Levi KeswickKey Takeaways:
- Authenticating the Nike Dunk Low Black and White involves examining key features including the rear view, collar, ‘NIKE’ text, stitching, toe box, swoosh logo, tongue label, soles, size tag, insoles, box label, shoe filler paper, and UV light test.
- Due to inconsistent factory flaws from Nike, the presence of unusual stitching alone is not a sufficient indicator of a fake.
- Possessing an authentic pair for comparison is an advantage but not a necessity. This guide will walk you through multiple indicators of authenticity for a more comprehensive evaluation.
- Counterfeit Nike Dunk Low Black and White shoes are becoming increasingly sophisticated, making attention to detail more critical than ever.
The Rear View: Decoding the Initial Impression
The rear view of the Nike Dunk Low Black and White presents three key areas of focus: the ‘NIKE’ text, stitching, and collar.
Collar: The Texture Tells the Tale
The authentic Dunk Low Panda should exhibit a slim collar with a mesh-like texture filled with visible tiny holes. Counterfeit versions often feature a collar that is noticeably thicker, with a foamy rather than mesh-like texture.
“NIKE” Text: It’s All in the Details
Inspect the embroidery of the ‘NIKE’ text. While authentic pairs might display slightly sloppy or crooked embroidery due to low-quality control, loose threads are an uncommon sight. Also, the letters on the authentic Dunk should be noticeably thicker than on the fake.
Stitching: Not a Thread Out of Place
Pay attention to the three lines of stitching at the back. Differences in thread thickness between the authentic and fake versions are not uncommon due to variable quality control.
Toe Box: A Matter of Elevation
When examining the side profile of the toe box, focus on its curvature and elevation. Authentic Nike Dunk Low Black and White shoes show an upward curve, with the soles not fully contacting the surface they rest on. In contrast, fake versions may lie almost completely flat.
Swoosh Logo: Curves and Angles
When examining the swoosh logos, consider the swoosh tip and thickness, and the stitching.
Swoosh Thickness: More Than Meets the Eye
The swoosh on the authentic shoe should naturally curve into the tip without any abrupt angles, giving it a thinner appearance than on the fake versions.
Swoosh Tip: Sharp and Sleek
A sharp swoosh tip is a characteristic feature of all authentic Nike Dunks. Be wary of versions with blunter tips.
Tongue Label: Deciphering the ‘NIKE’ Code
The tongue label on the authentic Dunk Low Black and White should display the letter “R” lower than “NIKE” and closer to the letter “E”. Additionally, the letters “KE” should be in slight contact or extremely close to each other. The tip of the Nike Swoosh should extend at least slightly past the letter “N”.
Sole: Leaving an Authentic Mark
When examining the soles, focus on the visibility of the Nike Logo. The logo on the authentic shoe should be more prominently imprinted and the letters should be closely spaced.
Size Tag: Tiny Differences, Big Impact
The size tag in the shoe can offer crucial clues. Authentic tags should display bolder text, and the font size for the countries and sizes should be slightly larger than on fake versions.
Insoles: Underneath it All
On the in all, the insoles of the Nike Dunk Low Black and White should display a thin circle encasing the letter “R”. Counterfeit versions often show a thicker circle and a larger “R” that touches the circle’s outline.
Box Label: Packaging the Truth
Authentic box labels should display slim title text and thinner numbers. In contrast, counterfeit versions often feature bolder text and numbers, and the “Suggested Retail” text might be too small.
Shoe Filler Paper: The Hidden Indicator
Authentic new Nike Dunk Low Black and White shoes should come with shoe filler paper inside the sneaker. If your shoes come with a cardboard shoe tree instead, it’s advisable to be cautious.
UV Light: Illuminating the Truth
Finally, a UV light test can be the definitive tool for separating real from fake. Authentic shoes and boxes should not display any marks or stamps under UV light, which is a common practice among counterfeit manufacturers.
In conclusion, spotting the difference between real and fake Nike Dunk Low Black and White shoes requires a keen eye for detail and knowledge about key indicators of authenticity. With this guide, we hope you feel confident in making informed decisions about the authenticity of these popular shoes. Remember, ensuring the authenticity of your shoes not only safeguards your investment, but also supports ethical business practices in the footwear industry.
