Adidas Ultraboost sneakers are among the most popular and sought-after athletic shoes on the market. With their sleek design, responsive cushioning, and high resale value, they’ve also become a prime target for counterfeiters. Whether you’re shopping online or in-store, it’s essential to know how to spot fake Adidas Ultraboosts before you spend your hard-earned money. This guide will help you identify red flags and make smarter purchasing decisions.
1. Check the Price – If It’s Too Good to Be True, It Probably Is
One of the easiest ways to spot a fake Ultraboost is by looking at the price. Genuine Ultraboosts rarely go on extreme discounts, especially for recent or limited-edition models.
Red Flags:
- Brand-new pairs selling for half the retail price
- Deals from unfamiliar online marketplaces or social media sellers
- No mention of original packaging or receipt
If the price seems suspiciously low, there’s a high chance the shoes are fake.
2. Inspect the Box and Labeling
Authentic Adidas Ultraboosts come in a high-quality branded box with consistent labeling and printing.
What to Look For:
- Clear and sharp Adidas logo on the box
- Accurate product name, size, and barcode
- No misspellings or poorly printed labels
- Box should feel sturdy and well-made
Compare the box label to Adidas’ official product listings to verify accuracy.
3. Examine the Boost Midsole
The Boost midsole is a signature feature of Ultraboost sneakers, known for its distinctive “bubble-like” texture and soft yet springy feel.
How to Spot Fakes:
- Real Boost material is slightly squishy and highly responsive
- Fake Boost is often overly hard or too soft, and lacks rebound
- Look for uniform pebble texture and slight shine—not flat or dull
If possible, try pressing the Boost midsole with your finger to test its responsiveness.
4. Check the Primeknit Upper
Authentic Ultraboosts feature a seamless Primeknit upper that fits like a sock and flexes naturally with your foot.
Signs of a Fake:
- Stiff or overly stretchy material
- Uneven knit patterns or poorly stitched seams
- Incorrect color shades or mismatched patterns compared to official images
Primeknit on real Ultraboosts should feel premium and hug the foot comfortably.
5. Verify the Insole and Branding
Adidas pays close attention to branding consistency. Counterfeit shoes often miss key details on the insole and tongue tag.
Details to Inspect:
- Proper Adidas and Ultraboost logos inside the shoe
- Accurate size tags with production information
- Insole should fit snugly and feature clean printing
Check for alignment and font consistency with known authentic pairs.
6. Look at the Outsole Design
The outsole of most Ultraboosts features Continental™ rubber with a distinctive pattern.
Watch for These Features:
- Continental logo and branding clearly printed (unless it’s an older model)
- Grid-like pattern for traction with torsion system visible in the midfoot
- Consistent rubber quality—not overly shiny or oddly colored
Poor traction patterns or cheap-looking rubber are major red flags.
7. Purchase from Trusted Sellers
Where you buy matters just as much as what you buy. Avoid sketchy sites and always choose reputable sellers.
Best Practices:
- Buy from official Adidas stores or authorized retailers (e.g., Foot Locker, JD Sports)
- For resellers, use platforms like StockX, GOAT, or eBay with buyer protection
- Ask for proof of purchase, original packaging, and detailed photos if buying secondhand
If a seller is unwilling to answer questions or provide close-up images, walk away.
Conclusion
Spotting fake Adidas Ultraboost sneakers takes a bit of research, but it’s worth the effort to ensure you’re getting what you paid for. By checking key features like the Boost midsole, Primeknit upper, and branding details, and by purchasing from trusted sources, you can confidently avoid counterfeits. Whether you’re buying for performance or style, owning an authentic pair of Ultraboosts guarantees the comfort, quality, and reputation that Adidas is known for.
