The New Balance 990 is a highly sought-after sneaker known for its quality, comfort, and timeless design. Unfortunately, its popularity also makes it a frequent target for counterfeiters. Buying fake New Balance 990s not only means you miss out on the true quality and performance but can also lead to disappointment and potential safety issues. To help you shop smart and avoid fakes, this article provides essential tips on how to spot counterfeit New Balance 990s and ensure you get the real deal.
Why Authenticity Matters with New Balance 990s
The New Balance 990 is crafted with premium materials and meticulous construction, offering unmatched support and durability. Fake versions often use inferior materials and shortcuts in manufacturing, resulting in:
- Poor comfort and fit
- Reduced longevity
- Lack of proper arch and heel support
- Possible health risks due to low-quality components
By knowing how to identify genuine sneakers, you protect your investment and enjoy the full benefits the 990 model offers.
Key Signs to Spot Fake New Balance 990s
1. Examine the Box and Packaging
Authentic New Balance 990s come in sturdy, high-quality boxes with clean printing. Look for:
- Correct logos and branding
- Consistent fonts and colors
- A label with a clear style number, size, and barcode that matches the shoe details
- Quality tissue paper and inserts inside the box
If the packaging looks cheap, flimsy, or has misspellings, it’s a major red flag.
2. Inspect the Materials and Craftsmanship
New Balance uses premium suede, mesh, and durable rubber for the 990. Check for:
- Smooth, even stitching without loose threads
- Soft, genuine suede overlays (not plastic or rough synthetic material)
- Well-constructed mesh panels with no holes or fraying
- Clean, consistent glue marks without excess residue
Fake pairs often have uneven stitching, cheap materials, and sloppy glue work.
3. Check the Logo Details
The iconic “N” logo on the sides of the 990 should be perfectly aligned and securely stitched or glued. Pay attention to:
- Logo shape and size consistency on both shoes
- Sharp edges and clean stitching around the logo
- Proper color matching with the rest of the shoe
Fake sneakers may have distorted logos or poorly attached patches.
4. Look at the Tongue and Insole Labels
The tongue of authentic 990s features a label with the New Balance branding and the model number. Verify that:
- The label is neatly stitched and not peeling
- Font styles and sizes match official images
- The insole has clear branding and the quality of material feels sturdy
Counterfeits sometimes use printed labels or poorly attached tags.
5. Feel the Weight and Cushioning
The New Balance 990 is known for its solid build and responsive cushioning. Fakes tend to be lighter due to cheaper materials and may lack the characteristic cushioning feel.
- Genuine 990s have a balanced, sturdy weight
- The midsole should feel firm but comfortable
- The outsole’s traction pattern should be clear and well-defined
Where to Buy to Avoid Counterfeits
- Authorized Retailers: Purchase from official New Balance stores or trusted department stores.
- Official Website: Buying directly from NewBalance.com guarantees authenticity.
- Reputable Online Retailers: Amazon (sold by New Balance or authorized sellers), Zappos, or other verified platforms.
- Avoid Unverified Third-Party Sellers: Be cautious on sites like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or unknown websites offering deeply discounted prices.
Additional Tips for Smart Shopping
- Compare Prices: If the deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.
- Request Detailed Photos: When buying online, ask for close-ups of stitching, logos, and labels.
- Check Reviews: Look for feedback from other buyers about the seller and product authenticity.
- Use Authentication Services: Some apps and services specialize in authenticating sneakers before purchase.
Conclusion
Spotting fake New Balance 990s requires a keen eye and awareness of details like packaging, materials, logos, and comfort. By following these authenticity tips, you can confidently shop for your next pair of 990s, ensuring you enjoy the superior quality, support, and style that genuine New Balance sneakers provide. Stay vigilant and smart to protect your sneaker collection and investment!
