Bots dominated sneaker releases for years, but 2025 brought new opportunities for manual users. Brands implemented better anti-bot measures and manual copping became viable again.
UPDATED ANTI-BOT MEASURES
Nike SNKRS App Improvements
- Enhanced device fingerprinting
- Behavioral analysis algorithms
- Queue randomization systems
- Geographic location verification
Adidas Confirmed App Updates
- Mandatory selfie verification
- Purchase history weighting
- Social media account linking
- Real-time captcha systems
WINNING MANUAL STRATEGIES
Strategy 1: Multi-Device Setup
- Primary device: Latest iPhone/Android
- Secondary device: iPad/tablet
- Tertiary device: Desktop/laptop
- Each device needs separate accounts and payment methods
Strategy 2: Account Aging
- Create accounts 6+ months before major releases
- Make small purchases to build history
- Engage with brand content and apps
- Verify all personal information
Strategy 3: Geographic Advantages
- European releases often have better stock levels
- Asian markets get early access to some drops
- Regional exclusive colorways have less competition
- Time zone arbitrage for global releases
Strategy 4: Retailer Relationships
- Build relationships with local sneaker stores
- Join store loyalty programs early
- Attend in-store events and releases
- Follow store social media for surprise drops
BEST MANUAL-FRIENDLY RETAILERS
High Success Rate:
- Size? (EU) – Fair queue system
- Sneakersnstuff – Good stock allocation
- End Clothing – Anti-bot measures work
- Local boutiques – Personal service
Medium Success Rate:
- Nike SNKRS – Improved but still difficult
- Adidas Confirmed – Better than before
- Foot Locker – App improvements help
Low Success Rate:
- Yeezy Supply – Still bot-heavy
- Supreme – Unchanged difficulty
- Off-White releases – Extreme competition
TECHNICAL OPTIMIZATION
Internet Setup:
- Wired connection faster than WiFi
- Close unnecessary apps and browser tabs
- Clear cache before major releases
- Use mobile data as backup
Account Management:
- Save payment information in advance
- Verify shipping addresses work correctly
- Use autofill but double-check information
- Have backup payment methods ready
PSYCHOLOGICAL PREPARATION
Expect Losses: Even perfect execution fails sometimes Stay Persistent: Success comes from consistent effort Don’t Chase Every Release: Focus on pieces you actually want Celebrate Small Wins: Getting anything manually is an achievement
Release Day Timeline:
- 30 minutes before: Final device checks
- 15 minutes before: Close unnecessary apps
- 10 minutes before: Open all retailer apps/sites
- 5 minutes before: Final payment verification
- Release time: Execute across all devices simultaneously
Success Rate Expectations: Even with perfect preparation, expect 15-20% success rate on hyped releases. This is still better than most people achieve.