Lifestyle

Meet the drip kings of Mzansi: footballers setting new style trends off the pitch

Lutho Pasiya|Published

Vincent Pule is known for his “jiggy” style.

Image: Instagram/Vincent Pule

Footballers in South Africa are making headlines not just for their skills on the pitch but also for their style off it. 

Known as “drip kings”, several players have built reputations for their fashion sense, blending luxury with personal expression in ways that set trends across Mzansi. 

Here are some of the most stylish players currently defining football fashion.

Linda Mntambo's fashion is versatile, moving from vintage-inspired looks to modern baggy styles with ease.

Image: Instagram/Linda Mntambo

Linda Mntambo is often cited as one of the most stylish players in the Betway Premiership league. 

His fashion is versatile, moving from vintage-inspired looks to modern baggy styles with ease.

He champions local Soweto brands such as Stafsetu, Boys of Soweto and Tomi R Creations, demonstrating that style does not rely on international luxury labels.

Mntambo has walked the runway at Soweto Fashion Week for N.O.T.E Clothing and attended major events, including the Steve Madden SA fashion show. 

Vincent Pule is known for his “jiggy” style.

Image: Instagram/Vincent Pule

Vincent Pule is known for his “jiggy” style. He experiments with colours, patterns and fabrics, often pairing caps, bucket hats or rolled-up beanies with stylish eyewear.

Pule balances formalwear with streetwear, creating looks which are bold yet polished. 

Over the years, his style has evolved into a versatile mix that works across casual and formal settings, consistently showcasing well-curated outfits and unique accessories.

Thembinkosi Lorch frequently wears high-end brands, combining them with streetwear to create a confident, modern look

Image: Instagram/Thembinkosi Lorch

Thembinkosi Lorch, also called “Nyoso”, represents South African football on the global fashion stage. He frequently wears high-end brands, combining them with streetwear to create a confident, modern look.

Lorch pays attention to every detail, from statement watches to chunky chains. His outfits often feature bold prints, designer sneakers and bucket hats, blending elegance with a street-smart edge. 

Khuliso Mudau combines luxury streetwear with tailor-made formalwear.

Image: Instagram/Khuliso Mudau

Khuliso Mudau has earned a reputation as one of the best-dressed defenders. His style combines luxury streetwear with tailor-made formalwear. He often incorporates luxury brands, alternating between bespoke suits and high-end casual pieces.

Mudau’s outfits strike a balance between polished sophistication and contemporary street style.

Thabang Monare combines modern streetwear elements with tailored pieces, creating a style that is both relaxed and refined.

Image: Instagram/Thabang Monare

Thabang Monare is also known for his versatile approach, moving effortlessly between streetwear and formalwear. He regularly showcases his outfits on social media, completing his looks with hats, sunglasses, chains and other accessories.

Monare combines modern streetwear elements with tailored pieces, creating a style that is both relaxed and refined.

Lebohang Maboe's attention to detail and creative pairings have earned him fashion affiliations, including an ambassadorship with Steve Madden in South Africa.

Image: Instagram/Lebohang Maboe'

Lebohang Maboe brings an edgy touch to fashion through his mix of athleisure and designer brands. He combines global labels like Puma with local South African fashion, creating outfits that are stylish yet approachable.

Maboe’s attention to detail and creative pairings have earned him fashion affiliations, including an ambassadorship with Steve Madden in South Africa.

Grant Kekana blends sporty and smart elements in his off-field style.

Image: Rikmaan

Grant Kekana blends sporty and smart elements in his off-field style. He favours layered outfits, bold textures and tailored pieces that move beyond basic looks.

Kekana has been featured on a GQ South Africa digital cover for a Winter Edit campaign, showcasing structured outerwear, utility-inspired fits, and standout sneakers.

His fashion leans into sports-inspired tailoring, including bomber jackets and utility trousers, combining practicality with modern aesthetics.