# Removable Shell Sneakers The Y3 Shoes by Chanel Shi are Inspired by Crustaceans By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2016-05-31 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/y3-shoes References: [yankodesign](http://www.yankodesign.com/2016/05/30/shoes-that-come-in-twos/) & [behance.net](https://www.behance.net/Chanel-Shi) The Y3 Shoes by [Chanel](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/coco-mademoiselles) Shi are designed with a minimalist, evolving aesthetic that allows the footwear to evolve from one design, to another in a simplistic manner. The base of the shoe is rather plain to help keep it as a rather discreet option when it comes to the design. However, the [removable shell](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/modular-sneaker-1) gives the sneakers a certain level of ruggedness that can be added when a more avant-garde aesthetic is desired. The Y3 Shoes by Chanel Shi are inspired by crustacean lifeforms that feature an [exoskeleton](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/exoskyn) that protects the creature from predators. While the foot likely doesn't need protection from predators, the design of the Y3 Shoe welcomes the addition of the shell for aesthetic purposes. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 6.6/10 - Popularity: 94% | Activity: 95% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: Asia ## 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 - **Evolving Aesthetic:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore customizable and adaptable designs that allow for personal expression and style evolution. - **Avant-garde Sneakers:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create footwear designs that incorporate removable elements to cater to different fashion preferences. - **Exoskeleton-inspired Design:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Apply the concept of protective outer layers to other products to enhance durability and style. ### Who This Affects Most - **Fashion:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrate customizable and adaptable design elements into shoes, clothing, and accessories. - **Sportswear:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop sneakers with removable components to meet the changing needs and preferences of athletes. - **Outdoor Gear:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Incorporate protective and removable features into outdoor apparel and equipment for enhanced functionality and style. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Off-White Chunky Joint Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/prime-x-20.md) - [Jellyfish-Inspired Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pharrell-williams-and-adidas-originals.md) - [Chunky Collaborative Fashionable Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/adidas-and-y3.md) - [Semi-Translucent Sneaker Shells](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bubble-shell.md) - [Rounded Heel Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/idoso-boost.md) - [Chunky Hybrid Boot Mules](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/y3-kyasu-overboot.md) - [Dynamic Collaborative Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/clot-superstar.md) - [Sleek Hybrid Boot Mules](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/yohji-yamamoto-2.md) - [Shrouded Hi-Vis Dynamic Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mafate-three2-2.md)