AYASHISA AMATEKKIE (HOT KICKS)

Words by Lesego Ntsime | Images: Supplied

The year is 1986 and the hit song Ayashisa Amateki by legendary songstress Mercy Pakela roars from speakers, permeating the air with the spirit of i-teki, a South African term used to describe sneakers. Coinciding with the end of an oppressive governing system; this chant, a repossession of sneaker culture from a world that had forgotten those who participated in building it, set in motion a renewed sense of expression. 37 years later and amatekkie have carried us through some of South African pop culture’s most-defining moments. In various colours and silhouettes (and sizes that fit), sneakers have marked both the streets and our hearts. From riveting dance moves to growing mosh pits, Converse to Vans, we say: Long live the tekkie, long live! 

AMAPANTSULA

Amapantsula ajabulile! Synonymous with Kwaito music, utilitarian dressing and the dawn of a new South Africa, amaPantsula are one of South Africa’s biggest cultural phenomenons. Adorning brands such as Dickies and Kappa, this dynamic subculture group reimagined the Chuck Taylor All Star, a sneaker first designed for the court in the 1920s. Pairing it with silhouettes that spoke to workwear, they instigated a surge of popularity towards the Converse brand, later adding the Converse Jack Purcell to their rotation. From high-tops to low-tops, one simply can’t mention the Chuck Taylor All Star without paying homage to this group of culture-shifters.

IZIKHOTHANE

Iyebo, iyes. Swirling bodies, dancing feet, Ultramel and an ultra-sleek loafer - such is the reign of Izikhothane. This colourful subculture group burst into the scene flying the banner of extravagance and flamboyance high, kasi style. Characterised by, but not limited to, starkly bright loafers, Izikhothane had a warm affinity for the Nike Air Max 90 (in striking neons of course). Paired with skin-tight bottoms and playful tops, this iconic silhouette was front and centre of a gyrating renaissance. Comfortable, legendary and unapologetically Air, much like a group of young people who were relentless about their style. Legends for legends. 

BRAAM KIDS

Braam kids and Skkr Skkrs, assemble. At the heart of a movement held together by trap music and street culture lay a group of youngins who occupied a small yet significant part of their city skating and trapping away. At the centre of it all? The Vans Old Skool and Vans Sk8-Hi- forever classics which don’t seem to wander too far away from culture-disruptors. Symbolising a liberating rebellion and a nod to Black urban culture, Vans grew in popularity amongst Millenials and Gen Z, reclaiming its place in the sneaker hall of fame. Today, these tekkies remain synonymous with all things cool, a true classic since forever.

BRAAM KIDS

Braam kids and Skkr Skkrs, assemble. At the heart of a movement held together by trap music and street culture lay a group of youngins who occupied a small yet significant part of their city skating and trapping away. At the centre of it all? The Vans Old Skooland Vans Sk8-Hi- forever classics which don’t seem to wander too far away from culture-disruptors. Symbolising a liberating rebellion and a nod to Black urban culture, Vans grew in popularity amongst Millenials and Gen Z, reclaiming its place in the sneaker hall of fame. Today, these tekkies remain synonymous with all things cool, a true classic since forever.

AMABUJWA

*Cue the dance moves* Every now and again, we bear witness to a group of people who are led by movement, reeling us into their world of dance and grandeur. It’s no different with Amabujwa, a cluster of style and swagger in character and aesthetic. For its second coming, isbujwa is opting for kicks like the New Balance 327 because comfort is paramount when the aim is not to sweat. Plush uppers, timeless silhouettes and a hint of pizzazz. For this genre of expression, footwork makes the dream work both literally and figuratively. Soles with grit for souls with grit!

WHAT’S GOOD, SNEAKERHEADS?

In this house, we drip and we drip hard. The rise of sneaker culture has unequivocally birthed sneakerheads all over the world. Resurgence of old-time classics like the Chuck Taylor All Star and the adidas originals Stan Smith paved the way for the re-releases of the Nike Air Max 95 and Air Max 97, further cementing the current reign of retro sneakers. From eclectic subcultures to everyday-wear - sneakers have taken over shoe collections world wide. Whether you’re a fervent collector or dabble here and there - you’re worth celebrating this Sneaker Fest on Superbalist.com.