AR1

The Underdog Signature Story

Rigorer released the AR1 in summer 2023 as Austin Reaves' first signature shoe, retailing around 100 dollars. The story of the shoe became part of its appeal, an emerging Chinese brand pairing with a previously undrafted Lakers guard who had just signed a major contract extension. Reaves later became an equity holder in Rigorer. The AR1 used ShowTime Tech Foam in the forefoot encased in EVA for a low court feel with responsive energy return, paired with multidirectional radial traction and a woven cocoon-style nylon upper. Front sidewall TPU and a molded heel counter delivered strong lockdown. Reviews from HoopsGeek, KicksCrew, and TikTok hoop-shoe communities pegged the traction and wide-foot fit as the standout traits, and the AR1 quickly developed a small but loyal hooper following.