Brandblack taps NFL’s DeSean Jackson for apparel, footwear collection
El Segundo-based Brandblack is set to announce it has tapped Washington Redskins wide receiver DeSean Jackson to be the face of an apparel and footwear collection slated to hit retail in 2016.
The three-time NFL Pro Bowler is the second high-profile athlete to sign with the 2 1/2-year-old brand, joining the Los Angeles Clippers’ Jamal Crawford.
Although details on the forthcoming DJX capsule collection are sparse, it will no doubt mine the same fashion-forward-meets-functional vibe that makes the brand noteworthy. We’re told it will include performance-focused training apparel (think moisture-wicking T-shirts, joggers and light outerwear pieces) and a signature sneaker that shares some design DNA with the Brandblack speed cleat Jackson’s been wearing this NFL season. (We’re told a cleated version may eventually hit retail as well.)
It’ll be interesting to see how the DJX kicks do at retail – especially since we’ve always thought of professional basketball players, not football players, as the biggest demand drivers for high-end sneakers. But even if they only resonate at the cash register half as much as Jamal Crawford’s second signature shoe, the J.Crossover II – which sold out the same day it hit retail in March – they’ll have some serious traction.
No cleats required.
For the latest in fashion and style news, follow me @ARTschorn.
ALSO:
The story behind Brandblack’s jet logo
Stance socks: from start-up to the NBA starting line-up
Brandblack makes moves to be a future legend in athleisure
