Buying a Mexico national team jersey is more than just a purchase—it’s a show of pride, passion, and allegiance. But with counterfeit products flooding the market, it’s important to know how to separate authentic gear from imitations. Whether you’re shopping online or browsing a street stall, spotting a fake Mexico jersey before you buy can save you from wasting money and ensure you’re supporting the team the right way. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you identify a real jersey from a fake one.
🧵 1. Inspect the Stitching and Fabric Quality
Authentic Mexico jerseys are made with high-quality materials and precise stitching. The fabric should feel breathable, durable, and slightly elastic, often incorporating Adidas’ proprietary materials like AEROREADY or HEAT.RDY. Counterfeit jerseys often use rougher, cheaper materials and have inconsistent or loose stitching, especially around the sleeves, collar, and logos.
🛡️ 2. Check the Crest and Adidas Logo
The Mexican Football Federation crest on real jerseys is intricately embroidered or heat-pressed with sharp detail. Fake jerseys often have off-centered, miscolored, or low-resolution crests that may even peel off after washing. The Adidas logo should also be clean, symmetrical, and securely applied. If the logo looks too large, blurry, or poorly stitched, it’s likely a fake.
🏷️ 3. Look for Official Tags and Labels
Real jerseys come with a series of official tags, including:
- Adidas swing tags (often featuring holographic security stickers)
- Sizing labels with a QR code or product code
- Inside labels listing the materials in multiple languages
Fake jerseys might have generic tags, spelling errors, or lack these identifiers altogether. If there’s no serial number or the product code doesn’t match the one on Adidas’ website, it’s a red flag.
📱 4. Verify the Product Code Online
Every authentic Mexico jersey has a product code that you can search online. For example, the 2025 home jersey might have a code like “IQ8567.” Type this code into Google or Adidas’ official site—if no matching product appears, you’re likely looking at a counterfeit.
🛒 5. Only Buy from Trusted Retailers
One of the easiest ways to avoid fake jerseys is to buy from authorized sellers, such as:
- The official Adidas website
- Mexico’s national team store
- Reputable sports retailers like Soccer.com, Fanatics, or Dick’s Sporting Goods
Avoid sketchy websites offering “authentic” jerseys for a fraction of the price. If the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
🔍 6. Pay Attention to the Details
Other signs of a fake jersey include:
- Incorrect font for player names and numbers
- Wrong color tones or outdated designs
- Misspelled words on the jersey or tags
- Unusual smells (some fakes use low-grade, chemically treated materials)
Always compare the jersey to images from the official store if you’re unsure.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to spot a fake Mexico jersey before you buy helps you protect your investment and show real support for El Tri. From stitching and tags to the overall fit and finish, every detail matters. Stick to reputable sellers, check product codes, and trust your instincts. When in doubt, it’s worth paying a little more for the real deal—because nothing beats wearing your team’s colors with confidence.