Wow, in a very retro 90's way, we're totally psyched that Reebok has decided to bring back the pump. Not the ladies shoe, mind you, we're talking about the pump that allows middle schoolers to over-inflate their sneakers causing longterm damage (or was that an urban myth?). It's all part of Reebok's bid to climb out of the hole that they've been in since -- well, probably since the Pump-it-Up days.

Their new Yao Ming limited edition sneaker is being released in conjunction with Yao's appearance in this summer's Olympics, where he'll be representing China. Complete with fire-breathing dragons and traditional Chinese colors, these are probably the most elaborate pumps Reebok's ever made. The struggling athletic company hopes to use these mean-looking sneaks, and a media blitz targeting China's Yao pride, to gain a foothold in the world's largest emerging market. Only 2008 of these babies will be produced, and they'll run you about $150.

They're a bit flashy for out taste -- would you wear these out on the court?

Yao Ming's Olympic Edition Pumps

(click thumbnails to view gallery)

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[via BlackBook]