The New Balance 990v5 has earned a cult following for its blend of premium materials, comfort, and classic design. But with popularity comes counterfeits. Fake versions of the 990v5 are flooding the market, often luring buyers with discounted prices and nearly identical appearances. To protect your investment and ensure you’re getting authentic quality, use this guide to spot fake New Balance 990v5 sneakers.
1. Examine the Box and Packaging
Authentic New Balance 990v5 sneakers come in a sturdy, branded box—typically grey with the “Made in USA” or “Made in the USA” label. Look for:
- Correct spelling and alignment of all printed text
- A label sticker on the side that matches the shoe’s size, color, and model number
- A tissue wrap with New Balance branding
- Factory scent—not plastic or chemical odors
Counterfeit boxes are often flimsy, poorly printed, or come without proper labeling.
2. Check the Tongue Tag and Interior Label
The tongue label is one of the most reliable authentication points. On a real 990v5:
- The tag is stitched cleanly with high-quality printing
- It includes a model number (990v5), country of origin, and a QR code or barcode
- Serial numbers on each shoe match
- The font is crisp and the spacing is consistent
If the tag feels cheap or shows blurry printing, it’s likely a fake.
3. Inspect the Stitching and Construction
New Balance is known for its meticulous craftsmanship, especially for U.S.-made models like the 990v5. Look for:
- Clean, uniform stitching with no loose threads
- Even panel alignment along the suede and mesh
- Firm heel counters and properly shaped toe boxes
Fakes may show rushed craftsmanship—uneven lines, exposed glue, or awkward stitching patterns.
4. Feel the Materials
Real 990v5s use premium pigskin suede, breathable mesh, and durable rubber. Authentic pairs will feel:
- Soft yet sturdy, especially around the upper and heel
- Dense and padded, offering real structure—not floppy or thin
- High-quality outsoles with textured grip and firm EVA midsole
If the shoe feels unusually light, rigid, or plasticky, it may be a replica.
5. Inspect the Outsole and Branding
Flip the shoes over and examine the outsole details. Key indicators of authenticity:
- “New Balance” and “990v5” branding embossed clearly and deeply
- Consistent patterns on the rubber outsole with high traction quality
- No misspellings or off-brand logos
Check the heel and side logos too—real NB shoes use reflective material and have sharply printed N logos.
6. Compare Prices and Retail Sources
If the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. To avoid fakes:
- Only buy from authorized retailers or New Balance’s official site
- Avoid sketchy marketplace sellers, especially if the box is missing or generic
- Watch out for listings with stock images and vague product descriptions
Stick to trusted sources like Zappos, Foot Locker, or Nordstrom when shopping online.
7. Use the QR Code or UPC Code
Many 990v5s include a QR code or barcode on the tag. Scan it:
- It should link to the official New Balance product page
- If it redirects to a third-party site or doesn’t scan properly, that’s a red flag
Also, verify the UPC number matches the one listed for that size/color on official websites.
8. Smell the Shoes
Yes, really. Real New Balance shoes have a subtle scent from quality materials and adhesives. Fakes often smell strongly of chemicals or plastic, indicating cheap production methods.
Final Thoughts
Spotting fake New Balance 990v5 sneakers takes a keen eye, but once you know what to look for—materials, stitching, labels, and source—you’re better equipped to buy confidently. When in doubt, choose verified retailers or buy directly from New Balance to guarantee authenticity. A real pair will not only last longer but deliver the comfort and performance the 990 series is known for.
