Eric Shake James to Release Wild Rivals Sneaker Pack
The Milwaukee designer is launching two African wildlife-themed adidas Adistar XLG 2.0 colorways this November.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Fashion
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Designer Eric Shake James is set to release the Wild Rivals pack in November 2026, featuring two unique adidas Adistar XLG 2.0 sneaker designs. The collaboration highlights a theme of unity by pairing aesthetics inspired by a mandrill and a python.
Why it matters
The project serves as a creative extension of James's work in Milwaukee, aiming to convey a message of collaboration by pairing predator and primate motifs. The release follows his previous work on the What The Milwaukee Forum sneaker.
The pack includes a mandrill design with blue mesh and red suede, alongside a python-inspired pair featuring snakeskin prints. Standard Adistar XLG 2.0 sneakers retail for $150, while the designer's previous Forum release was priced at $180.
The players
Eric Shake James
He is a Milwaukee-based designer and the founder of the CLICKS and SNEEX boutiques.
The details
The sneakers utilize a molded cage and adiPRENE cushioning to create layered, textured finishes on the footwear. The collection was previously previewed for the public at ComplexCon and through a glow in the dark teaser video.
Timeline
February 2026: The standard Adistar XLG 2.0 model launched.
June 6, 2026: The What The Milwaukee Forum sneaker was released.
October 5, 2026: The designer posted information regarding the upcoming collection.
November 2026: The Wild Rivals pack is scheduled for release.
Culture Shift
The collection follows a broader trend of designers utilizing heritage silhouettes as a canvas for complex storytelling and artistic identity. By reinterpreting the adidas Adistar XLG 2.0, the release taps into the growing consumer interest in narrative-driven, limited-edition footwear.
Shoppers in Milwaukee can expect the collection to be available via adidas.com upon its November release. Consumers should anticipate a price point higher than the standard $150 cost of the Adistar XLG 2.0 model due to the collaborative nature of the product.
The takeaway
This collaboration highlights how designers can blend wildlife-inspired narratives with technical footwear features to create unique products. Fans of limited-edition sneakers should keep a close watch on official brand channels for specific release scheduling throughout November.
Further reading
For more on the latest design trends, visit the Milwaukee Fashion section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Rolling Out.
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