{"id":498039,"date":"2025-08-05T15:14:33","date_gmt":"2025-08-05T07:14:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/snkrdunk.com\/en\/magazine\/?p=498039"},"modified":"2025-08-06T14:45:24","modified_gmt":"2025-08-06T06:45:24","slug":"real-vs-fake-how-to-distinguish-an-authentic-post-archive-faction-on-cloudmonster-2-black-magnet","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/snkrdunk.com\/en\/magazine\/2025\/08\/05\/real-vs-fake-how-to-distinguish-an-authentic-post-archive-faction-on-cloudmonster-2-black-magnet\/","title":{"rendered":"Real vs. Fake: How to Distinguish an Authentic PAF x On Cloudmonster 2 “Black\/Magnet”"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The initial release of the collaboration between On and the Korean fashion brand POST ARCHIVE FACTION (PAF) instantly sold out and sparked major buzz. Now in its third installment, this popular series has taken the market by storm. However, with counterfeit versions circulating in the resale market, buyers need to exercise caution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This time, we zoom in on the PAF \u00d7 On Cloudmonster 2 \u201cBlack\/Magnet\u201d edition, revealing how expert authenticators at SNKRDUNK distinguish the real from the fake. While this guide covers only part of the verification process, it\u2019s a must-read for anyone hesitant about purchasing from the secondary market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

About the PAF x On Cloudmonster 2 \u201cBlack\/Magnet\u201d<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\"PAF<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Released in October 2024, the PAF x Cloudmonster 2\u2014introduced in the second drop of the POST ARCHIVE FACTION \u00d7 On collab\u2014updates the inline model with a minimalist, refined aesthetic. This fresh take tones down On\u2019s signature sporty vibe, making it versatile and fashion-forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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View on SNKRDUNK<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Authentication Points<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u25aa Box Label<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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\"PAF<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s start by examining the box label. The fake version features overall thinner fonts and even misspells the color name, writing \u201cMagnel\u201d instead of \u201cMagnet.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u25aa Insole<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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\"PAF<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Next, take a look at the insole. The real pair uses a sponge-like material, while the fake is made from something resembling mesh.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u25aa Inner Tag<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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\"PAF<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Shine a UV light on the inner tag, and you\u2019ll notice the real tag lights up only on the text, whereas the fake tag itself glows brightly across the entire surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u25aa Heel Text<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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\"PAF<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Pay close attention to the \u201cSWISS ENGINEERING\u201d text on the right heel. On the authentic pair, this lettering is reflective, whereas the imitation uses regular silver ink. The font size also differs between real and fake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u25aa Outsole (X-ray)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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\"PAF<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Moving on, an X-ray view of the outsole\u2019s interior reveals that the genuine pair\u2019s internal English characters are crisp and clear, while the counterfeit\u2019s are blurry and unreadable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u25aa Upper (Infrared)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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\"PAF<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Finally, check the upper with infrared light. The real upper appears black, with the tongue and lining showing white, but the fake reacts oppositely\u2014the upper glows white, and the shoelaces and lining come up black.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

The authentication points shared here are just a few examples\u2014at SNKRDUNK, experts assess multiple factors comprehensively when determining authenticity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With counterfeit manufacturing techniques improving rapidly, it\u2019s becoming increasingly difficult for non-experts to reliably spot fakes on their own. That\u2019s precisely why purchasing through SNKRDUNK, where professional authenticators provide exceptionally accurate verification, is highly recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

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.<\/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\u2019s 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\u00a0SNKRDUNK Lab here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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