Is GOAT Legit? Latest Review with Screenshots and Comments

A lot of shoppers wonder, Is GOAT legit? With resale prices and rare drops everywhere, it's fair to be a little nervous before spending your money.

We ordered from GOAT last year in December for the first time. Then, we ordered shoes from them multiple times and even returned one pair.

Here’s what we’ve found:

GOAT is 100% legit. Every pair of sneakers is checked by experts to make sure it is authentic. The company works with big brands and has millions of happy customers. You are also protected as a buyer, so you can shop with confidence.

But wait. Stay tuned. Here, you’ll also learn what common complaints people are reporting. Plus, we’re comparing GOAT with StockX, Zappos, KicksCrew, and more.

Key Takeaways

• GOAT is legit, as it verifies all sneakers before they ship them to you.

• The platform works with both new and used shoes.

• You can return items—but only some, and usually for credit.

• GOAT has a strong app, millions of users, and smart tech tools.

• Customer service can feel slow or generic at times.

• Mistakes like wrong sizes or used shoes do happen, but they fix them.

Is GOAT Legit? (Review)

GOAT.com is a legit and trusted place to buy sneakers. Every pair goes through a full check before it reaches the buyer. Sellers don’t ship directly to customers, which lowers the risk of getting scammed. GOAT uses expert teams, smart tools, and verified sellers to keep everything safe.

Here are all 13 reasons why GOAT.com is reliable:

Reason 1: Rigorous Authentication Process

GOAT is legitimate because it takes sneaker checking seriously. They don’t just rely on one quick look. Their authentication process includes a full inspection by real people who are trained to spot fake shoes. These people know what to look for in every part of the sneaker (from stitching to logos to packaging).

The team looks at how the shoe is built. They check if the colors match the original release. They inspect the shape of the sole and even compare the laces. If anything feels off, they won’t let it pass. They’re trained to look for details most of us would miss.

When we ordered our Travis Scotts, the process took five days. It felt a little slow, but that was because they were making sure everything was right.

Reason 2: Ship to Verify Model

GOAT has a system that helps avoid problems from the start. When you buy a pair, the seller doesn’t send it to you. They send it to GOAT first. Then the GOAT checks it and makes sure everything is good. Only after that does the pair get shipped to you.

This stops fake or damaged shoes from getting through. It also helps with sellers who lie in their listings. Maybe the photos were clear, but the real shoe is worn out or dirty. GOAT catches these problems before the shoes reach you.

We’ve had this happen once. We ordered some Foam Runners, but GOAT canceled it after their check. They said the pair didn’t meet their standards. We got a full refund without asking. That made us trust the process even more.

This model also helps GOAT track orders better. Everything gets scanned, checked, and confirmed. So if anything goes missing or damaged, they know where it happened.

Reason 3: Verified Sellers and Products

You can trust GOAT, as the company doesn’t allow just anyone to start selling. Sellers must go through a check before they can list items. GOAT looks at things like past sales, shipping speed, and product condition. New sellers have to prove they’re reliable before they can sell regularly.

Sellers get a rating based on how well they perform. If they send bad items or fake shoes, they’re removed. GOAT watches this closely, as this helps protect buyers from scams. 

You can also buy shoes directly from GOAT. These are brand-new pairs, often from retail stores. They’re shipped straight from GOAT’s own storage. We’ve done this with a pair of white Cement 3s. They arrived fast and looked perfect.

Reason 4: Use of Machine Learning and Tech Tools

GOAT doesn’t just rely on people to spot fakes. They also use technology to back up the checks. This includes machine learning and image recognition tools that scan each pair during the process. These tools compare sneakers against thousands of verified pairs in their system.

We saw a breakdown of this once on their Instagram. They showed how a pair of fake Yeezys passed a quick glance but failed on barcode scan and toe shape. That’s something a person might miss in a rush, but the system flagged it right away.

Reason 5: Refund and Buyer Protection Policy

GOAT.com is a legitimate site as it has a solid refund policy that helps buyers feel safe. If they can’t confirm the shoes are real, they cancel the order and give your money back. The same happens if the item doesn’t match the listing. You don’t need to argue or prove anything.

This happened to one of us last year. We ordered a pair of used Air Jordan 1 that were marked “excellent.” But GOAT’s team found extra wear that the seller didn’t mention. They didn’t ship it to us. Instead, they canceled the order and refunded everything, including shipping.

That’s not it. FTC also oversees GOAT. In December 2024, everyone read the news that the FTC is making GOAT refund more than $2 million to customers after failing to deliver orders on time.

Reason 6: Positive Ratings from Users and Experts

GOAT has earned strong reviews from both everyday buyers and sneaker experts. People talk about how reliable it is, especially when it comes to getting real shoes. A lot of users also say they trust GOAT more than other resale platforms.

On Trustpilot, Reddit, and sneaker groups, GOAT is one of the top names mentioned. Users talk about good packaging, smooth refunds, and quick responses. While no company is perfect, GOAT’s overall feedback is clearly positive. 

Here’s the full GOAT review table:

Experts in sneaker media also rate GOAT high. Sites like Highsnobiety and Hypebeast have included GOAT in lists of trusted resale platforms. They often compare it with StockX and eBay. And GOAT usually scores better when it comes to buyer protection and product variety.

In our own group of sneaker friends, GOAT is always in the top two. Some people use it just for rare finds. Others trust it for everyday pickups.

Reason 7: Mobile App with Over 50 Million Users

GOAT’s app is one of the most used sneaker shopping apps out there. Did you know over 50 million people use it? That number alone shows how much trust it has built. And honestly, the app itself is easy to use and has never felt buggy to us.

You can do everything inside the app: browse, buy, track orders, and even talk to support. The live updates during the order process are super helpful. You always know where your order is and what step it’s in.

We also like how the app lets you filter by price, condition, or release date. You can set alerts when prices drop. You can even browse used pairs with pictures from the seller.

Reason 8: Transparency in Listings and Payment

Here’s the thing: GOAT does a good job of showing exactly what you're buying. Every product listing is clearly marked. You’ll see if it’s new, used, or instant ship. You’ll also see if it comes with the original box or not. That’s important when buying collectible sneakers.

For used pairs, sellers have to upload real photos, so you can see creases, marks, or anything else.

We’ve used this many times when buying older Jordans. Some pairs looked clean in the photos. Others had heel drag or creases. It helped us decide quickly which ones were worth it.

On top of all, GOAT also shows estimated delivery time, seller rating, and price history.

Similarly, GOAT.com is very clear about the payment policy. It accepts all major platforms, which is a big plus. However, you can't use Bitcoin or any cryptocurrency for payments as of yet.

We used Apply Pay when we ordered Air Jordan from GOAT. Here's the proof:

Reason 9: International Reach and Warehouses

GOAT is legitimate because it isn’t just a U.S. platform. It ships to over 170 countries around the world. That means you can buy and sell sneakers almost anywhere, and still get the same experience. This global reach is a big reason why GOAT has grown so fast.

What helps even more is that GOAT has multiple warehouses. These locations speed up shipping and help with storing already-verified inventory. So if you choose “instant ship,” you’re likely getting a pair that’s already in one of those warehouses.

We’ve had friends in Europe and Asia use GOAT with no issues. The process was the same as ours in the U.S. Tracking worked, support replied, and everything arrived just fine. That tells us GOAT has their system figured out well across borders.

Reason 10: Backed by Reputable Investors

GOAT is absolutely legit because it is backed by serious companies. One of the biggest names is Foot Locker, which has invested over 100 million dollars in GOAT. That’s not something a major brand does without deep trust and research.

Forbes reported that Foot Locker picked GOAT because they saw it had strong systems, loyal users, and a smart future.

We think this kind of support matters, especially in resale.

Here’s a clearer breakdown of GOAT’s investors and funding history:

According to TechCrunch, GOAT’s valuation after Series F is $3.7 Billion.

So, if you’re putting your money into rare sneakers, it helps to know the platform is stable. GOAT’s investor list gives us that confidence.

Reason 11: Easy to Contact GOAT

Reaching out to GOAT when something goes wrong is simple. You can submit a ticket and track your support requests without any hassle.

One time, our delivery showed “delivered,” but we hadn’t received anything. We reported it using the app. GOAT’s team got back in a day and opened an investigation. Within a few days, they gave us a refund. It was easy and handled well.

Here’s how to contact GOAT.com:

If you ever need to check on an order, ask a question, or request a refund, it’s all there in your account.

Reason 12: Shipping Policy Is Clear

GOAT’s shipping terms are written in plain language. When you buy something, you can see exactly when to expect it. The app shows clear updates, such as when the seller ships the item, when GOAT gets it, and when they ship it to you.

Here's the screenshot we took after ordering from GOAT.com:

For U.S. buyers, standard orders usually take 7 to 10 business days. If you choose “instant ship,” it’s much faster—usually just a few days. GOAT also tells you upfront if something might take longer. You’re not left guessing.

When we’ve needed fast shipping, we just picked “instant ship.” The pair arrived in three days, with no issues. So if time matters to you, that option really helps.

Reason 13: Huge Fan Following on Social Media

GOAT.com is legit, as it has a strong presence on all major social platforms. On Instagram, their main account @goat has over 4 million followers. They post everything from rare drops to styling tips. It keeps the community engaged and shows how active the brand is.

We follow most of their accounts, not just for deals, but also for trust. It feels good to buy from a platform that’s open and visible.

GOAT.com Complaint Reviews

While GOAT is legit and trusted by many, it’s not perfect. Some buyers have shared negative experiences. Common complaints are poor customer service, receiving wrong or used items, and a tough return process.

Customer Service Can Be Slow or Unhelpful

A lot of users have said that GOAT’s support takes too long to respond. According to them, the replies can feel slow and not very personal. Many times, buyers get the same copy-paste message no matter what question they ask.

One user shared that they had an issue with a missing delivery. They sent three messages over a week before anyone replied. When support finally did respond, they just told the person to “check with the carrier.” That kind of answer doesn’t help when you’ve spent hundreds of dollars on sneakers.

Wrong or Used Items Received

Some have received the wrong size, while a few others say they got a completely different style than what they ordered. And worse, some people who paid for new shoes ended up getting pairs that were clearly worn.

This can happen even though GOAT has a verification process. It seems like mistakes still slip through once in a while.

Returns Can Be Difficult or Costly

GOAT’s return policy is another thing that gets complaints. Many buyers don’t know the full rules until they try to return something.

Here’s how it works: if the item is marked “Final Sale,” it can’t be returned at all. This includes most sneakers from individual sellers. If your item is returnable, you only get GOAT credit back (not actual cash).

Plus, some buyers have said that the whole process takes way too much time. Here's what we saw when we wanted to return Air Jordans:

On top of that, you have to pay for return shipping. This can be frustrating, especially if you’re returning something that arrived with a problem.

Is GOAT Legit for Shoes?

GOAT is a legit place to buy shoes, including sneakers. It’s one of the biggest platforms in the world for sneaker reselling, with millions of buyers and sellers using it every day. Every pair of shoes goes through a full authentication process before it reaches you.

GOAT doesn’t allow sellers to ship directly to buyers. When you place an order, the seller sends the shoes to GOAT’s team first. There, trained experts check everything from the shoe’s stitching to the box label. They also use smart tools like barcode scans and image matching.

Why Is GOAT So Cheap?

GOAT often has lower prices than regular retail stores or other resale apps. Here are a few reasons why GOAT.com can be cheaper:

• Large number of sellers: More sellers mean more price competition. That helps push prices down.

• Used shoes are allowed: Buyers can choose from gently used pairs, which cost less than new ones.

• Price drops over time: Some shoes lose hype after release. Sellers lower prices to move stock.

• Global seller base: GOAT pulls sellers from different regions, where pricing trends can vary.

• Instant ship deals: Some inventory is stored and ready to ship fast, which can come with discounts.

Is GOAT Legit for Clothes?

GOAT is legit for clothing. Over the years, the platform has grown to include streetwear, apparel, and even accessories. Like sneakers, clothing items are also checked before they’re shipped to you. That’s what makes it safer than random sellers online.

GOAT lists items from both individuals and retail partners. You’ll find popular brands like Supreme, Fear of God, Off-White, and Nike.2

Important Note: One thing to keep in mind is sizing. Since most clothing items are final sale, make sure you know your size before ordering.

Does GOAT Sell Fake Shoes?

GOAT does not sell fake shoes on purpose. In fact, their whole system is built to stop fakes from getting through. Every pair goes through a multi-step check. They inspect the shoes physically, and also use tech tools to catch counterfeits.

But like any large platform, a few fakes might slip through. It’s rare, but it has happened. The good thing is that GOAT stands behind their guarantee. If you get a fake, they’ll take it back and give you a full refund.

Does GOAT Sell Used Shoes?

Yes, GOAT sells both new and used shoes. You can find lightly worn pairs, beaters, or near-new sneakers on the platform. Each listing clearly shows the shoe’s condition, so you know what to expect before buying. Used shoes usually cost less than new ones, which makes them a great option if you're on a budget.

When sellers list used shoes, they must upload real photos of the actual pair. GOAT requires shots of the outside, soles, inside tags, and even the box if it’s included.

GOAT still verifies used shoes before shipping them out. The process is the same as with new pairs. Their team checks for authenticity and makes sure the condition matches what the seller claimed. If something doesn’t line up, they cancel the order and refund you.

Can I Return Shoes on GOAT if They Don’t Fit?

GOAT does allow returns, but only for certain items. That includes some sneakers that are brand new and marked as returnable. If the shoes are from a third-party seller or labeled “final sale,” then returns are not allowed, even if they don’t fit.

Most shoes sold on GOAT fall under final sale. That means once you buy them, you can’t send them back unless there’s a problem with the order, like receiving the wrong size or a damaged pair.

If sizing is a concern, check the brand’s size chart first and read reviews online.

How Long Does It Take for GOAT to Verify a Shoe?

GOAT usually takes one to two business days to verify a sneaker after it arrives at their facility. This is when their team checks the shoes for authenticity, condition, and listing accuracy. Once verified, the shoes are then shipped to the buyer.

Here’s how the timeline typically works: after you place an order, the seller has about 3 business days to send the item to GOAT. Once GOAT receives the shoes, the verification step begins, which usually takes 24 to 48 hours. After that, the shoes are shipped to you using standard delivery, which takes another few days.

For items listed as “instant ship,” there’s no waiting for verification. These pairs are already at GOAT’s warehouse and have been pre-verified. So if you need shoes fast, that’s the way to go.

Do GOAT Shoes Run Big or Small?

GOAT doesn’t make or size the shoes. Note that it’s just a resale platform. So whether the shoes run big or small depends on the brand and model you’re buying. Some sneakers run true to size, others run big, and a few run small.

We’ve found that checking sneaker forums or YouTube reviews can really help. When we bought Foam Runners, we sized up because most people said they ran tight.

If you’re between sizes or unsure, GOAT’s “instant ship” or returnable listings give you a safer option. These are usually eligible for store credit returns, so you’re not stuck with a pair that doesn’t fit.

GOAT vs Zappos

Both GOAT and Zappos offer shoes online, but they play very different roles. GOAT focuses on verified resale sneakers and streetwear. Zappos sells new shoes directly from brands.

Now let’s look at how they differ:

GOAT vs Novelship

GOAT is global with 170+ countries covered, while Novelship is focused on Asia. Novelship offers negotiable pricing on some listings, while GOAT uses fixed or auction-style pricing.

GOAT vs StockX

GOAT and StockX are the two giants in sneaker resale. StockX operates like a stock market—bids and asks. GOAT offers both fixed-price and bidding, with options for used sneakers. Their authentication and shipping processes have key differences.

GOAT vs KicksCrew

Looking for GOAT vs KicksCrew comparison? GOAT is resale-focused, while KicksCrew sells excess new inventory directly from retailers.

Here are the key differences:

GOAT vs Foot Locker

GOAT and Foot Locker are different. GOAT is resale-focused and global, but Foot Locker is a traditional retail chain with physical locations.

Here’s how they compare:

Conclusion

If you're thinking, is GOAT.com legit, then note that the answer is yes. Every shoe goes through a real check by experts before it’s shipped. You can find rare or even cheaper pairs, especially if you’re open to used ones.

However, most items are final sale, so always double-check before buying. Issues can happen, but GOAT usually makes it right.

Just shop smart!

A lot of shoppers wonder, Is GOAT legit? With resale prices and rare drops everywhere, it's fair to be a little nervous before spending your money.

We ordered from GOAT last year in December for the first time. Then, we ordered shoes from them multiple times and even returned one pair.

Here’s what we’ve found:

GOAT is 100% legit. Every pair of sneakers is checked by experts to make sure it is authentic. The company works with big brands and has millions of happy customers. You are also protected as a buyer, so you can shop with confidence.

But wait. Stay tuned. Here, you’ll also learn what common complaints people are reporting. Plus, we’re comparing GOAT with StockX, Zappos, KicksCrew, and more.

Key Takeaways

• GOAT is legit, as it verifies all sneakers before they ship them to you.

• The platform works with both new and used shoes.

• You can return items—but only some, and usually for credit.

• GOAT has a strong app, millions of users, and smart tech tools.

• Customer service can feel slow or generic at times.

• Mistakes like wrong sizes or used shoes do happen, but they fix them.

Is GOAT Legit? (Review)

GOAT.com is a legit and trusted place to buy sneakers. Every pair goes through a full check before it reaches the buyer. Sellers don’t ship directly to customers, which lowers the risk of getting scammed. GOAT uses expert teams, smart tools, and verified sellers to keep everything safe.

Here are all 13 reasons why GOAT.com is reliable:

Reason 1: Rigorous Authentication Process

GOAT is legitimate because it takes sneaker checking seriously. They don’t just rely on one quick look. Their authentication process includes a full inspection by real people who are trained to spot fake shoes. These people know what to look for in every part of the sneaker (from stitching to logos to packaging).

The team looks at how the shoe is built. They check if the colors match the original release. They inspect the shape of the sole and even compare the laces. If anything feels off, they won’t let it pass. They’re trained to look for details most of us would miss.

When we ordered our Travis Scotts, the process took five days. It felt a little slow, but that was because they were making sure everything was right.

Reason 2: Ship to Verify Model

GOAT has a system that helps avoid problems from the start. When you buy a pair, the seller doesn’t send it to you. They send it to GOAT first. Then the GOAT checks it and makes sure everything is good. Only after that does the pair get shipped to you.

This stops fake or damaged shoes from getting through. It also helps with sellers who lie in their listings. Maybe the photos were clear, but the real shoe is worn out or dirty. GOAT catches these problems before the shoes reach you.

We’ve had this happen once. We ordered some Foam Runners, but GOAT canceled it after their check. They said the pair didn’t meet their standards. We got a full refund without asking. That made us trust the process even more.

This model also helps GOAT track orders better. Everything gets scanned, checked, and confirmed. So if anything goes missing or damaged, they know where it happened.

Reason 3: Verified Sellers and Products

You can trust GOAT, as the company doesn’t allow just anyone to start selling. Sellers must go through a check before they can list items. GOAT looks at things like past sales, shipping speed, and product condition. New sellers have to prove they’re reliable before they can sell regularly.

Sellers get a rating based on how well they perform. If they send bad items or fake shoes, they’re removed. GOAT watches this closely, as this helps protect buyers from scams. 

You can also buy shoes directly from GOAT. These are brand-new pairs, often from retail stores. They’re shipped straight from GOAT’s own storage. We’ve done this with a pair of white Cement 3s. They arrived fast and looked perfect.

Reason 4: Use of Machine Learning and Tech Tools

GOAT doesn’t just rely on people to spot fakes. They also use technology to back up the checks. This includes machine learning and image recognition tools that scan each pair during the process. These tools compare sneakers against thousands of verified pairs in their system.

We saw a breakdown of this once on their Instagram. They showed how a pair of fake Yeezys passed a quick glance but failed on barcode scan and toe shape. That’s something a person might miss in a rush, but the system flagged it right away.

Reason 5: Refund and Buyer Protection Policy

GOAT.com is a legitimate site as it has a solid refund policy that helps buyers feel safe. If they can’t confirm the shoes are real, they cancel the order and give your money back. The same happens if the item doesn’t match the listing. You don’t need to argue or prove anything.

This happened to one of us last year. We ordered a pair of used Air Jordan 1 that were marked “excellent.” But GOAT’s team found extra wear that the seller didn’t mention. They didn’t ship it to us. Instead, they canceled the order and refunded everything, including shipping.

That’s not it. FTC also oversees GOAT. In December 2024, everyone read the news that the FTC is making GOAT refund more than $2 million to customers after failing to deliver orders on time.

Reason 6: Positive Ratings from Users and Experts

GOAT has earned strong reviews from both everyday buyers and sneaker experts. People talk about how reliable it is, especially when it comes to getting real shoes. A lot of users also say they trust GOAT more than other resale platforms.

On Trustpilot, Reddit, and sneaker groups, GOAT is one of the top names mentioned. Users talk about good packaging, smooth refunds, and quick responses. While no company is perfect, GOAT’s overall feedback is clearly positive. 

Here’s the full GOAT review table:

Experts in sneaker media also rate GOAT high. Sites like Highsnobiety and Hypebeast have included GOAT in lists of trusted resale platforms. They often compare it with StockX and eBay. And GOAT usually scores better when it comes to buyer protection and product variety.

In our own group of sneaker friends, GOAT is always in the top two. Some people use it just for rare finds. Others trust it for everyday pickups.

Reason 7: Mobile App with Over 50 Million Users

GOAT’s app is one of the most used sneaker shopping apps out there. Did you know over 50 million people use it? That number alone shows how much trust it has built. And honestly, the app itself is easy to use and has never felt buggy to us.

You can do everything inside the app: browse, buy, track orders, and even talk to support. The live updates during the order process are super helpful. You always know where your order is and what step it’s in.

We also like how the app lets you filter by price, condition, or release date. You can set alerts when prices drop. You can even browse used pairs with pictures from the seller.

Reason 8: Transparency in Listings and Payment

Here’s the thing: GOAT does a good job of showing exactly what you're buying. Every product listing is clearly marked. You’ll see if it’s new, used, or instant ship. You’ll also see if it comes with the original box or not. That’s important when buying collectible sneakers.

For used pairs, sellers have to upload real photos, so you can see creases, marks, or anything else.

We’ve used this many times when buying older Jordans. Some pairs looked clean in the photos. Others had heel drag or creases. It helped us decide quickly which ones were worth it.

On top of all, GOAT also shows estimated delivery time, seller rating, and price history.

Similarly, GOAT.com is very clear about the payment policy. It accepts all major platforms, which is a big plus. However, you can't use Bitcoin or any cryptocurrency for payments as of yet.

We used Apply Pay when we ordered Air Jordan from GOAT. Here's the proof:

Reason 9: International Reach and Warehouses

GOAT is legitimate because it isn’t just a U.S. platform. It ships to over 170 countries around the world. That means you can buy and sell sneakers almost anywhere, and still get the same experience. This global reach is a big reason why GOAT has grown so fast.

What helps even more is that GOAT has multiple warehouses. These locations speed up shipping and help with storing already-verified inventory. So if you choose “instant ship,” you’re likely getting a pair that’s already in one of those warehouses.

We’ve had friends in Europe and Asia use GOAT with no issues. The process was the same as ours in the U.S. Tracking worked, support replied, and everything arrived just fine. That tells us GOAT has their system figured out well across borders.

Reason 10: Backed by Reputable Investors

GOAT is absolutely legit because it is backed by serious companies. One of the biggest names is Foot Locker, which has invested over 100 million dollars in GOAT. That’s not something a major brand does without deep trust and research.

Forbes reported that Foot Locker picked GOAT because they saw it had strong systems, loyal users, and a smart future.

We think this kind of support matters, especially in resale.

Here’s a clearer breakdown of GOAT’s investors and funding history:

According to TechCrunch, GOAT’s valuation after Series F is $3.7 Billion.

So, if you’re putting your money into rare sneakers, it helps to know the platform is stable. GOAT’s investor list gives us that confidence.

Reason 11: Easy to Contact GOAT

Reaching out to GOAT when something goes wrong is simple. You can submit a ticket and track your support requests without any hassle.

One time, our delivery showed “delivered,” but we hadn’t received anything. We reported it using the app. GOAT’s team got back in a day and opened an investigation. Within a few days, they gave us a refund. It was easy and handled well.

Here’s how to contact GOAT.com:

If you ever need to check on an order, ask a question, or request a refund, it’s all there in your account.

Reason 12: Shipping Policy Is Clear

GOAT’s shipping terms are written in plain language. When you buy something, you can see exactly when to expect it. The app shows clear updates, such as when the seller ships the item, when GOAT gets it, and when they ship it to you.

Here's the screenshot we took after ordering from GOAT.com:

For U.S. buyers, standard orders usually take 7 to 10 business days. If you choose “instant ship,” it’s much faster—usually just a few days. GOAT also tells you upfront if something might take longer. You’re not left guessing.

When we’ve needed fast shipping, we just picked “instant ship.” The pair arrived in three days, with no issues. So if time matters to you, that option really helps.

Reason 13: Huge Fan Following on Social Media

GOAT.com is legit, as it has a strong presence on all major social platforms. On Instagram, their main account @goat has over 4 million followers. They post everything from rare drops to styling tips. It keeps the community engaged and shows how active the brand is.

We follow most of their accounts, not just for deals, but also for trust. It feels good to buy from a platform that’s open and visible.

GOAT.com Complaint Reviews

While GOAT is legit and trusted by many, it’s not perfect. Some buyers have shared negative experiences. Common complaints are poor customer service, receiving wrong or used items, and a tough return process.

Customer Service Can Be Slow or Unhelpful

A lot of users have said that GOAT’s support takes too long to respond. According to them, the replies can feel slow and not very personal. Many times, buyers get the same copy-paste message no matter what question they ask.

One user shared that they had an issue with a missing delivery. They sent three messages over a week before anyone replied. When support finally did respond, they just told the person to “check with the carrier.” That kind of answer doesn’t help when you’ve spent hundreds of dollars on sneakers.

Wrong or Used Items Received

Some have received the wrong size, while a few others say they got a completely different style than what they ordered. And worse, some people who paid for new shoes ended up getting pairs that were clearly worn.

This can happen even though GOAT has a verification process. It seems like mistakes still slip through once in a while.

Returns Can Be Difficult or Costly

GOAT’s return policy is another thing that gets complaints. Many buyers don’t know the full rules until they try to return something.

Here’s how it works: if the item is marked “Final Sale,” it can’t be returned at all. This includes most sneakers from individual sellers. If your item is returnable, you only get GOAT credit back (not actual cash).

Plus, some buyers have said that the whole process takes way too much time. Here's what we saw when we wanted to return Air Jordans:

On top of that, you have to pay for return shipping. This can be frustrating, especially if you’re returning something that arrived with a problem.

Is GOAT Legit for Shoes?

GOAT is a legit place to buy shoes, including sneakers. It’s one of the biggest platforms in the world for sneaker reselling, with millions of buyers and sellers using it every day. Every pair of shoes goes through a full authentication process before it reaches you.

GOAT doesn’t allow sellers to ship directly to buyers. When you place an order, the seller sends the shoes to GOAT’s team first. There, trained experts check everything from the shoe’s stitching to the box label. They also use smart tools like barcode scans and image matching.

Why Is GOAT So Cheap?

GOAT often has lower prices than regular retail stores or other resale apps. Here are a few reasons why GOAT.com can be cheaper:

• Large number of sellers: More sellers mean more price competition. That helps push prices down.

• Used shoes are allowed: Buyers can choose from gently used pairs, which cost less than new ones.

• Price drops over time: Some shoes lose hype after release. Sellers lower prices to move stock.

• Global seller base: GOAT pulls sellers from different regions, where pricing trends can vary.

• Instant ship deals: Some inventory is stored and ready to ship fast, which can come with discounts.

Is GOAT Legit for Clothes?

GOAT is legit for clothing. Over the years, the platform has grown to include streetwear, apparel, and even accessories. Like sneakers, clothing items are also checked before they’re shipped to you. That’s what makes it safer than random sellers online.

GOAT lists items from both individuals and retail partners. You’ll find popular brands like Supreme, Fear of God, Off-White, and Nike.2

Important Note: One thing to keep in mind is sizing. Since most clothing items are final sale, make sure you know your size before ordering.

Does GOAT Sell Fake Shoes?

GOAT does not sell fake shoes on purpose. In fact, their whole system is built to stop fakes from getting through. Every pair goes through a multi-step check. They inspect the shoes physically, and also use tech tools to catch counterfeits.

But like any large platform, a few fakes might slip through. It’s rare, but it has happened. The good thing is that GOAT stands behind their guarantee. If you get a fake, they’ll take it back and give you a full refund.

Does GOAT Sell Used Shoes?

Yes, GOAT sells both new and used shoes. You can find lightly worn pairs, beaters, or near-new sneakers on the platform. Each listing clearly shows the shoe’s condition, so you know what to expect before buying. Used shoes usually cost less than new ones, which makes them a great option if you're on a budget.

When sellers list used shoes, they must upload real photos of the actual pair. GOAT requires shots of the outside, soles, inside tags, and even the box if it’s included.

GOAT still verifies used shoes before shipping them out. The process is the same as with new pairs. Their team checks for authenticity and makes sure the condition matches what the seller claimed. If something doesn’t line up, they cancel the order and refund you.

Can I Return Shoes on GOAT if They Don’t Fit?

GOAT does allow returns, but only for certain items. That includes some sneakers that are brand new and marked as returnable. If the shoes are from a third-party seller or labeled “final sale,” then returns are not allowed, even if they don’t fit.

Most shoes sold on GOAT fall under final sale. That means once you buy them, you can’t send them back unless there’s a problem with the order, like receiving the wrong size or a damaged pair.

If sizing is a concern, check the brand’s size chart first and read reviews online.

How Long Does It Take for GOAT to Verify a Shoe?

GOAT usually takes one to two business days to verify a sneaker after it arrives at their facility. This is when their team checks the shoes for authenticity, condition, and listing accuracy. Once verified, the shoes are then shipped to the buyer.

Here’s how the timeline typically works: after you place an order, the seller has about 3 business days to send the item to GOAT. Once GOAT receives the shoes, the verification step begins, which usually takes 24 to 48 hours. After that, the shoes are shipped to you using standard delivery, which takes another few days.

For items listed as “instant ship,” there’s no waiting for verification. These pairs are already at GOAT’s warehouse and have been pre-verified. So if you need shoes fast, that’s the way to go.

Do GOAT Shoes Run Big or Small?

GOAT doesn’t make or size the shoes. Note that it’s just a resale platform. So whether the shoes run big or small depends on the brand and model you’re buying. Some sneakers run true to size, others run big, and a few run small.

We’ve found that checking sneaker forums or YouTube reviews can really help. When we bought Foam Runners, we sized up because most people said they ran tight.

If you’re between sizes or unsure, GOAT’s “instant ship” or returnable listings give you a safer option. These are usually eligible for store credit returns, so you’re not stuck with a pair that doesn’t fit.

GOAT vs Zappos

Both GOAT and Zappos offer shoes online, but they play very different roles. GOAT focuses on verified resale sneakers and streetwear. Zappos sells new shoes directly from brands.

Now let’s look at how they differ:

GOAT vs Novelship

GOAT is global with 170+ countries covered, while Novelship is focused on Asia. Novelship offers negotiable pricing on some listings, while GOAT uses fixed or auction-style pricing.

GOAT vs StockX

GOAT and StockX are the two giants in sneaker resale. StockX operates like a stock market—bids and asks. GOAT offers both fixed-price and bidding, with options for used sneakers. Their authentication and shipping processes have key differences.

GOAT vs KicksCrew

Looking for GOAT vs KicksCrew comparison? GOAT is resale-focused, while KicksCrew sells excess new inventory directly from retailers.

Here are the key differences:

GOAT vs Foot Locker

GOAT and Foot Locker are different. GOAT is resale-focused and global, but Foot Locker is a traditional retail chain with physical locations.

Here’s how they compare:

Conclusion

If you're thinking, is GOAT.com legit, then note that the answer is yes. Every shoe goes through a real check by experts before it’s shipped. You can find rare or even cheaper pairs, especially if you’re open to used ones.

However, most items are final sale, so always double-check before buying. Issues can happen, but GOAT usually makes it right.

Just shop smart!