QC Guide · updated Nov 5, 2026
CNFans Batches Compared
A batch is a production run from a specific factory. Two listings can show the same shoe and deliver different leather, shape and weight because they come from different batches.
Start with a live listing
Four picks related to this guide
Live prices from kakox.com, checked 2026-11-05.
The batch name is a starting point, not a guarantee. Use it to narrow the field, then check the actual QC photos for the pair you will receive.
The three names you will see most
| Batch | Strength | Weakness | Typical price |
|---|---|---|---|
| GX | Consistent shape, good leather | Price premium; stock moves fast | High |
| PK | Soft leather, comfortable out of the box | Shape can vary between runs | Mid–high |
| LJR | Strong details, good for AJ1/AJ4 | Heavier; sizing can run tight | Mid–high |
| Budget | Lowest price, wide stock | Toe box, glue and leather vary | Low |
How to choose without overpaying
If you will wear the shoe weekly, pay for the batch that gets the shape right. If it is a trend piece for one season, a budget batch with a good QC pair is rational.
Ask the seller which batch is in stock, then ask for photos of that specific pair. “Batch photos” from a previous run are not evidence.
The five checks that matter
- Toe box height and slope
- Heel tab height and stitching
- Leather grain and crease pattern
- Sole colour and midsole paint
- Weight compared with a retail pair
Price vs quality: a simple rule
Above a certain price, you are paying for consistency, not magic. The jump from budget to mid-tier is usually visible; the jump from mid-tier to top-tier is often a detail only you will notice.
Set a ceiling before you browse. The spreadsheet is designed to make the next tier look reasonable; your budget should decide, not the listing.
FAQ
Questions about this guide
Is GX always better than PK?
No. GX is more consistent on some silhouettes; PK can be more comfortable. It depends on the model and the run.
Can I ask for a specific batch?
Yes, if the seller stocks it. Confirm in writing before paying; a substitution after payment is hard to reverse.
Do batches affect sizing?
Sometimes. Different lasts can change the fit by half a size. Check the insole measurement, not only the label.
Put the guide to work on kakox
Browse the same categories on kakox.com, compare prices and complete the purchase with a supported agent.