Streetwear Icon April Walker Reimagines Reebok’s Freestyle Hi for Women’s Empowerment Collection
Reebok and Walker Wear are celebrating Women’s History Month in style.
The sportswear giant and streetwear brand founded by April Walker have created a new collaborative collection featuring a reinterpretation of the popular Freestyle Hi women’s aerobics sneaker, a staple of the 1980s New York City urban streetwear scene, just like her Walker Wear imprint. The collection is slated for release on March 21, available exclusively at Reebok.com.
With the goal of empowering women and celebrating the values of unity, equality and legacy, the collaboration is a part of Reebok’s Human Rights Now! and United Against Racism initiatives. Emphasizing the message “Fly Is As Fly Does,” the collection also features three apparel items.
The new version of the Freestyle Hi features a custom hairy suede upper in addition to metallic gold accents, hidden purple hook and loop straps and a patch reading “Lateral Cooperation Creates Vertical Movement.” The earth-toned shoe is marked at a price of $100.
“Partnering with Reebok is a testament to the power of collaboration in driving positive change,” Walker said in a statement. “Both Reebok and Walker Wear are celebrated in their respective fields, and this collection reflects our shared values of empowerment and cultural legacy. It’s about elevating women’s voices while celebrating the strength of unity and interdependence. Together, we’re inspiring a new generation to uphold that legacy.”
She continued, “This collaboration feels like coming full circle. Reebok’s Freestyle Hi and Walker Wear are iconic staples, deeply woven into the fabric of hip-hop and Black style. Both brands played significant roles in shaping cultural history, and this collection celebrates that shared influence, inviting both our communities to join the movement for equality.”
Showcased by the likes of Salt-n-Pepa, the Freestyle Hi was once the must-have women’s shoe in the world of urban fashion. Rapper Remy Ma spoke of the significance of the Freestyle Hi, aka 5411s, for a 2023 FN cover story that also featured Fat Joe. She told FN, “When we grew up, they were called 5411s because they cost $49.99 and after taxes it came up to $54.11. That was a lot, so I never could have them. A lot of times, my purchases are influenced by the purchases I couldn’t make as a kid. Throwbacks of certain sneakers, I’m like, ‘I’ve got to get them. For 10th grade me, I’ve got to do it.'”
The Reebok x Walker Wear collection also includes a mixed fabric jumpsuit, a fleece crew and a short sleeve jersey tee. As part of the collaboration with Walker Wear, Reebok will engage with organizations that empower women and marginalized communities. Reebok’s initiative includes Black Girls Sew, which is a nonprofit aiming to provide equal access to sewing and design spaces.
“This collection is about more than just style; it’s a call to action,” said Chloe Mann, product manager of
Human Rights Now and energy collaborations at Reebok. “Through Reebok x Walker Wear designs,
we’re inviting people to join a movement for change, rooted in unity and equality. The pieces reflect the
power of authenticity, celebrating who we are and the change we want to see. Women are powerful
catalysts for change, and when treated equitably, they add tremendous value to humanity. This collection embodies that spirit.”