eBay Authenticity Guarantee for Kids Sneakers

eBay UK is extending the ‘Authenticity Guarantee’ program to children, as 86% of parents want to warm their children’s feet by buying branded sneakers. With searches for popular styles like Nike Dunks for kids up nearly 140% on eBay in the last year, children’s models are becoming an increasingly important part of the sneaker theme. The term ‘Mini Me” is also apt, as New Balance’s resurgent popularity across the sneaker industry also applies to kids, with searches for the brand up 100% month-over-month on the marketplace. eBay’s expert team of sneaker authenticators will review and verify the most popular brands of freshly packaged and used children’s sneakers valued at more than $100 on the platform to ensure timely and high-quality verification. This includes pairs for infants/toddlers from size 1 and preschoolers and elementary school children up to size 6. As a sneakerhead, the guarantee of authentication is key, no matter what age or shoe size you are. On eBay we’re seeing more parents flock to kit their kids out with the latest drops and even purchase matching pairs for themselves. Passion for sneakers is passed down through the generations of a family, and I’d like to think sneaker collections will be the next modern family heirloom. As these smaller sizes boom we want to make sure they receive the exact same trust and gold plated service through our ‘Authenticity Guarantee’ programme. – Wahaaj Shabbir, Head of Sneakers, eBay UK   The move comes at a time when the designer sneaker and street-wear market is undergoing a demographic and economic shift, with the global children’s footwear market expected to grow by $5.3 billion by 2026. While the value of children’s trainers continues to rise, 68% of parents spend more on their children’s fashion than their own, and 85% of parents also look for authentication when purchasing designer fashion for children to ensure quality and peace of mind. This announcement is the latest innovation in eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee programme, which already includes trainers, watches and luxury handbags for adults. Additional categories are expected to be added to the programme, and eBay hopes to continue to drive growth in high-value categories as a trusted marketplace for reselling luxury and quality goods.  

How does the ‘authenticity guarantee’ for sneakers work?

When you buy a sneaker, the seller sends it directly to eBay’s Authenticity Center, where it undergoes a comprehensive, multi-step inspection by independent inspectors. After this rigorous testing, the sneakers are sent to the buyer via express shipping. Other details include:

1. Proof of Authentication:

upon receipt of the sneakers, the independent inspector confirms that they match the listing title, description, and images, and then performs a multi-step physical authenticity check. An eBay tag embedded in the NFC chip technology is applied to guarantee authenticity and complete the process, increasing confidence in collectability and resale value.

2. Expert Authentication:

eBay’s experts, a solid checklist of product specifications, and world-class processes ensure accuracy and efficiency. By rigorously inspecting the packaging, shoe, and accessories, Authentication underscores eBay’s commitment to giving buyers exactly what they want.

3. Verified Returns:

For sellers who want to offer returns, eBay’s shoe authenticity verification program ensures that the exact item originally sold is returned to the seller through a verified returns process. Returns are sent directly to the Authentication Centre, where experts verify each item and its condition before returning it to the seller.