Virtual Cards

This is a guide on what virtual cards (VCCs) are and how to get them.

A virtual credit card is a digital card which has a set amount (debit card) of money loaded onto it. You can add and withdraw money from your bank account (e.g HSBC).

• They allow you to enter multiple raffles (such as END. raffles, Hanon raffles and more)

• They allow you to cop multiple pairs on FCFS websites such as Footpatrol, Kith etc. Some of these retailers cancel when you use the same card for more than one purchase.

There a variety of different VCC providers you can use. There are pros and cons to each one. Remember, this is an EU based VCC guide. Note: All these virtual banks are safe and based on an app on a phone

Good virtual card providers (not in order):

1. Revolut

2. iCard

3. Curve

Revolut

• The most famous virtual credit card provider, and probably the most used in the sneaker community. You can generate up to 8 cards via the dashboard (or 22 if you own a Revolut business account). It supports all EU countries, including the UK. After past experience, it works on pretty much every site - including Supreme.

• Although, they do get 3DS (or in app authorisation) sometimes which is frustrating. Another unique feature is that you can use any shipping address with it, since there is no set address attached to the bank/card.

• There is a free subscription where you can get 1 card for free, and for each new card it is £5. However there is a Premium account which is £7 /month and grants you access to generating up to 8 virtual and 3 physical cards.

• Before you sign up to a Revolut, my big tip is: don't store all your money in your Revolut account as they like to ban accounts and getting your money back sometimes is a myth.

iCard

• iCard is more lowkey than Revolut. The customer service is a lot better, but you have to enter a video chat with an assistant to be verified.

• You can top up your money from your real bank onto iCard, the cards are pre-paid.

• You can generate a maximum of 20 virtual cards (VISA or Mastercard). I recommend generating slightly more Mastercard ones as they are better for online purchases. Each card costs around £0.80.

• They work on all sites, including Supreme.

• The good thing is it is a one time fee, unlike Revolut.

Curve

• Curve is an app on your phone like the other two providers, but it is a bit different.

• Firstly, you do not need to top up with Curve, you just link an existing card you want to use with Curve. I personally link my main card to my Curve.

• You get 1 physical card which takes 2-3 days to arrive, this is your Curve card, money is withdrawn from your main card like I mentioned, meaning you never need to worry about topping up.

• The disadvantage is you only get 1 card

To try these services out for yourselves, please visit the App store and search them up.