Buying Nike second hand: what should you check?

Second hand Nike can be a great way to find discontinued models, older colorways and sneakers at a lower price than new.

But every used pair is different.

Before buying, use this checklist.

Nike's journey from running shoes to sneaker culture

Nike's roots go back to Blue Ribbon Sports, founded by Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman in 1964. The company initially imported Japanese running shoes.

In the early 1970s, Nike began developing its own identity and products. Bill Bowerman's experiments with the waffle sole are one example of the company's early focus on solving performance problems through innovation.

Nike eventually became a major part of both sportswear and sneaker culture.

That is why older Nike models can remain desirable long after their original release.

10 things to check before buying

1. Authenticity

Make sure the retailer has a clear authentication process.

At Sneakershyllan, every product is authenticated before sale. Read more about the process here.

2. Size

Check the size of the actual pair and compare it with your own Nike sizing experience. Read our guide here.

3. Condition

Look at:

• outsole wear
• heel wear
• toe box
• upper
• insole
• laces
• stains
• discoloration
• cracks

Read more about Sneakershyllans conditions here

4. Cleaning

Second hand does not have to mean dirty.

Sneakershyllan cleans used sneakers before listing them for sale.

5. Price

Consider the model, condition, age, demand and availability.

6. Model

Make sure the product name and version match what you are looking for.

7. Original box

An original box can be useful, but it is not proof of authenticity.

8. Actual product photos

Make sure the photos show the actual pair being sold. Read more about how Sneakershyllans process is for photographing every pair here.

9. Returns

Always check the return policy before buying online.

Sneakershyllan offers a 14-day return policy.

10. Seller

A professional retailer can often provide more information about authentication, condition and cleaning than an anonymous private listing. Learn more about how to shop second hand online saftely here.

Frequently asked questions

Is buying Nike second hand worth it?

It can be, especially if you find the right model, size and condition at a fair price.

Are second hand Nike shoes authentic?

It depends on the seller. Sneakershyllan authenticates every product before sale. Read more about the process here.

Are used Nike shoes hygienic?

That depends on how they have been handled and cleaned. Sneakershyllan cleans used sneakers before resale.

Can I return Nike shoes bought online?

Sneakershyllan offers a 14-day return policy for online purchases.

Why are some Nike models only available in one pair?

Second hand inventory is often unique. Once that specific pair is sold, it may no longer be available.

Final checklist

Authenticity ✓
Size ✓
Condition ✓
Price ✓
Model ✓
Photos ✓
Cleaning ✓
Returns ✓

If everything checks out, you are ready to buy.

Explore second hand Nike at Sneakershyllan.