The used sneakers have no real leather, is all synthetic materials made in China and Vietnam and the many eBay photos show them up close. Usually they are almost new with little wear like buying a used tire with just 100-miles. They are actually way cleaner than my older, more used sneakers.
Similarly, buying a used shirt at a thrift store guarantees it to be a laundered and pressed shirt, easily its #1 best condition once I own it.
Ditto that for the used sneakers ...... after I own it ...... it's all DOWNHILL for the sneakers. ........
The words, sneakers and shoes have become synonymous. In the past shoes were leather, and sneakers were canvas and rubber. Now-a-days sneakers have become shoes and the word sneaker is disappearing.
You know Frank Zappa died in 1992 at age 53 from prostate cancer. He was born on Dec 21, 1940 .......... thanks very much for your music, Frank!