Sneaker reselling opens entrepreneurial opportunity

The “art” of sneaker reselling. 

In the dynamic world of fashion, sneakers have transcended their functional purpose and evolved into a cultural phenomenon. From iconic collaborations to limited-edition releases, the sneaker market has become a lucrative industry, attracting enthusiasts and entrepreneurs alike. One intriguing aspect of this booming subculture is the art of sneaker reselling, where individuals leverage their passion for kicks to turn a profit. In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating realm of sneaker reselling, exploring its origins, the key players in the game and the ethical considerations surrounding this thriving market.

The Rise of Sneaker Reselling:

Sneaker reselling has its roots in the fervent sneakerhead community, a subculture dedicated to collecting and appreciating sneakers as more than just footwear. As sneaker brands began producing limited-edition releases and collaborations with celebrities and designers, the demand for these exclusive kicks skyrocketed. This demand, coupled with the scarcity of certain models, created an opportunity for savvy individuals to capitalize on the hype.

Platforms like StockX, GOAT and eBay have facilitated the growth of the sneaker resale market by providing a marketplace where buyers and sellers can connect. Sneaker enthusiasts can now buy and sell coveted pairs with ease, creating a virtual marketplace that spans the globe. This digital landscape has transformed sneaker reselling from a local endeavor into a global business, allowing entrepreneurs to capitalize on the demand for rare and highly sought-after sneakers.

My attempt: 

I decided to take this story a little further than most and experiment with it myself. I joined a group called Relics Reselling, which I found on Instagram. I reached out to the owner of it, named Kadin. I was accepted almost immediately. After logging in to access the “cook book,” which is a big online book full of resources, in the past week, I bought six pairs of shoes, and I was able to resell and make profit on them. However, my experiences are not nearly as close to the amount of success some people in the group have had. 

Who can do it and how hard is it?

Sneaker reselling has given rise to a new breed of entrepreneurs—often young and tech-savvy individuals—who understand the intricacies of the sneaker market. These resellers use social media platforms, such as Instagram and Twitter, to build a brand and connect with potential buyers. Some even go as far as creating YouTube channels to share their sneaker expertise and showcase their latest acquisitions.

The success of sneaker reselling also relies on the ability to secure exclusive releases. This involves strategic planning, forming connections within the sneaker industry and sometimes even using advanced technology to increase the chances of purchasing limited drops online. Sneaker resellers have become adept at navigating the competitive landscape, staying ahead of trends and predicting which releases will generate the most profit.

So how ethical is it? 

While sneaker reselling has become a legitimate business for many, ethical concerns have arisen within the community. People argue that resellers contribute to the scarcity of limited releases, making it difficult for genuine sneaker enthusiasts to acquire their desired pairs at retail prices. Additionally, the practice of using bots to secure multiple pairs during online releases has faced backlash for creating an uneven playing field.

In response to these concerns, some resellers advocate for transparency and fairness in the market. They emphasize the importance of community-building and responsible reselling, encouraging open communication and fair pricing. However, striking a balance between the entrepreneurial spirit of reselling and the ethical considerations of the sneaker culture remains an ongoing challenge.

Sneaker reselling has evolved from a niche hobby to a global industry, driven by the passion of sneaker enthusiasts and the hype behind a lot of exclusive releases. While the market continues to grow, ethical considerations highlight the need for a balanced approach that respects the culture and community surrounding sneakers. As sneaker reselling remains a dynamic and ever-changing landscape, it will be intriguing to see how entrepreneurs navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

“The sneaker community is something special,” leader of “cook group” Relics Reselling, Kadin said. “I started this group back in 2019. Since then we have had thousands of members, some of them even reaching over $500,000 in sales in under four years, generating a lot of profit. The group is a happy place for a lot of people. There are people chatting 24/7, and I am super thankful I have been able to build a community.”