What exact model and size?
Ask for model name, colourway, product code and photos of both size labels. Check that codes, production dates and sizes fit each other and the official model.
Productcheck 08
Used trainers:
identify and inspect them.
A pair can look fresh in photos while hiding collapsed cushioning, uneven heel wear or a counterfeit model. A careful inspection reveals more than stains and loose laces.
L·RCompare bothwear and shape
10Walking testminutes to try them
Take your timeInspect each shoe separately and walk in them for at least ten minutes
Bring alongYour socks, official model photos and a torch
Pay particular attention toAuthenticity, sole wear, cushioning, smell and fit
Before you leave
Ask these questions first.
Ask about exact model, size, use and origins. Clear photos of size labels, outsoles, heels, toes and interiors often reveal more than a photo of the box.
How and how often were they worn?
Ask about daily use, sport, rain or occasional wear. Intensive running stresses soles and cushioning differently from ordinary use.
Have they been repaired or washed?
Ask about glued soles, replacement insoles, touched-up paint, stitched tears and machine washing. These are not automatic deal-breakers, but can temporarily hide damage.
What is included?
Ask about original box, receipt, extra laces and accessories. These do not prove authenticity, but missing or inconsistent details can be warnings.
The hardest risks to spot
Authenticity and wear
assess them together.
A serial number, box or selling platform alone is never sufficient proof. Inspect construction, materials, labels, symmetry and wear patterns together.
Compare with the official model
Check product code, colour layout, logos, fonts, sole pattern, lace holes and seams. Look for messy glue or obvious left-right differences. Good counterfeits can copy genuine codes.
Inspect the outsole from heel to toe
Place shoes side by side. Smooth tread, uneven wear or a leaning heel reveals intensity and gait. Check loose edges and deep cracks too.
Check cushioning springs back
Press matching parts of each midsole and compare resistance. Deep wrinkles, hard or mushy areas and permanent deformation may mean worn cushioning despite a tidy upper.
Check interior and smell
Remove loose insoles and inspect with a light for holes, water marks, mould, sand and worn heel lining. Strong mustiness, perfume or wet interiors can be hard to remedy and irritate skin.
Inspect the whole product
Six components to inspect every time.
Outsole & tread
Inspect tread, forefoot pivot areas, heel edges and glue seams. Compare sides. A sole should flex where the foot bends without opening or folding in odd places.
Midsole & cushioning
Look for deep wrinkles, cracks, discolouration, crumbling foam and permanent indentations. Press matching areas and set shoes on a flat table to reveal leaning.
Upper & seams
Inspect toes, creases, stitching, mesh, leather and reinforcements. Look for holes, dried material, repainting, loose seams and glue that opens with gentle flexing.
Heel & lining
Check the heel counter is firm and symmetrical. Look inside for worn-through fabric, sharp edges and flattened padding. Damage here causes blisters and is hard to repair neatly.
Labels, laces & details
Compare size labels and codes. Check quality and placement of logos, eyelets, tongue, laces and accessories. Differences warrant investigation rather than proving anything alone.
Insoles & interior
Remove insoles if this causes no damage. Check size, wear, moisture, smell and underneath. Replacement insoles can be fine but may hide wear or altered fit.
The quick practical test
Ten minutes of fitting and walking.
Try both shoes with your usual socks. Feet differ and previous wear may have shaped each differently. Do not buy solely by the labelled size.
- 01
Minutes 1–2 — try them carefully
Loosen laces, step straight into both shoes and lace normally. Check toe space, width, instep and heel. Toes should not press against the front and feet should not feel numb.
- 02
Minutes 3–4 — stand and compare
Balance weight on both feet and rock from heel to forefoot. Compare height, cushioning, stability and pressure. Use a mirror to check both heels stay straight.
- 03
Minutes 5–7 — walk and turn
Walk on a clean surface, turn and roll through your step gently. Listen for cracking or sticking. Feel for heel slip, shifting soles or either shoe forcing your foot inward or outward.
- 04
Minutes 8–10 — inspect again
Remove shoes and check feet for red or painful areas. Look for seams or sole edges opening further and smells becoming stronger with warmth.
!
Do not buy if...
Four reasons to walk away.
- 01Codes, labels, finish and colours conflict, or the seller prevents comparison with official information.
- 02Soles separate, foam crumbles, deep cracks appear or one shoe leans noticeably.
- 03You see mould or persistent moisture, smell strong mustiness or feel sharp interior damage.
- 04The seller refuses careful inspection of both shoes and insoles or a normal fitting and walking test.
Checking mode
Tick off points during
your viewing.
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points checked
Your progressTake your time with the list. Good looks and a known brand reveal little about cushioning, hygiene, fit or authenticity.
This check reduces the risk of a poor purchase but cannot guarantee authenticity or remaining life. If unsure, use a trusted authentication service or a seller with buyer protection. Clean worn trainers according to material instructions before use; harsh cleaning can damage glue, leather and cushioning.