eBay Cracks Down on Sneaker Counterfeits With “Authenticity Guarantee” Program

By implementing this new certification system, eBay has become the best place to buy sneakers online

By Brandt Ranj

Brandt Ranj

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March 1, 2021

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eBay Sneaker Authenticity Guarantee Program

eBay

There are no shortage of places online where you can pick up a new pair of sneakers, but these days, true sneakerheads are turning to eBay for authentic, hard-to-find kicks.

Among sneakerheads eBay is already a go-to site for sneakers. On any given day, eBay’s listings hold a treasure trove of popular sneaker brands, from old school Jordans to grail-worthy Yeezys and everything in between. The best new release sneakers can be found on eBay too, even when they’ve quickly sold out in stores.

See current selection of sneakers on eBay here

And while the growing sneaker market — and growing number of limited releases — has led to a rise in fake goods, sneakerheads worried about scammers or counterfeits can rest easy, thanks to eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee, a new program providing free professional authentication and secure delivery.

With the new program, each pair undergoes a multi-point inspection from a team of “qualified, professional authenticators” from Sneaker Con. This authentication team inspects both the shoes and box to verify their legitimacy and condition. The process includes checking the physical condition of every part of the sneaker, from its structure and materials to tags and logos.

Brands like Jordan, Nike, Yeezy,, and adidas all currently fall under the “Authenticity Guarantee,” with plans to expand the program to all collectible sneakers above $100 (both new and used) this year.

Each pair that passes inspection receives an NFC (near-field communication) enabled tag that is securely attached to the sneaker. If you hold your phone near the tag, you’ll get a full authenticity report providing details of your shoes. The verification process will take place within two days of the shoes reaching Sneaker Con, and eBay will cover the cost of three-day shipping to you. If shoes fail inspection, they’ll be sent back to the seller.

eBay Sneaker Authenticity Guarantee Program

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You’ll see an  eBay Authenticity Guarantee badge on any shoes that qualify for this service. The company’s crackdown on fraud is laudable, as limited runs of sneakers can sell out in minutes, which has led to a huge market of knockoffs as sellers try to capitalize on the demand.

As the original sneaker marketplace, eBay is uniquely positioned to launch this extensive program. It’s always been a trusted source for shoes, but eBay’s “Authenticity Guarantee” adds some extra peace of mind. If you want to make a return (each individual seller has the option to offer this or not), your shoes will be sent back through eBay’s authentication process to verify their condition.

While many sneaker collectors are using eBay as a starting point for sourcing new additions to their shelf, we shop on eBay when we’re looking for a pair of sneakers to actually wear, too. It’s actually pretty easy to find a pair of name-brand shoes, often for less than what you’d pay at the department stores. Since eBay lets you name your own price, you’re in control of the buying experience, offering you much greater value than settling for marked up prices at physical stores or other sites online.

Sneaker authentication is free for a limited time, but eBay’s commitment to this initiative signifies the online marketplace is taking a serious, long term approach to improving its sneaker offerings.

If you want to get your hands on a new pair of Yeezys or Jordans, but don’t want the risk of getting ripped off, check out eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee. You’ll get exactly what you’re looking for without having to worry.

Learn More About eBay’s Sneaker Authenticity Guarantee

Here are some of the top sneakers brands and styles we’ve spotted on eBay:

1. Air Jordan 5 Off-White Sail

A classic through and through, this pair of Air Jordans features the signature red, off-white (“muslin”) and black colorway, plus the Jumpman logo on the tongue and 23 number on the side. The chunky silhouette and detailed sole make this a winner both on — and off — the court.

Air Jordan 5 Off-White Sail, see latest price at eBay.com

2. Nike SB Dunk Chunky Dunky

This Nike collaboration with ice cream brand Ben & Jerry’s sold out immediately after launching last year. The traditional SB silhouette is updated with colors that mimic the Ben & Jerry’s pint packaging, while the a drip design on the Nike swoosh adds to the ice cream motif.

Nike SB Dunk x Ben & Jerry’s Chunky Dunky, see latest price at eBay.com

3. Yeezy Boost 700 V3 Arzareth

Few people have captured the sneaker market’s attention quite like Kanye West, and this completely re-imagined version of his popular Yeezy Boost sneaker has been an instant hit since its release. It’s bold, futuristic, and statement-making — just like the rapper’s aesthetic himself.

Yeezy Boost 700 V3 Arzareth, see latest price on eBay.com

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