A "middleman" is a person or organization that stands between buyers and sellers and helps the transaction go smoothly. The middleman serves as a crucial link, streamlining transactions, providing authentication services, and boosting consumer confidence. They are responsible for arranging deals, providing secure payment methods, and confirming the authenticity of footwear. While middlemen help make popular sneakers more accessible, both buyers and sellers must exercise caution and work with reliable middlemen to reduce any risks and guarantee a positive sneaker experience.