si
Among the many cleat stories covered, Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson stands out as a favorite subject due to his equal passion for fashion and football. The last time his footwear was featured, it honored LSU and his Louisiana heritage. This time, the Bayou Bad Boy embraced his own personal style.
Under Armour crafted a Star-Studded player-exclusive cleat for him, and that design has now been adapted into a sneaker: the Star-Studded HB-Lo.
Jefferson's Football Legacy
Most fans are familiar with Jefferson's journey. Few colleges recruited the St. Rose, Louisiana, native, but LSU did, and he went on to win a national championship. Since being drafted by Minnesota, he has established himself as arguably the best receiver in the NFL. In 2022, he led the league with 1,809 receiving yards, was named Offensive Player of the Year, and has earned four Pro Bowl selections. Last season, he surpassed Randy Moss for the most receiving yards by any player in their first six seasons. This year, he is pursuing his seventh consecutive 1,000-yard season, all while doing it in style with Under Armour.
Dual Release
This season, Jefferson takes the field in the Star-Studded PE, a cleat that demands attention. It is entirely black and adorned with rhinestones. The pattern includes his signature "JJ" logo, an airplane for JJets, and a fleur-de-lis for Louisiana. What makes this release particularly special is that most player exclusives remain on the field, but Jefferson added a lifestyle shoe to match: the HB-Lo, made of black patent leather with the same detailing. This allows fans to stand out both on the field and in the streets. As a player, this is the kind of PE that inspires a return to the game just to wear them at pregame. For sneakerheads wanting to shine on game day, this is a must-have.
Performance Technology
The cleat is engineered for speed. Its upper combines materials to withstand the season and keep the foot secure. UA HOVR foam underfoot absorbs impact and returns energy with every step. The cleat plate is designed around natural foot movement, helping receivers accelerate and cut sharply. The HB-Lo borrows from basketball footwear, featuring a soft sockliner, an EVA midsole for cushioning, a padded heel collar, and a chunky rubber outsole for traction.
Shopping Information
The Star-Studded PE cleat is available at UA.com for $160. The limited-edition Star-Studded HB-Lo retails for $120 and is available now exclusively at UA.com. Jefferson has raised the bar with this release, and both pairs are already selling out fast. Only limited sizes remain on release day.
Stay tuned to Sports Illustrated's Kicks On SI for all footwear news from the NFL and beyond.
Charles J. Flanagan is an ISSA Master Trainer, former national-level sprinter, and a featured model on America's Next Top Model. With over 20 years of experience in health, fitness, and performance coaching, he has trained elite performers across industries, including Super Bowl champions, Grammy-nominated artists, and Hollywood talent. Known for his precision, presence, and purpose-driven philosophy, Charles is regarded as one of the most trusted voices in performance and longevity. As a writer, he has contributed to Men's Journal, Muscle & Fitness, and now Sports Illustrated, where he explores the intersection of human potential, wellness, and high performance.