Air Jordans are one of the most popular sneakers in the world, with fans crazy about getting their hands on the latest pairs. However, with such high demand comes a flooded market of fake Air Jordans being sold online and in stores. Luckily, there are ways to identify counterfeit pairs to avoid getting scammed.
Inspecting the Air Jordan Box
The first place to look when authenticating Air Jordans is the shoe box. Pay attention to these key details:
Box Materials and Sturdiness
Genuine Air Jordan boxes are made of rigid cardboard that is durable enough to protect the shoes. Fakes often have boxes made of thinner, flimsier cardboard.
Jumpman Logo Placement
The iconic Jumpman logo should be prominently featured on the box lid and sides. Watch for improperly sized or placed logos.
Box Label and Tags
Verify the label matches the shoe style and colorway. The font on fakes is often off. The tag inside should have an RN#.
Evaluating the Air Jordan Shoe Construction
Moving onto the shoes themselves, have a critical eye toward build quality and materials.
Leather Cut and Quality
Air Jordans use premium leather that has clean edges and cuts. Fakes tend to use lower grade leather with more ragged cuts.
Stitching and Glue
Stitching on real Jordans is neat and uniform. Fakes often have crooked, uneven stitching. Also inspect for messy glue.
Shape and Proportions
The iconic Jordan silhouette should align perfectly to the official design specs. Watch for variations.
Logo Quality and Placement
Logos like the Jumpman and Wings should be cleanly etched, not printed. Placement varies by model.
Verifying Air Jordan Tags and Markings
Several key tags and markings can confirm whether Jordans are real.
Size Tag
The interior size tag should match official fonts and formatting. Serial numbers should check out on Nike’s website.
Tongue Tag
Real tongue labels have crisp, well-spaced lettering. Fakes often condense or misalign text.
Outsole Logo
Check if the molded outsole logo matches the real deal in spacing, depth, and crispness.
Production Country
Most Jordans are made in China. Other countries would indicate a fake.
Avoiding Fake Air Jordan Listings Online
When shopping online for Jordans, beware of these red flags:
Unreasonably Low Prices
If the price seems too good to be true, you’re likely looking at a counterfeit pair being sold illegally.
Stock Photos
Listings using generic stock photos should be avoided. Ask to see actual photos of the exact shoes for sale.
Sketchy Sellers
Research seller ratings and only buy from reputable sites like Nike.com and trusted retailers.
Odd Colorways
Google the model to verify if the color scheme exists. Mix-matched or off-brand colors indicate fakes.
How to Report Fake Air Jordans
If you receive counterfeit Air Jordans, don’t just toss them out. You can report fakes to help combat illegal counterfeiting rings.
Report to Nike
Email counterfeit@nike.com with details on the shoes and seller. Nike may request the fakes be sent in.
File a Claim With the Seller
If bought online via eBay, file a claim under the site’s buyer protection program.
Submit Details to BBB
You can report shady websites and sellers to the Better Business Bureau.
Where to Buy 100% Authentic Air Jordans
To ensure you’re getting real Air Jordans, only shop with these authorized retailers:
- Nike.com/AirJordans
- FootLocker.com
- ChampsSports.com
- EastBay.com
- FinishLine.com
- GOAT.com (resale site)
When spending big money on coveted sneakers like Air Jordans, it pays to carefully inspect your potential purchase and know exactly how to spot fakes. Following this comprehensive authentication guide will help you avoid getting duped with counterfeit kicks. Let us know in the comments if you have any other tips for identifying fake Jordans!