APL (Athletic Propulsion Labs) shoes have become a popular choice for athletes and sneaker enthusiasts alike, thanks to their innovative technology and sleek design. Unfortunately, the brand’s rising popularity has also led to an increase in counterfeit products flooding the market. To ensure you’re investing in authentic APL shoes, it’s important to know how to spot fakes. This guide will walk you through the key details to check before making your purchase.
1. Examine the Packaging Carefully
Authentic APL shoes come in a high-quality, sturdy box with clean printing and crisp logos. Counterfeit boxes may have:
- Poor-quality cardboard that feels flimsy.
- Blurry or faded logos and text.
- Missing or incorrect labels, such as SKU numbers or barcode inconsistencies.
Always compare the box to official APL packaging images found on the brand’s website.
2. Inspect the Logo and Branding
APL’s logo is a distinctive part of their shoes, and fakes often get this wrong.
- Check the logo placement on the tongue, heel, and sole.
- Authentic logos are clean, sharp, and symmetrical.
- Look for any spelling errors or uneven stitching around the branding.
3. Assess the Quality of Materials and Craftsmanship
APL shoes use premium materials designed for durability and comfort.
- Feel the upper fabric; genuine APLs use breathable, high-quality engineered knit or leather.
- Look closely at the stitching — it should be neat, even, and secure.
- Inspect the sole for well-defined textures and clean edges.
Counterfeit shoes often have cheap materials, loose threads, or glue residue.
4. Check the Insole and Interior Details
The inside of the shoe reveals many authenticity clues.
- The insole should have the APL logo printed clearly and should feel cushioned.
- Authentic shoes have consistent lining material without frays or uneven cuts.
- Pay attention to tags inside the shoe — they should match the product description and include manufacturing details.
5. Verify the Shoe’s Weight and Fit
Real APL shoes are engineered for performance, so they typically feel lightweight and comfortable.
- If the shoe feels excessively heavy or bulky, it could be a fake.
- Counterfeit pairs might also have an unusual fit due to poor craftsmanship.
6. Compare the Price and Seller Reputation
If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
- Authentic APL shoes usually maintain a consistent price range.
- Buy only from official retailers, APL’s website, or trusted sneaker stores.
- Check seller reviews and ratings if buying online from third-party platforms.
7. Look for Authenticity Cards or Tags
Some APL shoes come with authenticity cards or special tags to guarantee genuineness.
- Absence of these items in models that usually include them could be a red flag.
- Verify any included authenticity documents for correct logos and details.
Conclusion: Stay Smart When Buying APL Shoes
With counterfeit products becoming increasingly convincing, knowing how to spot fake APL shoes is crucial. Pay attention to packaging, logos, materials, stitching, and seller credibility to ensure you get the real deal. By following these tips, you can confidently invest in genuine APL shoes that offer the quality, style, and performance the brand is known for.
Ready to buy? Always shop from trusted sources and inspect your APL shoes carefully to avoid counterfeits and enjoy your footwear worry-free.
