When it comes to selling shoes, Nike is the king right now. However, if you asked people whom they thought was behind, they probably would say Adidas or even New Balance instead of mentioning Reebok. When it comes to U.S. shoe sales, Reebok is number two in the market, but has not seem to get the recognition that they deserve. While you go on sites such as NikeTalk and only read about what is wrong with Reebok, I am going to tell you today what is right with Reebok and provide an insight on perhaps why they have been doing well financially in the past few years.

      Compared to last year, net sales in the third quarter (2003) for specific shoe sales were up 14% in the U.S. The Reebok brand has shown strong strength the past few years in terms of selling. Why? The first reason in my opinion is Allen Iverson. Now I know that in the past few years Reebok has not treated Iverson as well in terms of shoe quality, however he has gotten a solid amount of marketing and exposure from Reebok. They have made him an obvious choice as their star and with a lifetime contract deal, Reebok will be able to sell his line long after he is retired, much like the relationship between Nike and Jordan. Allen Iverson’s signature line has been very solid and consistent through the years. Reebok has built up the brand and image by offering a wide variety of styles to choose from – yet at the same time, never strayed from anything that wouldn't define Iverson himself.