The New Balance 990 is one of the most iconic and sought-after sneakers in the market, known for its quality, comfort, and classic style. Unfortunately, its popularity has made it a target for counterfeiters. If you’re looking to buy a pair of New Balance 990s, knowing how to spot fake sneakers is essential to avoid scams and ensure you get the real deal. This guide will walk you through the key details to help you authenticate your New Balance 990 sneakers with confidence.
1. Check the Packaging and Box
Authentic New Balance 990s come in a sturdy, well-printed shoebox featuring the official branding, logos, and product details. Look for:
- Correct logos and fonts consistent with New Balance branding.
- A label with the model number, size, colorway, and barcode.
- High-quality print and materials; counterfeit boxes often have blurry or faded graphics.
If the box feels flimsy or the label information looks off, it might be a red flag.
2. Inspect the Overall Build Quality
New Balance prides itself on craftsmanship, so genuine 990s have excellent build quality. Pay attention to:
- Materials: Authentic pairs use premium suede, mesh, and durable rubber soles. Fake versions often feel cheap or plasticky.
- Stitching: The stitching on real 990s is precise, even, and clean without loose threads or gaps.
- Weight: Originals have a solid, substantial feel; counterfeit versions may feel lighter or poorly constructed.
3. Examine the Logos and Branding
The New Balance “N” logo on the side panel is a key detail:
- Check that the logo is perfectly aligned and securely stitched.
- The “N” should have clean edges without fraying.
- The heel tab usually has “990” embossed or printed neatly.
- Inside the shoe, the insole and tongue tag should feature consistent New Balance branding.
Inconsistent fonts, misspellings, or misaligned logos are telltale signs of fakes.
4. Look at the Sole and Tread Pattern
The outsole of the New Balance 990 is designed for durability and traction:
- Authentic soles feature detailed tread patterns that are sharp and uniform.
- Check for the “N” logo or New Balance name embossed on the sole.
- The sole material should be sturdy and have some flexibility.
Counterfeit sneakers may have sloppy or inconsistent tread designs and lower-quality rubber.
5. Verify the Insole and Interior Tags
Open up the sneaker and check the interior:
- The insole should have New Balance branding, sometimes with model-specific details.
- The inside tongue tag contains size info, manufacturing location, and serial numbers.
- Authentic tags are printed clearly; fakes might have smudged text or incorrect info.
Cross-check the serial numbers with official New Balance databases or retailer information if possible.
6. Check the Price and Seller Reputation
If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Authentic New Balance 990s are a premium product with consistent pricing across reputable retailers.
- Always buy from authorized dealers or New Balance’s official website.
- Be cautious of third-party sellers on marketplaces offering steep discounts.
- Look for seller reviews and ratings before making a purchase.
Final Tips: Trust Your Instincts
If anything feels off about your New Balance 990s — whether it’s the weight, smell, packaging, or stitching — take a closer look. When in doubt, compare your shoes to official images or visit a New Balance store to inspect a verified pair. Staying informed is the best way to ensure you’re investing in authentic New Balance 990 sneakers that offer the comfort, durability, and style the brand is known for.
