How to Spot fake Nike Air Jordan XII (12) Retro
| Step | Aspect to Check | Authentic Indicator | Fake Indicator |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Manufacturing Details | LN3 (China) or FT1 (Taiwan) factory codes on tag and box | Incorrect manufacturing country or missing codes |
| 2 | Style Number Matching | Style number on box matches the one on the shoe tag | Mismatched style numbers or missing information |
| 3 | Box Details | No spelling errors, especially in the word “RETRO” | Spelling errors, e.g., “RETRD” on the box |
| 4 | Outsole and Midsole Color | Subtle tone difference between authentic; same color on fakes | No difference in color, glossy finish on midsole for some |
| 5 | Lace Tabs | High-quality, centered jumpman; sharp edges | Low-quality, off-center jumpman, dull edges |
| 6 | Tongue Details | Authentic jumpman details on the tongue | Poorly replicated jumpman, noticeable differences |
| 7 | Midsole Finish | Matte finish for specific models like “Taxi” | Glossy midsole, especially on “Taxi” colorway fakes |
| 8 | Tongue Thickness | Consistent thickness with authentic models | Thicker than authentic tongues |
| 9 | Hang Tag and Shoe Trees | Absence of hang tag and shoe trees in authentic pairs | Presence of hang tag or shoe trees in fake pairs |
| 10 | Production Dates on Shoe Tag | Correct date format (e.g., 07/10/13 – 09/09/13) | Incorrect date format or impossible dates, indicating fake |
 Spotting Genuine Nike Air Jordan XII (12) Retro Shoes
In the ever-expanding realm of iconic sneakers, Nike Air Jordan XII (12) Retro shoes stand tall as a symbol of style and sportsmanship. However, their popularity has birthed a surge in counterfeit versions flooding the market. To ensure you’re lacing up authenticity, here’s your guide to distinguishing the real deal from the knockoffs.
Manufacturing Precision
Before delving into the nuanced details, establish the shoes’ origin. Authentic pairs bear the factory codes LN3 (China) or FT1 (Taiwan) stamped on the tag, harmonizing with the manufacturing country on the box. A misalignment in these codes signals a detour into the world of fakes.
Style Harmony
Matching style numbers is akin to authenticating a musical ensemble. Confirm that the style number on the box harmonizes with the one on the shoe tag. Any dissonance here reveals a counterfeit tune playing beneath the surface.
Spelling Symmetry
Authenticity speaks a language devoid of errors. Examine the box closely for any misspellings, particularly in the crucial term “RETRO.” The counterfeit realm often echoes with the discordant note of misspelled words, a telltale sign of inauthenticity.
Color Composition
The interplay of color on the outsole and midsole is a symphony of subtlety in genuine Jordan 12s. Notice a nuanced tone difference on the authentic pair, whereas fakes tend to sing the same color tune. The glossy finish on some imitations, especially the “Taxi” colorway, unveils their fraudulent melody.
Attention to Detail
Moving to the finer notes, focus on the lace tabs. Genuine Jordan 12s showcase a high-quality, centered jumpman with sharp edges. In the realm of fakes, the jumpman may falter—edges dull and positioning awry, disrupting the visual harmony.
Tongue Test
The tongue becomes a canvas for authenticity. Compare every detail of the jumpman on the tongue with the authentic counterpart. Any noticeable differences reveal a poorly composed imitation.
Finish Matters
Matte or gloss, the finish of the midsole tells a tale. For the “Taxi” colorway, an authentic pair sports a matte finish, distinct from the glossy counterfeits. Run your fingers over this finish to feel the texture of legitimacy.
Tongue Thickness Matters
Thickness becomes a tactile indicator. A genuine pair maintains a consistent tongue thickness. If the tongue feels thicker than usual, you might be striding into the forgery territory.
Tags and Trees Tell Tales
Hang tags and shoe trees are not part of the authentic ensemble. If they make an appearance, especially in an online listing, skepticism is your ally. Genuine pairs embrace simplicity, devoid of unnecessary accessories.
Decode the Dates
Lastly, decode the production dates on the shoe tag. Authentic pairs present dates in a familiar format (e.g., 07/10/13 – 09/09/13). If the dates seem like a code you can’t crack, it’s a forgery attempting to play mind games.
By navigating these key checkpoints, you’re not merely inspecting shoes; you’re orchestrating a symphony of authenticity. Let your discerning eye conduct the harmony of genuine Nike Air Jordan XII (12) Retro shoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are all Nike Air Jordan XII (12) Retro shoes manufactured in China or Taiwan?
- A: Yes, authentic pairs bear factory codes LN3 (China) or FT1 (Taiwan).
Q: Can spelling errors on the box be the only indicator of fake Jordans?
- A: While not the sole indicator, misspellings, especially in key terms like “RETRO,” often accompany fake pairs.
Q: Do all authentic Jordan 12s have a matte finish on the midsole?
- A: No, specifically for “Taxi” colorways, authentic pairs have a matte finish, but other colorways may vary.
Q: Should I always be skeptical of online listings with hang tags and shoe trees?
- A: Yes, genuine pairs do not include hang tags or shoe trees, so their presence suggests potential counterfeits.
Q: Are there specific months mentioned in the production dates on the shoe tag?
- A: Yes, authentic pairs display production dates in a standard format, such as 07/10/13 – 09/09/13, without unusual month representations.
