Spec Review / decision ledger
Review the proposed configuration before an apparent price difference becomes a purchasing decision. Pin the upper, outsole, size run and packaging to one brief revision, then identify the exact-item evidence still needed.
Request specification review
Fit decision: choose a reference size and measurement method before approving the size curve.
Use one row for the requested condition and separate columns for each supplier's actual response. “Not stated” remains open; it must not silently become a matched specification. This is a comparison method, not a current quotation.
| Line to normalize | Buyer reference | Ask each supplier |
|---|---|---|
| Product and material | Use, surface, upper and outsole | Identify offered model, material differences and substitutions |
| Fit and size run | US/EU system and pairs per size | Provide size chart, last reference and sample size |
| Unit basis and MOQ | Pairs per style and color | Separate minimums, unit basis and allowable size mix |
| Packaging | Pair box, carton ratio and labeling | Confirm pack count, carton dimensions and gross weight |
| Sample and development | Approved reference and artwork revision | State sample, tooling and decoration charges separately |
| Lead time and terms | US destination and target timing | State approval dependencies, trade term, freight scope and quote validity |
Arithmetic example: 12 pairs per carton × 20 cartons equals 240 pairs. This illustrates the pack basis only; it is not a stock position or a minimum order. Comparing that shipment with 20 loose pairs would misstate both quantity and freight scope.
For a budget preference, ask what changes if neutral boxes replace printed boxes or if the assortment uses fewer colorways. For a high-end preference, request construction and presentation alternatives with separate sample and development costs. A mid-range or undecided brief can ask suppliers to identify those changes without imposing a rating.
Record the reference shoe's size, upper, outsole, closure, sample date and brief revision. Measure agreed dimensions in mm using the same method, photograph the relevant construction and record the reviewer. Ask how the proposed production item differs; a passing observation cannot be transferred to an unreviewed variation.
Request the issuing party, document revision, exact style or model and conditions of any test claim. Product-family documents may help frame questions but do not certify every variation. The sourcing review checks correspondence and missing information; it does not conduct the test or issue approval.
Retail comfort language is subjective until a buyer defines intended use and fit-review criteria. Material choices can trade flexibility, structure and presentation; compare the proposed construction and sample observations rather than assuming one material is universally suitable. Surface and user conditions limit what can be concluded.
Read the procurement brief, revisit inquiry configurations and use the sourcing workflow to assign each unresolved question.
Independent sourcing support helps organize supplier questions. Include any reference sample, measurable acceptance criteria and unresolved decisions in the requirements text; files can be discussed after contact.
Business buyer support
up to 3%
Eligibility applies to qualified business buyers and is confirmed after we review your product, quantity, destination, and sourcing requirements.
Share a footwear brief so the applicable support can be reviewed alongside your sourcing scope.
Submit procurement requirements