In recent years, Sneaker enthusiasts have increasingly turned to Chinese wholesale platforms like 1688 (Alibaba’s domestic marketplace) to find deals on iconic shoes such as the Nike Air Jordan 1. However, navigating 1688 as an international shopper can be challenging due to language barriers and direct shipping limitations. This is where Sugargoo, a trusted Chinese purchasing agent, comes into play. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of using Sugargoo to buy authentic-styled Air Jordan 1s from 1688.
Sugargoo is a leading buy-for-you service
For budget-conscious sneakerheads, platforms like 1688 often offer better prices than retail stores, especially for earlier Jordan 1 colorways. A curated selection of finds can be located through resources like Finds.Cheap, which aggregates trending 1688 product listings across categories including footwear.
First, source the desired Air Jordan 1 listing either via direct 1688 search or third-party indexes like the spreadsheet from Find.Cheap. Key details to verify:
- Seller ratings (preferably 4.8+)
- Available sizes (1688 uses EU sizing)
- Minimum order quantity (MOQs of 1-2 pairs are common)
[Example: Air Jordan 1 High OG in 'Chenille' colorway sourced via Finds.Cheap spreadsheet]
Once you’ve copied the 1688 product URL:
Within 2-4 business days, Sugargoo’s warehouse will:
① Send HD QC photos (you’ll inspect stitching, logos etc.)
② Repackage shoes with moisture barrier if requested
③ Calculate international shipping quotes (EMS, DHL etc.)
Pro Tip:
Here’s a sample cost estimate for Jordan 1 ‘Black Toe’:
1688 Item Price | ¥480 ($67) |
Sugargoo Service Fee | ¥35 ($5) |
Shipping to USA (1.7kg) | ¥220 ($30) |
Total | ¥735 ($102) |
- Some 1688 sellers include branded dust bags despite unauthorized status
- Use Sugargoo’s "Invoice/Discount/RCS Phone Support" for border control clearance assistance
- Build relationships with preferred sellers via Sugargoo’s rebinding service
Final thought: While not all 1688 Jordan 1s are 1:1 factory flawless, budgets allowing pre-shortlisted batches