Real vs. Fake: UNION x Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG NRG “Storm Blue/Varsity Red” Authentication Guide

8th August 2025 EDT FEATURES

Real vs. Fake: UNION x Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG NRG “Storm Blue/Varsity Red” Authentication Guide

Learn how UV light, infrared, insoles, special box details, and X-rays reveal genuine craftsmanship amidst counterfeits in the resale market.

Real vs. Fake: UNION x Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG NRG “Storm Blue/Varsity Red” Authentication Guide

Union × Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG NRG "Storm Blue/Varsity Red" Retail US$

The American-born select shop UNION, highly acclaimed in the street scene, has gained immense popularity through collaborations with various brands. Among these, the partnership with Nike stands out, sparking fierce competition with every new release. However, the high demand has also led to a flood of fakes in the secondary market, making careful purchasing essential.

This time, we’re shining the spotlight on the Union x Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG NRG “Storm Blue/Varsity Red” and exploring how professional authenticators at SNKRDUNK distinguish the REAL from the FAKE. While what’s shared here is only a glimpse into their authentication methods, it’s a must-read for anyone hesitating to buy from the resale market.

About the UNION x Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG NRG “Storm Blue/Varsity Red”

Union Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG NRG Storm Blue Varsity Red

Among UNION x Nike collaborations, the 2018 Air Jordan 1 is hailed as one of the finest masterpieces. Its distinct design features a docked high-cut silhouette, complemented by special shoelaces that change color midway. With the 40th anniversary of the Air Jordan line celebrated this year, a new model with the same design is set for release—bringing fresh attention back to this legendary pair.

View on SNKRDUNK

Authentication Points

▪ Main Body (UV)

Let’s start by examining the UV reaction on the main body. In the fake images, you can clearly spot the characteristic dotted lines often seen in counterfeits, especially near the center.

▪ Insole

Next, take a look at the insoles—there’s a noticeable difference in print intensity, with the fake pair showing thicker fonts overall.

▪ Shoe Box

When comparing the shoe boxes, the genuine and fake versions differ in color tone, and the print on the fake box appears slightly blurred.

▪ Infrared Imaging

Moving on, use infrared (IR) light to inspect the upper side. The IR response around the heel area shows a distinct difference between real and fake pairs.

▪ Shoe Tongue (UV)

On the tongue, under UV light, the branding logo’s color tone varies between authentic and counterfeit, making it a critical point to check.

▪ X-ray Visual

Finally, comparing the interior with X-rays reveals noticeable differences in the shape of the “AIR” unit within the heel area between genuine 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.