The reigning IT-Girl shoe of the season, Adidas Sambas took over the streets in 2024 like no other. From Bella Hadid to Hailey Bieber and more, the Sambas were high on everyone's sneaker wish list. If you plan on purchasing your first pair soon, be sure to check the authenticity, considering counterfeit products have taken over the markets like no other.

How to spot fake SambasHere are key points to verify genuine Adidas Sambas: Start with the shoeboxStart by examining the box itself. Believe it or not, you can figure a lot about the shoe without even glancing at it. Genuine Adidas packaging features high-quality printing with precise branding and consistent spacing. The fakes often have poor-quality printing, smudges, or spelling errors. Match the SKU NumberThe SKU number on the shoebox should match the one on the shoe’s inner label. Counterfeit manufacturers frequently overlook this detail, so mismatched numbers are a sure-shot red flag. Intricate craftsmanshipAuthentic Adidas Sambas are known for their premium quality and exquisite craftsmanship. Examine the stitching, glue application, and overall construction. Signs of poor craftsmanship or cheap materials are indicative of a fake. Check the Iconic Three Stripes and LogosThe hallmark of Adidas aka the three stripes should be symmetrical and evenly spaced on each side of the shoe. Also, verify the accuracy and placement of the Adidas logo on the tongue, heel, and insole. The Tongue TagLook at the tongue tag for the Adidas trefoil logo and branding. Authentic tags will have clear, sharp printing and neat stitching. Blurry or uneven details are signs of a fake. Examine the Insole and PrintingThe insole should feature clean Adidas branding and be constructed from high-quality materials. Any irregularities in the print or unusual fonts are major red flags. The Sole and OutsoleAuthentic outsoles have a detailed and consistent pattern with excellent traction. Check for the Adidas logo on the sole, ensuring it is well-defined.