Everything You Need to Know About Buying Used Nike Sneakers Online
Sneaker Politics
There’s been a lot of confusion and rancour from sneakerheads after rolled out their Refurbished program online last week. Previously offered only via select stores, the broader push to sling used sneakers sparked vehement commentary online. Has Nike’s with escalated to all-out reseller warfare? Is this part of a shrewd global economic conspiracy to legitimise the bootleg sneaker industry? Do the shoes stink?
Slowly remove the tinfoil hats. Let’s take a closer look at Nike Refurbished.
Hold up. Nike are selling used sneakers?
Technically, yes. The ‘Refurbished’ program is giving a second-life to some of the Nike products that can’t be sold as brand new. This might include pairs that a customer returned or exchanged during a recent purchase or shoes with slight imperfections (think: a sneaker that had a small snag during manufacturing).
So Nike haven’t officially entered the resale market?
Not yet.
Is this a new initiative?
No. The Nike Refurbished program has actually been around since April 2021 as part of the ‘Move to Zero’ mission. This is the first time it's been made available online.
What kind of condition are the sneakers in?
Nike have set up three categories: ‘Like New’, ‘Gently Worn’, and ‘Cosmetically Flawed’. ‘Like New’ are in near-perfect condition, with no sign of wear or faults. ‘Gently Worn’ are in great nick with visible light wear or slight imperfections. ‘Cosmetically Flawed’ show no signs of wear but are slightly imperfect – usually from the manufacturing process.
What are we looking at here? Bricks or heat?
The product is a mix of hits and misses. The key is to check-in regularly, as the heat gets hoovered-up. So far, we’ve seen a few Air Jordans appear briefly for half price, while Air Huaraches, Air Trainers and other runners are sitting. Expect to see a lot of basic releases returned because of sizing issues, etc.
How much?
The Retro ‘H’ Wings, Retro SE Craft and ‘White Cement’ all sold for $105 – down from $210 retail.
Do they smell funny?
Any shoes returned by customers are getting a good scrub and returned to a condition as new as possible.
Can I bring in my beloved Dunk beaters to get refurbished?
Unfortunately, no. but you can shoot them to Sneaker Freaker HQ if the universe compels you…
Well, how about donating them or selling them to Nike refurbished?
Again, unfortunately not.
What if it's not my vibe?
No stress. Nike Refurbished footwear is also covered by Nike’s 60-day wear test.
Why should I buy refurbished?
Aside from scoring a decent discount, the Refurbished program is also a great way to reduce our impact on the environment, extending the life of products.