ADIDASOFFICIAL.COM

Adidas Legit-Check Checklist

Comprehensive authentication guide to verify authentic Adidas sneakers and avoid counterfeits across all major silhouettes.

Universal Checkpoints (All Models)

1. Box Label

  • • Barcode should scan properly to match shoe details
  • • Font spacing consistent, no misaligned text
  • • Style code format: 2 letters + 4 numbers (e.g., GZ8838)
  • • Production date should align with release timeline

2. Size Tag (Inside Tongue)

  • • Clean, crisp printing with no blurry edges
  • • Proper font weight (fakes often too thin or bold)
  • • Manufacturing country consistent with known production
  • • QR code scans to official Adidas verification page

3. Stitching Quality

  • • Even stitch length throughout
  • • No loose threads or fraying
  • • Stitching follows clean lines, not wavy
  • • Three Stripes stitched cleanly to upper

4. Three Stripes Logo

  • • Symmetrical on both shoes
  • • Proper spacing between stripes
  • • No paint bleeding or uneven edges
  • • Material quality matches (leather, suede, or embroidery)

5. Heel Tab/Logo

  • • Centered perfectly on heel
  • • Crisp embossing or printing
  • • Correct font (fakes often use wrong typeface)
  • • No glue stains or excess material

Model-Specific Checkpoints

Sambas

Gum Sole:Should be translucent amber, not opaque brown
Tongue Suede:Soft premium suede, not rough cardboard texture
Gold Foil:Clean stamping with no flaking or misalignment
Toe Box:Shape should be slightly narrow, not bulbous

Yeezys (350 V2)

Boost:Defined pellets with proper texture (squeeze test: soft but supportive)
Primeknit:Tight weave pattern, specific to colorway
Size Tag:APE code must match production batch
Heel Bump:Gradual curve, not sharp angle

Ultraboost

Boost Foam:Uniform pellet size, matte finish (not shiny)
Continental:Rubber outsole logo deeply embossed
Heel Counter:Firm TPU with smooth finish
Lace Cage:3D molded with precise geometry

Instant Red Flags

Listing Red Flags

  • • Stock photos instead of actual item
  • • Price 30%+ below market value
  • • Seller has no feedback or new account
  • • Refuses to provide more photos
  • • Ships from China/Thailand for "DS" pairs

Physical Red Flags

  • • Chemical smell (cheap glue/materials)
  • • Mismatched shoe sizes left vs right
  • • Box damage doesn't match "deadstock" claim
  • • Excess glue visible along seams
  • • Logo font looks "off" but can't pinpoint why

Authentication Tools & Services

CheckCheck App

AI + Expert authentication. $1.99-4.99 per check. 30-minute turnaround.

Best for: Quick checks before purchase

Legit Check by Ch

Professional service. $10-30 per pair. 24-hour detailed report.

Best for: High-value purchases ($500+)

StockX/GOAT Built-in Auth

Included with purchase. Multi-point inspection at facility.

Best for: Peace of mind on marketplace buys

Frequently Asked Questions

Can fakes pass StockX/GOAT authentication?

Rarely, but it happens. High-quality replicas (1:1) can slip through, especially for newer models where authenticators haven't built expertise. Always do your own checks too.

Are replica boxes accurate enough to trust?

No. Replica manufacturers invest more in shoes than boxes. Fake boxes often have wrong font sizes, poor print quality, or incorrect label formatting.

What's the #1 giveaway for fake Adidas?

Boost foam quality. Real boost has matte finish, defined pellets, and specific firmness. Fakes use cheaper EVA foam that's too soft or too hard.

Should I buy from sellers who don't allow returns?

No, unless buying through authenticated platforms. Private sellers refusing returns or photos is a massive red flag.

Can I trust 'B-grade' or 'factory flawed' pairs?

Authentic B-grades exist but it's a common excuse for fakes. Demand detailed photos of specific flaws and verify against known B-grade defects.