How To Resell Shoes (Shoe-in for Profit)
LAST UPDATED: March 19, 2023 | By Conrad Golly
Sneakerheads and resellers alike know that sneakers can be a profitable item to resell on eBay.
However, it can be difficult to know where to start.
I will cover the basics of how to resell shoes, including how to find profitable sneakers, how to list them, and how to ship them.
Table of Contents
How to Resell Sneakers for Beginners

A Reselling sneaker business can be a great way to make a profit, but it can be overwhelming for beginners.
Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Research the market: Before you start buying and reselling sneakers, it’s important to research the market and sneaker culture. Look at what brands, styles, and sizes are in high demand and what the going rate is for similar sneakers. Websites like StockX, GOAT, and Stadium Goods can be great places to research the sneaker world.
- Find deals: One of the keys to making a profit when reselling sneakers is to buy low and sell high. Look for deals at retail stores, online marketplaces, and sneaker conventions. Retail arbitrage, where you find sneakers at retail prices and resell them on eBay, can be a great way to find deals.
- List effectively: When you sell sneakers, it’s important to include detailed descriptions and high-quality photos. Be sure to include the brand, size, condition, and any other relevant details about the sneaker. Take clear, well-lit photos of the sneaker from multiple angles and show any imperfections or wear and tear.
- Price correctly: Research the going rate for similar sneakers on eBay and price accordingly. Keep in mind that the goal is to make a profit, so don’t price your sneakers too low or too high.
- Ship safely: Shipping sneakers can be a bit trickier than other items, but with the right packaging, it’s a breeze. Use bubble wrap or packing peanuts to protect the sneakers during shipping. Make sure to use a sturdy box that’s slightly larger than the sneakers to allow for cushioning. Print a shipping label and attach it to the box.
- Learn from others: Don’t be afraid to ask for help from more experienced resellers. There are many online communities and forums where you can learn from others who have been reselling sneakers for a while.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to start reselling sneakers on eBay and potentially make a profit.
Remember that reselling sneakers is not a get-rich-quick scheme, it takes time and effort to be successful.
But with the right approach and mindset, you can build a profitable sneaker reselling business.
Related: Best things to sell on eBay.
Sneaker Resale Market
When it comes to reselling shoes, the sneaker market is like the stock market. It’s always changing and you never know what’s going to be the next big thing.
So, what are the hottest trends in the sneaker resale market?
Let’s take a look:
- “Nike” Air Jordans: These shoes are like the “blue chip stock” of the reselling world. They’re a safe bet and the demand for them never seems to die down.
- “Adidas” Yeezys: These shoes are like the “tech stock” of the reselling world. They’re newer and more risky, but the potential for profit is huge.
- “Converse” Chuck Taylors: These shoes are like the “dividend stock” of the reselling world. They may not be as flashy as the others, but they’re still a steady and reliable source of income.
To give you an idea of the current state of the sneaker resale market, here’s a table with some stats:
Brand | Average Resale Price | YoY growth |
---|---|---|
Nike | $350 | 15% |
Adidas | $450 | 25% |
Converse | $200 | 10% |
As you can see from the table, the sneaker resale market is growing and it’s a great time to start reselling shoes.
By keeping an eye on the hottest trends and doing your research, you can make a profit.
But remember, reselling shoes is like a game of Monopoly, you may make a lot of money, but you may also end up in jail (figuratively speaking, of course).
How Much Can You Make Reselling Shoes?

When it comes to reselling shoes, the question on everyone’s mind is: how much money can you make?
The answer is: it depends.
It depends on how much you’re willing to put in, how much you’re willing to learn, and how much you’re willing to hustle.
But let’s be real, the real question is: can you make enough money to buy that limited edition, ultra-rare, unicorn of a shoe that you’ve been eyeing? (The answer is yes, but it’s not going to be easy)
Let’s break it down. Reselling shoes on eBay or other online marketplaces can be a great way to make a profit, but it does take some work.
You need to find shoes at a low price and resell them for a higher price. This means researching the market, finding deals, listing effectively, pricing correctly, and shipping safely.
The key to making a profit is buying low and selling high. This means finding shoes at a low price and reselling them for a higher price.
There are a few ways to do this: retail arbitrage, online marketplaces, and sneaker conventions.
Retail arbitrage, where you buy shoes at retail stores and resell them on eBay, can be a great way to find deals.
The more shoes you sell, the more money you’ll make, but keep in mind that the profit margin per shoe may not be that big.
But let’s be real, it’s not just about the profit margin, it’s about the thrill of the hunt and the satisfaction of getting your hands on that unicorn of a shoe.
So, how much can you make reselling shoes? It depends on how much time and effort you’re willing to put in. If you’re willing to put in the work, you can make a decent profit.
But if you’re just looking to make a quick buck, you might want to consider a different hobby (like collecting stamps or something).
In summary, reselling shoes can be a profitable hobby, but it takes time and effort to be successful.
By researching the market, finding deals, listing effectively, pricing correctly, and shipping safely, you can make a decent profit. And remember, it’s not just about the money, it’s about the thrill of the hunt and the satisfaction of getting your hands on that unicorn of a shoe.
From Rags to Riches: Most Popular Expensive Shoes to Resell
When it comes to reselling shoes, some are worth more than others. And let’s be real, when it comes to making a profit, we all want to get our hands on the “big fish” shoes.
So, what are the most popular expensive shoes to resell?
Let’s take a look:
- “Nike” Air Jordans: These shoes are like the “golden goose” of the reselling world. They’re highly sought after, and the demand for them never seems to die down. Plus, they’re like the “Nike” version of a winning lottery ticket, they could make you rich.
- “Adidas” Yeezys: These shoes are like the “unicorn” of the reselling world. They’re rare and highly sought after, and the demand for them never seems to die down. Plus, they’re like the “Adidas” version of a winning lottery ticket, they could make you rich.
- “Converse” Chuck Taylors: These shoes are like the “diamond in the rough” of the reselling world. They may not be as flashy as the others, but they’re still valuable. Plus, they’re like the “Converse” version of a winning lottery ticket, they could make you rich.
When it comes to reselling expensive shoes, the key is to buy low and sell high. Look for deals at retail stores, online marketplaces, and sneaker conventions.
Retail arbitrage, where you buy shoes at retail stores and resell them on eBay, can be a great way to find deals.
So, how do you deal with expensive shoes? Simple, buy them. If you suspect a shoe may be expensive and in high demand, take the risk and buy it.
Stick to buying from reputable sellers and always do your research. And if you’re lucky, you’ll be able to resell them for a huge profit.
Finding Profitable Shoes
The key to making a profit on eBay is to buy low and sell high. This means finding shoes at a low price and reselling them for a higher price.
There are a few ways to do this:
- Retail Arbitrage: This involves buying shoes at retail stores and reselling them on eBay. This can be a great way to find deals on shoes that are in high demand.
- Online Marketplaces: Websites like StockX, GOAT, and Stadium Goods are a great place to find shoes at a discount. These sites allow you to buy and sell shoes at a set price, which can be lower than retail.
- Sneaker Conventions: Sneaker conventions are a great place to find deals on shoes. Many vendors will have shoes for sale at discounted prices.
Listing Your Shoes and Sneakers like a Pro
When it comes to reselling shoes, the listing process is like the “make or break” moment. It’s the first impression that potential buyers will have of your shoes and it can make or break the sale. So, how do you list your shoes like a pro?
Let’s take a look:
- Take clear and detailed photos: This is like the “dating profile picture” of your shoes. It’s the first thing buyers will see, so make sure they’re well-lit, in focus, and show off all the best features of the shoes.
- Write a detailed and accurate description: This is like the “dating profile bio” of your shoes. It should include the shoe’s brand, size, condition, and any notable details or defects. Be honest and upfront about the condition of the shoes, it will save you from any potential returns or complaints.
- Price your shoes correctly: This is like the “dating profile salary” of your shoes. It’s important to price your shoes based on market value and demand. Overpricing is like trying to sell a lemon as a Ferrari, it’s just not going to happen.
- Use LSI keywords: This is like the “dating profile hashtags” of your shoes. Using LSI keywords in your listing can help increase visibility and attract potential buyers.
- Ship your shoes safely: This is like the “dating profile address” of your shoes. Make sure to package your shoes securely to avoid any damage during transit.
And remember, reselling shoes is like a dating app, you may have to sift through a lot of “not-so-great” options, but with persistence and good strategy, you’ll find the perfect match for your shoes.
Cleaning Your Shoes And Sneakers like a Pro
When it comes to reselling shoes, cleaning them is like the “makeover” moment. It’s the process of making sure your shoes look their best before you put them up for sale. So, how do you clean your shoes like a pro?
Check it out:
- Gather your supplies: This is like the “shopping list” of cleaning shoes. You’ll need a brush, a mild detergent, a cloth or sponge, and some water.
- Brush off the dirt: This is like the “before” picture of cleaning shoes. Use a brush to remove any dirt or debris from the shoes.
- Mix a mild detergent with water: This is like the “recipe” of cleaning shoes. Use a mild detergent, such as dish soap, mixed with warm water to create a cleaning solution.
- Clean the shoes: This is like the “makeover” of cleaning shoes. Use a cloth or sponge to gently scrub the shoes with the cleaning solution. Be sure to pay extra attention to any stains or heavily soiled areas.
- Rinse and dry: This is like the “after” picture of cleaning shoes. Rinse the shoes with clean water and allow them to air dry. Avoid using heat to dry the shoes as it can cause the materials to shrink or warp.
And remember, cleaning shoes is like a makeover, you may start with something that’s a little rough around the edges, but with a little elbow grease and the right tools, you can turn them into something beautiful.
Shipping Your Shoes And Sneakers like a Pro
When it comes to reselling shoes, the shipping process is like the “final exam” of the sale. It’s the last step before the sale is complete, and it can make or break the entire experience for the buyer. So, how do you ship your shoes like a pro?
It looks like this:
- Package your shoes securely: This is like the “study guide” of shipping shoes. Use plenty of bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or any other protective materials to make sure the shoes arrive in the same condition they were sent out in.
- Use a sturdy box: This is like the “textbook” of shipping shoes. The box should be sturdy enough to protect the shoes during transit and should be the correct size for the shoes you’re sending.
- Print and attach a shipping label: This is like the “answer sheet” of shipping shoes. Make sure to print out the shipping label and attach it to the box. Double-check the address, name, and phone number, you don’t want to send it to the wrong person.
- Use a trackable shipping method: This is like the “GPS” of shipping shoes. Using a trackable shipping method allows you to track the package’s progress and ensures that the buyer will receive the shoes promptly.
- Add a personal touch: This is like the “extra credit” of shipping shoes. Add a personal touch by including a thank you note or a small gift with the shoes. It will show the buyer that you care about their satisfaction and it may lead to repeat business or positive feedback.
And remember, shipping shoes is like a final exam, it may be stressful, but as long as you’re prepared and have a solid game plan, you’re going to pass with flying colors.
How Do You Deal with Fakes?
Let’s face it, fakes are the bane of any reseller’s existence. They’re like that annoying relative that shows up uninvited to your party, but instead of just being a nuisance, they can also cost you money. So, how do you deal with fakes?
First things first, let’s talk about how to spot fakes. There are a few telltale signs to look for:
- The price is too good to be true
- The seller’s feedback is less than stellar
- The shoe’s logo or branding is off-center or misspelled
- The shoe’s box or packaging is different from the authentic version
If you suspect a shoe may be fake, don’t buy it. But if you already bought it, don’t panic. You have options:
- You can contact the seller and ask for a refund
- You can try to resell the shoe as a “replica” (just make sure to disclose that it’s not authentic)
- You can use it as a doorstop or a paperweight (hey, it’s better than nothing)
But the best way to avoid fakes is to buy from reputable sellers. Do your research, read the reviews and check the seller’s feedback. And remember, if the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Dealing with fakes can be a pain, but by being cautious and knowing how to spot them, you can avoid getting scammed.
And if you do end up with a fake, don’t panic, there are always options. Just remember, when it comes to fakes, it’s better to be safe than sorry (and broke).
Fake shoes, Real Problems
When it comes to reselling shoes, fake shoes are like an unwanted guest at a party. They may seem harmless at first, but they can cause a lot of problems. So, how do you spot fake shoes?
Some common examples:
- “Nike” Air Jordans: These fake Jordans often have misspelled branding, poor stitching, and a cheaper-looking material. They’re like the “Nike” knock-off version of the real deal.
- “Adidas” Yeezys: These fakes are notorious for their bad quality and often have an off-center logo. They’re like the “Adidas” knock-off version of the real deal, but unlike the real deal, they won’t make you look cool, just foolish.
- “Converse” Chuck Taylors: These fakes can often be found with a slightly different shape and a cheaper-looking material. They’re like the “Converse” knock-off version of the real deal, but unlike the real deal, they won’t last you a lifetime.
When it comes to spotting fake shoes, it’s all about paying attention to the details. Look for inconsistencies in branding, stitching, and materials. Make sure the shoe’s logo is centered and that the branding is spelled correctly.
Also, check the shoe box, it’s often the case that fake shoes come in a different box than the authentic version.
So, how do you deal with fake shoes? Simple, don’t buy them. If you suspect a shoe may be fake, don’t take the risk. Stick to buying from reputable sellers and always do your research. And if you do end up with a fake shoe, use it as a doorstop or a paperweight (hey, it’s better than nothing).
Most Common Mistakes in Reselling Shoes
When it comes to reselling shoes, mistakes can be costly. But don’t worry, we’ve all made them and it’s not the end of the world. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Not researching the market: Not researching the market is like trying to navigate through a forest without a map. You may get lucky and stumble upon a good deal, but most likely you’ll just end up lost and broke.
- Overpricing: Overpricing is like trying to sell a lemon as a Ferrari. Sure, it’s a car, but it’s not worth nearly as much as you’re asking.
- Not taking clear and detailed photos: Not taking clear and detailed photos is like trying to sell a house without any pictures. Sure, it’s a shoe, but no one can see it.
- Not shipping safely: Not shipping safely is like trying to send a fragile package without any bubble wrap. Sure, it’s a shoe, but it’s going to get damaged in transit.
The key to avoiding these mistakes is to do your research, price your shoes correctly, take clear and detailed photos and ship your shoes safely.
And if you do make a mistake, don’t worry, just learn from it and move on.
Because in the end, reselling shoes is like a game of Tetris, sometimes you’re going to mess up the placement, but you get a new block after.
FAQs
What Should I Do If I End Up With A Fake Shoe?
If you end up with a fake shoe, use it as a doorstop or paperweight (hey, it’s better than nothing). Make sure to learn from your mistake and don’t take any unnecessary risks in the future. Stick to buying from reputable sellers and always do your research.
How Can I Make Sure I’m Getting The Best Deal When Reselling Shoes?
Make sure you research the market, price your shoes correctly, take clear and detailed photos, and ship your shoes safely. Additionally, look for discounts or deals that may be available to get the best value for your money. Finally, use online marketplaces like eBay or Poshmark if possible to reach a larger number of potential buyers.
What Should I Do If People Are Trying To Scam Me While Reselling My Shoes?
To protect yourself from being scammed, it’s essential to only work with well-known and legitimate vendors. Furthermore, don’t ignore any suspicious behavior that may come your way – if you think someone is attempting to scam you, step away immediately! In addition, always utilize secure payment methods such as PayPal or Venmo when available. And lastly: when in doubt – walk away!
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