{"id":497875,"date":"2025-08-05T16:23:38","date_gmt":"2025-08-05T08:23:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/snkrdunk.com\/en\/magazine\/?p=497875"},"modified":"2025-08-05T16:23:40","modified_gmt":"2025-08-05T08:23:40","slug":"how-to-identify-real-vs-fake-new-balance-sneakers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/snkrdunk.com\/en\/magazine\/2025\/08\/05\/how-to-identify-real-vs-fake-new-balance-sneakers\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Identify Real vs. Fake New Balance Sneakers"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

For certain models of\u00a0New Balance<\/strong>, intense bidding wars unfold in the market<\/a>.\u00a0While purchasing from primary retail channels would be ideal, popular items are often difficult to obtain through these channels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, secondary market items carry the inherent risk of\u00a0counterfeit products<\/strong>. Professional authenticators from SNKRDUNK, an experienced sneaker authentication platform, provide guidance on distinguishing between authentic and counterfeit New Balance sneakers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

New Balance: From Adult Favorite to Youth Trend<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

New Balance<\/strong> began its history in 1906 in Boston, America, as a “corrective shoe manufacturer”<\/a>. After nearly 120 years, the brand has experienced explosive popularity in Japan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The phenomenon originated during the\u00a0“Ura-Harajuku boom”<\/strong>\u00a0that swept Japan’s fashion industry from the 1990s to the early 2000s<\/a>.\u00a0Prominent figures like NIGO\u00ae and Hiroshi Fujiwara, who led the scene, frequently wore New Balance shoes, drawing significant attention to the brand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since the 2000s, collaborative releases with select shops and increased media exposure have further boosted popularity<\/a>.\u00a0The\u00a0WTAPS x New Balance 992 “Gray”<\/strong>\u00a0became a highly contested item in 2020, receiving tremendous support from the 30-40 age demographic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the brand’s image has dramatically shifted in recent years, with users aged 10\u201320 rapidly increasing<\/a>.\u00a0Contributing factors include the exceptional comfort that compensates for the relatively higher price compared to other brands, and versatile designs that complement various style preferences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent collaborations with brands popular among younger consumers, such as “JJJJound”<\/strong> and “KITH”<\/strong>, continue to launch, though many items remain unavailable through primary channels, leading to prominent secondary market transactions<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As a result, New Balance, previously not considered a high-risk brand for counterfeits, has seen a significant influx of fake\u00a0“992”<\/strong>\u00a0and\u00a0“M2002R”<\/strong>\u00a0models in the market since 2021<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Authentication Points for New Balance: Brand-Wide Characteristics<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Professional authenticators explain New Balance authentication methods, noting that these items generally lack universal authentication points across the brand<\/a>. Therefore, the focus narrows to two key areas:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2460 Paper Tags (MADE IN U.S.A. Items)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Paper tags accompanying\u00a0MADE IN U.S.A.<\/strong>\u00a0items show distinct differences<\/a>.\u00a0Authentic items feature crisp, clear printing, while counterfeits display blurred or distorted text.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2461 X-ray Imaging Technology<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"How<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Using SNKRDUNK’s X-ray imaging equipment<\/strong>, internal examination of outsole components reveals differences in information (such as size markings) and font variations between authentic and counterfeit products<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

WTAPS x New Balance 992 “Gray” Authentication Points<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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The\u00a0WTAPS x New Balance 992 “Gray”<\/strong>, mentioned earlier as a highly contested item, has spawned numerous counterfeits<\/a>.\u00a0Key authentication points include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2460 Midsole<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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The text on the heel portion of the midsole requires attention<\/a>.\u00a0Counterfeits show wider character spacing in\u00a0“ABZORB SBS”<\/strong>\u00a0text with an overall sharper appearance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2461 Outsole<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Examining the shoe’s bottom reveals differences<\/a>. The “992”<\/strong> marking on counterfeits appears less distinct and somewhat cloudy compared to authentic versions. The “new balance\u00ae”<\/strong> marking uses darker green coloring on counterfeits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2462 Insole<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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The insole, which incorporates various collaboration elements, also serves as an authentication point.\u00a0Authentic versions feature wavy inner lines in bold text, while counterfeits display straight lines with misaligned print borders. UV light reactions also differ, with counterfeits showing stronger blue tones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

WTAPS x New Balance 990v6 “Gray” Authentication Points<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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The third collaboration installment, the\u00a0“990v6”<\/strong>,\u00a0released in September 2023, maintains strong popularity<\/a>.\u00a0Authentication points include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2460 Tongue<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Authentic versions feature sophisticated\u00a0embossed logos<\/strong>, while counterfeits use simple printing<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2461 Outsole<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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The sole examination reveals differences<\/a>. Authentic “new balance”<\/strong> text shows deep, clear engraving, while counterfeits appear shallow. The “FuelCell”<\/strong> technology text also displays different fonts, particularly noticeable in the “C” character.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Ndurance”<\/strong> text engraving follows similar patterns – deep on authentic versions, shallow on counterfeits<\/a>. The “\u2122” symbol font also differs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2462 Heel<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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The prominent “WTAPS\u00ae”<\/strong> logo appears smaller on counterfeits compared to authentic versions<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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JJJJound x New Balance 991 “Beige” Authentication Points<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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The collaboration with Montreal-based\u00a0“JJJJound”<\/strong>\u00a0ranks among the most popular New Balance models<\/a>.\u00a0This 2023 release shows authentication points, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2460 Tongue<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Logo comparison reveals counterfeits appear slightly elongated<\/a>. Additionally, stitching patterns differ between authentic and counterfeit versions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2461 Eyelets<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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The two-tier eyelet system shows differences in internal corner shapes<\/a>. Authentic versions feature rounded inner corners, while counterfeits display angular corners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2462 Midsole<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Examining the heel portion of the midsole reveals clear differences<\/a>.\u00a0Clear component coloring varies, and the\u00a0“\u00ae”<\/strong>\u00a0symbol size differs between authentic and counterfeit versions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2463 Insole Construction<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Authentic versions feature consistent stitching, while counterfeits often display irregular stitching width<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2464 Insole (Reverse Side)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Font differences appear between authentic and counterfeit versions, with variations in text depth and texture<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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New Balance 992 “Gray” (2020) Authentication Points<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Moving to inline items with popularity matching collaborations, the “992”<\/strong> represents a masterpiece created by New Balance for their 100th anniversary in 2006<\/a>. Authentication points include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2460 Main Body<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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The iconic\u00a0“N”<\/strong>\u00a0logo, immediately associated with New Balance, shows size differences.<\/span>\u00a0Counterfeits feature smaller logos than authentic versions. The shape of components surrounding the\u00a0“USA”<\/strong>\u00a0marking on the heel also differs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2461 Insole<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Text printed on insoles uses different fonts<\/a>. Counterfeits generally display thicker text overall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2462 UV Reaction<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Under blacklight examination, counterfeits often reveal dotted lines not present on authentic versions<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2463 Infrared (IR) Imaging<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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SNKRDUNK’s infrared camera<\/strong> reveals color tone differences in the insole between authentic and counterfeit versions<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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New Balance 993 “Gray” Authentication Points<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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The “993”<\/strong>, born in 2008, combines elements from both “991” and “992” models<\/a>. This version features the brand’s signature “Gray” colorway. Authentication points include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2460 Main Body (Heel Section)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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While subtle, focusing on the “S”<\/strong> in “USA” reveals font differences<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2461 Outsole<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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The “N durance\u2122”<\/strong> printing shows even character spacing on authentic versions, while counterfeits display irregular spacing and positioning<\/a>. Font variations are also apparent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2462 Upper<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Magnified mesh sections reveal differences in fiber luster and coloring<\/a>. Under blacklight, counterfeits display characteristic markings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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New Balance 1906U “Black” Authentication Points<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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The “1906U”<\/strong> incorporates the distinctive “N lock”<\/strong> system for enhanced fit<\/a>. This model features all components in black, creating a sporty yet sophisticated appearance. Authentication points include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2460 Outsole<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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This represents an immediately identifiable pattern with spelling errors in “durance”<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2461 Tongue<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Comparing “NB”<\/strong> logos reveals authentic versions have matte finishes, while counterfeits display glossy surfaces<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2462 UV Reaction<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Blacklight examination shows different stitching reactions, with counterfeits revealing characteristic dotted lines<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2463 Infrared (IR) Imaging<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"How<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Authentic versions show white stitching and laces under infrared, while counterfeits display both elements in black<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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New Balance 2002R GORE-TEX “Black\/Gray” Authentication Points<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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The final model inherits design elements from the Made in U.S.A. masterpiece “MR2002”<\/strong>, creating the new “2002R”<\/strong><\/a>. This version incorporates “GORE-TEX”<\/strong> functional materials. Authentication points include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2460 Tongue<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"How<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Comparing authentic and counterfeit versions reveals obvious differences<\/a>. Both material texture and coloring vary significantly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2461 Main Body<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"How<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Heel shapes differ considerably<\/a>.\u00a0Authentic versions appear more elongated, while counterfeits show wider proportions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2462 Insole<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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This represents a decisive difference pattern, as counterfeits lack “GORE-TEX”<\/strong> markings<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2463 Hangtag<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"How<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

GORE-TEX product indicators appear here as well, but diamond shapes and text spacing differ<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2464 Infrared (IR) Imaging<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"How<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Infrared camera examination reveals overall color tone differences between authentic and counterfeit versions<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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SNKRDUNK’s Counterfeit Detection Service<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

As SNKRDUNK authenticators indicate, New Balance<\/strong> ranks among popular brands with particularly high counterfeit circulation in secondary markets<\/a>. The following outlines SNKRDUNK’s authentication processes and technologies:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comprehensive Professional Authentication and Inspection<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

All listed products undergo individual, meticulous authentication and inspection<\/strong> by experienced professional authenticator teams<\/a>. Based on accumulated extensive databases and years of experience, comprehensive checks consider brand-specific characteristics, specification changes by manufacturing year, and individual variations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Unique Technology-Based Authentication<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Beyond visual inspection, SNKRDUNK utilizes Japan’s only\u00a0X-ray imaging equipment<\/strong>, digital microscopes typically employed<\/span> by specialized institutions, and\u00a0infrared cameras<\/strong><\/a>.\u00a0These cutting-edge specialized devices detect subtle font differences in internal tags, adhesive reactions absent in genuine products, and internal structural differences invisible to the naked eye, providing scientifically-based, thorough authentication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Remarkable 99.96% Authentication Accuracy<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Through these rigorous processes, SNKRDUNK achieves an extremely high 99.96% authentication accuracy<\/strong><\/a>. Products failing authentication standards or identified as counterfeits are cancelled by SNKRDUNK management before reaching purchasers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

*Calculated from authentication and quality inspection errors among transactions from 1 November 2023 to 31 October 2024<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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SNKRDUNK Transaction Process and Security<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"How<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Unlike typical marketplace applications, SNKRDUNK employs a process of: Seller \u2192 SNKRDUNK Management (Authentication & Inspection) \u2192 Buyer<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This process eliminates direct interaction between sellers and buyers, removing concerns about personal information sharing and completely eliminating risks of malicious return fraud, such as\u00a0“swap returns”<\/strong>,\u00a0which are problematic in recent marketplace applications.<\/span>\u00a0Products undergo SNKRDUNK processing with expert authentication and inspection before reaching buyers, ensuring security throughout the entire transaction process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Additionally, should problems arise with SNKRDUNK-authenticated products (based on guidelines) or shipping troubles occur, full compensation systems<\/strong> and dedicated customer support teams provide swift, sincere responses<\/a>. Comprehensive support systems ensure customers never suffer disadvantages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The authentication points presented represent only a portion of SNKRDUNK’s comprehensive authentication process, which considers multiple additional factors for overall authentication decisions<\/a>. Counterfeit manufacturing technology<\/strong> advances daily, making independent authentication extremely difficult for non-specialists. Therefore, purchasing through SNKRDUNK, which conducts “professional authentication with extremely high accuracy,” is recommended<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While this guide focused on popular New Balance<\/strong> items, future coverage will include other brands and models for buying and selling reference<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What is SNKRDUNK Lab?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

At SNKRDUNK Lab, we’re dedicated to combating the social and economic issues caused by counterfeit goods. We’re doing this by improving our authentication technology and raising public awareness about fakes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

By strengthening our partnerships with local and global experts and research institutions, we’re combining technology, data, and human expertise to set the new standard for authentication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Our Main Activities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Investigating and Researching Counterfeit Goods<\/strong>
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Improving Our Authentication Technology<\/strong>
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Communicating for Public Awareness<\/strong>
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Read more about SNKRDUNK Lab\u00a0here<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

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For the latest releases, breaking news, and exclusive interviews, stay tuned to the SNKRDUNK Magazine and @snkrdunk<\/a> on Instagram. Explore the SNKRDUNK App<\/a> and use the welcome code from the banner below before making your first purchase. Additionally, if you want to try a pair out, visit our stores<\/a> in Singapore and Japan!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alternatively, you can also head to the SNKRDUNK App via the banner below and browse the latest and greatest in sneakers, streetwear, and TCG.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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