What Shoe Does Austin Reaves Wear?

Austin Reaves, the rising star of the Los Angeles Lakers, has quickly become one of the NBA’s most exciting young players—and his impact goes beyond the court. Since signing with performance footwear brand Rigorer in March 2023, Reaves has been building out a signature line that’s already making serious noise in the footwear industry.

Born and raised in Arkansas, United States, Austin played college basketball for the Wichita State Shockers and the Oklahoma Sooners. He would later go undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft, which only added fuel to his fire. The Los Angeles Lakers offered Austin a roster spot, and he would then go on to prove to teams why they should have never passed on him as he shined throughout the regular season and playoffs. 

The Rise of the AR Line

Reaves' first signature shoe, the Rigorer AR1, launched in 2023 to massive fanfare. The sneaker’s design introduced a butterfly motif symbolizing Reaves’ journey from an undrafted underdog to a key player for one of the league’s most storied franchises. Selling out within minutes, the AR1 proved that Reaves’ name carried real weight and that he would be a strong force in the league.

Following up on that success, Rigorer and Reaves dropped the Rigorer AR2 in December 2024. This long-awaited sequel took the butterfly narrative even further, highlighting Reaves’ evolution into an elite NBA performer. The AR2 blends top-tier performance tech with a sleek design, making it a go-to option for hoopers who want function and flair, and it is the shoe Reaves currently wears on the court.

A Signature Deal That Goes Beyond the Court

In a major move that reflects both his on-court talent and off-court business savvy, Austin Reaves also signed a seven-figure multi-year extension with Rigorer in December 2023. But this isn’t just a standard athlete endorsement—Reaves will also become a shareholder in the rapidly growing brand. The extension underscores the strong mutual commitment between Reaves and Rigorer. Both sides have emphasized their shared goal: to build out the AR line while continuing to deliver high-performing basketball footwear at accessible price points. With this new role, Reaves will be more involved than ever in shaping the future of Rigorer and helping the brand expand globally.

What About the Budget Model?

While Reaves wears the AR2 in games, there’s also a budget-friendly model in the lineup: the Rigorer AR Battle 2. Designed for casual players and fans looking for a lower price point, the AR Battle 2 shares some design DNA with the AR series but does not feature the same tech specs Reaves relies on for NBA competition. It’s important to note that Reaves does not wear the AR Battle 2 on court, but it’s a solid option for hoopers who want a piece of his signature style at a more affordable cost.