Honour heritage in the shoe that embodies freedom and history
September 2024: There are very few items of apparel that truly represents heritage and freedom in a uniquely South African way. One such item is the iconic HI-TEC® Freedom OG shoe which pays tribute to South Africa’s late President Nelson Mandela, his enduring journey to freedom, and the profound legacy he left behind.
Nelson Mandela’s iconic HI-TEC Wimbledon sneakers from the 1990s
In 2021 HI-TEC® released the limited-edition Freedom 67s, a re-imagined version of the HI-TEC Wimbledon, the sneakers that the late former president wore in 1990. The successful limited-release shoe initiative aimed to honour heritage as well as invest in the youth of tomorrow by raising funds for the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund (NMCF).
As part of the initiative, 67 pairs of the HI-TEC® Freedom Grails 67s were gifted to Freedom Ambassadors, such as Jimmy Nevis, Schalk Bezuidenhout, DJ Speedsta and Zola Nene, who were tasked with raising awareness for President Mandela’s legacy and making donations to the NMCF. HI-TEC® and its ambassadors invited the world to join them in walking this path by supporting the initiative and contributing to the fund, in order to #KeepFreedomShared.
“Following the initiative, we decided to make a sneaker that is permanently accessible to all South Africans. HI-TEC® has since debuted the Freedom OG sneaker, so everyone can feel empowered to walk in his footsteps. Additionally, with every purchase of this shoe the company donates back to the NMCF,” explains Louise White, Integrated Brand Manager at HI-TEC®.
HI-TEC®’s Freedom OGs feature a lightweight design, cushioned lining, and an impact-absorbing midsole, effortlessly combining cosiness with style. The sneakers are available in-store and online in white/black and white/royal blue colourways and retail for R999.00.
Whether you’re stepping out for spring activities, sporting sneakers on casual office days or manning the tongs this upcoming Braai Day, add a touch of heritage and flair to your outfit as you step into the shoes of a legend.