To commemorate its 25th anniversary, Reebok kicks off “Freestyle Forever,” an exclusive event to launch the new 25th Anniversary Freestyle Collection and honor Freestyle’s initial launch. A star-studded, invite-only, celebration takes place on March 1st in New York City.

Debuting with the 25 Candles Freestyle to commemorate the 25th birthday, the 2007 Freestyle collection will also feature six limited-edition Freestyles varying from authentic bringbacks to modern-day artist collaborations. Beginning in March 2007, the footwear will be available on www.rbk.com and at select boutiques for a suggested price range of $65-$150.

“Reebok is passionate about debuting the 25th Anniversary Freestyle Collection because the shoe represents our history as the brand that pioneered the women’s fitness movement and started the high-top fashion trend,” said Reebok’s CMO Uli Becker. “Today, fashion is about freedom of expression and keeping it real. Back in the ‘80s, the Freestyle was worn by women who wanted to make a statement about their authenticity and individuality, and that still holds true today.”

Reebok said the original Reebok Freestyle was one of the first athletic shoes created especially for women, symbolizing female empowerment and igniting the women’s aerobics dance craze in 1982. Freestyle made up more than half of the sales for Reebok in 1984. In 1986, Reebok launched the ad campaign “Life Is Not a Spectator Sport” encouraging women to become active participants in the world of fitness. The groundbreaking ad coupled with top celebrity endorsements, including model Cindy Crawford, singer Paula Abdul and most notably the appearance of iconic actress Cybill Shepherd wearing a bright orange pair at the 1985 Emmy Awards, solidified the Freestyle’s status as a key fashion item.

Reebok said that milestone anniversary Freestyle collection fits the return of the trend toward ‘80s styling.

“The ‘80s style is so fun and colorful, I love how the trend in still alive today with big earrings, bright oversize tops and most importantly shoes like the Reebok Freestyle,” said global tennis phenom Nicole Vaidisova. “I love the classic high-top design and they look great with jeans.”

In March 2007, Reebok will launch the Freestyle microsite accessible on www.rbk.com. On the site, visitors will have the exclusive chance to be among the first to purchase new Freestyles as soon as they are released. In addition, consumers may view footage from the 25th anniversary launch event, learn more about the history of the collection and will be able to take part in promotions.