Lacoste shoes are highly sought after for their stylish design, premium materials, and timeless appeal. Unfortunately, this popularity makes them a common target for counterfeiters. Buying fake Lacoste shoes not only means poor quality but also supports unethical practices. To help you make sure your purchase is genuine, here’s a detailed guide on how to spot fake Lacoste shoes with key signs of authenticity.
Examine the Packaging Carefully
Authentic Lacoste shoes come in sturdy, well-designed boxes that feature the brand’s logo clearly and neatly. Look for:
- High-quality printing of the Lacoste crocodile logo on the box.
- A size label with consistent font, clear barcodes, and product details.
- Properly sealed packaging without loose or damaged parts.
Counterfeit boxes often have blurry printing, spelling errors, or flimsy construction.
Inspect the Logo Placement and Quality
The iconic Lacoste crocodile logo is the easiest way to spot fakes. Check:
- The logo should be detailed, embroidered or printed crisply without fraying.
- Placement is consistent — usually on the side of the shoe or tongue.
- Colors of the crocodile should be vibrant, with clear outlines and no bleeding.
Fake shoes often have distorted, poorly stitched, or misplaced logos.
Check the Stitching and Construction
Quality craftsmanship is a hallmark of genuine Lacoste shoes.
- Stitching should be even, tight, and consistent throughout the shoe.
- No loose threads, uneven seams, or glue residue.
- Materials like leather or canvas feel sturdy and premium, not cheap or flimsy.
If the shoe looks poorly constructed, it’s likely a fake.
Look at the Insole and Tags
Inside the shoe, Lacoste maintains a high standard.
- The insole should feature the Lacoste name or logo printed or embossed clearly.
- Tags inside the shoe will have consistent fonts, sizing info, and manufacturing details.
- Smell the shoe: genuine leather or quality materials have a distinct smell versus the chemical odor often found in fakes.
Examine the Sole and Outsole Details
Lacoste shoes have durable soles with defined tread patterns.
- The outsole should have the Lacoste logo or signature design elements.
- The rubber should feel sturdy and provide good grip.
- Fakes may have smooth, cheap soles with no logo or poor tread design.
Compare Price and Seller Reputation
If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
- Authentic Lacoste shoes come with a price reflecting their quality.
- Purchase only from authorized retailers, official Lacoste stores, or trusted websites.
- Avoid street vendors, suspicious online sellers, or heavily discounted offers.
Use Technology to Verify Authenticity
Some newer Lacoste models come with QR codes or RFID tags that can be scanned to verify authenticity via the official Lacoste app or website. Always check for these features when available.
Conclusion
Spotting fake Lacoste shoes requires a careful eye for detail — from packaging to stitching, logos, and materials. By following these key signs of authenticity, you can confidently avoid counterfeit products and invest in genuine, high-quality footwear that lives up to Lacoste’s reputation. Remember, buying authentic not only ensures comfort and durability but also supports ethical business practices.
