Print on Demand Sneakers: The Ultimate Guide to Success
Sneakers have been around for a long time. Did you know they first appeared in the streetwear fashion scene around the 1970s? Today, no urban wear attire is complete without a trendy pair of sneakers. And in the world of print-on-demand, sneakers bring a unique combination of imagination and online business potential for entrepreneurs.
Whether you have a passion for sneakers, a fondness for urban fashion, or simply take pleasure in crafting designs that pique curiosity, print-on-demand sneakers can serve as your gateway to a burgeoning market.
However, given the popularity of sneakers, the POD space is super saturated. Therefore, you need the right partners, tools, and strategies to survive and thrive in the custom sneakers print-on-demand niche. Don’t worry – we got you; our guide will help you cut through the noise and make it in this rewarding market.
Page overview:
So, What Exactly Are Print-on-demand Sneakers?
Top 6͏͏ Print-on-demand Sneakers Suppliers
How to Find the Right Print-on-demand Sneakers Suppliers
Where Do I Sell Print-on-Demand Sneakers?
How to Succeed with Print-on-Demand Sneaker Dropshipping
So, What Exactly Are print-on-demand Sneakers?
Print on demand (POD) sneakers are custom-designed sneakers created using print-on-demand technology. Here’s how it works: you work with a POD provider that prints your designs on blank sneakers and ships directly to customers as orders come in.
There are no upfront production costs, and you don’t need to worry about order fulfillment either. Instead, you prioritize designing good designs and building out an awesome marketing plan. POD sneakers are all in all, an accessible and low-risk investment for the creatives and the entrepreneurs.
Why Sell print-on-demand Sneakers?
Are you on the fence about starting a sneakers print on demand business? Here are some reasons that might convince you to enter this market:
- Low͏͏ Startup͏͏ Costs: Upfront costs are a major obstacle when starting any business. The good news is that with POD sneakers, you won’t have to worry about it. Since you won’t be stocking up, you can skip the expensive inventory or production facilities, and you only pay for when you sell shoes.
- Unlimited͏͏ Creative͏͏ Freedom: From bold patterns to quotes and personalized artwork, there is no cap on creativity in the POD sneakers business. You can create whatever you want and reach super niche markets.
- Scalability & Flexibility: With POD, scaling is as easy as clicking a few buttons. Since production and storage isn’t a problem, you can add or remove any products whenever you want.
- Eco-Friendly & Sustainable: POD model helps in reducing waste as items are only produced when ordered. As a result, your brand automatically aligns with the values of environmentally conscious consumers. This gives you another way to stand out among competitors
Top 6͏͏ print-on-demand Sneakers Suppliers
The choice of supplier makes or breaks your brand in the print-on-demand industry. Why? Because having a reliable supplier means being able to offer high-quality products, on-time deliveries, and everything in between.
Here are our top picks for sneakers print-on-demand suppliers:
1. Inkedjoy
If you are looking for the best print-on-demand sneakers in town, head over to Inkedjoy.
It has the most extensive range of products including high-tops, classic running sneakers and canvas shoes, you will find all types of sneaker you can ever offer in your store.
Secondly, the platform provides competitive prices that entrepreneurs love.͏͏ Some all-printing sneakers are available for as low as $13 per pair! Furthermore, Inkedjoy is known in the POD market for its short production time and crystal-clear printing.
Another thing that distinguishes Inkedjoy from other POD suppliers is that there is no minimum order quantity (MOQ)͏͏. Whether you purchase a single pair of sneakers or order in bulk, Inkedjoy guarantees prompt order fulfillment.
Finally, talking about the platform itself, it is extremely user-friendly and perfect for both novice and expert entrepreneurs. You can create custom shoes designs within minutes using Inkedjoy’s free in-built elements or uploading your own text and images.
Sneaker Range:
- Mudguard Running Sneakers
- Pull Loop Sneakers
- Alpha Running Sneakers
- Slip-On Sneakers
- Breathable Sneakers
- Slip-on Canvas Sneakers
- Basketball Training Sneakers
- Classic Canvas Low Top Sneakers
- Aquila Canvas Sneakers
- High Top Canvas Sneakers
2. Printify
Printify is a POD supplier that needs no introduction. It has a decent product range with various sneaker styles. The platform is user-friendly and design tools are easy to maneuver.
You can benefit from the platform’s white-label branding that can help you build your very own footwear line. You can put your company logo and branding on products and packages for a proper finish.
The company’s order-fulfillment track record is also commendable, mainly due to Printify’s global supplier network. The global network helps minimize transport costs as well as delivery times.
Sneaker Range:
- High Top Sneakers
- Classic Sneakers
- Mesh Sneakers
- Low Top Sneakers
3. JetPrint
JetPrint is known for its highly detailed designs and premium shoe structures. Their print-on-demand footwear includes highly desirable and aesthetically pleasing Nike-style sneakers that appeal to fashion customers.
JetPrint’s low cost base price is attractive for businesses that would like to sell sneakers with a high profit margin. JetPrint stands by providing a level of customization and 100% production, delivery, and shipping with guaranteed customer satisfaction for every order.
We know this is great news for entrepreneurs targeting products in the print-on-demand sneaker market.
Sneaker Range:
- High-top Bounce Mesh Knit Sneakers
- AOP Slip-On Sneakers
- AF1 Low-Top Leather Sports Sneakers
- AF1 Low-Top Microfiber PU Leather Sports Sneakers
- AF1 Low-Top Leather Sports Sneakers – Black Sole
- Wings Style Bounce Mesh Knit Sneakers
- Low Top Casual Sneakers
4. Printy6
Printy6 is one of our favorites for a few reasons. First, they’ve got an awesome design tool that allows you to put in 360-degree designs for your prints.
With their transparent pricing, businesses know costs upfront, and there is no guessing. Printy6 has a huge collection of customizable sneaker styles that fit everyone’s taste, from casual to active gear.
If you are an entrepreneur looking for a custom sneakers print-on-demand supplier, Printy6 may be perfect for you.
Sneaker Range:
- High Top Canvas Sneakers
- Low Top Canvas Sneakers
- Bounce Mesh Knit Sneakers
- Low Cut Loafer Sneakers
- Lightweight Sneakers
- Athletic Sneakers
5. Kincustom
Kincustom is a quality, style, and ethics driven print-on-demand sneaker service. There are a lot of sneaker styles to choose from, and they include free branding sets to help businesses get a pro touch when packaging and labeling.
Kincustom is known for its quality guarantee and for offering eco and ethically sustainable products that can strike chords with eco-conscious customers.
In the POD market, they offer the perfect blend of customization and values – and that is why they are a trusted choice!
Sneaker Range:
- Two-Tone Sneakers
- Faux-Leather Sneakers
- High-Top Canvas Sneakers
- Slip-On Canvas Sneakers
- Lace-Up Flyknit Sneakers
- Athletic Sneakers
- Faux-Leather Sneakers
- Velcro Sneakers
6. Shoe Zero
Shoe Zero offers branded and durable sneakers to serve ‘sneakerheads’ and fashion seekers. It has a good range of print-on-demand sneakers, and the platform supports sellers by allowing them to list products on Shoes Zero’s marketplace.
Sellers can also promote their designs and products on social media. Shoe Zero is perfect for businesses that want to produce trendy, recognizable designs that match Nike-style appeal. The products are known for their durability which attracts customers and keep them coming back for more.
Sneaker Range:
- Vegan Leather 2.0 Low Top Sneakers
- Lace-Up Running Sneakers
- Lightweight, Breathable Running Sneakers
- Premium Synthetic Leather Sneakers
- Air-Force Zeros Low Top
How to Find the Right Print-on-demand Sneakers Suppliers
When building a profitable business of print-on-demand sneakers, one of the most important decisions would be choosing the right print-on-demand sneakers supplier.
Below are some factors to consider when choosing a POD sneaker supplier:
Quality Assurance Is Key
Customers see a direct connection between the quality of sneakers and the perceived quality of the brand. So, search for suppliers with a track record for delivering durable, quality products.
A good way to test the quality of craftsmanship and printing precision is to order samples. Likewise, you should also find out what other people are saying about different suppliers online.
Check, Then Double-Check Product Range
Offer a variety of product types. As you target different niches, the different styles, i.e., high tops, low tops, canvas sneakers, and athletic footwear, will increase your market reach.
Therefore, make the time to choose a supplier with an array of products.
Focus on Print Techniques
Print quality dictates how your designs translate to the print. You can have the best designs in the world, but if they are poorly printed, they will lose their value.
Choose suppliers that offer advanced printing methods like direct-to-garment (DTG) or dye sublimation. If your designs need complex patterns and artwork, it’s essential to make sure the supplier will be able to handle it for you!
White Label Shipping
Look for custom sneaker print-on-demand suppliers that provide white-label services so you can brand and package them your own way.
Doing so will reinforce your brand identity with a cohesive, professional customer experience. Find suppliers who carry these options without high costs or complications.
Minimal Production Time Means Happy Customers
Meeting customer expectations requires fast production and delivery times. Delays often lead to negative reviews and, consequently, lost business. Find partners who tend to be efficient in shipping and promptly complete orders for your customers.
Analyzing these factors ensures choosing a reliable supplier aligned with your goals, driving your brand’s success in print-on-demand.
Where Do I Sell Print-on-Demand Sneakers?
It’s crucial to choose the right platform for the print-on-demand sneakers to reach sales at the highest.
Here are two key options to consider:
1. Your Own Website
Through your own website, you can control branding, customer experience, and pricing — something you would not have full control over on marketplaces like Amazon.
Setting up a professional online commerce store for your business is easy thanks to platforms and WooCommerce or Shopify.
- Shopify: With its user-friendly interface and app marketplace, this platform allows you to build a customized store with ease. It looks into CRM, print-on-demand suppliers, inventory, orders, and campaigns.
- WooCommerce: WooCommerce is a simple e-commerce plugin that is ideal for those who prefer WordPress, as it works with many themes, extensions, and payment gateways. Being very adaptable, it’s a popular choice for businesses looking to scale.
2. Online Marketplaces
Online marketplaces are an ideal way to reach an existing customer base. Millions of shoppers visit these platforms every day and your products get high visibility.
- Etsy: Etsy is perfect for designing for a niche or for the artists looking for handmade or personalized items. By listing custom sneakers here, you can connect with style-savvy buyers.
- eBay: eBay has a global audience. It’s a great platform for competitively priced sneakers or exclusive designs that are aimed at collectors and enthusiasts.
Using these platforms, you can strategically place your print-on-demand sneakers to get attention and hopefully sales.
Popular Sneaker Design Trends
Being able to stay on top of the design trends will put your business on its feet in the print-on-demand sneaker market.
Here are some popular styles that resonate with today’s consumers:
- Retro Classics: Retro designs are always in fashion. Think bold graphics, old-school logos, and colorways from the 80s and 90s. If you’re looking for nostalgia and timeless fashion, retro classics may be an excellent choice.
- Understated Court Styles: Court style-inspired sneakers are minimalistic and clean-cut. Most of these designs involve neutral colors and small patterns with sleek looks; hence they’re easily adaptable to casual or semi-formal outfits.
- Neutral Tones: The world of sneakers is still dominated by earthy tones, like beige, taupe, and grey. Their timeless appeal lies in neutral designs and tones that can be matched with any attire.
- Color-Blocked Patterns: Color-block sneakers today entail eye-catching and artful geometric contrast in color design. They are especially popular with young, fancy, and modern audiences.
- Brightly-Colored Sneakers: Neon green, electric blue, and bright orange are vibrant colors that shout chic and bold. These designs grab attention, adding a pop of color to any athleisure or streetwear.
Thinking about these trends when identifying new print-on-demand sneaker offerings will attract a wider customer segment and keep up with the latest fashion-forward styles.
How to Succeed with Print-on-Demand Sneaker Dropshipping
Building a website and printing sneakers isn’t going to cut it. To succeed in the print-on-demand sneaker market, you need an approach that helps build your brand and ensures customer satisfaction.
Here’s how to get it right:
1. Unique Design Is Key – But Don’t Overlook Quality
Unique, trend-forward designs may look stylish, but for most customers, quality is the ultimate deciding factor. Customers expect a pair of shoes that is comfortable and also match their aesthetics.
Take the time to develop some standout graphics and work with suppliers who have a good reputation for providing high-quality materials.
2. Ensure your Return Policy is Clear
A good return policy lets your customers know you value trust. Returns or exchanges are usually more difficult on products that need to be customized, so make sure to clearly lay out your return policies.
A hassle-free process for sizing issues or defective items can improve customer satisfaction and push repeat business.
3. Offer a Precise Size Chart
A comprehensive and accurate size chart helps get rid of sizing errors – one of the most common mistakes made in online shoe purchases.
Measure each size with detail. It also helps to include a guide to the customer on how to measure their foot accurately to get the best fit.
4. Order Samples
You should order samples of the sneakers from your supplier to make sure they meet your requirements. This will help you evaluate the design, print quality, comfort, and overall appearance of the products before you list them in your store.
It will also give you a chance to improve authenticity by sharing high-quality photos of the samples on your site.
5. Stop thinking of Luxury Branding and Start Thinking of Niche Appeal
In the print-on-demand sneakers market, you are not competing with luxury brands. Instead, the goal is to carve a certain niche.
If you’re a gamer, fitness enthusiast, or streetwear fan, focusing on a particular market differentiates your products from the ruckus of a typical market.
Sell Print-on-demand Sneakers with Inkedjoy!
Inkedjoy offers a very wide range of shoes with plenty of options for customizing them, nice quality material, and advanced printing methods, so your products will be stylish and long-lasting. It is perfect for small businesses or entrepreneurs trying to figure out the market since it has a fast production time and no minimum order quantity (MOQ) policy.
Secondly, with white label branding options, you can sell your shoes on your own brand. Whether you’re targeting streetwear enthusiasts or casual fashion lovers, Inkedjoy provides the tools and support needed to succeed in the print-on-demand sneaker market.
FAQs
Can I sell print-on-demand shoes under my own brand name?
Yes! Reputable POD suppliers, like Inkedjoy, offer white-label branding solutions, giving you the ability to provide custom-designed shoes under your own brand name with personal packaging and labels.
Which platforms can be used to sell custom-designed shoes?
If you can create custom-designed shoes, you can sell them on platforms such as Shopify, WooCommerce, Etsy, eBay, and others to reach a great customer base.
How do you put a logo on sneakers?
You can easily add your logo using Inkedjoy’s mock-up tools, which allow for seamless logo integration and customization directly onto your shoe designs.
What does it cost to make custom shoes?
Prices vary based on style, customization options, and your POD supplier. For example, Inkedjoy’s custom sneakers start at approximately $20 per pair.
