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Teens are flocking to the ‘Amazon of China’ for knockoff sneakers

Illustration: Seth Thompson

Sneakers of comically hefty proportions are having a moment, and Balenciaga’s Triple S is, to quote the streetwear site Highsnobiety, “the king of chunky sneakers.” With their wavy detailing and thick soles, certain models evoke elaborate desserts: a pavlova, or a pineapple and strawberry sundae from Dairy Queen. Unlike a Dairy Queen treat, though, one pair of Triple S’s can go for $950.

But you don’t have to pay that much to “get the look,” so to speak. It’s easy to find a pair of sneakers that closely mimic the Triple S on DHgate, a Chinese online marketplace that sells everything from seeds that grow into blue strawberries to kitchen blowtorches. Labeled “Hot!!2019 Fashion Paris 17FW Triple-S Sneaker Triple S Casual Dad Shoes for Men’s Women Beige Black Ceahp [sic] Sports Designer Shoe Size 36–45,” they cost less than $60, in similar colorways and with the same silhouette as the original. Minus, of course, the Balenciaga logo.

DHgate, which is almost as easy to navigate as Amazon, has become a favorite resource for shoppers looking for “replicas.” Thanks to the site and other similar international e-commerce platforms, it’s easier than ever to get your hands on…