The global sneaker resale market is growing at an impressive pace.
Cowen & Co. estimates that by 2025 it could reach the $6 billion mark. On major online marketplaces such as StockX and Stadium Goods, popular sneaker models can resell up to $20,000. Online luxury retailer The RealReal analyzed data from 2019 to rank the most valuable sneakers for resale.
The Air Force 1 MoMA Low sneakers, created in collaboration between Nike and Off-White, took the first place in the ranking, costing about $175 in retail chains. At resale, they were priced at an average of $3750. Experts note that the collaboration of the largest sports brand with Virgil Abloh "changed the sneaker landscape forever", blurring the lines between luxury and streetwear.
Second in the ranking were The Ten Air Jordan Chicago 1 sneakers, also a collaboration between Nike and Off-White. With a combination of iconic colorways and silhouette, this model was one of the most popular in 2019. At a cost of $190, they were resold for an average of $3450.
The top three in the list of the most valuable sneakers is closed by another Nike model. The Mars Yard 2.0, a collaboration with artist Tom Sachs, is considered one of the top models of the decade and has a resale value of $3000 with a starting retail price of $200.
The Air Yeezy Red October, designed for Nike by Kanye West, is priced at $250 at retail, but experts estimate its resale value at $3250. It was the third color of the second collaboration model with the musician before he started working with adidas.
Launched in 2004 at the height of the SB line, the Nike Dunk High Pro UNKLE SB cost only $70. Collaborated with trip-hop group UNKLE's Mo' Wax record label and adorned with artwork by graffiti artist Futura, the sneakers cost an average of $836.5 on resale.
In sixth place was the Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG Travis Scott, an iconic shoe reimagined through a collaboration with trap artist Travis Scott.
The best among the rest in the top were the Off White x Converse Chuck Taylor 2018 Chuck Taylor All Star Hi sneakers, an interesting interpretation of the iconic model included in Virgil Abloh's "The Ten" collection. It's worth mentioning that the Converse brand is owned by Nike.
Most adidas collaborations with Kanye West tend to be among the hottest releases of the year. The limited edition Yeezy 350 Boost V2 Black Static Reflective in black was resold for almost $1900.
Closes the rating of the most valuable sneakers is another Nike model. These sneakers are from the "The Ten" collection, released in 1990 by designer Tinker Hatfield. On resale, they are valued at $1345. It is believed that the inspiration for creating a model with a translucent sole was the exterior of the Center Pompidou in Paris.
