Thirty-one rand. That’s less than a bus fare from Soweto to the CBD. And for that, Temu is currently offering a pair of breathable mesh platform dad sneakers that have racked up over 63,000 sales globally — with a 4.7-star rating from more than 1,300 verified buyers. For SA students watching every rand, this one is worth a serious look.
Men’s Breathable New Mesh Platform Dad Sneakers — Forrest Gump Style. Shop on Temu →
What Exactly Are These Sneakers?
The product is listed on Temu as the Men’s Breathable New Mesh Platform Dad Sneakers in the Forrest Gump casual style — a chunky, retro-inspired silhouette that draws directly from the clean, no-fuss aesthetic of the iconic 1994 film. Think thick rubber platform sole, wide toe box, breathable mesh upper, and lace-up closure. It’s the kind of shoe that works equally well on a lecture-hall floor, a weekend braai, or a casual walk through campus.
The “dad sneaker” look has been mainstream since the mid-2010s when brands like Balenciaga and New Balance revived chunky silhouettes, but paying R3,000+ for that aesthetic has never made sense for students. This Temu version delivers the same visual weight and casual comfort at a fraction of the price — which explains why over 63,000 pairs have been snapped up globally.
Key Features at a Glance
If you’ve been comparing affordable Temu footwear, you’ll know how the platform sneaker segment has exploded lately. The R40 men’s lightweight sports sneakers reviewed on uni24 offer a sportier alternative, while the R23 white-and-gold fashion sneakers are better suited for students who want a cleaner, dressier look. These dad sneakers occupy a different niche — they’re bolder, chunkier, and more streetwear-forward.
Who Should Buy These?
These sneakers are built for the South African student who needs shoes that can handle a full day on campus — from morning lectures at Wits or UWC to afternoon hangouts — without looking like they’ve just come from gym. The breathable mesh construction is a genuine plus during the warmer months across SA’s coastal and highveld regions.
The height-increasing platform will appeal to anyone after a subtle confidence boost without resorting to obvious elevator shoes. At this price, they’re also an easy pick for guys who want to rotate their footwear without breaking the bank — something budget campus sneakers on Temu have made surprisingly achievable.
What the Numbers Say
| Metric | Detail |
|---|---|
| Price (New App Users) | R31 (subject to change) |
| Global Units Sold | 63,000+ |
| Star Rating | 4.7 / 5 |
| Verified Reviews | 1,326 |
| Upper Material | Breathable Mesh |
| Sole Type | Thick Rubber Platform |
| Style Category | Casual / Streetwear Dad Sneaker |
| Free Returns | Up to 90 days (Temu policy) |
How It Compares to Other Budget Footwear on Temu
Temu’s footwear range for South African shoppers has grown considerably, and the value per rand is difficult to argue with. The R8 women’s thick-soled sandals remain one of the most extreme value finds on the platform, while these dad sneakers offer a more complete and supportive structure for those who need actual footwear for active use. For women looking at height-boosting options, the R24 hidden-heel wedge sandals on Temu offer a dressier alternative with a similar emphasis on subtle elevation.
Among men’s slides, the Japanese-Korean graffiti EVA slippers at R13 offer an even cheaper buy-in for casual indoor and outdoor use, but the platform dad sneakers reviewed here are a closed-toe, structured option with far more support and utility. They’re different use cases — and at R31, the sneakers are still exceptional value for what you get. The broader consumer and shopping category on uni24 covers many of these Temu finds in detail if you want to keep comparing.
Things to Know Before Buying
- The R31 price is exclusive to new Temu app users and can only be claimed once per account.
- All prices on Temu are subject to change — verify the final price on the product page before checkout.
- Temu operates a standard shipping timeline into South Africa — factor in delivery time when ordering.
- Temu offers free returns of up to 90 days on eligible items, and a purchase protection guarantee.
- Size up if you’re between sizes, as the mesh upper can be snug on wider feet.
Sizing on Temu footwear tends to run slightly small compared to South African retail standards. It’s worth checking the size guide on the product page carefully. Many buyers in the reviews specifically mention going half a size up to account for the snug mesh fit. Given Temu’s 90-day return window, the risk is low — but getting the right size the first time saves time.
Solid Value. Real Style. Campus-Ready.
At R31 for new app users, these Forrest Gump-style dad sneakers deliver a chunky, breathable, height-boosting silhouette that punches well above its price point. With over 63,000 global sales and a 4.7-star rating, the buyer satisfaction numbers are hard to dismiss. For any South African student who wants a stylish, casual sneaker without spending what they don’t have, this is one of the better deals currently live on Temu.
⚠️ Prices are subject to change. New app user pricing applies to first-time Temu app users only and can only be claimed once. Always verify the final price on the product listing before checkout.
🛒 Buy Now on Temu — R31
