eBay steps up authentication of high-end sneakers

Sneakerheads can have a new level of confidence in purchases they make on eBay. 

On the heels of similar fraud prevention initiatives aimed at luxury watches and sports memorabilia. eBay is expanding its “Authenticity Guarantee” service for sneaker sales on the platform. 

Through this program, all new and pre-owned collectible sneakers sold on eBay for over $100 in the U.S. will be fully vetted and verified by an independent team of industry experts. The service launches in October with the initial authentication of the most popular sneaker styles and brands on eBay, and will ramp up to include all $100-plus sneaker sales by early 2021. The launch of authentication for collectible sneakers also builds on eBay canceling selling fees on any sneaker purchase of $100 or more.

When a sneaker purchase is made, the seller ships it directly to eBay's independent third-party authentication facility for a comprehensive, multi-point physical inspection. An eBay tag, guaranteeing its authenticity is attached to the sneakers to finalize the process Following this assessment, the sneakers are sent via expedited shipping to the buyer.  

eBay has partnered with Sneaker Con to create a new facility which leverages industry authenticators, a checklist of product specifications, and processes to ensure accuracy and efficiency. Authentication includes rigorous inspection of the box, shoe, and accessories.

For sellers who choose to offer returns, a verified returns process ships products back directly to the authentication center, where third-party experts verify each item and its condition before returning to the seller.

"Authentication has become an expectation for today's consumers in categories of high passion and high value, and this program makes eBay the most attractive platform for enthusiasts in these categories," says Jordan Sweetnam, senior VP and GM of eBay North America. "eBay operates the world's most diverse sneaker marketplace – with the widest selection and best prices – and by removing any uncertainty with the buying process, our community can buy and sell with total confidence."