Real vs. Fake: How to Distinguish An Authentic Louis Vuitton x Takashi Murakami Trainer Sneaker
Learn key details to avoid counterfeits and shop confidently in the secondary market.
With a history spanning over 170 years, the French-born luxury brand Louis Vuitton has long been at the forefront of fashion. Its men’s line has seen legendary creative directors like Marc Jacobs, Kim Jones, Virgil Abloh, and Pharrell Williams, each leaving an undeniable mark on the style scene and securing the brand’s enduring popularity.
However, with such high demand comes the proliferation of counterfeits in the secondary market, making caution essential when purchasing.
This time, we turn the spotlight on the Louis Vuitton x Takashi Murakami Trainer Sneaker in “Noir/Multicolor,” revealing how expert authenticators at SNKRDUNK distinguish the real from the fake.
While what follows is only a glimpse into their verification methods, it’s a must-read for anyone hesitant about buying from resale.
About the Louis Vuitton x Takashi Murakami Trainer Sneaker

Marking over 20 years since Louis Vuitton first teamed up with Takashi Murakami, the latest collaboration collection reimagines and updates their iconic 2003 original collection.
With over 170 items spanning bags to apparel launched from the first drop, the special LV Trainer adorned with Murakami’s vibrant multicolor monogram has been a standout favorite—the black edition even sold out instantly on the official website.
Authentication Points
▪ Upper

Let’s start by examining the key authentication points of the upper. The monogram print’s color tone differs noticeably: the FAKE version appears overall lighter and more blurred.
▪ Upper (Side)

Next, check the side of the upper. The cursive brand logo on the FAKE is bolder and has a different color tone compared to the REAL. Additionally, the leather texture of the REAL is finely grained, while the FAKE shows larger, shallower grains.
▪ Heel

Looking at the “#54” print on the heel, although they look quite similar, the FAKE is actually crafted too perfectly and lacks the glossy finish found on the REAL.
▪ Eyelet

Regarding the eyelets, there are shape differences: the FAKE’s holes are larger and flatter. However, the brand logo here is very intricately made, making it tough to tell apart.
▪ Midsole

Moving on to the monogram on the midsole, the shapes are similar, but the FAKE has a shallower impression of the monogram pattern.
▪ Outsole


The outsole is constructed with great detail, making authentication based solely on it quite difficult. Nevertheless, a close look reveals differences in the monogram’s depth and finishing, similar to what is seen on the midsole.
▪ Insole

Finally, check the double-name print on the insole. The font and print vary greatly; the REAL’s font features sharp, angular outlines, whereas the FAKE’s has softer, rounder shapes.
Conclusion
The authentication points introduced here are only a part of the whole. At SNKRDUNK, multiple detailed factors are examined comprehensively, and professional experts carry out careful authentication with a high level of accuracy.
With counterfeit manufacturing techniques evolving rapidly every day, it is extremely difficult for anyone without specialized knowledge to identify fakes on their own. That is precisely why we strongly recommend purchasing through SNKRDUNK, where you can shop with confidence thanks to our expert authentication service.
What is SNKRDUNK Lab?
As a leader in the industry, our lab is dedicated to tackling the social and economic problems caused by counterfeit goods. We aim to improve authentication technology and raise awareness about fakes by strengthening our partnerships with domestic and international experts and research institutions. By combining technology, data, and human expertise, we are creating the future standard for what is authentic.
Our Main Activities
Investigating and Researching Counterfeit Goods
SNKRDUNK currently maintains an authentication accuracy rate of 99.97%. We will continue to conduct research and investigations, utilizing Japan’s largest database of counterfeit products to stay ahead of the curve.
Improving Our Authentication Technology
By introducing and researching various tools, including X-ray, infrared, and microscopes, we are enhancing our technology to ensure we can authenticate every single item.
Communicating for Public Awareness
We will regularly publish market reports based on our partnerships with external organizations and experts, as well as on insights and research findings gathered from the field.
Read more about SNKRDUNK Lab here.
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