Did you know the world’s most expensive sneakers are Michael Jordans 1998 NBA Finals Air Jordan 13 sneakers which recently sold for a whopping $2.2 million? Fortunately, you can get fantastic sneakers that look and feel great on your feet for a lot less than that!
But before you start shopping, there are some common errors in buying sneakers online that you should know about. Making these mistakes could end up costing you time and money, leading to you becoming unnecessarily frustrated and stressed when you should be enjoying the sneaker-buying experience.
We’re going to tell you all about these missteps, ensuring you can get a terrific pair of sneakers without getting a headache.
Here are 7 typical sneaker-buying errors that trip up online customers.
1. Buying Fake Sneakers
You’ll want to buy the genuine article when it comes to your new sneakers, but there are plenty of online sellers who would think nothing of selling you counterfeit products.
To avoid purchasing from an online sneaker store that is run by dishonest sellers, look for factors that would suggest their company is illegitimate. This could include them having a large number of spelling mistakes on their sneaker store website or the company not responding to emails when you get in touch. They may also offer sneakers at unrealistically low prices that are not matched by their competitors.
Should you have any suspicions that a sneaker retailer may be a scammer, it’s best to look for another site that looks more professional and honest.
2. Failing to Check Sizing
You may find different sneaker sizes listed by an online retailer based on which country you’re from. For example, the sizing guide in the US is different from that in Australia, but a seller may provide options for residents of both countries to see the sizes in their home format.
Should you accidentally buy a sneaker based on the size guide used by a different country, you’ll receive the wrong size for your feet. Taking an extra moment to confirm you’re reading the right size chart can save you from having to return your new sneakers as soon as they arrive.
3. Not Reading Customer Reviews
Reading customer reviews can provide you with a wealth of information you might not be able to glean from a website. You might learn that lots of customers find particular types of sneakers to be uncomfortable when worn for long periods of time. Or it could be that some sneakers tend to fall apart quickly and don’t offer value for money.
By forearming yourself with this knowledge, you can rule out buying certain sneakers and maybe buy a pair that you previously wouldn’t have considered.
4. Choosing Style Over Comfort
We all want to look amazing in a new pair of sneakers, but this shouldn’t come at the expense of comfort. There is also no need for this to happen, as there are plenty of sneakers that offer both. You can get excellent support for your feet and the colors and styles that you want at affordable prices, and if you want to see the best options, check these out.
5. Not Checking the Shipping Costs
The price you see listed beside a pair of sneakers on a website will not include the shipping cost. However, a retailer should have a page listing the prices charged to deliver to different regions, making it easy for you to work out the final cost of buying and shipping your sneakers.
Having this information will allow you to calculate which sneakers are within your budget.
6. Not Reading the Exchange Policy
There may be times when you need to exchange your sneakers, and this most often occurs when the sizing isn’t quite right. Alternatively, you may have seen a different pair on the website that you now prefer over the ones you’ve already ordered.
The exchange policy may not be the most interesting thing you can find to read, but it is important. Should a company not accept exchanges, this could leave you stuck with a pair of sneakers that don’t fit or that you no longer want.
This is unlikely if you’re shopping with a retailer who values its customers, but this doesn’t apply to every business. You should be able to find a seller’s exchange policy on their website, but if not, you can email their customer service team and ask for a copy.
7. Making Impulse Buys
It can be tempting to make an instant purchase when you see a pair of sneakers that you love. But you could spend more money than you can afford or decide a few days later that you don’t need new sneakers.
Instead of making an impulse buy, take a little bit of time to consider if the sneakers you’ve just seen are the ones you want. You can also spend a moment comparing sneaker prices, which could result in you saving yourself a few dollars.
Being patient when buying sneakers can help you make better decisions that you won’t regret.
Avoid These Common Errors in Buying Sneakers Online
You can now sidestep these common errors in buying sneakers online and get a fabulous pair at a good price. Remember to check that your preferred online retailer is reputable, that you’re choosing the right size of sneakers, and that you’re not buying on a rash impulse. It’s also helpful to read customer reviews to find out more about the sneakers you’re thinking of buying.
You’re no doubt eager to buy a new pair of sneakers, but check out more posts in our Lifestyle & Health section before you go.
