Want to turn your shoe collection into cold, hard cash? Or maybe you’re looking to launch a booming online shoe business?
Perfect.
You’ve come to the right place.
Selling shoes online is a massive opportunity. Think about it: everyone needs shoes. And with the rise of sneaker culture and online shopping, there’s never been a better time to cash in.
But with so many platforms available, where do you even start?
Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.
9 Best Places to Sell Shoes Online in Canada
Here are the 9 best places to sell shoes online in Canada:
1. Your Own Website (This is NON-NEGOTIABLE)
Look, I get it.
Building a website might seem intimidating.
But trust me, it’s the single best thing you can do for your shoe-selling business.
Why?
- Control: You own the platform. You set the rules. You control the branding and customer experience. No more competing with other sellers or paying hefty commission fees.
- Branding: Build a unique brand identity that resonates with your target audience. This is how you create raving fans who keep coming back for more.
- Flexibility: You can sell any type of shoe you want, at any price point. No restrictions. No limitations.
- Long-term growth: A website is an asset that appreciates over time. The more you invest in it, the more valuable it becomes.
Think of it like this:
Would you rather rent an apartment or own a house?
Renting is fine, but you’re building someone else’s equity. Owning a house? That’s building your own future.
Your website is your online house.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “But Alex, building a website is expensive and complicated!”
Wrong.
With Truehost.ca, the cheapest web hosting company in Canada, you can get started for next to nothing. They offer reliable hosting, easy-to-use website builders, and 24/7 support.
Actionable advice:
- Get your domain name: This is your online address (e.g., www.your-shoe-store.ca). Make it memorable and relevant to your brand.
- Choose a web hosting plan: Truehost.ca has plans starting as low as $2.49 per month. You can’t beat that.
- Build your website: Use a website builder like WordPress or Shopify to create a professional-looking online store.
Don’t wait. Start building your online shoe empire today.
2. eBay
eBay is the OG online marketplace. It’s been around forever, and it’s still a great place to sell shoes.
Pros:
- Massive audience: Reach millions of potential buyers.
- Easy to use: Listing your shoes is a breeze.
- Buyer protection: eBay offers buyer protection programs that can help you resolve disputes.
Cons:
- High fees: eBay takes a cut of every sale.
- Competition: You’ll be competing with a lot of other sellers.
- Can be impersonal: It’s hard to build a strong brand identity on eBay.
Actionable advice:
- Take high-quality photos: Make your shoes look their best.
- Write detailed descriptions: Be clear about the condition, size, and any flaws.
- Offer competitive prices: Do your research and see what other sellers are charging.
3. Depop
Depop is a social shopping app that’s popular with Gen Z and millennials. It’s a great platform for selling trendy and unique shoes.
Pros:
- Young and engaged audience: Perfect for selling streetwear and vintage shoes.
- Social features: You can connect with buyers and build a following.
- Easy to use: The app is simple and intuitive.
Cons:
- Lower reach than eBay: Depop has a smaller audience than eBay.
- Fees: Depop takes a 10% commission on every sale.
- Limited to fashion items: You can only sell clothing and accessories on Depop.
Actionable advice:
- Use high-quality photos and videos: Showcase your shoes in the best possible light.
- Engage with your followers: Respond to comments and messages promptly.
- Use relevant hashtags: Help people find your listings.
4. Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is a great option for selling shoes locally. It’s free to use, and you can reach a large audience of people in your area.
Pros:
- Free to use: No listing fees or commissions.
- Local reach: Connect with buyers in your community.
- Easy to use: Listing your shoes is quick and simple.
Cons:
- Limited to local sales: You can only sell to people in your area.
- No buyer protection: Facebook doesn’t offer any buyer protection programs.
- Can be time-consuming: You’ll need to meet with buyers in person to complete the sale.
Actionable advice:
- Take clear photos: Show the condition of the shoes clearly.
- Write detailed descriptions: Include all relevant information, such as size and brand.
- Be responsive to messages: Answer questions promptly.
Read also: 11 Best Places to Sell Socks Online in Canada (And Actually Make Money)
5. Poshmark
Poshmark is another social shopping app that’s popular with women. It’s a good platform for selling gently used designer shoes.
Pros:
- Large audience of female shoppers: Ideal for selling women’s shoes.
- Social features: You can connect with other users and build a following.
- Easy to use: The app is user-friendly.
Cons:
- High fees: Poshmark takes a 20% commission on sales over $15.
- Limited to fashion items: You can only sell clothing and accessories on Poshmark.
- Shipping can be expensive: Poshmark provides pre-paid shipping labels, but they can be costly.
Actionable advice:
- Take stylish photos: Make your shoes look their best.
- Write detailed descriptions: Include all relevant information, such as brand and size.
- Offer discounts to followers: Encourage people to follow your closet.
6. Mercari
Mercari is a popular online marketplace that’s known for its low fees and easy-to-use interface. It’s a good option for selling a variety of shoes.
Pros:
- Low fees: Mercari takes a 10% commission on every sale.
- Easy to use: Listing your shoes is simple.
- Wide variety of items: You can sell new and used shoes on Mercari.
Cons:
- Can be competitive: You’ll be competing with a lot of other sellers.
- Shipping can be complicated: You’re responsible for shipping the shoes to the buyer.
- Limited buyer protection: Mercari’s buyer protection program is not as robust as eBay’s.
Actionable advice:
- Price your shoes competitively: Do your research and see what other sellers are charging.
- Offer fast shipping: Ship your shoes as quickly as possible.
- Respond to messages promptly: Answer any questions buyers may have.
7. Grailed
Grailed is a curated marketplace for men’s clothing and footwear. It’s a good option for selling high-end sneakers and rare finds.
Pros:
- Targeted audience: Reach buyers who are specifically interested in men’s shoes.
- High-quality listings: Grailed has a reputation for high-quality items.
- Good customer support: Grailed offers good customer support.
Cons:
- Higher fees: Grailed takes a 9% commission on every sale.
- Limited to men’s items: You can only sell men’s clothing and footwear on Grailed.
- Can be difficult to get approved: Grailed has a strict approval process for sellers.
Actionable advice:
- Take professional photos: Showcase your shoes in the best possible light.
- Write detailed descriptions: Include all relevant information, such as brand and condition.
- Be patient: It may take some time to get approved as a seller on Grailed.
8. StockX
StockX is a popular online marketplace for buying and selling sneakers, streetwear, and collectibles. It’s a good option for selling new and deadstock shoes.
Pros:
- Authentication service: StockX authenticates all shoes sold on its platform.
- Market data: You can see the market value of your shoes before you sell them.
- Secure transactions: StockX handles all payments and shipping.
Cons:
- High fees: StockX takes a commission on every sale, which varies depending on the selling price.
- Limited to certain items: You can only sell certain types of shoes on StockX.
- Can be slow: It can take some time to sell your shoes on StockX.
Actionable advice:
- Set a competitive price: Use StockX’s market data to price your shoes correctly.
- Be patient: It may take some time to sell your shoes on StockX.
- Ship your shoes promptly: Once your shoes sell, ship them to StockX as quickly as possible.
9. Kixify
Kixify is an online marketplace specifically for buying and selling sneakers. It’s a good option for selling rare and limited-edition shoes.
Pros:
- Targeted audience: Reach buyers who are specifically interested in sneakers.
- Low fees: Kixify takes a lower commission than some other platforms.
- Easy to use: Listing your shoes is simple.
Cons:
- Smaller audience than StockX: Kixify has a smaller audience than StockX.
- No authentication service: Kixify doesn’t authenticate shoes sold on its platform.
- Can be risky: There is a risk of scams and fraudulent activity on Kixify.
Actionable advice:
- Be cautious: Be aware of the risks involved in selling on Kixify.
- Take good photos: Show the condition of your shoes clearly.
- Communicate clearly: Answer any questions buyers may have.
Remember: No matter which platform you choose, always be honest about the condition of your shoes, provide excellent customer service, and ship your orders promptly.
Top 5 Types of Shoes Canadians Can’t Get Enough Of (and How to Sell Them Like Hotcakes)
Now that you know where to sell shoes online in Canada, you need to know what they are looking for.
Yes, Canadians love their footwear.
But they’re not just buying any old shoes. They’re looking for specific styles that fit their lifestyle and the Great White North’s diverse climate.
Here are the top 5 types of shoes flying off the shelves in Canada:
1. Winter Boots
Let’s be real, winter in Canada is no joke. Blizzards, ice storms, sub-zero temperatures… you need footwear that can handle it all. That’s why winter boots are a must-have for every Canadian.
Think:
- Durability: Can they withstand snow, slush, and salt?
- Warmth: Will your feet stay toasty warm even on the coldest days?
- Grip: Do they have enough traction to prevent slips and falls?
Popular brands: Sorel, Kamik, Baffin
Actionable advice:
- Highlight features: Emphasize waterproof materials, insulation, and slip-resistant soles.
- Use strong visuals: Show your boots in action, conquering snowy landscapes.
- Target your audience: Use keywords like “winter boots Canada,” “best winter boots for women,” and “warmest winter boots for men.”
2. Sneakers
Sneakers are the ultimate footwear chameleon. They’re comfortable, versatile, and can be dressed up or down. Whether you’re hitting the gym, running errands, or going out with friends, there’s a sneaker for every occasion.
Canadians love:
- Classic styles: Think Converse, Vans, and Adidas Stan Smiths.
- Performance sneakers: For running, training, and other activities.
- Trendy kicks: Limited-edition releases and collaborations are always in high demand.
Popular brands: Nike, Adidas, Puma, New Balance
Actionable advice:
- Showcase versatility: Show how your sneakers can be styled for different occasions.
- Highlight comfort and performance: Use keywords like “comfortable sneakers,” “running shoes,” and “training shoes.”
- Stay up-to-date on trends: Know what’s hot and what’s not in the sneaker world.
3. Work Boots
Canada has a strong workforce, and those workers need reliable footwear. Work boots are essential for tradespeople, construction workers, and anyone who spends their days on their feet.
Key features:
- Safety: Steel toe caps, slip-resistant soles, and electrical hazard protection.
- Durability: Tough materials that can withstand wear and tear.
- Comfort: Support and cushioning for long hours on the job.
Popular brands: Timberland, Caterpillar, Red Wing
Actionable advice:
- Emphasize safety and durability: Use keywords like “steel toe boots,” “work boots for men,” and “construction boots.”
- Target your audience: Reach out to tradespeople and workers in specific industries.
- Offer a variety of styles: Cater to different job requirements and preferences.
4. Hiking Boots
Canadians love the great outdoors. From hiking and camping to exploring national parks, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had. And that’s where hiking boots come in.
Essential qualities:
- Support: Ankle support and sturdy construction for rugged terrain.
- Waterproof: Protection from rain, snow, and mud.
- Grip: Aggressive tread for traction on slippery surfaces.
Popular brands: Merrell, Salomon, Keen
Actionable advice:
- Showcase the benefits: Highlight features like waterproof membranes, breathable materials, and comfortable fit.
- Use inspiring imagery: Show your boots in action on scenic trails and mountains.
- Target outdoor enthusiasts: Use keywords like “hiking boots Canada,” “best hiking boots for women,” and “waterproof hiking boots.”
5. Slippers
After a long day, Canadians want to slip into something comfortable. And what’s more comfortable than a pair of cozy slippers?
Think:
- Warmth: Soft linings and insulating materials for cold winter nights.
- Comfort: Cushioned footbeds and supportive designs.
- Style: From classic moccasins to trendy shearling slides, there’s a slipper for every taste.
Popular brands: UGG, Sorel, EMU Australia
Actionable advice:
- Highlight comfort and warmth: Use keywords like “cozy slippers,” “warm slippers,” and “sheepskin slippers.”
- Appeal to different preferences: Offer a variety of styles and materials.
- Use lifestyle imagery: Show people relaxing in your slippers by the fireplace.
Bonus Tip: Don’t forget about the power of accessories. Offer socks, insoles, shoe care products, and other add-ons to increase your average order value.
Remember: Understanding your target audience is key. Who are you selling to? What are their needs and preferences? Tailor your marketing and product selection accordingly.
And don’t forget to build your own website with Truehost.ca! It’s the foundation for long-term success in the Canadian shoe market.
And don’t forget: Building your own website is the ultimate key to long-term success in the online shoe game. Start with Truehost.ca today and take control of your destiny.
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