Veldskoen honoured at Long March to Freedom exhibition

One of South Africa’s most recognisable cultural icons has received permanent recognition with the unveiling of the Veldskoen Plaque at the Long March to Freedom exhibition in Century City, Cape Town.

The plaque was unveiled on 7 July as part of a new partnership between Veldskoen® and Long March to Freedom, celebrating the enduring story of the Veldskoen shoe and its place in South Africa’s cultural heritage.

Celebrating a South African cultural icon

Held under the theme Walking South Africa’s Journey, the unveiling recognises Veldskoen as one of South Africa’s oldest and most enduring cultural symbols.

The permanent plaque honours 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 continues to connect our heritage with modern South African life. This partnership allows us to preserve and share that legacy with future generations.”

A partnership rooted in heritage

The Long March to Freedom exhibition is home to 100 life-size bronze sculptures honouring the individuals who shaped South Africa’s democratic journey.

The partnership reflects a shared commitment to preserving and celebrating the country’s cultural legacy.

According to the organisers, the collaboration highlights Veldskoen as more than a footwear brand. It is recognised as a symbol of South African identity, resilience and craftsmanship, with origins tracing back to the leather-working traditions of the indigenous Khoekhoen people.

A story spanning centuries

The origins of Veldskoen date back centuries, when Khoekhoen communities developed durable rawhide footwear suited to Southern Africa’s landscape.

The design was later adopted across cultures, with the word veldschoen first appearing in Cape records in 1676.

In 2016, the Veldskoen brand reimagined the traditional shoe for a global audience by combining its classic silhouette with contemporary design while showcasing South African craftsmanship.

Preserving South Africa’s shared story

“This recognition is not simply about a shoe,” said Dali Tambo, CEO of the National Heritage Project Company, owners and operators of Long March to Freedom. “Veldskoen represents a uniquely South African story that spans cultures, generations and communities. By recognising its place in our shared heritage, we celebrate the ingenuity, resilience and craftsmanship that continue to shape our national identity.”

As Veldskoen reflects on its first decade, the partnership reinforces the brand’s commitment to supporting local craftsmanship, championing South African industry and preserving the stories that define the nation.

The Veldskoen Plaque will remain a permanent tribute to one of South Africa’s most enduring cultural symbols.

Read Inbound SA online