Getting free sneakers from Nike, adidas, New Balance and more… just for wearing them? In 2025, it’s 100% real. Big brands ship out shoes and apparel to everyday people in exchange for honest feedback - no purchase, no contracts. If you’re a weekend runner, a sneakerhead, or just love fresh kicks, you can start receiving gear at home for $0.
📝 How Product Testing Works in 3 Simple Steps
- Apply to a program: Create a profile with your sizes, activities, and training habits.
- Get selected & receive gear: If you match a test, brands mail you prototype or pre-release items for free.
- Test & give feedback: Wear the gear as directed, then submit a short survey or notes about fit, comfort, and durability.
- Complete your profile accurately (sizes, mileage per week, surfaces, sports).
- Watch your inbox - invites are time-sensitive and spots fill fast.
- Before you accept, skim the program basics: wear instructions, simple feedback format, and return window (some prototypes are returned, many aren’t).
- Submit feedback on time; a few clear sentences or a short form is usually enough.
- Keep photos and details private unless the brand says it’s okay to share.
🏆 The Big Leagues: Top Product Testing Programs
Nike Product Testing
Nike sends shoes and apparel to real athletes and everyday movers. Wear, test, tell them what worked.
➡ Apply to Become a Nike Product Tester
adidas Product Testing
From runners to casual wearers, adidas taps a wide group of testers for honest, real-world feedback.
➡ Join the adidas Tester Program
New Balance Tester Community
Be first to try tomorrow’s cushioning and uppers on your daily miles.
➡ Sign Up for the New Balance Tester Community
More Great Programs
- Columbia: Footwear & outdoor gear for trail lovers. ➡ Become a Columbia Tester
- Brooks & Saucony: Performance running prototypes. Test Brooks | Test Saucony
- MESH01: Multi-brand testing hub across footwear, apparel, and gear. ➡ Apply on MESH01
⭐ Beyond Testing: Become a Brand Ambassador
Prefer free gear with lighter “homework”? Many (especially up-and-coming) brands send products to fans who post authentic photos or short reviews on social media. You don’t need a huge following - enthusiasm and consistency win.
➡ Learn How to Become a Footwear Brand Ambassador
🎯 How to Stand Out & Get Selected
- Be specific: “I run ~20 miles/week on paved city trails training for a half.”
- Own your niche: Trail runner, city walker, gym regular, pickleball newbie - say it.
- Respond fast: Accept invites quickly; upload feedback before the deadline.
- Be social (optional): A public, active profile can help - especially for ambassador roles.
- Apply broadly: Don’t wait on one brand. More apps = better odds.
💰 The “Guaranteed Pair” Method: Earn Your Sneakers Instead
Want the exact pair you’ve been eyeing? Use spare minutes to earn cash & gift cards with legit survey and rewards apps - then buy the precise model/color you want.
➡ See Our Guide to Earning Free Money & Gift Cards
🏃 Final Thoughts: Turn Passion into Free Kicks
Brands want real voices, and they’ll pay in gear. It may take a few tries, but persistence pays off. Apply to multiple programs, respond quickly, and share clear feedback. Your next delivery could be a totally free pair of brand-new sneakers.
(All info is current as of August 2025.)
💡 Want more smart ways to score gear and save? Explore our live Deals & Coupons for shoe and apparel discounts, build your budget with our Earn Cash & Rewards guide, and level-up with practical tips in our Money-Saving Guides. 🛒