Over 3 000 mense stood in a long queue outside the Castle of Good Hope on Saturday in anticipation of the annual Sneaker Exchange Cape Town edition.
Not even the heat could keep excited takkie lovers from attending the popular event.
It was heaven on earth for hip-hop lovers as the stage was lit with kwaai acts such as Cassper Nyovest, YoungstaCPT, Kyeezi, DJ Capital and loads more.
This gathering is officially known as the largest sneaker trading event in Africa where sneaker collectors and sneaker addicts can buy, sell or trade sneakers as well as buy locally produced apparel and footwear.
The event is the brainchild of founder and co-director of SXC, Zaid Osman, 24, from Sybrand Park, who says it is always well attended because of the positive aim.
Zaid, who grew up in the US, brought home with him not only a great love for sneakers but also ideas on how to build the sneaker culture in South Africa.
“Here at SXC, we aim to promote local brands and tell people about what we have here in South Africa,” he says.
“For years, we have been importing sneakers from the USA and other countries but we don’t realise the brilliant brands we have right here at home.”
Since starting off his event at a Woodstock coffee shop in 2013, Zaid has since spread his wings and also has events in Durban and Johannesburg.
Customer Sumaya Petersen says: “I simply love fashion, especially that of the hip-hop culture. People who attend the Sneaker Exchange always leave here happy and hyped.”
Vernushka Vermaak, who is eight months pregnant, says this is her last jol before baby arrives.
“I found some interesting sneakers here. I can’t go a year without attending the Sneaker Exchange and it’s extra special this year because I’m a month away from popping.”