With its clean design, premium materials, and cultural status in modern streetwear, the Essentials hoodie by Fear of God has become one of the most copied and counterfeited garments on the market. As its popularity rises, so does the risk of buying a fake.
If you’re shopping resale or from an unofficial retailer, it’s essential to know what sets the real deal apart. Here’s your go-to guide on how to spot a genuine Essentials hoodie—so you don’t fall for a knockoff.
1. Check the Tags and Labels
🔹 Main Neck Tag
- Authentic Essentials hoodies feature a thick, woven neck label that reads “ESSENTIALS” in all caps with a soft, matte finish.
- Below it, there is often a smaller secondary tag that reads “Fear of God.”
- The font is centered, clean, and tightly woven—not printed or faded.
🔹 Care Label
- Located on the inside seam, the care tag will list material content and washing instructions.
- Real versions say “Made in Vietnam” or “Made in China,” depending on the release.
- Fake hoodies may have spelling errors, inconsistent fonts, or poor stitching.
2. Inspect the Logo and Placement
- The “ESSENTIALS” branding is typically placed across the chest or back (depending on the model).
- On real hoodies, the text is precise, bold, and matte—not shiny or plasticky.
- The logo should not crack or peel easily. Fakes often use poor-quality heat-transfer prints that wear out quickly.
Pro Tip: Some newer versions feature reflective 3M logos—test with a camera flash to confirm authenticity.
3. Feel the Fabric Quality
- Essentials hoodies are known for their heavyweight cotton and fleece blend that feels soft yet structured.
- Fakes often use lighter, rougher material that lacks the thick and cozy feel of an authentic hoodie.
- Hold the fabric up to light—if it’s thin or overly stretchy, it’s likely a replica.
4. Examine the Fit and Stitching
- Authentic Essentials hoodies have a boxy, oversized fit with dropped shoulders and wide sleeves.
- Check the stitching along the seams—it should be even, tight, and clean with no loose threads.
- Counterfeit versions may have inconsistent stitching or be cut closer to a slim or regular fit.
5. Inspect the Rubberized Back Label (if present)
- Many Essentials hoodies come with a rubber tag sewn onto the upper back of the garment.
- It should be centered, high quality, and firmly attached with even stitching.
- Fakes may have crooked labels, off-center placement, or glue residue instead of stitching.
6. Smell Test and Packaging
- Authentic Essentials hoodies typically arrive with a clean, neutral scent and sometimes in a branded zip bag or dust cover.
- Fakes may have a chemical smell or come in cheap, unmarked plastic packaging.
7. Buy From Authorized Retailers
- The safest way to guarantee authenticity is to buy directly from Fear of God, PacSun, SSENSE, or Mr. Porter.
- Be cautious when buying on resale platforms like Grailed, eBay, or StockX—always ask for multiple photos and proof of purchase if available.
8. Price Too Good to Be True? It Probably Is
- Essentials hoodies typically retail between $90–$120.
- If someone’s selling a “new” one for $30 or $40, it’s most likely fake.
- Even on resale, prices usually stay close to retail or slightly above depending on rarity.
Final Thoughts: Stay Streetwear-Savvy
Fear of God’s Essentials hoodies are crafted with purpose and precision—and once you know what to look for, it becomes easier to spot a fake from the real deal.
Key Takeaway: Always inspect the tags, feel the fabric, check the fit, and buy from reputable sources. If something feels off, trust your gut—it’s better to walk away than wear a fake.
With these authentication tips, you’ll be equipped to confidently shop for your next Essentials hoodie and add a genuine piece of modern streetwear to your collection.