'Dancing with the Stars' Chelsie Hightower -- At Least REEBOK Still Loves Me!

"Dancing with the Stars" doesn't want Chelsie Hightower this season, but Reebok (and Reebok's money) sure does ... the shoe company's sticking by the dancing pro, despite the fact she was axed from season 16.

Chelsie inked a major endorsement deal with Reebok earlier this year to be the face of its new dancewear line (which launched in Feb). A great choice for Reebok, considering CH's been a staple on "DWTS" since 2009.

TMZ broke the story ... Chelsie was NOT asked to return to ABC's hit show this year -- begging the question, WHAT WILL REEBOK DO NOW????

A rep from Reebok tells TMZ ... "While we believe Chelsie was the perfect choice for the upcoming season [of 'DWTS'], our relationship with her will not change moving forward and we look forward to continuing to work with her.”

Chelsie tells TMZ, "I am just thrilled to be the face of Reebok's new dancewear line ... the line is FABULOUS!"

Who needs sequins and spray tans when you got sneakers -- and $$$?