One of South Africa’s most recognisable cultural icons is being formally honoured as Veldskoen and Long March to Freedom unveil a permanent Veldskoen Plaque on the 7th of July at Long March to Freedom in Century City, Cape Town.
The unveiling marks a new partnership that celebrates the enduring story of the Veldskoen shoe and its place in South Africa’s cultural journey. More than a footwear brand, Veldskoen is being recognised as a symbol of South African identity, craftsmanship and resilience, with roots that trace back centuries to the leather-working traditions of the indigenous Khoekhoen people.
Held under the theme Walking South Africa’s Journey, the event acknowledges the historical significance of Veldskoen as one of South Africa’s oldest and most enduring cultural symbols. The plaque will serve as a permanent reminder of the role the iconic shoe has played in reflecting the country’s evolving story across generations and communities.
“The Veldskoen story is South Africa’s story, and Veldskoen® proudly embraces the stewardship of one of the country’s most iconic products and enduring cultural stories, ” said Adrian Moors, Director of Veldskoen Shoes.
“From its origins in indigenous craftsmanship to its place today as a globally recognised symbol of South African creativity and entrepreneurship, Veldskoen has become part of South Africa’s journey and remains, in many ways, the sole of South Africa. Today, Veldskoen is worn by entrepreneurs, creatives, adventurers and everyday South Africans, demonstrating how heritage continues to find expression in contemporary life. This partnership allows us to celebrate and preserve that heritage while sharing it with future generations.”
The Long March to Freedom Exhibition, located in Century City, Milnerton, Cape Town, is a monumental procession of 100 life-size bronzes, dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories of the people who shaped South Africa’s democratic journey. Through this collaboration, both organisations are united by a shared commitment to preserving, celebrating and sharing the country’s rich cultural legacy.
The origins of the Veldskoen shoe stretch back to the practical rawhide footwear developed by Khoekhoen communities to navigate Southern Africa’s demanding terrain. The design was later adopted and adapted by settlers, farmers and travellers, becoming a fixture across cultures and communities throughout South Africa’s history. The word veldschoen first appeared in Cape records in 1676, while generations of South Africans continued to wear and adapt the shoe as it evolved from a frontier necessity into a lasting cultural icon.
In 2016, the Veldskoen® brand reimagined the traditional shoe for a modern audience, retaining its distinctive silhouette while introducing bold colours and contemporary styling. Today, Veldskoen® exports South African craftsmanship and ingenuity to markets around the world, carrying a uniquely South African story from local communities to global cities.
“This recognition is not simply about a shoe,” said Dali Tambo, CEO National Heritage Project Company, owners and operators Long March to Freedom.
“Veldskoen represents a remarkable South African story that spans cultures, generations and communities. By recognising its place in our shared heritage, we are acknowledging the ingenuity, resilience and craftsmanship that have shaped South Africa’s identity and continue to inspire people today.”
The partnership comes at a time when Veldskoen is reflecting on its first decade and its ongoing commitment to championing local craftsmanship, creating opportunities, supporting South African industry and preserving the stories that shape the nation’s identity. It also advances the brand’s broader mission to move beyond product-focused storytelling and embrace its role as a custodian of South African heritage.
The Veldskoen Plaque will stand as a permanent recognition of the shoe’s contribution to South African history and cultural identity, ensuring that future visitors to the exhibition can engage with a story that stretches from indigenous craftsmanship to modern South African entrepreneurship.
As South Africans increasingly seek authentic connections to their history and culture, the partnership creates a platform for heritage to remain relevant, accessible and meaningful to contemporary audiences.
About Veldskoen®
Founded in 2016, Veldskoen® reimagined one of South Africa’s most iconic shoes for a modern generation. Proudly handcrafted in South Africa, the brand has grown into a globally recognised symbol of South African creativity, entrepreneurship and craftsmanship. Veldskoen® continues to celebrate and share South African stories with audiences around the world.
About the Long March to Freedom Exhibition
The Long March to Freedom Exhibition, is a unique heritage attraction dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories of the leaders, visionaries and ordinary citizens who contributed to South Africa’s journey to democracy. Through its procession of 100 life-size bronze sculptures and educational experiences, the exhibition honours the country’s diverse and complex history.