With the growing popularity of Tennessee Vols merchandise, especially jerseys, the market has unfortunately seen an increase in counterfeit products. Fake jerseys may look appealing and cheaper, but they often lack quality, durability, and authenticity — leaving fans disappointed. To make sure you get a genuine Tennessee Vols jersey that represents your team with pride, it’s important to know how to spot a fake before you buy. Here’s a helpful guide to identifying counterfeit Tennessee Vols jerseys.
1. Check the Seller’s Reputation
One of the easiest ways to avoid fakes is to buy from reputable sources. Official Tennessee Vols merchandise is sold through authorized retailers such as the University of Tennessee’s official store, licensed sports stores, or well-known online platforms like Fanatics and Nike. Avoid unknown websites, suspicious marketplaces, or unofficial social media sellers where fake jerseys are more common.
2. Inspect the Price Closely
If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Authentic Tennessee Vols jerseys, made with high-quality materials and official licensing, come at a premium price. Extremely low prices or huge discounts can be a red flag that the jersey is counterfeit. Always compare prices across trusted sellers to get a realistic idea of what a genuine jersey costs.
3. Examine the Fabric and Stitching Quality
Official Tennessee Vols jerseys are made with durable, breathable, and premium performance fabrics that feel substantial. Counterfeit jerseys often use cheaper, thin, or stiff materials that feel different to the touch. Also, inspect the stitching carefully — authentic jerseys have neat, consistent stitching with no loose threads or uneven hems. Logos, patches, and numbers are precisely sewn or heat-pressed, unlike fakes which may have sloppy or peeling elements.
4. Look for Official Licensing Tags and Labels
Authentic jerseys carry licensing tags from the NCAA, the University of Tennessee, or the jersey manufacturer (Nike is the official supplier for Tennessee Vols). These tags are usually sewn inside the jersey and include holograms, serial numbers, or official logos to confirm authenticity. Fake jerseys often have missing, poorly printed, or counterfeit-looking tags.
5. Check Logo Accuracy and Details
The Tennessee Vols logo — the distinctive “Power T” — should be crisp, clean, and accurately colored. On fake jerseys, logos can appear blurry, off-center, or have incorrect color shades. Numbers and player names should use the official font style and size. Any misspellings or unusual fonts are clear giveaways of counterfeit products.
6. Verify the Jersey’s Fit and Sizing
Official jerseys follow standardized sizing charts and fit true to size, often with athletic cuts designed for comfort and performance. Fake jerseys may have inconsistent sizing, unusual proportions, or odd cuts that don’t match official sizing guides. If possible, try the jersey on or check detailed sizing information before purchase.
7. Compare to Official Images and Descriptions
Before buying, compare the jersey in question to official product photos on the University of Tennessee or licensed retailer websites. Pay attention to details like color tones, striping patterns, collar styles, and other design elements. Any discrepancies can hint that the jersey is a counterfeit.
Conclusion
Protect your fandom and investment by learning how to spot fake Tennessee Vols jerseys before you buy. By checking the seller’s credibility, inspecting price and quality, verifying official tags, and comparing details carefully, you can ensure that your jersey is genuine and built to last. Wearing an authentic Tennessee Vols jersey means showing your true colors with pride — so don’t settle for less!
Ready to find your perfect Tennessee Vols jersey? Stick to trusted sources, and get ready to cheer on the Vols in style this season!