eBay has expanded its Authenticity Guarantee service to select Jordan and Yeezy sneakers sold on its site.
The resale platform recently announced that all new Jordan and Yeezy styles sold for over $150 in the U.S. on eBay.com will now be inspected and verified by experts. Here’s how the process works. When a sneaker purchase is made, the seller will send the pair directly to eBay’s authentication facility, where an expert — which has been selected in partnership with Sneaker Con, a leading industry expert in sneaker authentication — will asses the condition of the product and confirm its consistent with the title, description and images provided in the original listing. Once verified, the product will be fastened with a digitally-compatible eBay Authenticity Guarantee tag and sent via expedited shipping to the buyer.
The buyer can then view authenticity details of the purchased pair by holding an NFC-enabled device (most smartphones qualify) near the tag. A blue check mark and “Authenticity Guarantee” will also appear beside a seller’s item on the listing page.
And as an added bonus for sellers who choose to offer returns, eBay’s authentication program also includes a verified return process. Returns are shipped back directly to the authentication center, where the experts verify the product and assess its condition before returning it to the seller.
One of the best parts of the program, however, is that it’s completely free for participating buyers and sellers. For a limited time, eBay covers all costs of the authentication process, as well as three-day shipping from the authentication facility to the buyer. Sellers also enjoy 0% final value fees — which eBay traditionally charges all sellers when their items are purchased — on sneakers that are eligible for the Authenticity Guarantee.
While brands eligible for the program are currently limited, eBay says by 2021 it plans to extend its service to Nike and Adidas sneakers priced at $100 and all new and used collectible sneakers sold for $100 and over.
eBay’s authentication program initially debuted in September for every watch sold over $2,000 on eBay.com in the U.S. The latest expansion of the service is set to be a huge win for marketplace, which has become a go-to destination for rare and unique sneakers thanks to its breadth of inventory and competitive listing prices. According to 2019 sales data provided by eBay, the company sells millions of sneakers each year, making it one of the largest channels to buy and sell kicks.
Check out some standout sneakers styles you can find on the platform, below.
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 Zyon
You can nab the “Zyon” colorway of the popular Yeezy 350 V2 silhouette on eBay starting at $230. Pairs from a variety of sellers have been verified by eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee, so you can rest assured you’re getting the real deal. The style, which sits atop a full-length Boost midsole and rubber outsole, features a light brown Primeknit upper with a bold black stripe across the lateral side.
Air Jordan 9 Retro University Blue
Also marked with eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee, dozens of Air Jordan 9 shoes are unworn and come in sizes for men and kids (women should convert sizes accordingly). The ninth shoe in Michael Jordan’s signature line features a clean white leather upper with a “diamond” motif on medial and lateral sides, as well as accents on the sole inspired by University of North Carolina — His Airness’ alma mater.
Reebok Classics Men’s Question Mid Men’s Basketball Shoes
Allen Iverson’s iconic silhouette features a satiny textile upper and ample cushioning for comfort both on and off the court. Bids for the style start at just $78 (to compare, the pair originally sold on Reebok.com for $140).
New Balance Men’s 574 Shoes Blue with Red
This classic New Balance style is available in range of colorways on eBay.com, with some versions on sale for up to 53% off. The blue and red colorway adds a subtle patriotic twist to any outfit, and is a fitting tribute to the brand itself (which makes all of its shoes in America).
Nike Men’s Air Force 1 Low White University Red
A red-colored midsole, Swoosh logo and heel tab give this iconic silhouette a bold twist. The shoes are perfect for amping up your off-duty wardrobe and keeping you comfortable throughout your day. Prices for new versions of the style start at $90; you can also buy a pre-worn pair for just $30.
