words // Zac Dubasik
Today we took a look at some of the most expensive sneakers money can buy. And while many of us aren't spending four figures on sneakers, paying $500 or $600 these days is nothing shocking. Whether it's the latest exclusive LeBron release that's been snatched up by resellers, or something from a high-end designer, what's realistic to pay for a sneaker is constantly climbing. But how would you rather spend the money? Let's look at why each one costs what it does.
With a high-end sneaker, you're paying for a variety of things. Even if the brand is unknown to the masses, and the shoes lack logos, there's no doubt you are paying a premium for the name. But you're also paying for a shoe made in a first-world country, with materials that the traditional sneaker world can't come close to matching. On the downside, despite having far superior quality and workmanship, high-end sneakers rarely go up in value, and can often be found on sale for a fraction of their original price.
On the other hand, when buying from a reseller at a premium price, you are largely paying for demand and hype. While the retail price of a hyped sneaker may serve as a starting point for its resale price, that amount is largely determined by how limited the release was, and how much hype has built up. The quality of a release like this is no better (and often worse, like in the case of many retros) than a less hyped release, which means you aren't getting a lot for your money. But on the bright side, shoes like this can hold their value, and even increase in price.
So, if you were to find an extra $600 laying around, and had to use it on sneakers, how would you rather spend it? Vote in the poll, and let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Retail
Resale
Retail
Resale
