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How to Tell If Jordans Are Real or Fake: This Is Everything to Know

Jordan shoes have become a staple of street fashion. In fact, they’re often the perfect way to complete an outfit (and are sometimes the focus of the outfit itself).

But it’s not always easy to tell if the Jordans you’re looking to buy are fake or authentic. Fortunately, there are a few tips you can keep in mind.

Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about how to tell if Jordans are real.

Check the Box

It’s recommended that you look for a pair of Jordans that come with the box, as this makes it easier to validate that they’re real. While not every seller who provides only the shoes and not the box is trying to scam buyers, they may have unknowingly bought a fake pair without the box (which is why they don’t have it available).

Authentic Jordans boxes will have the logo on the side and top. Next to the side logo, there will also be a product label that includes info on the style, name, color, and country of origin.

It’s also important to note that there will be a 9-digit “style number” in this location as well. In order to avoid getting scammed, it’s best to research how the shoes you’re buying are typically packaged.

The Logo

One of the easiest ways to tell a fake pair from a real pair is the quality and accuracy of the Jordan logo. Since visual errors (if there are any) will vary among fakes, it’s best to compare the logo of the shoe you’re buying to a photo of a legitimate pair.

Common signs to look for, though, include errors regarding the arm position, leg position, and detail of the hands. The lines may also be “choppy” or unrefined in some areas.

Overall Quality

Fakes wouldn’t be such an issue if they looked completely authentic and possessed the same level of quality as a legitimate pair of Jordans. Unfortunately, issues often quickly arise when inspecting knockoffs.

One of the first areas you’ll want to look at is the stitching. It should be consistent across the entire shoe, with no apparent errors in production.

Also, pay attention to the quality of the material that’s used to create the shoe. If the leather feels cheap or rugged, there’s a chance you’re dealing with a fake.

Additionally, nothing should look out of proportion, smudged, blurry, etc. Both shoes should be visually uniform.

Shoelace Tabs

Occasionally, fake pairs will have irregularities when it comes to the spacing between the shoelace tabs. Even a difference of a few millimeters can make a difference visually and throw off the whole aesthetic of the shoe.

They should also have the same amount of tension and each should be identical in size. Fakes often have some tabs that are looser than the others on the shoe.

The Price

This is one of the biggest indicators that you’re dealing with a fake.

The reason why Jordan shoes are often so expensive in the first place (aside from the quality) is because many colorways are only sold for a limited amount of time. After the main supply has run out, they’re discontinued.

This makes buying a specific pair from another person/third-party outlet the only option.

If a pair of shoes originally retailed for $190 in 2016, it’s not unlikely that they’ll go for $300+ in 2020 (or more if they’re a popular colorway). If you find someone selling a popular pair for around the retail price (or even less), though, this is a major red flag.

It’s impossible to find a good deal on a pair of Jordans. For example, someone may be selling off all their old clothing and have a pair the originally purchased at a Nike store for $200 that was rarely worn. Due to their used condition, they might sell these for $50.

In general, though, people will know what these shoes are worth. This is especially true if they’re listed online.

Research the Seller

Facebook groups, third-party websites, and even clothing apps are all places where people typically shop for Jordans. Fortunately, this has the added benefit of allowing you to research a particular seller.

For individual sellers, you’ll want to browse through their profile and look for any signs that they may be scamming buyers. Seeing frequent reviews or comments that demand a refund, claim they were scammed, etc. is something to look out for.

Although a high rating is often an indicator of reliability, it’s still important to look through their reviews.

The seller should also provide views from multiple angles, a picture of the box, etc. These photographs should be professionally taken in most cases.

Independent sellers may not have access to the right equipment location for this level of photography, but should still take pictures for the customer to see the shoes in their entirety. 

Once you’ve found a seller you can trust, you’ll be able to put your mind at ease.

Knowing How to Tell If Jordans Are Real Can Seem Difficult

But it doesn’t have to be.

With the above information about how to tell if Jordans are real in mind, you’ll be well on your way to avoiding scams and making sure you get yourself a genuine pair.

Want to make sure you get real Jordan shoes? Feel free to check out our collection of authentic Jordan sneakers.

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