Okay, so you just got some Adidas Superstars, and now that little voice in the back of your head is screaming, “FAKE!” We’ve all been there. Buying online can be a total minefield, and even some “reputable” stores… well, let’s just say they ain’t always on the up-and-up. So, how do you know if you got the real deal or a convincing (but still disappointing) knockoff? Let’s dive in, but fair warning: I’m not a legit expert, just a fellow sneakerhead who’s been burned before.
First off, don’t panic! (Easier said than done, I know). But seriously, take a breath. There are a few things you can look at. Apparently, the *silhouette* is key. That basically means the overall shape of the shoe. Is it kinda…off? Like, too pointy or too clunky? That’s a bad sign. Real Superstars have a pretty iconic shape, and fakers often mess that up.
Then there’s the material. Real leather should FEEL real. Like, good quality. Not that plasticky, smells-like-chemicals kinda vibe. I’ve seen some fakes where the leather is basically cardboard. Ugh. And speaking of materials, some legit Superstars use synthetic stuff, especially in certain parts. So, don’t freak out *immediately* if you see it, but investigate further. Is it done WELL? Does it look cheap? Trust your gut.
Little details are HUGE. Like, the stitching. Is it clean and even? Or is it all over the place, with loose threads hanging out? The three stripes should be consistent and the color should be on point. The Adidas logo should be crisp and clear, not blurry or weirdly spaced. Check the insole – it should have proper branding and feel comfortable. I’ve noticed that the insole is one of the first places where cheaper fakes cut corners.
And then there’s the smell! Yeah, I know, sounds weird, but a lot of people swear by the “new shoe smell.” A genuine pair of Adidas sneakers shouldn’t reek of harsh chemicals or anything super artificial. It should have a more subtle, leathery scent.
Okay, so this is where it gets a little subjective. Like, I’ve bought shoes that *seemed* legit at first glance, but then the more I wore them, the more little things started to bug me. The way they creased, the way the tongue felt, the stitching started to unravel – all signs of a poorly made fake.
Honestly, the best thing you can do is compare your shoes to pictures of *real* Superstars online. Like, Google “Adidas Superstar original” and look at tons of images from reputable retailers. See if you can spot any differences.
And hey, if you bought them on eBay, be extra cautious. That place is a haven for fakes. The description should say “Authentic” or “Genuine,” and it can’t hurt to ask the seller for proof of purchase.
