Brooks Glycerin running shoes are highly popular for their comfort and quality, making them a target for counterfeiters. Buying fake running shoes not only wastes your money but can also lead to discomfort and injury due to poor construction and inferior materials. To help you avoid counterfeit Brooks Glycerin shoes, this runner’s authentication guide breaks down the key ways to spot fakes and ensure you get the genuine product every time.
1. Buy from Authorized Retailers
The easiest way to avoid fake Brooks Glycerin shoes is by purchasing from authorized sellers such as official Brooks stores, reputable sports retailers, or the official Brooks website. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true on unknown websites or third-party marketplaces without verified sellers.
2. Inspect the Packaging
Genuine Brooks shoes come in sturdy, high-quality boxes with clear printing. Check for:
- The Brooks logo and branding on the box
- Consistent font style and size
- A detailed label with shoe model, size, color code, and barcode matching the shoes inside
- Absence of spelling errors or blurry printing
Counterfeit boxes often look cheap or have mismatched labels.
3. Examine the Shoe’s Build Quality
Brooks Glycerin shoes are made with precise craftsmanship. When inspecting the shoes:
- Materials: Authentic Glycerin uppers use engineered mesh and quality synthetic overlays that feel smooth and sturdy.
- Stitching: Look for even, tight stitching without loose threads.
- Seams: Seams should lie flat without puckering or gaps.
- Glue marks: Excess glue or messy adhesive spots are a red flag for fakes.
4. Check the Logo and Branding
- The Brooks logo should be clear, correctly positioned, and sharply printed or embroidered.
- On the tongue, heel, and outsole, logos should be consistent with official models.
- Pay attention to font styles and sizes; counterfeit shoes often have distorted or misshaped logos.
5. Look at the Midsole and Outsole Details
The Brooks Glycerin features the DNA LOFT foam midsole, which should have a smooth, uniform texture. The outsole pattern is distinctive with quality rubber materials.
- Fake shoes might use cheaper foam that feels harder or uneven.
- The outsole pattern may be blurry or inconsistently molded.
- The traction rubber should feel durable, not flimsy or overly soft.
6. Examine the Insole
Remove the insole and check for:
- Proper Brooks branding on the footbed
- Clean edges and quality foam construction
- Absence of printing errors or misspelled text
7. Verify the Shoe Tags
Inside the shoe, there is a label with manufacturing details:
- Confirm the style number matches Brooks’ official listings.
- The manufacturing country should align with Brooks production info (typically Vietnam, China, Indonesia).
- Check for clear fonts, no spelling mistakes, and accurate sizing info.
8. Test the Comfort and Fit
While this is more subjective, fake Brooks Glycerin shoes often feel different in comfort:
- Poor cushioning or uneven sole support
- Heavier or lighter than expected
- Unnatural stiffness or floppy areas
9. Compare Prices
If the price is significantly lower than retail without explanation, be cautious. Brooks Glycerin shoes are premium running shoes and rarely go on heavy discount.
Final Tips: Trust Your Instincts and Knowledge
Authenticating Brooks Glycerin shoes requires attention to detail. If something feels off—whether it’s packaging, materials, or price—it’s better to pause and investigate further. Always prioritize buying from trusted sources to protect your feet, investment, and running experience. By following this guide, you can confidently spot fake Brooks Glycerin shoes and enjoy the true comfort and performance Brooks offers.