The race to become South Africa’s next sneaker king is down to two finalists, with Angel Mosiamedi and Nonkosi Paul preparing for one final showdown at the Russian Bear King of Kicks 2026 finale.
Taking place on 21 October at Atlas Studios in Johannesburg, the finale will see the two sneaker enthusiasts compete for a R200,000 sneaker vault filled with sought-after kicks.
Two Finalists, One Crown
After weeks of sneaker battles, weekly vault drops and challenges testing their sneaker knowledge, Mosiamedi and Paul have emerged as the final contenders in the competition, which brings together sneaker culture, individuality and a passion for footwear.
The journey has kept sneakerheads across South Africa engaged, with new pairs added to the vault week after week during YFM broadcasts. From collectible sneakers to statement-making designs, each drop has given fans more to discuss while raising the stakes for the finalists.
Now, the competition moves from the airwaves to Atlas Studios, where the final challenge will determine who claims the title of Russian Bear King of Kicks 2026.
More Than Just Sneakers
For Russian Bear Vodka, the competition is about more than building an impressive sneaker collection. It also celebrates the people and communities that continue to shape sneaker culture in South Africa.
“This year’s King of Kicks journey has been about much more than the sneakers themselves. It’s about the people, the passion and the culture behind every pair,” says Siviwe Mgolodela, Senior Brand Manager at Russian Bear.
“Angel and Nonkosi have battled their way through weeks of competition, and now it all comes down to one final night. We’re excited to bring them, the sneaker community and our partners at YFM together for a finale that will celebrate everything that makes sneaker culture so powerful.”
Through its partnership with YFM, Russian Bear has used on-air challenges and evolving sneaker drops to connect with sneaker enthusiasts and celebrate self-expression and confidence.
Who Will Claim the Crown?
With R200,000 worth of sneakers at stake, the finale promises a decisive moment for both contenders. For Mosiamedi and Paul, it is the final opportunity to turn weeks of competition and sneaker knowledge into a winning performance. On 21 October, one finalist will walk away with the coveted sneaker vault and the title of Russian Bear King of Kicks 2026.
The question is simple: who has what it takes to claim the crown? Follow @russianbearsa for updates on the finale and the latest campaign news.
Scene Feed Thought
Sneaker culture is about more than what is on your feet. It is about the stories, the knowledge and the individuality behind every pair. With two finalists left and a R200,000 sneaker vault up for grabs, the King of Kicks finale is set to put that passion to the ultimate test. One crown, two contenders, and only one winner.