Why are some sneakers so expensive?

Sneakers are more than just shoes. Today, sneakers have long ceased to be just sports shoes. For many, they have become a collectible, a way of self-expression and even an investment.

Some models cost a few hundred euros, while others sell for tens of thousands. And it's not just about the materials or quality of production.

Popularity creates value

The value of sneakers is greatly influenced by their history.

The price can be increased by:

• collaborations with famous artists;
• legendary athletes;
• films and music culture;
• limited collections;
• iconic moments in the history of brands.

That is why models associated with Michael Jordan, Travis Scott, Off-White or other iconic collaborations often cost several times more than regular releases.

One of the main factors is the number of pairs released.

If a brand produces only a few thousand or even a few hundred pairs worldwide, demand almost always exceeds supply.

That is why after the official release, many models are instantly sold out, and finding them in stores becomes almost impossible.

For collectors, such releases become real trophies.

How is the price formed after the release?

After the sneakers are sold out in official stores, they go to the resale market.

This is where special platforms, such as ours, work, where owners can sell their pairs to other buyers.

It is important to understand that the prices on these sites are not set by Nike, adidas or New Balance.

They are determined by the sellers themselves depending on:

• demand;
• the number of available pairs;
• size;
• the condition of the sneakers;
• the popularity of the model.

If there are many people who want to buy, but there are few offers, the price increases. If demand falls or there are more sellers, the cost gradually decreases.

In fact, it works on the same principle as any other market: the price is formed by the ratio of supply and demand.

Example: Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1

One of the most striking examples of expensive sneakers is the Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low OG "Reverse Mocha" and "Mocha".

After the official release, these models were instantly sold out, and within a few hours they appeared on resale platforms at a price that was several times higher than the retail price.

Why did this happen?

• very limited edition;
• Travis Scott's immense popularity;
• recognizable inverted Swoosh;
• high demand among collectors and fans of the brand;
• constant interest in all Travis Scott x Jordan collaborations.

It is the combination of these factors that has made the models one of the most valuable modern sneakers. Even a few years after the release, many pairs continue to cost several times more than their original price on the secondary market.