How to Verify New Balance Authenticity: A Complete Guide
How to Verify New Balance Authenticity: A Complete Guide
Blog Article
New Balance is a globally respected sneaker brand known for its high-quality materials, comfort, and durability. However, due to its popularity, copyright versions are widely available in online marketplaces and unauthorized stores. Fake New Balance sneakers may look similar to the real ones but lack the craftsmanship, comfort, and performance of genuine pairs.
To help you avoid counterfeits, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to verify the authenticity of New Balance sneakers before making a purchase.
1. Buy Only from Authorized Retailers
The easiest way to ensure authenticity is to purchase from reputable sellers. Always buy from:
Official New Balance stores (physical locations and website)
Authorized retailers such as Foot Locker, JD Sports, Zalora, and Urban Athletics
Trusted sneaker shops like Commonwealth, Titan, and Sole Academy
Avoid purchasing from:
Shady online sellers with no reputation
Social media marketplaces without clear proof of authenticity
Third-party sellers offering extreme discounts
2. Check the Price
- New Balance sneakers typically range from $80 to $250 (₱3,000 to ₱15,000+), depending on the model.
- If the price is too good to be true, it’s likely a fake.
- Compare prices on the official New Balance website to spot suspiciously low-priced listings.
3. Inspect the Shoe Box and Label
- Genuine New Balance sneakers come in a sturdy, high-quality box with clear, professional printing.
- The box label should include:
- Model number
- Shoe size (US, UK, and EU sizing)
- Barcode and country of manufacture
- Fake boxes often have blurry printing, spelling errors, or incorrect details.
4. Verify the Shoe Tag and Serial Number
Inside the shoe (usually on the tongue or insole), you’ll find a shoe tag that includes:
- Serial number
- Model number
- Country of manufacture
The serial number should match the one on the box.
Fake shoes often have misaligned text, incorrect fonts, or missing details on the tag.
5. Examine the Logo and Branding
- The "N" logo should be precisely stitched, symmetrical, and properly placed.
- Check the tongue, heel, and insole branding—fake versions often have inconsistent fonts or placement errors.
- Fake New Balance shoes may have uneven stitching, distorted logos, or incorrect text formatting.
6. Assess the Quality of Materials
- Genuine New Balance shoes use high-quality suede, mesh, leather, and rubber.
- Fake versions often feel cheap, stiff, or have a strong chemical odor.
- Run your fingers over the material—real pairs have a premium texture, while fakes may feel rough or plastic-like.
7. Check the Sole and Stitching
- Authentic New Balance sneakers have precise stitching with no loose threads.
- Fake versions may have uneven stitching, excessive glue marks, or detached soles.
- The outsole should be made of durable rubber with well-defined tread patterns—fake ones tend to be thinner and wear down quickly.
8. Scan for QR Codes or Security Features
- Some New Balance models have QR codes on the tongue or box—scan them to verify authenticity.
- If a QR code leads to an unrecognized website or doesn’t work, the shoes are likely fake.
- Special editions may include holograms, security stickers, or embossed details that fakes lack.
9. Compare with Official New Balance Photos
- Visit newbalance.com and compare your pair with official product photos.
- Look for differences in stitching, material texture, and logo placement.
- If anything looks off, the shoes may be copyright.
10. Ask for Proof of Purchase
- If buying from a reseller, ask for an official receipt or proof of purchase from an authorized store.
- Legitimate sellers will provide clear purchase details, while fake sellers may avoid your questions.
Final Thoughts
copyright New Balance sneakers are everywhere, but with the right knowledge, you can avoid fakes and ensure you’re getting a high-quality, authentic pair. Follow these verification steps carefully, and always buy from trusted retailers.
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