With the NFL’s popularity booming, counterfeit merchandise has become increasingly common—especially online. Fake NFL gear might look convincing at first glance, but it typically lacks the quality, authenticity, and official licensing that come with genuine merchandise. Whether you’re shopping for a jersey, hoodie, or collectible, knowing how to identify fake NFL gear can save you money and disappointment.
Why It’s Important to Avoid Counterfeit NFL Merchandise
Fake NFL products are not just a waste of money—they also hurt the league, teams, and players you support. Counterfeit gear often lacks the comfort, durability, and craftsmanship of real items. In some cases, these items are made in unethical conditions and don’t meet safety standards for clothing or accessories.
1. Check for the Official NFL Logo and Hologram
Authentic NFL gear always includes some form of official branding. Look for:
- The NFL Shield on the collar tag or packaging
- A Nike, New Era, or Fanatics logo (depending on the item)
- A holographic sticker or patch that signifies the gear is licensed
- Serial numbers or QR codes for authenticity verification
If any of these features are missing, mismatched, or poorly printed, it’s a major red flag.
2. Inspect the Quality of Stitching and Materials
Real NFL jerseys and apparel use high-quality materials and stitching. Here’s what to watch for:
- Loose threads or uneven seams
- Cheap, shiny, or thin fabric
- Printed numbers or logos when they should be stitched
- Off-color shades that don’t match the team’s official colors
If the gear feels flimsy or looks “off,” it’s likely not authentic.
3. Be Cautious with Online Marketplaces
Counterfeiters often thrive on online platforms. When buying NFL gear online:
- Avoid listings with no reviews, blurry images, or too-good-to-be-true prices
- Look for verified sellers or official team stores
- Use only reputable sites like NFLShop.com, Fanatics, Nike, New Era, or team websites
Avoid sketchy websites that offer deep discounts, especially if they lack customer service or contact info.
4. Examine Tags and Labels
Authentic gear comes with specific tags:
- Jerseys and shirts will often include Nike or Fanatics inner tags
- Tags should be centered, cleanly printed, and firmly stitched
- Look for washing instructions in multiple languages and official branding
Fake items often have cheap paper tags or none at all.
5. Review Packaging and Presentation
Official NFL gear is usually packaged well. Signs of authenticity include:
- Retail-quality packaging with team or brand logos
- Barcode labels and product info
- Tags attached properly with plastic fasteners
If your item arrives in a plastic bag with no documentation or branding, it may be a fake.
6. Double-Check the Price
While everyone loves a good deal, if the price seems too low to be real—it probably is. NFL gear is rarely marked down drastically, especially for current or high-demand items.
Watch out for:
- Jerseys under $30
- “Limited edition” or “rare” gear with suspiciously low prices
- Sellers asking for payment through non-secure methods (like wire transfer or gift cards)
7. Compare With Official Product Photos
One of the easiest ways to verify a product is by comparing it to official images:
- Visit NFLShop.com or your team’s website
- Look at logo placement, stitching, colors, and overall fit
- If your item looks different in any way—beware
Final Thoughts
Spotting fake NFL gear before you buy takes a little attention to detail, but it’s well worth the effort. By verifying logos, materials, stitching, and seller credibility, you can protect yourself from scams and ensure you’re supporting your team the right way. Stick to trusted retailers and know what to look for—because real fans wear real gear.