What Are the Most Profitable Sneakers to Flip?
In the world of sneaker reselling, flipping limited-edition sneakers has become a lucrative side hustle—and for some, a full-time business. The sneaker resale market has exploded in recent years, driven by hype culture, celebrity collaborations, and the exclusivity of certain releases. If you’re looking to get into the game or improve your current strategy, knowing which sneakers are the most profitable to flip is essential.
This article will explore the most profitable sneakers to flip in 2024 and beyond, the factors that contribute to a sneaker’s resale value, and how to identify opportunities in the ever-evolving sneaker market.
Why Do Sneakers Resell for So Much?
Before diving into specific models, it’s important to understand why certain sneakers become so valuable on the resale market. Several key factors drive up the value of a sneaker:
1. Limited Supply
Brands like Nike, Adidas, and Jordan Brand often release limited quantities of certain models to create hype and exclusivity. When demand exceeds supply, prices soar.
2. Celebrity and Designer Collaborations
Sneakers co-designed with celebrities, athletes, or high-end designers (e.g., Travis Scott, Pharrell Williams, or Off-White) tend to command higher prices due to their unique designs and the influence of their creators.
3. Cultural Relevance and Hype
Sneakers often transcend fashion and become cultural icons. Models associated with popular athletes, musicians, or trends can become highly sought after.
4. Condition and Size
Sneakers in deadstock (DS) condition—meaning they’ve never been worn and are in pristine condition—are more valuable. Additionally, rare sizes (especially women’s sizes or large men’s sizes) often sell for more.
5. Historical Significance
Some sneakers are tied to iconic moments in sports or pop culture. For example, Air Jordans worn by Michael Jordan in historic games or moments often become collectors’ items.
The Most Profitable Sneakers to Flip in 2024
Here’s a list of the most profitable sneakers to flip based on current market trends, historical performance, and upcoming releases.
1. Nike Air Jordan Series
The Air Jordan line remains one of the most consistently profitable in the resale market. Jordan Brand releases multiple models each year, many of which sell out within minutes and then command high prices on the secondary market.
Notable Models: Air Jordan 1 High OG “Chicago” – A classic colorway that never loses value. Air Jordan 34 “Last Dance” – Limited release tied to the “Last Dance” documentary. Air Jordan 1 x Travis Scott – One of the most valuable collaborations in recent years.Profit Potential: $300–$2,000+ depending on the model and condition.
2. Nike Dunk SB Series
Nike SB Dunks have made a massive comeback in recent years. Originally designed for skateboarding, these shoes have become a staple in streetwear culture.
Top Resellers: Nike SB Dunk Low “Pigeon” (2020) – Originally released in limited quantities in NYC. Nike SB Dunk Low “Freddy Krueger” – A fan-favorite horror-themed colorway. Nike SB Dunk Low “What The” – A mashup of multiple SB Dunk designs.Profit Potential: $200–$1,500+ per pair.
3. Adidas Yeezy Boost Series
Kanye West’s Yeezy brand, in partnership with Adidas, has produced some of the most profitable sneakers in the past decade. Although Kanye is no longer with Adidas, older Yeezy models still hold strong value.
Top Flips: Yeezy Boost 350 V2 “Zebra” Yeezy Boost 700 “Wave Runner” Yeezy Foam Runner “Alien”Profit Potential: $150–$1,000+ per pair, with select Foam Runners and Slides still commanding premium prices.
4. New Balance Collaborations
New Balance has emerged as a major player in the sneaker resale market thanks to high-quality materials and strategic collaborations.
Popular Models: New Balance 990v6 x Aimé Leon Dore – The latest in the iconic 990 series. New Balance 574 x Carhartt WIP – A rugged, utilitarian design that’s highly collectible. New Balance 1906R x Palace – A collaboration with the UK-based skate brand.Profit Potential: $100–$600+ per pair.
5. ASICS x Concepts
ASICS has been quietly making waves in the sneaker world with its collaborations, especially with Concepts, a Boston-based boutique.
Top Model: ASICS Gel-Lyte III “Tomoe” – Inspired by Japanese culture and sushi. ASICS Gel-Kayano 14 x Concepts “Kintsugi” – A beautiful design inspired by the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery.Profit Potential: $200–$1,000+ per pair.
6. Nike Air Max 97
The Nike Air Max 97 has seen a resurgence in popularity, especially with the rise of Y2K fashion trends.
Notable Releases: Nike Air Max 97 “Silver Bullet” – A sleek, futuristic design. Nike Air Max 97 “Metallic Gold” – Limited release with a luxurious finish.Profit Potential: $150–$800+ per pair.
7. Nike Air Force 1 x Travis Scott
Nike has released several collaborations with Travis Scott, but the Air Force 1 “Cactus Jack” stands out for its unique design and scarcity.
Key Features: Reverse Swoosh Hidden pocket in the tongue Limited release through pop-up eventsProfit Potential: $300–$1,200+ per pair.
8. Nike Air VaporMax x Fear of God
This collaboration between Nike and Jerry Lorenzo’s Fear of God brought minimalist design to the VaporMax silhouette.
Key Details: Monochromatic color palette Premium materials Extremely limited availabilityProfit Potential: $500–$2,000+ per pair.
9. Puma x Fenty by Rihanna
Rihanna’s Fenty brand brought a fresh perspective to Puma, and while the partnership ended, the sneakers remain highly collectible.
Top Models: Fenty x Puma Creeper “Shearling” Fenty x Puma Suede “Camo”Profit Potential: $200–$1,000+ per pair.
10. Off-White x Nike “The Ten”
Virgil Abloh’s collaboration with Nike remains one of the most iconic in sneaker history. While newer Off-White collabs have not matched the hype, the original “The Ten” collection continues to hold value.
Popular Models: Nike Air Jordan 1 x Off-White Nike Air VaporMax x Off-White Nike Blazer Mid x Off-WhiteProfit Potential: $1,000–$10,000+ per pair, especially for the original “The Ten” set.
How to Identify Profitable Sneakers to Flip
1. Follow Sneaker Release Calendars
Stay updated with upcoming releases from major brands like Nike, Adidas, and New Balance. Tools like Sneaker News, Hypebeast, and GOAT can help you track new drops.
2. Monitor Social Media and Influencers
Instagram, Twitter (X), and TikTok are powerful tools for gauging hype. Influencers and sneakerheads often highlight upcoming releases and collaborations that are likely to be in demand.
3. Use Sneaker Resale Platforms
Websites like StockX, GOAT, and eBay provide real-time data on sneaker prices and trends. Analyze recent sales to see which models are appreciating in value.
4. Join Sneaker Communities
Forums like Reddit’s r/Sneakers, KicksOnFire, and Sole Collector can provide insider tips on which sneakers to target.
5. Buy in Bulk and at Retail
If you can secure multiple pairs at retail price, you can maximize your profit margins. This often requires using multiple accounts, bots, or participating in in-store raffles.
Tips for Successful Sneaker Flipping
1. Start Small and Learn the Market
Don’t invest large sums upfront. Begin with lower-risk sneakers and build your knowledge and capital over time.
2. Protect Your Investment
Store your sneakers in a cool, dry place and keep the original packaging intact. Clean hands before handling shoes to avoid scuffing or staining.
3. Be Patient
Not every sneaker will sell immediately. Some may take weeks or months to appreciate in value. Know when to hold and when to sell.
4. Diversify Your Inventory
Don’t rely on just one brand or model. Diversify across different brands, collaborations, and styles to spread your risk.
5. Know the Fees
Resale platforms like StockX and GOAT charge seller fees (usually around 9.5%–15%). Factor these into your pricing strategy.
Conclusion
Sneaker flipping is more than just a hobby—it’s a business opportunity for those who understand the market, stay informed, and act strategically. From classic Air Jordans to exclusive collaborations, the right sneakers can generate substantial profits.
However, success in the sneaker resale market requires more than just buying limited shoes. It demands research, patience, and a keen eye for trends. By focusing on the most profitable sneakers to flip and staying ahead of the curve, you can build a profitable side hustle or even turn it into a full-time career.
Whether you’re a seasoned flipper or just starting out, the key is to stay informed, stay organized, and always be ready to act when the next big drop hits.
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