Eric “Shake” James is back with a new adidas sneaker collaboration — and it’s his most personal yet. The Milwaukee-based philanthropist and founder of the ‘clothes-and-kicks’ boutique CLICKS introduces the Adistar Control 5 “Cranberry,” a project rooted in his journey of surviving cancer and regaining control of his life.
The Adistar Control 5 “Cranberry” is built around the idea of “Take Control” — owning your story, reclaiming your power, and refusing to let anything or anyone steal your moment. For Shake, it represents opening up about a difficult chapter he kept private for far too long, and transforming that vulnerability into strength.
A few years back, Shake was diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma, a cancer that attacked his kidneys and a part of his lungs. After receiving the results, he made the decision to take control of his health, undergoing treatments and making key lifestyle changes to fight back. Shake ultimately won the battle and is now cancer-free.
Still, he wasn’t ready to share his story — until now. “As men, we’re often seen as superheroes, so opening up about our struggles can be difficult… there’s a sense of vulnerability, embarrassment, weakness,” reflects Shake. “I was letting that control me, so I felt like I needed to take my control back by getting my story out there, because there’s probably people out there that are currently dealing with similar situations.”
By sharing his journey through the “Cranberry” Control 5, Shake hopes to encourage others who are struggling with physical or mental health to take control of their own lives and not be afraid to share their own stories.
Shake chose the cranberry as the central theme of the shoe because it is Wisconsin’s state fruit, serving as a tribute to his Milwaukee community and the city that helped restore his foundation and purpose. Cranberries are also known to have many health benefits, particularly for detoxing, aligning with the message of taking control of your well-being. A cranberry red hue is found throughout the design, paired with sleek black and bold reflective details. The shoe is limited to 1,000 units, with each pair individually numbered on the left tongue tag.
As with his past releases, Shake’s launch of the Adistar Control 5 is accompanied by community-first events across Milwaukee in partnership with adidas Cornerstone Community:
Sneaker Fair at Dr. Howard Collegiate Academy: featuring hands-on design workshops and interactive activities that encourage young creatives to explore the intersections of art, fashion, and culture.
Grand Opening of JAY ACADEMY’s new brick-and-mortar home: the space will operate year-round as a community hub that supports Milwaukee youth through tutoring, career mentorship, creative coaching, “fades-for-grades” haircut sessions, computer and DJ classes, and sneaker and footwear design workshops.
Take Control of the Mic Comedy Show: spotlighting Milwaukee’s rising comedic voices and celebrating laughter as a form of healing and joy.
Take Control of the Mic Afterparty: bringing together Milwaukee’s cultural leaders, creatives, and change-makers for a night of music, unity, and city pride.
The Shake x adidas Adistar Control 5 “Cranberry” drops November 15th at CLICKS in-store (1935 W Hampton Avenue) and online. Check them out below.
Shake x adidas Adistar Control 5 “Cranberry”
Style Code: KJ9028
Release Date: November 15, 2025
Price: $140 USD
On-feet photos by Oscar Castillo:
Official campaign images:
