# 80s-Inspired Vibrant Sportswear Don C and Converse Join to Revive the Retro ERX Sneakers By Amy Duong | Published 2018-11-22 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/erx-sneaker References: [highsnobiety](https://www.highsnobiety.com/p/converse-just-don-collection/) & [juicestore](https://juicestore.com/) [Converse](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rise-through-the-ropes) channels the talents of Chicago-based designer Don C to resurrect a signature basketball footwear silhouette, the ERX sneakers. Don C specifically selected the ERX to highlight his appreciation of the sport and connection to the sneaker. The collaborative work showcases paneling craftsmanship over the uppers through 22 panels and a special fabric material of pony hair. Branding details are complete in the form of a golden jewel Star and the "DONS" emblem. To accompany the sneakers are some sportswear silhouettes including French terry shorts, nylon track pants, graphic tees, hoodies, hats, as well as a gym bag. Some details include bold leopard prints, golden zipper enclosures, and stitching accents complete with satin. The [collaborative capsule](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pleasures-and-reebok-1) is set to drop on November 24th online at [JUICE](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/clot-x-adidas). ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.4/10 - Popularity: 63% | Activity: 61% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Resurrecting Retro Sneakers:** Opportunity for brands to collaborate with designers to revive iconic footwear silhouettes from the past. - **Paneling Craftsmanship:** Potential for innovative materials and construction techniques to enhance the aesthetics and functionality of sportswear. - **Bold Prints and Accents:** Growing demand for vibrant and eye-catching designs in sportswear, creating space for unique graphics and detailing. ### Who This Affects Most - **Athletic Footwear:** Retro-inspired collaborations create opportunities for athletic footwear brands to tap into nostalgic consumer preferences. - **Apparel Manufacturing:** Increasing interest in paneling craftsmanship opens doors for apparel manufacturers to experiment with new materials and techniques. - **Streetwear Fashion:** Demand for bold prints and accents in sportswear presents disruptive innovation opportunities for streetwear fashion brands. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Resilient Collaboration Fashion Capsules](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rise-through-the-ropes.md) - [Collaborative Heritage Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cocacola-converse.md) - [Reinterpreted Sustainable Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/refound-collection.md) - [TV-Inspired Classic Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/stranger-things-converse.md) - [Deconstructed Canvas Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/adererror.md) - [Canvas Co-Branded Hi-Top Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chuck-taylor-2.md) - [Dazzling Crystal-Covered Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/converse-x-swarovski-chuck-70-de-luxe-squared.md) - [Collaborative Suede Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/weapon-suede-ox-ne.md) - [Collaborative Textural Skate Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/one-star-pro-2.md)