barbarian or Sylvester Stallone in First Blood both from 1982.

An original advert for the launch of the Reebok Classic Leather from 1983.

Somewhat paradoxically, having specifically requested to have the Union Jack on new models just a few years prior, Fireman would make Reebok an American company when he purchased the hugely successful brand from the Fosters in 1984.

In 1985, the Newport Classic shoe (renamed the NPC in recent years) expanded Reebok’s pristine aesthetic to the tennis courts as the game’s modern stars, Boris Becker and John McEnroe, popularized its footwear on the streets.

But in 1986 Reebok decides to rebrand and transition to using a vector logo.

After signing a multi-million dollar deal back in 1988, Michael Chang wears Reebok apparel including a pair of Reebok Court Victory Pump shoes.

DMX Run 10, RF-181,1997 The DMX Run 10 was the first shoe to use Reebok’s DMX moving air technology to deliver new levels of comfort, cushioning, and stability.

In late 2000, Reebok makes a significant move towards professional sports by signing a 10-year licensing agreement with the NFL. An important time in Reebok's history; the agreement allows them to manufacturer and sell licensed NFL merchandise and supply NFL teams with footwear and uniforms.

In early 2009, Adidas decides to end the 116 year Reebok association with the town of Bolton, planning to focus on their other worldwide offices.