Even though we may not regularly consign our sneakers, investing in a new designer pair certainly feels more justifiable when we know the value. Buying pre-owned shoes, or even unworn styles with the tags still in tact, is a smart way to shop — and not only because it's a sustainable commitment [1]. Usually, the luxury kicks that are being resold have soared in popularity, occasionally selling for even more than the original price.
We talked to Sean Conway, Sneaker and Streetwear Expert at The RealReal [2], who offered some tips for those who collect sneakers as a hobby. "When it comes to buying sneakers, check resale value first to better understand what sneakers, styles, and colorways hold value. When you've made your sneaker purchase, it's always smart to keep the collateral, as original boxes and tags can increase resale value. For example, previously worn pairs sell for 34 percent more on average with the original tag, box, or dust bag."
Conway confirmed that hyped sneaker collabs are searched more than ever, with Jordans [3] spiking 48 percent last year, following ESPN's documentary series The Last Dance [4]. He provided us with a list of shoes worth consigning in 2021 to earn back your dollars.
Meanwhile, Enzo Metroz, Vestiaire Collective's Streetwear Category Manager, broke down the site's own highest selling designer sneaks by model, giving us even better insight as to what's hot right now.
We pulled all of this data together and came up with a list of 10 sneakers that might as well be referred to as golden treasure in the year 2021. "These specific models have seen a significant increase in sales globally toward the end of 2020. On average, 30 percent sell the same week that they are listed on our app. We've also seen an increase in the average sales price, which is a good indicator that they are highly desirable and frequently hard to find on the first-hand market, so buyers are willing to spend more," Metroz said.
Ahead, check out the top 10 most precious kicks — and if you're looking to resell them, now is the time.
Off-White x Nike Sneakers
The RealReal confirms that Off-White x Nike sneakers are selling for up to 2,158 percent of retail value! We love the pale yellow colorway of the Off-White x Nike Sneakers Vapor Street Sneakers [6] ($200) in particular.
Jordan Sneakers
Jordan brand sneakers [7] are truly in a league of their own, selling for up to 814 percent of retail value. But Travis Scott's collab has bubbled up recently. The Jordan Air Jordan 1 High OG TS SP Travis Scott [8] ($2,575) are a prized possession.
Nike Air Max Sneakers
The Nike Air Max 90 Women's Shoe [9] ($120), which is shoppable in an abundance of styles, sells for up to 809 percent of retail value, making them worth the $100+ investment.
Acne Studios Manhattan Sneakers
If you're in the market for a chunky white sneaker, the Acne Studios Manhattan [10] ($470) should prove valuable later on. In fact, Vestiaire Collective reports the shoe has highest resell value for 2021.
Dior B23 High Top Sneakers
Dior has seen great success with its high-tops. The B23 Sneaker [11] ($1,100) is a prime example, but the Walk'n'dior and D-connect are valuable in their own right, too.
Louis Vuitton Sneakers
Both The RealReal and Vestiaire Collective report Louis Vuitton as a big brand for sneakers right now (The RealReal confirms these usually sell for 231 percent of retail value). The LV Runner, Louis Vuitton Aftergame [12] ($1,010), Luxembourg, and Beverly Hills styles come out on top.
Gucci Sneakers
Yes really, these vintage Gucci Peggy Trainers [13] ($361), with their hefty platform and all, are still popular for resale. Vestiaire counts the Screener, Rhyton, and Ace as popular silhouettes too.
Yeezy x Adidas Sneakers
We're sure you're not surprised that Yeezy made this list. Sneaks like the Yeezy Boost 700 Wave Runners [14] ($600) sell for up to a whopping 543 percent of retail price!
Balenciaga Speed Sneakers
While Balenciaga maintains a trio of popular styles, according to Vestiaire collective, the Speed Sneaker [15] ($795) — you know, the ones that look like socks — are on top. The Track shoe and Triple S are also pretty buzzy pairs.
Isabel Marant Beth Sneakers
What simple low-top has the highest resale value right now? The Isabel Marant Beth Sneaker [16] ($385), which comes with easy velcro.