Alright, sneakerheads! Let's dive into the world of New Balance 990s. These iconic shoes have been a staple in the sneaker game for decades, known for their quality, comfort, and classic design. But with popularity comes imitation, and the market is flooded with fakes. So, how do you ensure you're getting the real deal? This guide will walk you through the key differences between an original New Balance 990 and a counterfeit, helping you make an informed purchase and avoid getting scammed.

Understanding the Allure of the New Balance 990

The New Balance 990 isn't just a shoe; it's a statement. Originally released in 1982, it was a revolutionary running shoe that combined cutting-edge technology with premium materials. The 990 quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional comfort, durability, and superior craftsmanship. This reputation has solidified its place as a cultural icon, transcending its athletic origins to become a fashion staple. The shoe's timeless design and high-quality construction have made it a favorite among sneaker enthusiasts, celebrities, and everyday consumers alike. The appeal of the New Balance 990 lies in its ability to blend performance and style seamlessly. It's a shoe that you can wear for a marathon or a casual stroll around town, and it will always look and feel great. The 990's enduring popularity has also made it a target for counterfeiters, who seek to profit from the shoe's reputation by producing low-quality imitations. This makes it essential for consumers to be able to distinguish between an authentic 990 and a fake.

Key Areas to Inspect

When trying to spot a fake New Balance 990, pay close attention to these crucial areas:

1. The Price Tag

Let's start with the obvious, guys. Price is often the first red flag. New Balance 990s aren't cheap. They're made with premium materials and constructed with care in the USA (for many models), which reflects in the price. If you see a deal that seems too good to be true, it probably is. Authentic 990s typically retail for a significant amount, and while you might find discounts, they usually aren't drastically below the standard retail price. Counterfeiters often lure unsuspecting buyers with unbelievably low prices, so be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Always research the average retail price of the specific 990 model you're interested in and compare it to the price offered by the seller. If the price is significantly lower, it's a strong indication that the shoes are fake. Furthermore, consider the source of the product. Reputable retailers and authorized dealers are more likely to sell authentic New Balance 990s than unknown or unverified sellers. It's always better to pay a bit more for peace of mind and the assurance that you're getting the real deal. Keep in mind that investing in an authentic pair of New Balance 990s is a worthwhile investment, as they are known for their durability and longevity. A genuine pair will last longer and provide better comfort and support than a cheap imitation.

2. The Stitching and Craftsmanship

New Balance is known for its quality craftsmanship, and the 990 is a prime example. Inspect the stitching closely. It should be clean, consistent, and without any loose ends. Fake 990s often have sloppy stitching, uneven lines, and visible glue marks. The materials used in authentic 990s are also top-notch, including premium suede, leather, and mesh. Counterfeit versions often use cheaper, lower-quality materials that feel different to the touch. Examine the overall construction of the shoe, paying attention to the seams, edges, and the way the different components are joined together. Authentic 990s are meticulously crafted, with every detail carefully considered. Fake versions often cut corners in the construction process, resulting in a less refined and durable product. In addition to the stitching and materials, also check the alignment of the different parts of the shoe. The panels should be symmetrical, and the logo should be properly positioned. Any noticeable imperfections or misalignments are a sign that the shoes are likely fake. Remember, the New Balance 990 is a premium shoe, and its quality should reflect in every aspect of its construction. A thorough inspection of the stitching, materials, and overall craftsmanship is crucial in determining whether a pair of 990s is authentic or counterfeit. Don't hesitate to use a magnifying glass to get a closer look at the details.

3. The Logos and Branding

Logos are a crucial point. The New Balance logo on a real 990 is crisp, clear, and precisely placed. Look for any inconsistencies in the font, size, or spacing. Counterfeiters often struggle to replicate the logo accurately, so this is a telltale sign. Check the heel counter for the "990" branding. It should be well-defined and evenly spaced. Also, examine the tongue label for any misspellings or errors. Fake shoes often have poorly executed logos and branding, which are easy to spot if you know what to look for. In addition to the main logo, pay attention to the other branding elements on the shoe, such as the New Balance text on the midsole and the insole logo. These should also be clear, consistent, and accurately placed. Counterfeiters may overlook these smaller details, which can help you identify a fake. Furthermore, compare the logos and branding on the shoes to images of authentic 990s online. This will help you identify any discrepancies or inconsistencies that may indicate a counterfeit. Remember, the New Balance brand is meticulous about its branding, and any deviations from the standard are a red flag. A careful examination of the logos and branding is an essential step in verifying the authenticity of a pair of 990s.

4. The Sole and Midsole

The sole unit of a New Balance 990 is a complex piece of engineering, designed for comfort and performance. Check the quality of the rubber used. It should be durable and have good traction. Fake 990s often use cheaper rubber that wears down quickly. The midsole should also be examined closely. It should be made of high-quality foam that provides cushioning and support. Press down on the midsole to feel its density and responsiveness. Fake midsoles often feel hard and inflexible. Pay attention to the texture and pattern of the sole. Authentic 990s have a distinct pattern that provides excellent grip. Counterfeit soles may have a different pattern or a less defined texture. Also, check for any imperfections or inconsistencies in the sole unit, such as air bubbles or uneven surfaces. These are signs of poor manufacturing and indicate that the shoes are likely fake. The sole and midsole are critical components of the New Balance 990, and their quality directly affects the shoe's performance and comfort. A thorough inspection of these areas is essential in determining the authenticity of a pair of 990s. Don't hesitate to compare the sole and midsole to images of authentic 990s online to identify any discrepancies.

5. The Smell Test

Yep, you read that right! Authentic New Balance shoes have a distinct, high-quality smell due to the materials and adhesives used. Fake shoes often have a strong chemical smell due to the use of cheap, synthetic materials. Give the shoes a sniff (seriously!). If they smell like a plastic factory, they're probably not the real deal. The smell test is a simple but often overlooked way to identify fake shoes. Authentic New Balance 990s are made with premium materials and adhesives that have a characteristic smell that is not overpowering or offensive. Counterfeit shoes, on the other hand, are often made with cheap, synthetic materials that have a strong chemical smell. This smell can be a result of the low-quality plastics, glues, and dyes used in the manufacturing process. To perform the smell test, simply bring the shoes close to your nose and take a sniff. If you detect a strong chemical odor, it's a red flag. The smell test is not foolproof, as some counterfeiters may try to mask the chemical smell with fragrances. However, it can be a useful tool in conjunction with other methods of authentication. Remember, the smell test is just one piece of the puzzle, and it should not be used as the sole determinant of authenticity. Always consider the other factors, such as the price, stitching, logos, and materials, before making a final decision.

Where to Buy Authentic New Balance 990s

To minimize the risk of buying fake New Balance 990s, stick to reputable retailers and authorized dealers. These include:

• Official New Balance Stores: Both online and brick-and-mortar locations. These are the safest bet.
• Major Sporting Goods Retailers: Like Foot Locker, Champs Sports, and Dick's Sporting Goods.
• Department Stores: Such as Nordstrom, Macy's, and Bloomingdale's.
• Authorized Online Retailers: Check New Balance's website for a list of authorized online sellers.

Avoid buying from unknown or unverified sellers on platforms like eBay or social media. If you do choose to buy from these sources, exercise extreme caution and carefully inspect the shoes before making a purchase. Always ask for detailed photos and compare them to images of authentic 990s online. If possible, ask the seller for proof of purchase or authentication. Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to buying expensive sneakers. By sticking to reputable retailers and authorized dealers, you can significantly reduce the risk of getting scammed and ensure that you're getting the real deal.

Final Thoughts

Spotting a fake New Balance 990 can be tricky, but by paying attention to these key details, you can significantly increase your chances of getting an authentic pair. Remember to check the price, stitching, logos, sole, and even the smell! Buy from reputable sources, and don't be afraid to ask questions. Stay vigilant, and happy sneaker hunting!