DIY Sneaker Kite Reviewed
If you’ve ever dreamed of designing your own sneakers from scratch, a sneaker making kit might be the perfect place to start. In this comprehensive review, we tested and compared the two best sneaker making kits available to help you find the right one—whether you’re a beginner, DIY enthusiast, or aspiring footwear designer. From premium leather options to customizable soles and step-by-step instructions, we break down what each kit offers in terms of quality, creativity, and value. Read on to discover which sneaker making kit stands out for style, durability, and ease of use.
Shoemakers Academy
👟 Shoemakers Academy – Sneaker Starter Kit The Shoemakers AcademyPrice: $59 – $60 USD
Shipping: $5 – $10 USD
Best for: Beginners, Quilters Leather crafters and hobbyists
What’s Included:
• Rubber outsole (White, Black, or Gum) USA sizes
• Memory foam footbed (6 mm)
• 2.0 mm lasting board
• Stitching awl & disappearing ink pen
• Sole stitching thread
• Plastic Pattern template (sized to order)
• Printed instructions
• Full-length instructional video
What You’ll Need to Add:
• Quilted fabric or Leather
• Shoe glue (contact cement)
• Thread, scissors, hole punch
• Eyelets and setting tools
Pros:
• Step-by-step video training
• Ships from California
• Plastic Pattern included
• Sizing tailored per kit
• No hassle size exchange
• Printed instructions included
• Email & phone support
• Etsy 5 Star Item
Cons:
• Requires more build time
• Footbed is die cut
Ideal For:
Beginners looking for a comprehensive first-time shoemaking experience. Crafters looking to learn more advance shoemaking skills.
Where to get it: • $10 off Discount: START-NOW The Shoemakers Academy
SneakerKit EU
🥾 SneakerKit EU – DIY Sneaker Kit
Sneaker Kit EU
Price: €49 – €89 $70 USD
Shipping: $10 – $18 USD
Best for: DIYers with experience sourcing materials
What’s Included:
• Rubber soles (EU sizes 36–47)
• Insoles (optional)
• Thread and sewing needles
• Downloadable pattern
What You’ll Need to Add:
• Leather or fabric for uppers
• Scissors or rotary cutter
• Optional: glue
• Basic hand tools
Pros:
• Stitch-only construction – no glue needed
• Lightweight, minimalist design
• Creative flexibility in material choices
Cons:
• Ships from Europe
• Pattern must be downloaded
• No tutorial video
• Tricky sizing conversions
Ideal For:
Crafters who enjoy traditional handwork and a flexible design process.
Where to get it:
Tandy Leather
Chicago School of Shoemaking
Sneaker Kit EU