New Balance Buyers Beware: Fake vs. Real
New Balance Buyers Beware: Fake vs. Real
Blog Article
New Balance is a beloved sneaker brand worldwide, known for its quality, comfort, and performance. However, copyright versions are widespread, especially in the Philippines. To help you differentiate between fake and real New Balance shoes, follow this comprehensive guide.
1. Check the Seller’s Credibility
- Purchase only from official New Balance stores, authorized retailers, or reputable online marketplaces.
- Be wary of sellers offering extremely low prices or lacking business credentials.
- Read customer reviews and feedback before buying.
2. Analyze the Price
- Authentic New Balance shoes fall within a set price range. If the price is significantly lower, it’s likely a fake.
- Avoid heavily discounted products from unofficial sellers, as they often indicate copyright items.
3. Examine the Shoe Quality
- Materials: Genuine New Balance shoes use high-quality materials, ensuring durability and comfort. Counterfeits often have poor-quality fabric, excessive glue marks, and sloppy stitching.
- Logo & Branding: The ‘N’ logo should be well-stitched and perfectly symmetrical. Fake shoes may have an off-centered, irregular, or poorly attached logo.
- Sole & Midsole: Authentic shoes have sturdy soles with precise craftsmanship, while fakes often have weak, improperly molded soles.
4. Verify the Tongue Tag & Insole
- Authentic New Balance shoes have a clearly printed and properly aligned tongue tag.
- The serial number on the tongue tag should match the one on the box.
- The insole should be snugly fitted, with high-quality branding and clear prints.
5. Inspect the Box & Packaging
- Genuine New Balance boxes have high-resolution logos, correct product details, and sturdy construction.
- Counterfeits often come in flimsy boxes with incorrect branding and spelling errors.
- The wrapping paper inside should be of good quality with clear branding.
6. Check the Serial Number & Barcode
- Scan the barcode using your smartphone to confirm its legitimacy.
- The serial number on the box and shoe tag should be identical.
7. Assess Comfort & Fit
- Real New Balance shoes provide proper arch support, cushioning, and overall comfort.
- Fake shoes often feel stiff, lack support, and may cause discomfort.
8. Smell the Shoes
- Authentic New Balance shoes have a neutral factory smell.
- Counterfeits may have a strong chemical or plastic-like odor due to inferior materials.
9. Compare with the Official Website
- Visit the official New Balance website to compare the model number, colors, and features.
- If the design or colorway does not exist on the website, it is most likely fake.
10. Request Proof of Authenticity
- When buying from independent sellers, ask for an official receipt, proof of purchase, or authenticity certificate.
- Ensure the product comes with the correct tags and documentation.
Final Thoughts
copyright New Balance shoes are a growing issue, but with these tips, you can confidently identify authentic pairs. Always purchase from trusted sources, inspect product details carefully, and trust your instincts if something seems off. Report this page