Matt Varga Those who tapped into our coverage during the NBA playoffs know that our frontpage was lined with New York Knicks headlines throughout the bulk of the early summer. Even setting aside hometown bias, truly every player in footwear and what felt like every player on the team made a serious effort to get in on the citywide celebration; Nike, Inc. launching pre-orders, Vans’ blue and orange slip-ons, Jose Alvarado’s deal with AND1, a cadre of Jalen Brunson Kobes, the OG Anunoby Skechers. Unexpectedly, Ewing Athletics steps into the spotlight a few months after the confetti rained down, announcing the Ewing x Ric Flair 33 Hi.
Yes, the Nature Boy himself is linking up with Knicks royalty. Though the Ewing Athletics roster has since grown from its tentpole style, now carrying strapped mid cuts and even running silhouettes, of course this meeting takes place on the iconic Ewing 33 Hi. While the 16-time world champion and his boisterous persona provide plenty of workable inspiration, this pair takes its cues from his walk-up wardrobe, specifically a teal and beige number he wore for Starrcade 1983 and also for his first NWA championship in 1981 over Dusty Rhodes.
The floral treatments from that outfit appear throughout the body of this shoe, but it’s the finer details that really make it sing. “RIC/FLAIR” embroidery on the heels, custom packaging, and Nature Boy’s mid-WOO visage on the tongue make it clear as day who the man of the hour is for each pair.
The Ric Flair x Ewing Athletics 33 Hi will first release via Cool J’s Miami on September 5th, where you’ll get your chance to purchase and to meet Mr. Flair himself. A wider online drop is also in the works, but concrete info on that hasn’t come to light just yet. For now, check out studio shots included below.
