GALXBOY Launches First Sneakers
South African streetwear brand GALXBOY launched its first sneaker line, the GBX 012 Trainer and Runner, developed with UK creative Andrew Turner. The launch blended local heritage and global style with performances by Focalistic and VenomZM.
The launch of the GBX 012 line is a calculated move, elevating GALXBOY from a streetwear apparel label into a comprehensive lifestyle brand. This entry into the competitive footwear market has been years in the making, representing a significant evolution for the 18-year-old brand. The move positions GALXBOY alongside other major South African footwear brands, signaling a new era for local design on the global stage. The design process was a transatlantic partnership between GALXBOY founder Thatiso Dube and UK-based footwear designer Andrew Turner, who has previously worked with giants like Nike and Adidas. Turner was brought in to provide international expertise and a global perspective to the project, merging South African culture with world-class technical standards. According to Turner, Dube's initial sketches were about 90% complete, with the collaboration focusing on refining the final details and overcoming construction challenges. The GBX 012 Trainer, priced at R 4,800, features a premium full-grain cow leather upper and a seamless quarter panel for a clean, elevated look. Its design incorporates a micro-injection molded logo and an EVA midsole for lightweight cushioning. The GBX 012 Runner offers a more performance-inspired silhouette. Its design was refined through real-world wear testing to ensure a streamlined profile without sacrificing comfort or durability, including a modified outsole for increased ground contact. The launch event was held at 012 Central in Pretoria, a deliberate choice to honor the brand's roots in the city. The name of the sneaker itself, "012," is a direct reference to Pretoria's telephone dialing code, grounding the globally-minded project in local heritage. The event was hosted by media personality Scoop Makhathini and featured performances that kept the energy high, reflecting the brand's deep connection to South African youth culture.
