A few weeks back, Reebok tapped into its archives for one of the most anticipated sneaker collaborations of 2025, partnering with Sony to celebrate the 30th anniversary of PlayStation. This week, the brand goes old school once again with its first collaboration with Cape Town-based hip-hop artist YoungstaCPT for the release of the bold Oh-Two-1 sneaker.
A Story is Brought to Life through Art
The sneaker has its root in firmly in Cape Town, taking its name directly from its 021 telephone area code. As a result, it’s more than just a sneaker, it’s a story with rich history in the details. Each panel and texture has been selected through deliberate purpose. It was designed by YoungstaCPT himself and brought to life with original illustrations by fellow Capetonian Ross Solomon. It’s been designed to walk you through a life lived in rhythm, complete with the highs and lows of the streets of Cape Town.
Set in the backdrop of the city, it features detailing from hand-drawn spray cans and the Metrorial, to a tribute to the legendary Gatsby sandwich. Each of these illustrations wrapped around the Oh-Two-1 paints a picture of Youngsta’s Cape Flats unbringing. These also include ardently 90s aesthetics like the cassette tapes and arcade buttons, as well as everyday reminders like washing lines, taxi rides and more. It’s a portrait of the trials and triumphs that has shaped much of South Africa’s most compelling voices over the decades.
The canvas is that from the Reebok archives – the classic Reebok Pump OmniZone from the 90s, reborn in 2025 with attitude. The Pump has been synonomous with the brand for over three decades, creating classics through different eras. The Oh-Two-1 features a gritty outsole that draws inspiration from the streets, highways and sidewalks of the Mother City. Additionally, its yellow-orange gradient ascent paints a picture of beautiful sunrises and sunsets over Table Mountain, an natural icon the world over.
Rooted in Legacy
In addition to the sneaker itself, there are several additions that tie into the theme of the collaboration. This includes a special box sleeve to commemorate the occasion, complete with its own collectable sticker sheet. The sheet has been inspired by YoungstaCPT’s mixtapes and lyrics, creating an art piece bringing a rich history of the hustle.
As a lifelong fan of the brand, YoungstaCPT indicates that the collab felt natural and organic. It was born in the streets, rich with experiences, and grown in the studio to lock in its story. He had this to say about the project:
“You can’t applaud a fish for swimming. We are put on this earth to stake our claim. But it won’t be given to you easily. This is what perseverance looks like. Ten thousand hours looks like me. I’ve been wearing Reebok since I was a kid. You see it in my early photos. Even before the music. This shoe is for my city, for my people. For everyone who built something out of nothing.”
The Oh-Two-1 is a limited-edition release, with only 500 pairs available across the country. In addition to the special box and sticker sheet, it also features numbered pairs, and completed with YoungstaCPT’s signature.
Extension of the Reebok “Pure Mzansi Gold” Series
The drop Oh-Two-1 release forms part of Reebok South Africa’s “Pure Mzansi Gold” series, which is an ongoing celebration of SA’s finest athletes, artists and pop culture icons. Following the two SneAKA releases in partnership with the late AKA, YoungstaCPT becomes the third South African to design their very own signature Reebok sneaker.
As a result, the Oh-Two-1 marks one the most valuable local sneaker collaboration in the brand’s history. Speaking on this partnership, PJ Morilly of Reebok South Africa had this to say:
“YoungstaCPT fits the Reebok attitude more than anyone. He’s a leader. A storyteller. Someone who carved his own path. That’s exactly the kind of energy we want to champion.”
Availability of the Limited Release
The Reebok x YoungstaCPT Oh-Two-1 sneaker is set to drop this weekend, on 31 October 2025. It’ll retail at R3,999 and be available in limited quantities of just 500 pairs. It’ll go on sale via Reebok.co.za, in Reebok stores, and at a few select retailers, including Sportscene, Studio88, Shelflife, Sneakerdistrict, and Y?Gen.
More than Just a Sneaker Drop
In addition to the actual sneaker drop, Reebok will also be releasing a four-part mini documentary to support the launch. This series follows the creative journey behind the Oh-Two-1, told in a mixtape format. The release features several collaborations, influences and untold stories. These will be features at various activations, driving its creative message and reflecting on YoungstaCPT’s energy and rebellious creative spirit.
