Get ready to step into the legacy! Reebok, in a powerful partnership with the family of South African hip-hop legend Kiernan Forbes (AKA), is thrilled to introduce The SneAKA2.0 — a tribute to AKA’s iconic collaboration with Reebok! Launching on the 16 November 2024, this limited-edition sneaker showcases the spirit of one of Africa’s most influential artists. With only 1,000 pairs available, it’s a must-have for sneakerheads, hip-hop aficionados, and proud South Africans! Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of history!
Introducing the SneAKA2.0 – a fresh twist on a legendary classic! This stunning sneaker retains the iconic flair of the original, showcasing the timeless Classic Leather silhouette crafted in chic chalk-colored garment leather. With a striking cheetah-print insole, crisp white sole, and eye-catching red heel stub, it’s impossible to ignore what makes this sneaker a standout. But here’s where it gets even more special: For the very first time, the South African flag proudly replaces the traditional Union Jack, marking the SneAKA2.0 as Reebok’s inaugural sneaker to celebrate another nation’s heritage!Additionally, AKA’s handwritten initials, “KJF,” are elegantly embroidered on the rear left heel, complemented by pops of 3M reflective material that capture the vibrant energy and light he brought to the world. Get ready to step out in style and make a statement with the SneAKA2.0!
PJ Morilly, Brand Director of Reebok South Africa, expressed the importance of honoring AKA’s vision: “One of the things Kiernan really wanted was the South African flag on the SneAKA.Unfortunately, that wasn’t possible back in 2019, but with The SneAKA 2.0, we’ve finally made that wish a reality. This is a huge win for him, his fans, and the legacy he leaves behind.”
Kiernan’s family and close collaborators have been instrumental in bringing this release to life, ensuring it remains a true reflection of his spirit. The SneAKA 2.0 is more than just a sneaker; it’s a tribute to AKA’s passion for South Africa, his authenticity, and his deep connection to Reebok. Tony Forbes, Kiernan’s father, reflected on the collaboration:
“When Reebok and Kiernan came together, it wasn’t just about a product. There was a shared ethos of pushing boundaries, and I see The SneAKA 2.0 as a continuation of that, honoring the work he did and the vision he had.” The release also marks a pivotal moment in the Reebok-AKA partnership, addressing the
2020 Twitter controversy in which AKA publicly expressed frustration over not receiving royalties for The SneAKA 1.0.
Morilly clarified: “Kiernan was paid a substantial retainer, not a royalty, which was part of the original deal. Despite the noise around it, Kiernan and Reebok worked out their differences, and we had committed to future collaborations before his tragic passing.”importantly, all profits from The SneAKA 2.0 will go directly to the Forbes family to support the upbringing of Kiernan’s daughter, Kairo, and a portion will be allocated to the Kiernan Forbes Foundation, a not-for-profit dedicated to supporting up-and-coming South African talent. Lynn Forbes, Kiernan’s mother, shared her thoughts on this tribute:” This is a beautiful celebration of Kiernan’s life and legacy. He would have been incredibly proud of this release, and I know Kairo will look back one day and feel that pride, too.”
The launch will be supported by a series of seven mini-episodes rolled out across social media, offering intimate insights into the creative process behind The SneAKA 2.0.Featuring interviews with Kiernan’s family, friends, and collaborators, the series will provide a behind-the-scenes look at the evolution of the sneaker and the enduring impact of AKA’s vision. The SneAKA 2.0 will be available online at Reebok.co.za. The drop will also be available at
Reebok Canal Walk and Archive, Shesha, Sneaker District, Sportscene and Studio 88, for R2,799. This limited-edition release of only 1,000 pairs is expected to sell out quickly, offering fans a rare opportunity to own a piece of South African hip-hop history.