Vikings wide receiver Stefon Diggs knows how to play to a home crowd, even when he’s on the road. For Friday’s preseason game against the Seahawks, he received customized, Starbucks-themed cleats. While Starbucks is now one of the best-known global brands, it was founded in Seattle and is still headquartered there.
The designers at Mache Custom Kicks whipped up these customized cleats that replicate a Starbucks coffee cup. And in typical Starbucks style, they spelled his name wrong on the heel.
@Starbucks inspired cleats for my man @stefondiggs for the preseason game in Seattle Friday night. #starbucks #skol #vikings pic.twitter.com/GOZIlx6iba
— Mache Custom Kicks (@MACHE275) August 16, 2017
The NFL recently relaxed its footwear rules to give players greater flexibility with customization. But the league still does not allow trademarked symbols other than those of their three partnered shoe brand — Nike, Adidas and Under Armour. Mache Custom Kicks said there’s no official endorsement between Diggs and Starbucks, but Diggs could still face a fine if he wears the cleats on Friday because they showcase the Starbucks logo.
Lol def not anything official just some artistic expression for a mans love of StarBs
— Mache Custom Kicks (@MACHE275) August 16, 2017
Fortunately, Diggs will have an extra pair of cleats that presumably abide by league rules.
lol don't worry he's bringing a spare pair with him
— Mache Custom Kicks (@MACHE275) August 16, 2017
But considering how much Diggs loves his Starbucks, maybe a fine is worth the experience.
My love for Starbucks is a 4ever thing…
— Stefon (@stefondiggs) August 16, 2017
The love is equal, forever & ever. ?
— Starbucks Coffee (@Starbucks) August 17, 2017
We’ve seen plenty of awesome customized cleats, whether it’s to honor veterans, raise awareness for charities, or pay tribute to late athletes. But planting a brand logo on gameday footwear is something new.
Last week, Mache Custom Kicks also made Diggs customized “Cleveland Show” cleats.
Cleveland Show preseason cleat work for my boy @stefondiggs #skol pic.twitter.com/xU5HF2b2aQ
— Mache Custom Kicks (@MACHE275) August 9, 2017