Hockey fans take pride in wearing their team’s gear—but with the rise of counterfeit merchandise, it’s more important than ever to know how to separate the real deal from a fake. Whether you’re shopping online or at a local retailer, spotting counterfeit NHL merchandise can save you money, frustration, and help support the league and its players. Here’s how to identify fake NHL gear before you make a purchase.
1. Check for the Official NHL Hologram and Tags
Authentic NHL products always feature official licensing tags and hologram stickers from the National Hockey League or the NHLPA. Look for:
- A silver NHL shield hologram that changes in appearance when tilted.
- Tags marked with “Officially Licensed Product.”
- Serial numbers or barcodes that can often be verified on the manufacturer’s website.
If the item is missing these or if the tags appear cheap or off-color, you’re likely dealing with a fake.
2. Examine the Quality of Materials and Stitching
Genuine NHL merchandise—especially jerseys—is made with high-quality materials and detailed craftsmanship. When examining an item:
- Check for clean, even stitching, especially around numbers, logos, and nameplates.
- Feel the fabric. Authentic jerseys are typically made of durable polyester or AirKnit materials, not thin or shiny fabrics.
- Look at the inside seams and patches—if they’re poorly stitched or glued, it’s likely a knockoff.
3. Watch Out for Unrealistic Prices
If the price looks too good to be true, it probably is. While discounts and sales happen, official jerseys and apparel typically range from:
- $100–$250 for authentic or premium jerseys.
- $30–$80 for officially licensed T-shirts or hats.
If someone is offering a “new, authentic” NHL jersey for $30, it’s almost certainly fake.
4. Buy from Trusted and Verified Sellers
Always buy from authorized retailers or official NHL sources like:
- NHLShop.com
- Team-owned stores and websites
- Major sporting goods retailers like Fanatics, Dick’s Sporting Goods, or Adidas
When using third-party platforms like eBay or Facebook Marketplace, check the seller’s ratings, reviews, and return policy. Be cautious of websites with unfamiliar domains or poor grammar.
5. Inspect Logos and Fonts Closely
Authentic NHL gear features accurate team logos, fonts, and colors. With fakes, you’ll often notice:
- Incorrect team colors or faded printing
- Misspelled names or cities
- Logos that are off-center or oddly shaped
- Fonts on numbers and player names that don’t match official team designs
Compare the item with a verified image from the official team website to be sure.
6. Look at Packaging and Presentation
Official NHL merchandise usually comes in professional packaging—clear tags, branded boxes, and protective wrapping. Counterfeit items may arrive:
- With no tags or in generic plastic wrap
- With inconsistent labeling or packaging in a foreign language
- Shipped from international addresses with minimal tracking
7. Use Verification Tools and Apps
Some retailers and brands now offer product verification tools, including QR codes or NFC chips embedded in merchandise tags. Scanning these codes can:
- Show product authenticity
- Provide additional info or content
- Confirm your purchase is league-approved
If the item lacks any way to verify it digitally, that might raise a red flag.
Conclusion
Fake NHL merchandise not only cheats fans out of their money, but also hurts teams, players, and official retailers. By checking tags, inspecting quality, buying from trusted sources, and being cautious with pricing, you can protect yourself from scams and proudly represent your team with real, high-quality gear. When in doubt, trust your instincts—and always double-check before you buy.