Bricks mean in shoes that a sneaker has little to no resale value. These are pairs that don’t generate hype, often because they’re mass-produced or lack unique features. As a result, their resale price drops below retail, making them unattractive for collectors and resellers.
However, Brick sneakers aren’t always a bad thing. They’re affordable, easy to find, and perfect for casual wearers who prioritise comfort and daily use over profit. In this article, we’ll break down exactly what Bricks mean in shoes, why some sneakers get this label, and whether they’re worth adding to your collection.
What Does Bricks Mean in Shoes? Let’s Find Out
“Bricks” refers to shoes that hold little to no resale value. If you try to sell them after losing interest, you’ll get a disappointingly low price.
But why? We’ve done the research, and the main reason Brick shoes have no resale value is due to low demand. They’re typically mass-produced, making them easy to buy from any store. A prime example is the New Balance 990, which is readily available and, as a result, doesn’t fetch much on the resale market.
However, not all shoes with limited or exclusive labels escape this fate. Sometimes, even these can turn into “Bricks” if consumers dislike the design or colourway. When this happens, experts categorise these shoes as “Bricks.”
Sadly, this trend is becoming increasingly common within the sneaker world. In our view, it’s a reality that sneaker enthusiasts should be aware of—not every shoe is a star on the resale market. If you’re thinking of buying shoes as an investment, keep reading.
Things to Know About Bricks Shoes
Understanding what makes a shoe a “Brick” will help you decide whether they’re the right choice for you. As mentioned above, Bricks are sneakers that carry no resale value. But that’s not the whole story. Let’s explore more details about Brick shoes.
They Are Not Special
Imagine you buy a toy that all your friends also own. Suddenly, it doesn’t feel special, right? The same applies to Brick sneakers. When we asked people about Brick shoes, they all said the same thing.
Because these shoes aren’t rare or unique, no one wants to pay a premium for them later. So, if you’re planning to buy sneakers with resale value in mind, these won’t be a good choice.
Less Hype
In the sneaker world, “hype” is all about the excitement around new releases. The more hype there is, the more people want the shoe. However, Brick sneakers generate very little hype. This means fewer people talk about them or eagerly wait to buy them.
Standard Materials and Technology
Another reason why some sneakers become Bricks is that they’re made using standard materials and technologies. In other words, these shoes are pretty basic and don’t stand out. For comparison, let’s look at Nike’s ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT%. These sneakers are equipped with a ZoomX foam midsole and a carbon fibre plate, which makes them highly desirable.
Similarly, Adidas UltraBOOST 21 uses Boost midsole technology and Fibre Placement, making them a hit. Sadly, Brick shoes lack such premium features.
Instead, Brick shoes are typically made from cheaper materials like:
- Synthetic fabrics
- Rubber
- Lower-grade leather
These Shoes Are For Personal Use Only
We recommend Brick shoes strictly for personal use. While they’re great for casual, everyday wear, they’re not suited for special occasions, such as:
- Weddings
- Birthdays
- Corporate events
For these moments, you’ll want something more stylish and premium.
Lower Price Points
One advantage of Brick sneakers is their affordability. They’re perfect for people on a budget. You already know why they’re cheaper—mass production. But the key question remains: Should you buy Brick shoes? Let’s explore whether they’re worth your money.
Are Bricks Shoes Worth Buying? (Let’s Find Out)
Yes, Brick shoes are worth buying if you’re looking for an affordable, casual option. If you need shoes for everyday wear, these might be the perfect fit. Most people are satisfied with their purchase.
Let’s break it down.
Great Choice for Casual Wearers
Brick shoes are an excellent option for those who want comfortable sneakers without worrying about resale value. They’re designed for everyday use, making them ideal for:
- Walking
- Running errands
- Hanging out with friends
The best part is they come in many styles and colours, allowing you to choose a pair that suits your personality and lifestyle.
Go For Them If You Have a Tight Budget
If you’re on a budget, Brick shoes are a smart pick. Since they cost less than other sneakers, you can buy them without breaking the bank. According to reviews, they’re also a great choice for students, who often have limited budgets. Brick shoes allow them to save some money while still getting a decent pair.
Who Should Not Buy Bricks Shoes? (What We Suggest)
Brick shoes aren’t for everyone, especially if you’re looking to profit from sneaker reselling or prefer exclusive models.
Those Who Want to Resell Shoes
If you plan to:
- Buy sneakers as an investment,
- Resell them at a higher price later,
Brick shoes aren’t for you. These sneakers lose value because they’re mass-produced and lack exclusivity.
Instead, focus on:
- Limited editions
- High-demand models
This way, your investment is more likely to increase in value.
Those Who Want “Advanced” Sneakers
Brick shoes are also not for those looking for technologically advanced or premium footwear. We’ve already mentioned that Bricks use ordinary materials. They don’t have the same prestige as more sought-after models. For high-demand sneakers, we recommend shoes with unique designs, collaborations with famous artists or brands, or limited releases, such as:
- New Balance FuelCell Rebel v3: Features high-energy return foam for optimised running.
- adidas FUTURECRAFT.LOOP: Made with recyclable TPU for sustainability.
- Under Armour HOVR Machina 2: Embedded chip for real-time performance feedback.
Not Ideal for Functional Footwear
If you need shoes for specific sports or activities, Bricks are not the way to go. These shoes aren’t equipped with the tech or support needed for activities like basketball or hiking. Instead, they’re better suited for casual use, like jogging or general wear.
FQAs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Why are certain sneakers called “Bricks”?
Sneakers become “Bricks” when they’re widely available, lack hype, or use basic materials and technologies that fail to excite buyers.
Is calling a shoe a “Brick” negative or just resale talk?
While “Brick” can be a neutral resale term, enthusiasts often use it dismissively—reminding us that not every sneaker needs hype to be appreciated.
Are “Bricks” worth buying for personal use?
Absolutely. Their low prices and wide availability make “Brick” sneakers excellent for everyday wear—even if they won’t boost your wallet later.
Can limited-edition or unpopular sneakers become “Bricks”?
Yes—when limited or exclusive shoes fail to resonate with the market, they can turn into “Bricks” due to lack of demand.
Final Words
To summarise, Brick shoes are those that lack resale value. Here’s a quick recap:
Widely Available: Mass-produced, so they’re easy to find.
Budget-Friendly: Great for people on a tight budget.
Perfect for Casual Wear: Ideal for day-to-day activities.