streetwear
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Palace Skateboards on the Resale Market: What Holds and What Doesn't
Words by Heather June Coombs
A Tri-Ferg hoodie will always sell, but discerning collectors know the difference between a good collaboration and a cash grab.
Palace Skateboards on the Resale Market: What Holds and What Doesn't
Palace Skateboards arrived on the scene with a clear vision and a tongue-in-cheek swagger. Part skate brand, part streetwear juggernaut, its limited drops and distinct aesthetic quickly carved out a niche. But like all hype-driven brands, not every drop maintains its value an equal amount of time. Understanding the secondary market for Palace means knowing what pieces resonate beyond the initial frenzy.
The Tri-Ferg: Always a Safe Bet
The Tri-Ferg logo is Palace’s calling card. It is instantly recognisable and consistently performs better on resale than almost any other graphic. Hoodies, t-shirts, and crewnecks featuring the Tri-Ferg in seasonal colourways or classic black and white are fundamental to the brand. They are the entry point for many collectors and remain reliable sellers. Look for less common colour combinations or specific collaborations that marry the Tri-Ferg with another brand’s identity. The initial excitement might fade on a standard tee, but a sought-after Tri-Ferg piece holds its own.
Collaborations: The Hit-and-Miss Landscape
Palace has a history of high-profile collaborations, sometimes with unexpected partners. Adidas, Ralph Lauren, and Mercedes-AMG are just a few names that have appeared on Palace garments. These collaborations are where the resale market gets interesting, and often, volatile. The Adidas collaborations, particularly those tapping into sportswear heritage like the Palace x Adidas Originals Gazelle shoes or tracksuits, generally perform well. They blend Palace's street sensibility with Adidas's iconic designs, creating pieces that appeal to both fanbases. The Ralph Lauren partnership was also strong, bringing a preppy, elevated twist to Palace's usual fare. However, not all collaborations are created equally. Some more obscure or niche partnerships might initially sell out but lack sustained interest. The key is how well the original Palace ethos integrates with the partner brand. If it feels forced, the resale value will reflect that. Avoid pieces where the collaboration feels like a simple logo swap without a cohesive vision.
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Outerwear and Technical Pieces: Surprising Longevity
While graphics and collaborations dominate the discussion, Palace's outerwear and technical pieces often have a quieter but more consistent resale presence. Jackets, particularly those made with GORE-TEX or other performance fabrics, often maintain a higher percentage of their retail price. This is down to several factors: higher initial retail price, lower production numbers, and genuine functionality. These are pieces bought for their utility as much as their branding. They appeal to a slightly different buyer, someone who values quality construction and weatherproofing alongside the Palace aesthetic. Think Shell jackets, Puffas, and their occasional technical trousers.
What to Approach with Caution
Not everything that sells out instantly maintains its value. Generic graphic tees without a Tri-Ferg or a strong collaborative element often struggle unless they are particularly striking or rare. Accessories can also be hit or miss. Branded decks and some headwear perform well, but smaller, less functional items from "Palace every season" drops often see significant depreciation. Items that rely purely on seasonal trends, without a strong brand identifier or quality material, are also difficult to move on the secondary market for anything close to retail. The market is saturated with such pieces shortly after release, driving prices down.
Condition is King
This goes without saying for any pre-owned clothing, but for Palace, condition is paramount. Collectors are particular. Stains, pilling, stretching, or faded prints will significantly impact resale value. Keep original tags and packaging if possible, particularly for more expensive items like jackets or shoes. A pristine example will always command a premium over a worn one, even for highly sought-after pieces. Understanding the Palace resale market means looking beyond the immediate hype. The Tri-Ferg, well-executed collaborations, and functional outerwear retain their appeal. The rest, much like a casual trick on a skateboard, might just fall flat.
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