The sneaker doctor is in the house: Dr Shine A Lot
‘Life is too short to wear boring shoes’, as the sentiment goes. Sneaker culture is growing at a rapid rate becoming a symbol of wealth and status. Once worn as robust sports takkies – the art of weaving rubber to fabric has changed from a commodity to a cultural icon. As fascinating as the design and creation process is, consumers are met with one problem – how do we clean these beauts? And no, a little Sunlight soap and warm water won’t cut it. Enter Kabelo Moteme from Dr Shine A Lot, a young local sneakerhead who expresses his love for sneakers through his small business making shoes shine, looking, almost brand new. ReUnite Entertainment spoke with the doctor himself to learn more about his business ventures and the South African sneaker scene:
- What was the inspiration behind the name Dr Shine A Lot?
When a person goes to a doctor, they know they will get well soon – the same thing applies to us. We give the sneakers and shoes we receive for cleaning, lots of love and attention. Shoes are returned to their owners looking almost brand-new!
- Tell us about your business idea.
We are all aware of the rising unemployment rate in our country, so I decided to take a leap of faith and start my own business. Dr Shine A Lot was established in 2020 as a hobby – it started with me cleaning my sneakers, and then, shoes of family and friends.
-
- Supplied by Dr Shine A Lot
-
- Supllied by Dr Shine A Lot
- Any dreams of expanding the Dr Shine A Lot brand?
I am very passionate about sneakers and want to see Dr Shine A Lot grow. I hope to expand from just cleaning sneakers: becoming a trustworthy reseller and potentially owning a sneaker store. I plan on creating a quality store that sells premium sneakers to South African sneakerheads, whilst incorporating sneaker cleaning.
- What is your take on the growing sneaker culture?
The first thing that people notice are your shoes. Sneakers signify everything from identity and race to class. They’re associated with levels of power and exclusivity, daring the wearer to be bold in life. Like many, I am a sneaker fanatic – I even plan my whole outfit around the sneakers I’m wearing. This culture is growing in South Africa and across the globe, with trading and selling becoming a fast-paced industry. Many exclusive brands are obtained via a raffle system – which unfortunately is hindering the growth of this culture in South Africa.
- What are your favourite sneakers or brand?
This is an easy question: Nike Air Jordans, Adidas Yeezys and Nike Retro Dunks.
-
- Supplied by Dr Shine A Lot
-
- Supplied by Dr Shine A Lot
- Can you tell us about a few local sneaker brands SAns should take a look at?
There are many local brands that South Africans can enjoy. The purchasing of these products develops a unique SA sneaker movement and supports local industries. Some brands include Bathu sneakers, Drip Footwear and Spelete (to name a few).
- Any final words or shoutouts?
A special shoutout to my family, mentors and friends. A huge thank you to the Dr Shine A Lot family at large who continue to support and trust us with their shoes – it definitely means a lot and we appreciate you all!
designed and developed by