How to Source Shoe Materials from Jinjiang: A Buyer's Checklist

Published 2026-11-11 · XiangChi

Jinjiang in Fujian province is one of China's largest footwear clusters. Sole makers, fabric mills, insole and lace suppliers work close together, so one contact can gather the materials for a whole shoe. This checklist keeps your first order simple.

1. Start from the shoe, not the catalog

Send a sample shoe, a photo or a drawing. List each component: outsole, upper material, lining, insole, laces and any hardware. It is faster to match a real shoe than to describe it.

2. Pick colours from real cards

PU, suede and mesh are sold from colour cards. Choose shades by number, then confirm them on a swatch, because screens shift colour.

3. Ask for small samples first

Test one size of a sole on your last and one yard of fabric on your cutting table. At XiangChi, small samples like these are free; you pay the courier.

4. Clarify the minimum order

Some items are in stock and can be ordered in very small quantities. Others are made to order, so the minimum depends on the item and colour. Ask item by item.

5. Confirm timing and terms in writing

• Sample time and bulk lead time for each item.
• Payment terms and the price basis (for example FOB).
• How the materials will be packed and shipped together.

Ready to start? Message Tracy on WhatsApp with your shoe photo and target quantity.