The world of sneakers has exploded in recent years. Exclusive releases, collaborations with famous artists and the rise of sneaker collectors have led to a huge increase in the demand for authentic sneakers. Unfortunately, there are also more and more fake sneakers in circulation. In this blog you will discover how to recognize the difference between real and fake sneakers. We discuss various recognition points, important tips and relevant keywords, so that you can score your next pair with confidence from now on.
Why it's so important to buy real sneakers
Authentic sneakers not only represent a certain status and style, but also quality and comfort. Whether you are a seasoned sneakerhead or just starting to collect: the last thing you want is to invest in a pair of shoes that turns out to be fake. Besides the disappointment, it can also cost you a lot of money. By educating yourself on the differences between real and fake sneakers, you can prevent future bad purchases.
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Quality and durability: Real sneakers are often made of high-quality materials and therefore last longer. Fake sneakers wear out faster.
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Value and collector's item: Original limited-edition sneakers retain – or even increase – their value. This is of course not the case with fake shoes.
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Comfort and health: Because the cushioning and fit of real sneakers are precisely developed, you walk more comfortably and reduce the risk of injuries.
Check price and availability
The first red flag is usually the price. Limited-edition sneakers or popular models like the Nike Air Jordan series, Yeezy's or Air Max collections often come with a hefty price tag - precisely because they are limited in availability.
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Too good to be true: If you see a pair of exclusive sneakers for half the regular price, there is a good chance that you are dealing with fake sneakers.
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Trustworthy sellers: Preferably buy from certified stores, well-known webshops or platforms with a good track record. This significantly reduces the chance of fraud.
Check the materials and finish
The materials used in authentic sneakers are usually high-quality and carefully selected. So pay close attention to the texture, weight and smell of the shoe.
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Leather or mesh: Real sneakers often have a supple leather feel and a distinctive smell. Many fake sneakers have a stiffer leather or a chemical smell.
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Stitching: The stitching on authentic shoes is tight and straight. Fake pairs often have loose threads, crooked lines or irregular spacing.
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Sole and cushioning: Many exclusive sneakers, such as Air Max models, have specific cushioning technology. In fake models, this is often just an imitation that feels less springy.
Packaging, box and labels
Official shoe boxes and labels contain valuable information:
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Model information: Pay attention to the model name, color codes and size indications. For real sneakers, these details are exactly correct and correspond to the official product page of the brand .
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Serial Numbers: Often there is a unique serial number or QR code on the label inside the shoe or on the box. By scanning or looking up this code you can check if the number corresponds to an official product.
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Logo and print: Brands like Nike, Adidas, New Balance or Maison Mihara Yasuhiro have specific logos on the box. Fake boxes sometimes have color differences, vague prints or spelling mistakes.
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Fit and comfort
You may not notice it until after you buy it, but the feeling you get while wearing it says a lot about the authenticity of your sneaker:
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Insole: Real shoes often have a sturdy, well-formed insole. Fake versions skimp on these materials.
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Cushioning : For models with visible Air units (such as Nike Air Max or Air Jordan) or Boost soles (Adidas), try applying a light pressure. With real sneakers, you will feel the authentic cushioning and bounce.
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Size differences: A brand like Nike usually has a consistent sizing chart. Does your new pair suddenly run much smaller or larger than expected? That could be an indication that something is wrong.
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Make use of online resources and legit-check communities
There are numerous legit-checking websites and social media groups where fanatic sneakerheads help each other to distinguish real from fake. Here you can upload photos of your pair and get feedback. Some handy tips:
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Compare your photos: Place your sneaker next to official product photos from the brand's website or well-known retailers. Look for differences in color, shape, and detail.
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Ask for advice : Communities like Reddit's r/Repsneakers (for replica discussions) or r/Sneakers (for general sneaker news) are filled with experts.
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YouTube videos: Many sneakerheads upload extensive comparison videos: “Real vs. Fake” of a specific model. This way you can see every detail up close.
Well-known brand-specific features
Some brands have unique features that are difficult to copy:
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Nike: Pay attention to the logo – the Swoosh should be balanced and tightly stitched. With Air Max or Air Jordan, the visible air unit is often the most important check.
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Adidas Yeezy: Check the Boost sole – real Boost consists of small 'studs' with a specific structure. Fake versions often have a flat or uneven pattern.
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Maison Mihara Yasuhiro: These designer sneakers stand out with their unusual sole, distinctive shape and unique logos. Pay close attention to the shape of the sole and the finish of the canvas.
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New Balance: The 'N' is made of high-quality material in authentic NB sneakers. Stitching around the 'N' is also tight and precisely even.
Buy from reliable suppliers and check the return conditions
Where you buy often makes a world of difference:
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Official Webshops: Major brands usually sell directly through their own website or a number of selected resellers.
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Certified resellers: Webshops with many customer reviews and a good reputation (such as Snrkickz) often guarantee authenticity. Read the reviews of other customers.
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Secure payment methods: With credit card or PayPal you can sometimes get your money back if it turns out that a product did not match the description.
In addition, it is wise to choose a webshop that has clear return conditions. If you doubt the authenticity of your sneakers after receiving them, you can at least return them.
Additional tips for your own legit check
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Stay critical: Ask questions to the seller or customer service if something is not entirely clear.
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Save proof: Take pictures of the box, tags, and sneakers themselves before wearing them. That way, you can always check legit in online communities.
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Compare models: Already have a pair of authentic sneakers from the same brand? Place them side by side and look for differences in color, stitching, and materials.
So what is the best thing to do to buy the right sneakers?
Fake sneakers are increasingly being copied, but with a little knowledge you can still distinguish real sneakers from fake ones. By paying attention to materials, stitching, packaging and price, and by delving into online communities, you significantly reduce the chance of a bad purchase. Also remember that a reliable supplier is often the safest choice.
Go for authentic sneakers at Snrkickz
Are you looking for exclusive, authentic sneakers and do you want to be able to shop without worries? Then definitely take a look at Snrkickz. Our platform offers a wide range of premium models, so you can always find a pair that suits your style. This way you never have to worry about fake sneakers, but you can enjoy high quality and the latest trends!
With these tips and checks in your back pocket, you are completely ready to explore the sneaker world and only bring the real gems into your home. Good luck with your search!