How to Tell if Air Force Ones are Fake
Air Force Ones, also known as AF1s, have become a staple in streetwear fashion. With the rise of counterfeit goods, it’s essential to ensure that the Air Force Ones you’re purchasing are genuine. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to tell if Air Force Ones are fake.
Inspect the Outsole
The outsole is the bottom part of the shoe that comes into contact with the ground. Counterfeiters often neglect to add the outsole’s signature herringbone pattern, which is a distinctive feature of genuine Air Force Ones. When examining the outsole, look for the following:
- Herringbone pattern: Genuine Air Force Ones have a unique herringbone pattern on the outsole. Counterfeit shoes may lack this pattern or have a poorly replicated design.
- Outsole material: Genuine Air Force Ones have a rubber outsole, while counterfeit shoes may use a cheaper synthetic material.
Check the Midsole
The midsole is the layer of material between the outsole and the upper part of the shoe. Genuine Air Force Ones have a distinct midsole design with a curved shape. When inspecting the midsole, look for the following:
- Midsole shape: Genuine Air Force Ones have a curved midsole shape, which is often missing or incorrectly shaped in counterfeit shoes.
- Midsole color: Genuine Air Force Ones have a specific midsole color that matches the overall color scheme of the shoe. Counterfeit shoes may have an incorrect midsole color.
Examine the Upper
The upper part of the shoe, including the leather or materials used, is another critical area to inspect. Genuine Air Force Ones have a high-quality, smooth upper material. When examining the upper, look for the following:
- Material quality: Genuine Air Force Ones have a smooth, high-quality upper material. Counterfeit shoes may have a cheap, rough, or artificial material.
- Printing and embroidery: Genuine Air Force Ones have precise, high-quality printing and embroidery. Counterfeit shoes may have poor printing or misaligned embroidery.
Inspect the Laces and Lacing System
The laces and lacing system are often overlooked when it comes to inspecting a shoe’s authenticity. Genuine Air Force Ones have a specific lacing system with a distinctive plastic tip. When examining the laces and lacing system, look for the following:
- Lacing system: Genuine Air Force Ones have a specific lacing system with a distinctive plastic tip that holds the laces in place. Counterfeit shoes may have a different lacing system or a non-existent plastic tip.
- Lace material: Genuine Air Force Ones have high-quality laces with a specific texture and feel. Counterfeit shoes may have cheap, rough laces.
Check the Packaging and Box
When purchasing Air Force Ones from an authorized retailer, make sure to inspect the packaging and box. Genuine Air Force Ones come with a specific box and packaging that includes a security tag. When examining the packaging and box, look for the following:
- Box design: Genuine Air Force Ones have a specific box design with a distinctive logo and brand information. Counterfeit shoes may have a different or missing box design.
- Security tag: Genuine Air Force Ones come with a security tag that guarantees the authenticity of the product. Counterfeit shoes often lack this tag or have a fake one.
Table: Comparison of Genuine and Counterfeit Air Force Ones
| Feature | Genuine Air Force Ones | Counterfeit Air Force Ones |
|---|---|---|
| Outsole | Herringbone pattern, rubber material | Lack of herringbone pattern, synthetic material |
| Midsole | Distinct curved shape, matching color | Incorrect midsole shape, incorrect color |
| Upper | High-quality, smooth material | Cheap, rough material |
| Laces and Lacing System | Specific lacing system with plastic tip | Different lacing system or non-existent plastic tip |
| Packaging and Box | Specific box design, security tag | Different or missing box design, lack of security tag |
Buying Tips
To avoid buying counterfeit Air Force Ones, follow these tips:
- Buy from authorized retailers: Purchase Air Force Ones from authorized retailers, such as Nike’s official website or authorized retailers like Amazon.
- Check reviews and ratings: Research the retailer and read reviews from other customers to ensure authenticity.
- Inspect the shoe carefully: Take your time to inspect the shoe carefully, paying attention to the features mentioned above.
Conclusion
Authentic Air Force Ones are built with high-quality materials, precise attention to detail, and a commitment to durability. Counterfeiters often lack these qualities and may compromise on the overall design and construction of the shoe. By inspecting the outsole, midsole, upper, laces and lacing system, and packaging, you can ensure that you’re purchasing genuine Air Force Ones. Remember to always buy from authorized retailers, check reviews and ratings, and inspect the shoe carefully to avoid buying counterfeit goods.
