The difference between cheap and expensive sneakers

A lot is said about why we choose ours sneakers while there are so many identical copies on the market. If you like an expensive pair of shoes, like these VEJA Esplar sneakers, which cost $150 – and you want to find a cheaper option, another brand is likely selling a nearly identical pair for less – like these MIA Italia sneakerswhich cost about $50.

But what exactly is the difference between a more expensive sneaker and a cheaper one? We spoke to a marketing expert, the founder of a shoe brand, and a professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) to determine what the difference actually is between a pair of $50 and $150 sneakers.

“For the most part, more expensive sneakers tend to use higher-quality materials and advanced construction techniques, which in turn can extend the life of the sneaker,” he explains. Jill Topola famous fashion stylist and professor at FIT. “But [comfort] is a completely different animal.”

Topol says that because she has wide feet, certain higher-end sneaker styles that are extremely well made and stylish may feel uncomfortable on her but comfortable on someone with a narrower foot. “There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to sneakers. It is always a good idea to read online reviews from previous customers before making a purchase.”

“More expensive sneakers usually have an outsole made of higher quality materials, such as rubber, which provide better cushioning properties for longer, because an increased rubber percentage makes them a bit firmer and heavier, which is better for long-term comfort. and the overall lifespan of shoes,” he explains Anna Bairda podiatrist turned entrepreneur and founder of Bared Footwear.

At a glance, the $150 VEJA sneakers and the nearly $50 MIA pair are essentially identical. “For a moment I thought it was the same brand, until I realized the V was upside down on the cheaper MIAs,” Topol said. “If you’re not fashion conscious, chances are you’ll be fooled into thinking you’re getting a bargain on a luxury sneaker, but that’s about where the similarities end.”

While the $150 VEJAs are made of leather from Uruguay and Brazil with a recycled polyester lining, the $50 MIAs have a synthetic upper and lining. “Leather usually molds better to your feet and is usually more comfortable,” Topol explains. She said it is clear that the MIA sneakers are not made of leather, based on the low star reviews they have received.

“The main complaint is that they hurt your feet. No surprise there. But what might surprise you is that the expensive VEJAs didn’t get good reviews either,” Topol said. “Customers complained that they were bulky. Another reason to always read customer reviews before clicking the ‘add to cart’ button!”

Baird agrees that more expensive sneakers will generally be made from higher quality materials, such as leather, and will be made with better construction methods, meaning they’ll likely give you a longer lifespan.

“Leather or canvas are great choices for upper materials because they are breathable and long-lasting,” says Baird. “Strong stitching and reinforced seams are also important to the overall construction.”

She explained that many cheaper sneakers have an outsole made of EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) foam. While this material is lighter and makes a shoe more comfortable initially, it tends to compress and harden easily, reducing comfort and support over time.

When you look at the material of a sneaker, you will notice that a cheaper sneaker uses synthetic fabrics that resemble leather, but lack breathability and comfort. “Although they are more affordable, they often wear out faster and provide less comfort and support for your feet,” Baird explains. “Not only that, but the midsole of a cheap sneaker is usually quite flexible [the] point of being lame. While more expensive sneakers tend to focus on using superior, high-quality materials such as genuine leather.”

Sometimes a brand can market its shoe so impeccably that people overlook the price. But a high price can also cause customers to look for a cheaper option.

“Anything you put on the market always depends on the brand itself. But in general, if a shoe is more expensive, it’s probably because the production costs are higher,” he says Samantha Ribakovéa PR and digital marketing consultant and founder of Solutions by Sam. “When marketers introduce a higher priced shoe, they will typically emphasize its points of differentiation to justify to consumers why the price is what it is. In other words, if the material drives up the overall cost of the shoe, strong marketing would make it clear what this material has to offer and why it was chosen.”

The features a brand focuses on in its marketing campaigns play a big role in who buys the sneakers. “Brands and marketers focus on longevity and quality. That said, it is clear that much more is needed to convince consumers to buy something when the price is higher,” said Ribakove.

“Consumers are smarter than ever because today they have a wealth of knowledge and products in the palm of their hands,” she added. “It’s important that the marketing you put out shows the quality and longevity they should consider when purchasing, especially at a higher price point.”

When choosing between two shoe styles that look almost exactly the same, your personal style is a huge factor.

“The overall look of a sneaker really depends on the eye of the beholder. Price is not always a factor here. We are drawn to what we personally like,” Topol said. “Maybe you’re a nonconformist and you like sneakers that are a little unusual. Or maybe you’re more conservative and prefer a simpler design with clean lines. Who says one is better than the other?”

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