GALXBOY Drops First Sneakers

The launch of the GBX 012 collection is a significant step for a brand that started with Thatiso Dube selling t-shirts from the trunk of his car. Founded in 2008, GALXBOY was born out of a gap in the market for a brand that spoke to South Africa's millennial and Gen Z youth. The brand's name itself is a nod to youth culture, representing "Girl X Boys" and the dynamics between them. The move into footwear marks a major evolution for GALXBOY, positioning it as a competitor to established local sneaker brands like Bathu and Drip Footwear. This expansion into a new product category reflects the brand's ambition to grow into a comprehensive lifestyle label. The launch event, held in the brand's hometown of Pretoria, underscored this new chapter with performances by local artists like Focalistic. The sneaker's name, GBX 012, is a direct tribute to the culture and energy of Pretoria, which has the area code 012. The collection, which includes a Trainer and a Runner, was in development for years and retails for R4,800. The design of the Trainer features a premium leather upper and lightweight cushioning for everyday wear. To ensure a global standard of quality, GALXBOY collaborated with UK-based footwear designer Andrew Turner, who has previously worked with industry giants like Nike and Adidas. This partnership was a strategic decision to merge international technical expertise with the brand's authentic South African identity. Founder Thatiso Dube described the collaboration as a "divinely aligned partnership." The launch event took place on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 012 Central in Tshwane and was hosted by media personality Scoop Makhathini. The event was attended by a mix of influencers, creatives, and media, reflecting the brand's deep roots in the local cultural scene. The initial online reaction to the sneaker drop has been positive, with many praising the clean aesthetic of the designs.