On Running shoes have become incredibly popular for their innovative CloudTec® technology and sleek design, making them a target for counterfeiters. Buying fake On Running shoes can lead to discomfort, poor performance, and wasted money. To help you avoid falling for counterfeit products, here’s a detailed guide on how to spot fake On Running shoes before you make a purchase.
Why It’s Important to Spot Fake On Running Shoes
Counterfeit shoes often use cheap materials and inferior construction, which compromises comfort, durability, and support. Fake shoes may also lack the unique technology On Running is known for, leading to a poor running experience. Identifying fakes ensures you get genuine quality and protects your investment.
1. Check the Seller’s Reputation
Always purchase from authorized retailers, the official On Running website, or trusted stores.
- Avoid deals that seem “too good to be true” on unknown websites or marketplaces.
- Review seller ratings and feedback if buying from third-party platforms.
- Beware of unofficial resellers or listings without proper return policies.
2. Examine the Packaging Carefully
Authentic On Running shoes come in high-quality packaging.
- Look for clear printing, correct logos, and branding on the box.
- Check for proper labeling including style name, size, and barcode.
- Counterfeit boxes often have misspellings, blurry logos, or inconsistent fonts.
3. Inspect the Shoe’s Materials and Build Quality
On Running shoes are made with premium materials and precision construction.
- The upper should feel breathable, smooth, and well-stitched.
- Examine the midsole — genuine On Running shoes feature distinct CloudTec® pods that are well-formed and symmetrical.
- Poor glue marks, uneven stitching, or flimsy materials are signs of fakes.
4. Look for the On Running Logo and Branding Details
Brand logos should be sharp, clear, and correctly placed.
- The “On” logo appears on the tongue, heel, outsole, and sometimes the insole.
- Check for consistent font style and size.
- Fake shoes may have logos that look distorted, faded, or misplaced.
5. Verify the CloudTec® Technology
One of On Running’s signature features is the CloudTec® cushioning system.
- Authentic shoes have a series of hollowed pods on the outsole designed for impact absorption.
- The pods should be cleanly molded, uniform in size, and securely attached.
- Fake shoes may have pods that are uneven, glued poorly, or missing the hollow design.
6. Compare the Shoe Weight and Feel
Genuine On Running shoes are lightweight yet supportive.
- If the shoe feels unusually heavy or flimsy, it might be a fake.
- The fit should be snug but comfortable without any unusual pressure points.
- Test the flexibility — real On shoes offer a smooth, natural range of motion.
7. Check the Price Against Market Value
On Running shoes are premium and priced accordingly.
- Extremely low prices compared to official retail value can be a red flag.
- Avoid sellers offering huge discounts without a valid reason or official promotions.
8. Use Online Resources to Authenticate
There are websites and communities dedicated to spotting fake sneakers.
- Use detailed comparison images from trusted sneaker blogs or On Running forums.
- Some apps scan product barcodes or serial numbers for authenticity verification.
Conclusion: Always Buy Smart to Avoid Fakes
Fake On Running shoes may seem tempting due to lower prices, but they compromise performance, comfort, and durability. By carefully checking the seller, packaging, materials, branding, and technology features, you can confidently spot counterfeit products and ensure you get authentic On Running shoes built to enhance your running experience. When in doubt, purchase directly from official sources for peace of mind.
