For months, complaints have circulated in sneaker, streetwear, and collectible circles: “The resale market is collapsing.” Theres been a ton of conversation over this viral post from Hidden Realm warning of declining prices, unsold inventory, and fading hype. But the truth is far more nuanced than these doom-and-gloom narratives suggest. While some segments of the market have cooled, the idea that resale is “dead” is a misnomer.
First, it’s important to distinguish between hype-driven items and long-term investment pieces. Limited drops with celebrity collaborations or extreme scarcity will always see short-term fluctuations in demand and a weak economy certainly hasn’t helped the buyers market. However, rare and iconic releases continue to hold value, still appreciating years after their initial launch. The market has always been cyclical, and what appears as a downturn is more a recalibration, separating transient hype from genuinely coveted pieces.
Second, resale is evolving rather than disappearing. Platforms and marketplaces are more sophisticated, with authentication, data tracking, and global reach making it easier for collectors to buy and sell confidently. The market is becoming more sustainable, moving away from impulsive flipping toward thoughtful collecting. For those who understand the culture and timing, opportunities abound. Why pay a premium for an instore purchase
There’s a clear resurgence in interest for Vans, Salomon, and New Balance, though each brand is riding a different wave. Vans continues to appeal to those drawn to skate heritage but pairs like the Souvenir Warm Brown offer a timeless, easygoing aesthetic that fits the bolder wardrobes and youth subcultures alike. Salomon has experienced a breakout moment as part of the “sportstyle” and “gorpcore” trend: what once was rugged hiking gear has been transformed into everyday streetwear, and models like the XT‑4/6 and XT‑Whisper have seen strong growth on resale and resale‑adjacent platforms. The recent Supply Store x Salomon XT-4 “Down Under” is going for double its price with multiple people asking us about them. A clear sign of
Meanwhile, New Balance has consolidated its revival through a mix of retro‑inspired silhouettes, comfort-driven design, and well‑timed cultural cache, a combination that attracts both sneakerheads and more mainstream wearers looking for versatile everyday footwear. Between their numeric line, outdoor‑inspired trail shoes and an impressive line of collaborators from Joe Fresh Goods to Upthere Store they’ve captured the imagination of a whole generation the way Nike had previously. Even silhouettes like the NB9060 have been selling for above retail when certain colourways sold out.
“It’s definitely a wasteland for obvious low hanging fruit easy things. Niches are still fine from my perspective as you have significantly lower competition.”
Chrome Hearts remains one of the most resilient names in the resale world, defying the idea that the market is softening. Its value is driven by genuine scarcity, slow production, and a level of craftsmanship that keeps demand high across fashion, luxury, and streetwear circles. Celebrity co-signs and deep cultural roots, from rock culture to modern hip-hop, give the brand a prestige that translates directly into resale strength. Core pieces like hoodies, heavy sterling silver jewelry, and leather goods often sell for well above retail, while rarer items can command multiples of their original price. Even as hype-driven categories cool, Chrome Hearts behaves more like an investment collectible than a trend item, maintaining a steady global customer base and consistently high resale prices.
The notion of collapse often ignores the broader ecosystem of sneakers, streetwear, and collectibles. Yes you cant flip a panda dunk for an extra £20 on top and holding onto GR Jordan 1s is a sure way to go bankrupt but if your smart and pivot theres a ton of demand in the make. Collaborations, nostalgia, and international demand continue to fuel growth. While mainstream nike may see slower turnover, insiders know that resale isn’t about volume, it’s about value, culture, and community.
In short, resale isn’t collapsing… it’s maturing. What’s actually happening is that the dead weight is finally getting cut loose. All those parasitic store owners who jumped in during the hype era with zero understanding, zero strategy, and zero love for the culture are getting exposed. These were the people who thought a couple pandas on the wall and a Depop feed made them entrepreneurs. They weren’t building businesses or supporting an industry and its over for them.