The Omni Pump Hexride shoes from Reebok are China’s basketball stars Yao Ming new signature, limited edition basketball shoe and features Reebok’s state-of-the-art technologies, Pump and Hexride.

The sneaker displays his signature logo on the heel, which encompasses Yao’s zodiac sign (the monkey), his jersey number (11), and his initials (Y and M). Taking inspiration from traditional Chinese symbols and colors, the Pump Omni Hexride features bold red and gold colors and a symbolic, intricate dragon design. The dragon represents both Yao’s strength on the court and the pride

Yao’s fans have in him to perform at his best in the games. Select shoes in the 2008 limited edition series feature a number that has special significance to Yao. For example, the shoe which carries the number 1 symbolizes that Yao Ming was the first Asian basketball player to be recruited into the NBA; while the number 11 shoe represents Yao’s jersey number, and the number 232 shoe signifies Yao’s amazing height of 232cm, etc. Only 2,008 exclusive sneakers will be available for all of China beginning on August 8, 2008 for a suggested retail price of $150. Select retailers in the US and in Europe will carry the Pump Omni Hexride as well but they will not be numbered.