Bridging sustainability with sneaker culture, Nike introduced its Refurbished Program back in 2021. Initially an in-store exclusive, the initiative offered avid sneakerheads notable discounts on pre-loved kicks. Fast forward two years, and Nike is taking this eco-friendly venture to the digital realm.
After meticulous refinement and fine-tuning, the Refurbished Program's online platform debuted. Its introduction in late September, however, wasn't without hiccups. Such was the overwhelming response that the site experienced a temporary crash due to the influx of eager visitors. Now up and running smoothly, the digital platform showcases an eclectic mix of footwear - from iconic Air Jordan Retros to highlights across Nike's diverse portfolio, including Running, Basketball, and Skateboarding categories. Depending on their wear and tear, these refurbished sneakers are priced at discounts ranging from 40% to 50%.
To explore the collection and snag a pair, hop over to refurbished.nike.com.
For those curious about the nuances of the refurbishment journey AND grading metrics, the site also offers a deep dive into the world of Nike's refurbished treasures.
What is Nike Refurbished?
“Nike Refurbished is Nike footwear that we’ve given a second life. We hand-inspect footwear that cannot be sold as new, give it a glow up, and assign it a condition of Like New, Gently Worn, or Slightly Imperfect.”
What shoes are eligible for Nike Refurbished?
“Nike shoes that cannot be sold as new, but still have plenty of life left in them, are eligible for Nike Refurbished. This includes a pair that a consumer returned or exchanged because it wasn’t quite right for them, as well as shoes with small aesthetic imperfections. The footwear is then inspected, refurbished by hand by a team of experts, and given a final condition grade.”
What do the conditions of Like New, Gently Worn, and Slightly Imperfect mean?
“All Nike shoes sold through Nike Refurbished are hand-processed and inspected for quality. There are three conditions for Nike Refurbished shoes: Like New, Slightly Imperfect, and Gently Worn. The shoes are then priced at a discount based on their assigned condition.”