As NFL fandom continues to grow, so does the market for counterfeit merchandise. With fake jerseys, hats, and accessories flooding online marketplaces, fans risk wasting money on poor-quality gear that lacks authenticity. Whether you’re shopping online or in-person, knowing how to spot fake NFL products can help you avoid scams and ensure you’re repping your team with official gear. Here’s how to tell the difference between authentic NFL merchandise and knockoffs before you buy.
1. Check for the Official NFL Licensing Hologram
Authentic NFL merchandise always features an NFL shield hologram or tag. This sticker is usually:
- Located on the tag or packaging
- Reflective and changes appearance when tilted
- Often accompanied by official branding from Nike, New Era, Fanatics, or other licensed partners
If the product lacks this sticker or includes a suspicious version, it’s likely a fake.
2. Examine the Quality of Materials and Stitching
Real NFL apparel uses premium fabrics and precise construction. Be wary of products that have:
- Loose threads or uneven stitching
- Misspelled names or inconsistent fonts
- Peeling numbers or logos
- Thin, shiny, or see-through fabric
If it feels cheap or poorly made, it probably is.
3. Compare Logos and Fonts to Official Gear
Counterfeit gear often gets the details wrong, especially with logos and fonts. Watch for:
- Off-color logos or distorted emblems
- Incorrect team colors
- Font styles that don’t match what players wear on the field
- Missing or misplaced trademark symbols (™ or ®)
Use the official NFL Gear Shop or team website as a visual reference.
4. Be Skeptical of Prices That Are Too Good to Be True
If a jersey normally costs $130 but is listed for $30, it’s almost certainly not authentic. While sales do happen, deep discounts on brand-new items from unofficial sources are a red flag. Ask yourself:
- Is the seller offering “buy one get three free” deals?
- Does the website look suspiciously basic or contain poor grammar?
- Is there a secure checkout process (look for “https” in the URL)?
5. Buy From Trusted Retailers Only
To avoid counterfeits, always buy from official NFL partners, including:
- NFLShop.com (the official NFL Gear Shop)
- Fanatics
- Nike
- New Era
- Team pro shops or official team stores
- Large, reputable sporting goods stores like Dick’s Sporting Goods
Avoid shady websites, street vendors, or unauthorized sellers on auction platforms.
6. Look for Proper Packaging and Tags
Authentic gear usually comes with:
- Branded hang tags or labels (e.g., “NFL Authentics”)
- Team-specific packaging
- UPC barcodes and product numbers
If tags are missing, look generic, or are printed on thin cardboard, that’s a warning sign.
7. Check Customer Reviews and Seller Ratings
Before buying from a third-party site or marketplace, read customer reviews carefully:
- Do people mention receiving fakes or knockoffs?
- Are there photos that show the real product?
- Is the seller new or lacking a history of legitimate sales?
Always buy from sellers with strong reputations and verified reviews.
8. Use the NFL Shop’s “Verify Authenticity” Resources
The NFL occasionally partners with verification platforms or includes QR codes on merchandise that let you verify authenticity online. If your item has a code or serial number, check if it can be verified on the NFL’s official site or with the manufacturer.
Final Thoughts
Spotting fake NFL gear isn’t always easy, but by staying informed and vigilant, you can avoid common traps. Remember—authentic merchandise supports the league, the players, and official team operations. When in doubt, stick to the NFL Gear Shop or trusted retailers, and don’t let a good deal turn into a bad buy. Wear your team colors with confidence by knowing exactly what to look for before you check out.