Shoe QC
QC checklist for shoes
Shoes are the most QC-heavy category for a reason: small shape differences show on feet and in photos. Use this checklist when your warehouse pictures land.
Order match
Verify the colorway, size label, and model name on the box or tongue tag match your order. Confirm left and right are the same batch — mixed batches happen rarely but are worth a glance.
Shape and symmetry
Compare toe box height, heel curve, and ankle collar on both shoes. Look head-on and from the back. Noticeable asymmetry can mean a bad pair or a rushed batch.
Midsole and outsole
Check midsole stitching, paint lines, and glue residue. Flip to the sole for tread pattern and any factory defects. Press photos should show embossing depth if the style uses it.
Upper materials and stitching
Scan panel alignment, swoosh or stripe placement, and perforation spacing. Loose threads and minor glue are common at lower price points — decide what you can live with before approving.
Tags, insoles, and extras
Read size tags, insole print, and extra laces if included. Missing accessories are easier to fix at the warehouse than after customs.
Common questions
- Do I need QC for cheap slides or sandals?
- Still worth a quick check for correct size and obvious damage. Full angle-by-angle review matters less than on structured sneakers.
- What is the most common shoe QC fail?
- Wrong size shipped or color shade noticeably off from the listing. Shape issues rank next — especially on popular silhouettes where batches vary.