Shipping Kith x New Balance sneakers from the US is often cheaper than buying them in France

February 24, 2026

The Hype Behind the Madison Square Garden Collaboration

The Kith x New Balance 990v6 'Madison Square Garden' is one of the most talked-about releases of early 2026. Ronnie Fieg has once again tapped into New York City heritage, dressing the high-performance 990v6 silhouette in the iconic blue and orange of the Knicks and the Rangers. This release is part of a broader trend where US brands launch hyper-local collaborations that resonate globally, specifically within high-end streetwear circles in Europe and China.

Shipping Kith x New Balance sneakers from the US is often cheaper than buying them in France
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Because these sneakers are often restricted to the US market or sold in extremely limited quantities at Kith’s Paris flagship, the secondary market price in France is frequently double the original retail. Keeping an eye on us trends is the best way to spot these drops before they disappear from the shelves.

Why the Price Gap Favors US Shopping

Retail pricing for the 990v6 in the United States typically sits around $220 USD. In contrast, French boutique prices and resale platforms often list these same pairs for upwards of €450. Even with the cost of international shipping service, the total landed cost from a US store is usually significantly lower than local European prices.

The math is simple: by using a tax-free us address, you avoid US state sales tax, which can be as high as 10%. This allows you to put those savings toward the journey across the Atlantic. You can use a shipping calculator to see exactly how the costs break down before you commit to a purchase.

Shipping Estimates for the 990v6

When planning your purchase, understanding the physical profile of the shoe box is essential for accurate budgeting. Here are the logistics details for the Kith x New Balance 990v6.

Metric Estimate
Box Weight Approx. 1.3 kg (2.8 lbs) including outer shipping carton.
Box Dimensions 35cm x 24cm x 13cm (Standard sneaker box).
Volumetric Warning Sneaker boxes are generally not subject to high volumetric weight charges unless you are shipping multiple pairs in a very large oversized box.
Battery Check This item contains no lithium batteries or electronics. It is safe for standard air freight.

How to Buy from Kith US Using a Freight Forwarder

Kith is known for its strict shipping policies, often canceling orders that use known commercial addresses. This is where a specialized freight forwarder becomes invaluable. If you find that the Kith webstore rejects your French credit card, you may need to use a proxy shopping service where the provider purchases the item on your behalf.

Once your sneakers arrive at your US address, they can be inspected for quality before being sent to France. This is a crucial step for limited releases where returns are difficult. If you have questions about how the process works, the FAQ section on the provider's site covers everything from package consolidation to storage limits.

Import Tax and Duties in France for 2026

Shipping sneakers into France involves navigating the EU customs system. For any shipment valued over €150, you will likely face both import tax (customs duty) and the standard French VAT (TVA) of 20%.

The customs duty for footwear coming from the US is typically around 17%, though this can vary based on the materials used in the shoe. It is a good idea to check our guide on import duties to understand how these fees are calculated at the French border. Even with these additional costs, the total price often remains lower than what you would pay a local reseller in Paris or Lyon. Using a reliable international shipping partner ensures that all paperwork is handled correctly, preventing your limited-edition New Balances from being held up in customs.

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