It is designed to make the drop process more fair and transparent
In a major move that could reshape how highly sought-after sneakers are released, Nike has officially launched a new preorder system called SNKRS Reserve. The new program, announced on August 24, gives sneaker fans on the SNKRS app the chance to secure a pair of a coveted shoe before it is even released to the public.
The program's debut was a special early reservation for the unreleased Kobe 3 Protro "Christmas," a shoe set to release later this year. According to Nike, the new system is designed to "make the best production decisions while providing you access to new, exclusive products." By allowing fans to lock down a pair in advance, Nike can better gauge demand, ensuring that the right number of pairs are produced.
While a traditional SNKRS drop is a chaotic frenzy, the SNKRS Reserve program provides a more transparent path for high-heat releases. The system operates on a limited, first-come, first-serve basis, with only one reservation allowed per account to ensure fairness. This move not only addresses a common frustration for sneakerheads but also builds trust between the brand and its core audience. With this new system, taking an "L" on drop day could become a thing of the past.