Real vs. Fake: New Balance 992 “Gray” Authentication Guide

8th August 2025 EDT FEATURES

Real vs. Fake: New Balance 992 “Gray” Authentication Guide

Discover expert tips to spot real vs fake with side-by-side comparisons, tag details, UV and infrared tests, and X-ray inspections.

Real vs. Fake: New Balance 992 “Gray” Authentication Guide

New Balance 992 "Gray" Retail US$

Released in 2006 to celebrate New Balance’s 100th anniversary, the 992 quickly became a flagship model. Revived in 2020, it has repeatedly sold out with each re-release, solidifying its status as a beloved classic. However, its massive popularity has also led to a surge of counterfeit pairs flooding the secondary market.

This feature shines a spotlight on the New Balance 992 “Gray” and reveals how professional authenticators from SNKRDUNK differentiate between real and fake. While the methods shared here represent only a fraction of the authentication process, they are invaluable for anyone hesitant about buying from resale channels.

About the New Balance 992 “Gray”

Launched as a Made in USA flagship in 2006, the 992 built on the specs of its predecessor, the 991, incorporating the high-performance ABZORB SBS cushioning for superior comfort. With its iconic, slightly smaller “N” logo and standout design, this model remains one of the most popular in the 99X series.

View on SNKRDUNK

Authentication Points

▪ Side Profile

Let’s start with a side-by-side comparison of the shoe’s body. Both pairs are the same size, yet the fake’s “N” logo appears noticeably smaller than that of the real one.

▪ Heel

Moving to the heel, subtle but telling differences emerge. The cutout shape of the “USA” lettering clearly varies between the authentic and counterfeit versions.

▪ Inner Tag

Inspecting the inner tag reveals another giveaway: the “NB” logo in the top-right corner is printed differently, with the real tag showcasing a distinct faded effect absent in the fake.

▪ Insole

Next up, the insole font provides yet another clue. The fake’s lettering is generally thicker and bolder compared to the slender font on the genuine article.

▪ UV Reaction

A UV light test further distinguishes the two—the counterfeit uniquely exhibits a dotted pattern under UV, a signature flaw rarely seen in authentic pairs.

▪ Infrared Imaging

Using infrared (IR) imaging, differences in color beneath the insole become apparent, highlighting subtle inconsistencies in materials that reveal the fake.

▪ X-ray Visual

Finally, X-ray analysis offers a definitive eye into the interior. The genuine shoe features the model number printed prominently in the center, whereas the fake conspicuously lacks this detail.

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.