Comparing KICKS CREW to Sneaker Resale Websites
One of the brightest minds of our generation, Big Worm from the movie Friday, said, "Playing with my money is like playing with my emotions." Combine that maxim with how serious sneakerheads are with our purchases, and it is understandable why we are skeptical about buying from relatively unknown stores.
In the past, I have only purchased sneakers directly from brands' websites or on the resale websites StockX and GOAT. However, my interest was piqued when speaking with Portland TrailBlazers point guard Damian Lillard last fall about his investment in an up-and-coming platform called KICKS CREW.
Is KICKS CREW Legit?
KICKS CREW launched in 2021 as a digital marketplace for sneakers, apparel, and accessories. The platform differentiates itself from competitors in a few key ways. First, there is no second-hand selling. Everything sold on the website and the app comes from authorized retailers.
Secondly, over 80% of its sellers are outside the US. The merchandise comes from Korea, Taiwan, Japan, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. This global reach creates the widest selection at competitive prices for customers.
To ensure authenticity, all purchases made on the platform must pass through KICKS CREW for a quality control check. So, in sum, it's similar to other platforms when it comes to the authentication process but different because the sneakers, apparel, and accessories come from stores and boutiques instead of resellers.
KICKS CREW Shopping Experience
After speaking with Lillard and conducting my own research, I was ready to take the plunge. With summer quickly approaching, I wanted some light-colored, low-top sneakers.
I downloaded the app, which I found to be user-friendly and straightforward. But it was not quite up to par with its competitors (at this time). For example, after sorting the inventory by price (low to high), the lowest listing appears, not the lowest in the selected size.
The first result for the Nike Dunk Low to populate was the 'Arizona State' colorway which reads "From US$82," which is true but is actually $161 in size 13 after clicking the link. Unfortunately, the same issue exists on the website. It's not a dealbreaker by any means, but it makes the process slightly more cumbersome.
To the credit of KICKS CREW, the prices are still very competitive, and the selection is wide-ranging. I found a pair of Nike Dunk Lows in the 'Grey Fog' colorway at a good price and decided to make the purchase.
KICKS CREW Buying Experience
Purchasing the shoes through the app was seamless. In addition to taxes, there was a $35 shipping fee. But then the waiting game begins. First, the order must be confirmed by the seller, then fulfilled by the seller (tracking numbers are usually provided within 7-10 business days.
Eventually, the seller ships to a KICKS CREW facility, where the shoes must pass a quality control check. After that process, the order finally sends the shoes to the buyer.
In my experience, the entire process took about two weeks. That isn't bad, but it is longer than its competitors. However, you often get what you pay for in life. I like the idea of my shoes coming from a boutique rather than a sneaker reseller's closet.
Final Grades
As a son of two public school teachers, I must grade everything. In this case, I am giving KICKS CREW an "A." It is a new platform that is still improving and offers a lot of promise for the future. But most importantly, it is trustworthy and consumer-friendly right now.
The company's COO/Co-Founder, Ross Yip, has already built a solid foundation and has some exciting ideas for the future. You may not always find the best deals on KICKS CREW, but it is absolutely worth downloading the app, price-shopping, and searching for rare sneakers before making any purchase.
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