Real vs. Fake: How to Identify An Authentic MIU MIU x New Balance 530 SL “White”

7th August 2025 EDT RELEASES

Real vs. Fake: How to Identify An Authentic MIU MIU x New Balance 530 SL “White”

Expert tips on spotting tongue logos, heel fonts, insoles, uppers, and outsole details, ensuring safe buying in the resale market.

Real vs. Fake: How to Identify An Authentic MIU MIU x New Balance 530 SL “White”

MIU MIU × New Balance Women's 530 SL "White" Retail US$

Among the myriad of collaboration sneakers, those partnering with luxury brands stand out for their buzz-worthy appeal. These models captivate not only fans of sneaker culture and high-end fashion but also a wide audience, often selling out instantly despite their premium price tags. However, the higher the demand, the more fakes flood the resale market, making caution essential when purchasing.

This time, we shine a spotlight on the women’s MIU MIU x New Balance 530 SL in “White.” We break down how SNKRDUNK’s professional authenticators distinguish the real from the fake. While this is only a glimpse into their verification process, it serves as a valuable guide for anyone hesitant about buying through secondary markets.

About the MIU MIU x New Balance 530 SL “White”

MIU MIU New Balance 530 SL White Real vs Fake

Released in February 2024, this MIU MIU and New Balance collaboration reimagines the 1992 classic 530. By deconstructing the original design and incorporating an ultra-flat, thin sole, it transforms the silhouette into a sleek, modern statement. As one of the first to embrace the rising low profile footwear trend, it has quickly become a coveted piece.

View on SNKRDUNK

Authentication Points

▪ Shoe Tongue

Let’s start by comparing the tongue. Although the logo and NB mark appear similar, the materials differ between the REAL and FAKE pairs, with the FAKE showing rougher stitching. Upon closer inspection, you can also spot differences in how the ink is applied.

▪ Heel Logo

Next, the heel logo reveals variations in the font, especially noticeable in the shapes of the “α” and “n” characters.

▪ Insole

Moving on to the insole, the balance of the “B” in the NB mark differs between the two.

▪ Midsole

The midsole also shows differences in the material and the paint used for the brand logo’s ink.

▪ Upper

Looking at the upper from the front, there are clear differences in material and mesh structure.

▪ Upper Side

The “N” mark on the upper side uses different materials; the REAL has a suede texture with a raised nap, while the FAKE is a flatter texture. Additionally, the REAL’s “N” is slightly more rounded in shape.

▪ Heel Side

On the heel side, the “530” branding differs in font and size, with the REAL showing a crisper, more precise engraving.

▪ Outsole Logo

Finally, examining the brand logo on the outsole under a microscope reveals font differences in characters like “c” and “e” between the REAL and FAKE versions.

Conclusion

The authentication points mentioned here are only a part of the process. At SNKRDUNK, our expert authenticators examine numerous other factors to make a comprehensive judgment.

With counterfeit manufacturing techniques advancing every day, it has become extremely difficult for non-experts to accurately spot fakes on their own. That’s precisely why we recommend purchasing through SNKRDUNK, where you benefit from highly precise authentication conducted by professional examiners.

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.