Wearing an authentic Tennessee football jersey is a great way to show your Vols pride. However, the market is flooded with counterfeit jerseys that often look convincing but lack quality, durability, and official licensing. Buying a fake jersey not only disappoints but can also be a waste of money. To help you avoid scams, here’s a detailed guide on how to spot a fake Tennessee football jersey before you buy.
1. Check the Price and Seller Reputation
Too good to be true prices are one of the biggest red flags. Authentic Tennessee football jerseys typically cost between $100 and $300 depending on the type (replica vs. authentic). If a deal seems suspiciously cheap, be cautious.
- Buy only from official retailers such as the University of Tennessee’s official store, Fanatics, or trusted sports retailers.
- Check seller ratings, reviews, and return policies on third-party sites.
- Avoid unknown or unverified sellers on marketplaces or social media.
2. Inspect the Fabric and Stitching Quality
Authentic Tennessee jerseys use high-quality materials designed for durability and comfort.
- The fabric should feel sturdy, breathable, and moisture-wicking.
- Logos, player names, and numbers should be stitched or heat-pressed cleanly and evenly.
- Look for loose threads, uneven stitching, or peeling graphics, which are common in fake jerseys.
3. Verify Official Tags and Licensing Labels
Authentic jerseys come with official Nike tags, NCAA licensing stickers, and sometimes holographic authenticity labels.
- Check for spelling errors or poor printing on tags.
- Tags should include detailed product information, barcodes, and licensing logos.
- Fakes often have missing or low-quality tags.
4. Examine the Logos and Team Details
The Tennessee Volunteers’ logos should be crisp and accurately colored.
- The iconic Power T logo must be correctly sized and positioned.
- Jersey colors—especially the bright Tennessee orange—should be vibrant and consistent.
- Fake jerseys sometimes have logos that are blurry, misaligned, or off-color.
5. Look at the Number and Name Font
Numbers and names on authentic jerseys use specific fonts and sizes consistent with Tennessee’s official gear.
- Compare with photos from the official Tennessee Athletics site.
- Check for irregular spacing, unusual fonts, or numbers that appear glued rather than sewn.
6. Feel the Weight and Fit
Authentic jerseys generally have a consistent weight and quality feel.
- Fake jerseys often feel lighter and cheaply made.
- The fit may be inconsistent—authentic jerseys have tailored fits for comfort and movement.
7. Ask for Detailed Photos Before Buying Online
If purchasing from an online marketplace or auction, request close-up photos of:
- Tags and labels
- Logos and patches
- Stitching details
- Front and back of the jersey
A reputable seller should be willing to provide clear images.
Final Tips: Buy Smart, Wear Proud
Avoid disappointment and support your team by investing in authentic Tennessee football jerseys. Buying from trusted sources, knowing what to look for, and scrutinizing details will ensure your jersey is the real deal. Wear your Vols pride with confidence—only with an authentic jersey in hand!