TLDR;
The video explores the current state of the sneaker market, particularly the oversaturation of Nike and Jordan products, leading to discounted prices and decreased resale value. It contrasts this with the rising popularity of retro runners from brands like Adidas, New Balance, and ASICS, which are favored for their comfort and practicality. The video attributes the shift to factors like inflated prices and declining quality of Jordans, changing trends, and market saturation.
- Oversaturation of Nike and Jordan products in retail stores and outlets.
- Decline in the resale market and closure of resale stores.
- Rising popularity of retro runners from other brands due to comfort and practicality.
- Factors contributing to the shift: price inflation, quality deflation, changing trends, and market saturation.
Intro [0:00]
The video starts by addressing the recent phenomenon of Air Jordans and other sneakers sitting on shelves at retail stores and being heavily discounted at outlets. The narrator expresses surprise, noting that even popular models like the Carolina blue reimagined Jordans are not selling out. This observation prompts the narrator to visit various stores to investigate the situation and understand the underlying causes behind this shift in the sneaker market. The main questions explored are whether the popularity of Jordans and sneakers, in general, is declining, and if so, what factors have led to this point.
Visiting Stores [0:37]
The narrator visits a JD store, noting the loud music and the abundance of unsold retro Jordans, including Fire Red 5s, Pure Money 3s, Shattered Backboards, and Cave Stones. This confirms online reports of retro Jordans sitting in retail stores. Even the UNC reimagined Jordans are already being discounted. The narrator then visits an outlet store and finds an entire size run of the A Ma Maniére Air Jordan 4s, a collaboration that would have been unimaginable to find on shelves just two years prior. Additionally, the outlet has discounted Jordan 1 Low Obsidians, Jordan 1 Royal reimagines, and UNC reimagines. The narrator also highlights the availability of dunks for $60 and Jac Moose Air Forces for $9-$10, emphasizing the significant price reductions.
Resale Market Decline [2:55]
The video shifts to discussing the broader context of the sneaker market, noting that the slump is not exclusive to 2025 but has been observed over the past few years. The narrator argues that the highs of 2020 and 2021 were an inflated period for sneakers, with every Jordan retro selling out and collaborations being highly profitable for resellers. However, the situation has changed, with fewer resellers, closed resale stores, and a decline in online sellers. Some resellers have moved to other industries like Pokémon cards, while those who remain are either large entities or are resorting to questionable methods to sell shoes. The narrator speaks with a representative from "Bring It Back," a resale store, who mentions that five locations have shut down in the past year, with others on the verge of closing. The general interest in sneakers has decreased, leading stores to adapt by offering more clothing.
Price, Quality, and Economy [5:46]
The video identifies several factors contributing to the decline in the popularity of Nike and Jordan sneakers. The first is the combination of price, quality, and the overall economy. Price inflation and quality deflation, particularly in Nike and Jordan products, are major concerns. The narrator points out that the price of retro Jordans has increased to uncomfortable levels while the quality has declined. This is compounded by the current economic situation, where many people are struggling to afford essential items, making it difficult to justify spending $200-$230 on a pair of Jordans. Those who can afford it feel they are being ripped off, while others are moving to more affordable options.
Changing Trends [7:03]
The video discusses the impact of changing trends on the sneaker market. While retros, in general, are not out of style (as evidenced by the popularity of Adidas Sambas and retro runners from New Balance and ASICS), Nike and Jordan retros have seen the most significant decrease in interest. This shift is partly due to the increasing popularity of retro runner styles, which are favored for their comfort and practicality. People find Nike and Jordans uncomfortable due to their solid rubber soles. The comfort and versatility of retro runners, which can be used for running and are also stylish, have made them a preferred choice for many consumers.
Market Saturation [8:50]
The final point addresses the issue of market saturation by Nike and Jordan. The narrator argues that there are too many sneaker releases in 2025, making it impossible for sneakerheads to buy everything. The general public, having grown tired of Panda Dunks and other Nike/Jordan retros, and now appreciating the comfort and practicality of retro runners, are not buying as many Jordans and Nikes. This leads to many releases sitting on shelves and eventually being moved to outlets.
Conclusion [9:31]
In conclusion, the narrator states that while some may miss the hype and reselling craze of the 2020s, 2025 is a great year for sneakers due to the variety of cool releases from different brands. People are more open to trying new styles and brands, such as New Balance, ASICS, On, Hoka, and independent brands. The fact that Jordans and Nikes are sitting on shelves and being discounted means that outlet shopping has become more exciting. The narrator encourages viewers to share their thoughts and experiences in the comments.