Shoes lead the litbuy sneakers spreadsheet in volume. This deep dive covers what to know before buying.
Family 1: Retro runners
Examples: Nike Air Force 1, New Balance 550, Adidas Samba.
Sizing: true to size.
QC coverage: deepest of any family.
Reject rate: 5-7%.
Best for: first sneaker order.
Family 2: Chunky trainers
Sizing: runs half a size wide.
Reject rate: 8-12%.
Family 3: Low-top skate
Sizing: runs narrow in toe box.
Reject rate: 6-9%.
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Family 4: Basketball retros
Sizing: varies by decade.
Reject rate: 10-15%.
Four-axis sneaker QC
- Toe box stitching symmetry.
- Outsole tread pattern versus retail.
- Colorway under daylight cross-check.
- Insole branding alignment.
Sizing math for US 10 buyer
- Retro runners: order US 10.5.
- Chunky trainers: order US 9.5.
- Low-top skate: order US 10.5 (size up if wide-footed).
- Basketball retros: check per-decade.
Cost by family
- Retro runners: US$60-100.
- Chunky trainers: US$80-130.
- Low-top skate: US$50-85.
- Basketball retros: US$70-140.
What to read next
For Jordan-specific rotation, see the Jordan buying guide. Score sneaker QC with the warehouse photo guide.
Return to our litbuy Spreadsheet homepage for the full library of guides and the latest sheets.
Frequently asked questions
Which silhouette is safest?
Retro runners. Deep community QC, low reject rates (5-7%).
Which is riskiest?
Basketball retros. Highest reject rate (10-15%) due to complex paint separation.
How does Asian sizing work?
Runs half a size below US on labels. Adjust per family.
What is the cost range?
US$50-140 per pair pre-shipping.
Should sneakers be first order?
No. Save for order 2-3 after calibrating on green tier.
What are the recurring sneaker litbuy finds?
Understated colorways of Nike retros from proven factories dominate long-term rotations.
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