Bok stars or trendsetters? Meet our most fashionable rugby players

by Sergio Miller

Gone are the days of seeing our favourite sportsmen slipping into track pants or gym attire whenever they go out in public for errands – these days, presenting the best possible versions of themselves outside of the usual sports grounds is essential to maintaining a good image.

When it comes to our favourite players, the same applies. Known for playing one of the world’s most physical sports, rugby players are usually perceived as being aggressive, stubborn and serious – however, this new generation of South African players has shown that they have much more to offer, than what people see between the four lines of the rugby field. This is because their personalities are better expressed through their creative taste in fashion.

Here is a list of South Africa’s most fashionable rugby players:

Makazole Mapimpi

While he may be one of the most electric finishers in modern-day rugby, Springbok wing Makazole Mapimpi has been able to carry the same aura on the field into his everyday life, and this is best expressed through his collection of clothing.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Makazole Mapimpi (@makazoli)

Despite being in his early thirties Makazole is able to teach his younger teammates a thing or two when it comes to fashion. When scrolling through his Instagram gallery one would be surprised at how well the Bok number 11 is able to transition from donning some of the finest streetwear clothing to showing off the sleekest suits when the occasion requires it.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Makazole Mapimpi (@makazoli)

Damian Willemse

Known for being the youngest player to ever win two Rugby World Cups. Damian Willemse has been a trendsetter when it comes to his taste in fashion. In recent months the 26-year-old often found himself being misunderstood due to his elaborate nail paintings and vibrant clothing choices, but he has been confident in who he is as a person, solely using his style as an expression of himself off from the field.

Hacjivah Dayimani

When you combine someone who has both Nigerian and South African heritage, you are destined to produce someone like Hacjivah Dayimani, a former Stormers rugby player who recently relocated to play his rugby at the French club Racing 92.

The 27-year-old is defined by many as being South Africa’s own version of the American Dennis Rodman. This is due to his elaborate hairstyles that often change with each and every game he plays. He also has a unique sense of style off the field showcasing his love for fashion by fusing striking colours with current fashion trends. He also launched his own footwear range called Hibacci, a favourite among both fans and peers.

Suleiman Hartzenberg

At just 21 years old, Stormers rugby player Suleiman Hartzenberg has been earmarked as the future of SA rugby, this comes after he impressed professional coaches in only his first year of varsity rugby at 18 -years old. This led him to signing a professional contract with the Stormers and making appearances with the Junior Springboks and the South Africa ‘A’ team.

Off from the field, Suleiman is a real fashion guru. His style is one that is unique to him, and followers usually see him showing off a blend of vintage wear as well as some of the finest knitwear. In addition to this, he occasionally gives his supporters a sneak peek into his clothing cupboard.

Also see: SAMAs 30 nominees announced, Tyla leads the way