Two titans have emerged in sneaker reselling: GOAT and StockX. Both have captured sneakerheads' hearts (and wallets) worldwide, but which one reigns supreme?
In this guide from the Slingo lifestyle blog, we compare StockX's and GOAT's product selections, fees, user experience, popularity, and protections to see which is the best.
Let's get into the nitty-gritty to help you make the right choice when it comes to copping your next pair.
A Brief History of StockX
StockX was founded in 2015 by Josh Luber, Dan Gilbert, Greg Schwartz, and Chris Kaufman. Luber had previously founded Campless, a website that provided data and analytics on the sneaker resale market by scraping millions of eBay transactions.
After Gilbert acquired Campless from Luber, they teamed up to launch StockX in February 2016 as the "stock market of things", starting with sneakers. The idea was to bring more transparency, authenticity, and real-time pricing data to the sneaker resale market.
StockX's key innovation was treating sneaker reselling like a stock market. All listings for a sneaker are consolidated on one page, with transparent bid/ask pricing based on supply and demand. This allowed StockX to provide historical market data and pricing analysis for each sneaker model.
A Brief History of GOAT
Also founded in 2015, GOAT was started by college friends Daishin Sugano, Eddy Lu, and Yan Yan in Los Angeles. The idea came about when Sugano tried to purchase a pair of Air Jordan 3 sneakers online but was scammed and received counterfeit shoes instead.
The platform quickly gained traction among sneakerheads and resellers, raising over £150 million in funding from investors like Foot Locker, Upfront Ventures, and Dan Sundesku. By 2018, the company had facilitated over £75 million in sales.
In 2019, GOAT merged with Flight Club, another major sneaker resale platform, further solidifying its position in the market. The company that operates GOAT and Flight Club also has physical retail locations in addition to its online marketplace, so you can see the sneakers before you buy them.
StockX vs GOAT: Which Platform is Best?
Product Selection
GOAT
GOAT started as a sneaker resale platform but has since expanded its offerings to include apparel, accessories, and collectables. Their trainer selection is vast, ranging from classic Air Jordans to the latest Asics and New Balance drops.
What sets GOAT apart is their acceptance of used items. This opens up a new world of rare and vintage finds, allowing sellers to offload their gently worn gems and buyers to score coveted pieces at discounted prices.
StockX
StockX, on the other hand, is laser-focused on trainers, although it has recently added categories for streetwear, watches, and handbags. Its shoe collection boasts everything from the latest trending Adidas shoe to the most hyped Dunk collaborations. However, StockX only deals with new, unworn items, ensuring that buyers receive products in pristine condition straight from the box.
Speaking of Dunks, see if the iconic silhouette came out on top against the Jordan 1 in our comparison guide. Read 'Nike Dunk vs Jordan 1: Which Sneaker is Best?'.
GOAT score: 10/10
StockX score: 10/10
User Experience
GOAT
GOAT's app and website are sleek and user-friendly, making browsing and purchasing new and used trainers easy. The bidding system allows buyers to place offers on sneakers, creating a more interactive and engaging experience. However, some users have reported issues with customer service, citing long response times and unresolved issues.
One area where GOAT shines is its seller experience. The platform makes it easy to list items with clear guidelines and a straightforward process. Sellers can also use GOAT's authentication services to ensure their items are accurately represented and avoid potential disputes.
StockX
StockX's interface is straightforward and minimalistic, with a focus on transparency. The platform operates like a stock market, with real-time pricing based on supply and demand. Buyers can see the highest bid and lowest ask prices, making it easier to gauge a shoe's market value and make informed purchasing decisions.
StockX is known for its efficient authentication process, with over 100 authenticators inspecting every item before it's shipped to the buyer. This attention to detail has earned StockX a reputation for reliability and trustworthiness.
However, some users have criticised StockX for its lack of a bidding system, which can make it more difficult to snag rare or highly coveted items at a reasonable price.
GOAT score: 9/10
StockX score: 8/10
Fees
GOAT
For sellers on GOAT, the fees are relatively straightforward. GOAT charges a commission fee based on a seller's rating. Sellers with a rating of 90 or above will be charged a 9.5% commission fee, while sellers with a rating of below 50 will be charged 25%, plus a $5 (around £4) seller fee for each transaction. Additionally, if you choose to cash out your earnings to your bank account or PayPal, there's a 2.9% transfer fee.
StockX
Like GOAT, StockX charges sellers tiered commission rates. These start at 9% and fall to 7% for level 5 sellers. StockX also charges sellers a 3% payment processing fee. For buyers, StockX charges processing fees, which are determined by the item's price, the location of the buyer and seller, shipping costs, and any applicable sales tax.
GOAT score: 8/10
StockX score: 8/10
Popularity and Reach
GOAT
GOAT has a strong presence in the United States and has expanded globally. The platform boasts over 30 million members and has facilitated over £1.5 billion in transactions since its inception in 2015. GOAT has also secured partnerships with major brands like Nike, Adidas, and Foot Locker, further solidifying its position in the resale market.
StockX
StockX has a more international reach, with operations in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and several European countries. The platform has processed over £2.9 billion in sales and has attracted high-profile investors like Eminem and Mark Wahlberg.
GOAT score: 9/10
StockX score: 9/10
Are you thinking of buying a new coat to go along with your latest pair of trainers? Check out 'Berghaus vs The North Face: Which Should You Choose?' To see which jacket maker won our comparison.
Buyer and Seller Protections
GOAT
GOAT has a rigorous authentication process where experts physically inspect every item to ensure its authenticity. Buyers can rest assured that they're receiving a genuine product, while sellers can be confident that their items will be accurately represented.
Additionally, GOAT offers a buyer protection program that covers purchases in case of any issues with the item or transaction. This includes situations where the item is not as described, arrives damaged, or is deemed counterfeit.
For sellers, GOAT provides a protection program in case of any issues with the transaction or item, such as non-payment or item return disputes.
StockX
StockX also has a strict authentication process. Over 100 authenticators inspect every item before it's shipped to the buyer. The platform also offers a money-back guarantee for counterfeit items that slip through its verification process.
StockX provides a seller protection program for sellers, including situations where the buyer claims the item is not as described or arrives damaged.
GOAT score: 8.5/10
StockX score: 8/10
The Verdict
Both GOAT and StockX offer excellent platforms for buying and selling trainers and streetwear, but there must be a winner. Without further ado, here are our final scores:
GOAT final score: 44.5/50
StockX final score 43/50
In a close-fought battle, GOAT has come out on top in this comparison thanks to its straightforward listing processes and tighter authenticity approach. Having said this, StockX also ensures its processes and procedures protect buyers and sellers.
Ultimately, GOAT and StockX offer a safe and secure way to indulge your sneaker obsession. So, whether you're a seasoned reseller or a newcomer to the game, there are two excellent platforms for you to use.
Now, the only thing left for you to do is lace up your trainers, fire up your favourite resale app, and get ready to score some serious gear.
Do you have a penchant for all things fashion? Read our Gucci vs Louis Vuitton comparison for more high-end fashion goodness.
Improve your sneaker collection
Want more sneaker and fashion guides? Check out the Slingo lifestyle blog or take a look at one of these comparisons:
- Nike vs. Adidas: Which Brand is Best?
- Adidas vs Puma: Which Brand is Best?
- The Best Designer Streetwear Brands
- 12 Best Affordable Luxury Clothing Brands
- Adidas Samba vs Spezial: What's the Difference?
- Adidas Samba vs Gazelle: Which Shoe is Best?
- Onitsuka Tiger vs ASICS: Which Shoe Brand is Best?
FAQs
Is GOAT legit?
While no platform is perfect, and there have been complaints about counterfeit products or customer service delays, GOAT is a legitimate and reputable platform for buying and selling trainers and streetwear.
GOAT has a rigorous authentication process. A team of experts physically inspects every item sold on the platform to verify its legitimacy.
The website has partnered with major brands like Nike and Adidas and has over 30 million members.
Is StockX legit?
Like GOAT, StockX has also faced complaints and controversies, including lawsuits over selling counterfeit products. Having said this, StockX is a trusted platform for buying sneakers and streetwear, employing over 300 authenticators who inspect every item sold.
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