If you've been shopping for sneakers online and come across terms like "B-grade," "outlet sourced," or "factory seconds" — you probably have questions. Here's everything you need to know, straight from us at Lab X Supply.
What Does B-Grade Mean?
A B-grade sneaker is a 100% authentic shoe that didn't pass Nike or Jordan Brand's standard retail quality inspection. Before any pair hits store shelves, Nike puts every shoe through a quality control process. Pairs that don't meet their cosmetic standards get stamped with a "B" and redirected to outlet channels instead of retail stores.
What Causes a B-Grade Stamp?
Common reasons include: a slight glue mark near the outsole, minor stitching variation, a small scuff or nick on the leather, or slight color inconsistency. These are cosmetic only — the shoe is structurally identical to the retail pair you'd buy at Foot Locker or SNKRS.
Are B-Grade Sneakers Fake?
Absolutely not. B-grade pairs are manufactured in the exact same Nike and Jordan Brand factories, with the exact same materials, on the exact same production lines as retail pairs. The only difference is a minor cosmetic imperfection that Nike's quality team flagged. Every pair at Lab X Supply is 100% authentic. We have never sold a fake shoe and never will.
Are B-Grade Sneakers Worth Buying?
Yes — especially for popular releases that are sold out at retail and trading hundreds of dollars above retail on StockX. For example, the Jordan 11 Gamma Blue 2025 retailed at $235 and trades at $303 to $525 on StockX. Our B-grade pairs start at $350 — below the StockX market price for a shoe that is still 100% authentic and wears perfectly.
Shop Authentic Outlet Sneakers at Lab X Supply
We carry Jordan 4s, Jordan 5s, Jordan 11s, Jordan 12s, Nike Mind 001 Slides, NOCTA collabs, and Mystery Boxes — all outlet sourced, all 100% authentic, all with free tracking.
Use code SNKRS10 for 10% off your first order at labxsupply.com.