In the past, sneaker releases were accompanied by long lines outside stores, where enthusiasts eagerly waited to find out if their desired shoes were still in stock. These queues were filled with excitement, surprises, disappointments, and unfortunately, even fights. While in-store releases still occur, the landscape has shifted, and more sneaker transactions are now taking place through popular sneaker apps.
Sneakerheads have a complex relationship with these apps. On one hand, the convenience of online purchasing is intended to streamline the process. However, some argue that your chances of success were higher when queuing outside Nike stores for the latest Dunks compared to participating in online drawings on apps like SNKRS. When you manage to secure a win (W), it's an exhilarating feeling. Conversely, taking a loss (L) can be disheartening, especially knowing that resellers may inflate the prices.
Rather than delving into discussions about bots, resellers, and the inconveniences associated with online drops, our aim is to assist you in navigating the process more effectively. We will present the pros and cons of 15 different sneaker apps, aiming to make your life slightly easier. While we can't guarantee success, we hope that this list will be a valuable resource. So, let's dive in and explore these apps together.
StockX
- Ideal for purchasing and reselling sneakers in new condition
- Download Links: Apple Store / Google Play Store
When it comes to buying sneakers, StockX stands out as one of the most trustworthy platforms available. Not only does it provide access to the latest releases, but it also offers rare and hard-to-find gems from the past. However, it's important to note that sneaker apps in the secondary market typically won't have shoes available at their original retail price. Once a drop hits the resell market, it's almost guaranteed that you'll need to spend a little extra.
Despite this, StockX's selection is worth exploring, and the ask/bid prices are reasonable (although youth sizes can be slightly more challenging to find). Moreover, every item on StockX undergoes automatic authentication, ensuring that you won't have to worry about counterfeit products.
GOAT
- Perfect for purchasing and reselling sneakers in new condition
- Download Links: Apple Store / Google Play Store
GOAT is another exceptional sneaker marketplace offering a wide-ranging selection. You have the choice to purchase sneakers at the seller's listed price or engage in negotiations to secure a lower price. GOAT provides the flexibility to buy both used and new sneakers. Similar to StockX, all footwear undergoes a thorough authentication process, ensuring their legitimacy before reaching the buyer.
The inventory available on GOAT is impressive, featuring a diverse mix of new releases and retro classics. Additionally, the consumer experience is seamless and user-friendly, making it easy for sneaker enthusiasts to navigate and find their desired pairs.
SNKRS
- Ideal for bidding on sneakers
- Download Links: Apple Store / Google Play Store
We understand the eye-rolling reaction at the mention of SNKRS, but for now, it remains our best opportunity to secure Nike and Jordan brand sneakers at their retail value. Let's take the Nike Dunk High 'Syracuse' as an example. These sneakers were released on the SNKRS app in March with a retail price of $110. However, at the time of writing, the lowest asking price on StockX for those Dunks is $195 for a size 8 in men's, while the highest asking price is $490 for a size 4.5 (considered a youth size).
Depending on your size, you could end up paying an additional $100 to $400 above the original retail price. Despite the frustrations that often accompany the SNKRS experience, we still recommend trying to purchase through the app initially. Why? Because if you do manage to secure a win (W), it will save you from paying exorbitant resell prices. Okay, rant over.
Confirmed
- Perfect for bidding on sneakers
- Download Links: Apple Store / Google Play Store
Having discussed SNKRS, let's move on to the Confirmed App. In terms of diversity in their website catalog, Adidas surpasses Nike. However, many exclusive releases, such as Yeezys, still drop exclusively on the Confirmed App. Confirmed offers a meticulously curated selection of exclusive sneakers and collaborations that can only be purchased through the app.
The process of buying sneakers via Confirmed is similar to SNKRS: you enter your name and hope for the best. Our sentiments regarding Confirmed align with those of SNKRS—it's advisable to attempt purchasing those coveted releases through the app first, rather than potentially spending hundreds of dollars extra on the secondary market. After all, there's no harm in trying, right?
KicksonFire
- Ideal for purchasing sneakers and tracking release dates
- Download Links: Apple Store / Google Play Store
In our quest to cover various apps dedicated to buying sneakers, we thought it would be fitting to include an app that focuses on sneaker release dates. While KicksonFire can certainly be used for shopping, it is renowned globally as one of the top go-to platforms for staying updated on upcoming sneaker releases. KicksonFire goes beyond Jordan/Nike releases and also highlights lesser-covered sneakers that may not receive as much attention.
In terms of their shoe collection, KicksonFire offers a decent selection. However, it's worth noting that certain shoes may be priced higher compared to other outlets. For instance, KicksonFire lists the Nike Air Force 1 07s for around $140, while Nike themselves offer the exact same shoe for $90. This is where KicksonFire falls short in terms of retail pricing, in our opinion. Nonetheless, they still excel in providing the most diverse sneaker calendar available.
Stadium Goods
- Perfect for purchasing the latest sneaker drops
- Download Links: Apple Store / Google Play Store
In a similar vein to StockX and GOAT, Stadium Goods is a reputable app that caters to sneaker enthusiasts in the secondary market. The app offers a user-friendly experience and features a wide array of both recent and vintage releases. However, we must be honest about Stadium Goods' pricing—it tends to be higher compared to other apps like StockX.
While the prices for newer releases on Stadium Goods are relatively competitive, the retros, especially Jordan sneakers, can be considerably pricier compared to other platforms. Although it may not rank at the top of our list, Stadium Goods still remains a viable option for sneaker shopping.
Finish Line
- Perfect for purchasing the latest sneaker releases
- Download Links: Apple Store / Google Play Store
Finish Line is another reliable destination for sneaker enthusiasts. While they may not have every single latest release, they do offer a selection of new drops from time to time. However, similar to many other sneaker apps, these new releases can be highly limited, often resulting in difficulties accessing the app or website on drop days. It's worth noting that this limitation applies to JD Sports as well, so we can assure you that we've made the attempt.
That being said, Finish Line excels in providing a diverse range of "regular" sneakers. Whether you're searching for Nike, Adidas, Puma, or athlete collaborations, they offer an assortment of options. Moreover, they do a commendable job of keeping youth sizes in stock, catering to those with smaller feet.
If you're seeking the latest sneaker releases, Finish Line may not always have them, but they remain a dependable choice for finding a variety of stylish sneakers.
Laced
- Perfect for bidding on sneakers
- Download Links: Apple Store / Google Play Store
When it comes to buying sneakers, using the Laced app is akin to playing an exciting video game. It presents a fantastic opportunity to secure new releases at or near retail value. Besides its functionality, Laced offers a highly enjoyable experience. Each auction features a thrilling countdown, where users compete by placing bids until the auction concludes. The highest bidder becomes the winner, with the chance to purchase the shoes at the final bidding price, while other participants receive store credit as a consolation.
While it may be unlikely to snag a pair of AJ1s for just $2, the mere possibility adds to the thrill and makes Laced a worthwhile download. If you're up for the challenge and the excitement of bidding on sneakers, Laced is the perfect app to explore.
eBay
- Ideal for buying and reselling sneakers, both new and used
- Download Links: Apple Store / Google Play Store
In our experience, eBay has emerged as one of the top destinations for sneaker enthusiasts. However, there are a few pros and cons worth considering when purchasing sneakers through eBay. Let's delve into them:
Pros: eBay offers a vast selection of rare sneakers, making it easier to find coveted pairs. Additionally, it's often more convenient to acquire youth sizes on eBay compared to other sneaker apps. For those with smaller feet, this is a significant advantage, as other platforms may not cater as well to kids' sizes.
Cons: One potential drawback is the authentication issue. While some sneakers on eBay come with an authenticity guarantee, this assurance may not extend to every pair listed. It's important to exercise caution, as there is a possibility of purchasing counterfeit sneakers from sellers who are either unaware of their authenticity or trying to recoup their losses from being deceived themselves.
Here's our tip: When purchasing from eBay, ensure that the seller has a reputable rating, offers an authenticity guarantee for sneakers that are prone to counterfeit replicas, and provides a 30-day return policy for added security.
By following these guidelines, you can increase the likelihood of a successful and satisfactory sneaker purchase on eBay.
Suplexed
- Ideal for comparing sneaker prices across multiple websites
- Download Links: Apple Store / Google Play Store
Introducing Suplexed, a valuable price comparison app that streamlines the process of finding sneakers by displaying prices from various competitors. Instead of navigating back and forth between multiple sneaker websites, Suplexed saves you time and confusion by consolidating all the pricing information in one place. The app is user-friendly, allowing users to seamlessly transition to their preferred platform by providing direct access to the listings on each sneaker app. With its straightforward and simple approach, Suplexed offers a convenient solution for comparing and purchasing sneakers across different websites.
Grailed
- Perfect for buying and selling sneakers, both new and used
- Download Links: Apple Store / Google Play Store
Grailed is a fantastic platform that caters to individuals looking to buy or sell sneakers in a peer-to-peer fashion. With a quick browse through their website, you'll find an extensive collection of sneaker listings, encompassing various brands, conditions, and price ranges. Whether you're in search of brand-new kicks, nearly pristine pairs, or elusive gems you've been seeking for a long time, Grailed offers a wide range of options.
If you haven't already, it's definitely worth giving Grailed a try. The platform provides a seamless experience for sneaker enthusiasts to engage in buying or selling transactions, making it an excellent destination to explore.
LEGIT APP
- Ideal for sneaker authentication
- Download Links: Apple Store / Google Play Store
Dealing with the disappointment of purchasing a fake sneaker is an experience we hope you never encounter. Thankfully, apps like LEGIT APP completely eliminate the possibility of such an occurrence. How does it work? It's simple. Just download the app and upload pictures of the sneakers you intend to purchase. LEGIT APP boasts a team of trained experts who will carefully review your photos to authenticate the sneakers and identify any potential fakes. It's that easy!
With LEGIT APP, you can confidently shop for sneakers, knowing that the risk of buying counterfeit products has been effectively eliminated. Rest assured that the app's expert team will ensure the authenticity of your desired sneakers. Don't take any chances—make use of LEGIT APP's seamless authentication process for a worry-free sneaker shopping experience.
Foot Locker
- Perfect for purchasing the latest sneaker releases
- Download Links: Apple Store / Google Play Store
Often overlooked, stores like Foot Locker deserve more attention. While they may not carry the exclusive releases found on SNKRS and Confirmed, Foot Locker is a hidden gem where you can discover excellent sneakers at equally appealing prices. They offer a diverse selection of sneakers, including popular styles like the 1s, 4s, 5s, Forces, Dunks, and more, all of which make solid additions to any sneaker collection.
If you're not particularly concerned about the hype surrounding specific releases and simply desire a fantastic pair of sneakers, Foot Locker is the go-to destination. Don't underestimate the treasures that await you there—they have a range of options that cater to different tastes and preferences. Explore Foot Locker for great deals on quality footwear that will elevate your style.
Sole Retriever
- Perfect for discovering new sneakers
- Download Links: Apple Store / Google Play Store
When other apps fail to deliver on securing coveted new releases, Sole Retriever steps in to save the day. This platform excels at providing comprehensive access to sneaker information at a reasonable price. By joining Sole Retriever, you gain access to a wealth of valuable features. Stay updated with the latest news on sneaker drops, participate in sneaker raffles, and even get a glimpse of potential upcoming releases through sneaker leaks.
Sole Retriever is your go-to resource for discovering new sneakers and staying ahead of the game. With its quick and easy access to valuable sneaker information, this app is designed to enhance your sneaker experience and ensure you never miss out on the latest releases.
CoolKicks
- Ideal for purchasing sneakers
- Download Links: Apple Store / Google Play Store
While experiencing the full in-person shopping extravaganza at CoolKicks may be a remarkable and highly sought-after adventure (as depicted in their captivating videos), the next best option is to explore their app. With the CoolKicks app, you can access a wide range of exclusive sneakers at prices below the market value. Although it remains on our bucket list to visit CoolKicks in person, their app offers a convenient and exciting opportunity to indulge in sneaker shopping from the comfort of your own device.
In addition to the mentioned sneaker apps for buying, exploring, and researching, there are various other options available. However, the ones highlighted in this article were selected as the best choices. Whether you decide to utilize the apps mentioned here or explore alternatives, we genuinely hope that our roundup has provided you with valuable insights and assistance.
*curated from one37pm