Real vs. Fake: Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Black Toe Reimagined” Authentication Guide

7th August 2025 EDT RELEASES

Real vs. Fake: Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Black Toe Reimagined” Authentication Guide

Learn the key details that separate a real pair from a perfect counterfeit.

Real vs. Fake: Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Black Toe Reimagined” Authentication Guide

Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG "Black Toe Reimagined" Retail US$

The Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Black Toe Reimagined” is a highly sought-after colorway, with its classic black toe, white base, and red accents making it a popular item for sneaker enthusiasts. The shoe’s popularity, however, has also made it a prime target for counterfeiters, with fake versions often appearing on the market even before the official release.

This guide, based on insights from professional authenticators, outlines several key differences between an authentic pair and a fake. These checks are a useful starting point for buyers navigating the secondary market.

The Appeal of the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Black Toe Reimagined”

This particular release pays homage to the original shoe’s promotional photos. It features a unique “AIR JORDAN” wing logo and a recreation of Michael Jordan’s signature, making it a valuable collectible. The shoe has been a popular item on platforms like SNKRDUNK since its pre-release in November 2024.

Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Black Toe Reimagined”

View on SNKRDUNK

Key Indicators of a Counterfeit Pair

Authenticators look for a number of specific details to determine a shoe’s legitimacy.

• UV Light Test: When placed under a UV light, the “AIR JORDAN” lettering on a genuine shoe will appear differently. A fake version often has distinct dotted lines that are not present on the real shoe.

• Shoe Tongue: The tag on the tongue of a counterfeit shoe is often lighter and less vibrant compared to an authentic one.

• Inner Tag: While they may look similar at first glance, the fonts on the inner tags of a fake pair are noticeably different upon closer inspection.

• Shoelaces: The laces can also be a giveaway. The red laces on a fake pair are typically duller in color than those on an authentic pair.

• Insole Logo: The logo on the insole of a real shoe is printed more clearly and darkly.

• X-ray Analysis: A professional-level check, an X-ray of an authentic Jordan 1 will reveal an “AIR” unit in the heel, which is frequently absent in counterfeit versions.

Conclusion

As counterfeiters improve their techniques, distinguishing between a real and a fake shoe becomes increasingly difficult for the average person. For this reason, it is recommended that buyers purchase from trusted retailers that utilize professional authenticators to verify every item. While these tips can help, exercising caution when buying from unverified sellers is always a good practice.

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.