Nike SB Purple Pigeon: How To Spot The Fakes

Hey sneakerheads! Are you ready to dive into the world of Nike SB Purple Pigeons? These kicks are legendary, and with that kind of hype comes a whole lotta fakes. Don't worry, though; I'm here to arm you with the knowledge you need to tell the real deal from the imposters. We're gonna break down everything from the box to the stitching, so you can confidently cop a pair without getting scammed. Let's get started, shall we?

The Tale of the Nike SB Purple Pigeon

First, a little history lesson! The Nike SB Purple Pigeon isn't just a shoe; it's a piece of sneaker history. Released back in 2006, it was a follow-up to the highly coveted NYC Pigeon Dunk. The purple colorway, inspired by the bird's common appearance, quickly became a grail for collectors worldwide. The limited release and the cultural significance surrounding it made the Purple Pigeon a symbol of status and exclusivity. Its rarity, coupled with its unique design, made it a prime target for counterfeiters. And, as the years have passed, the quality of these fakes has gotten scarily good. So, knowing how to spot the difference is essential if you're looking to add this iconic sneaker to your collection.

Now, the main idea is to help you, the consumer, not get scammed. With the increased value of the shoes, it has become a hotbed for fakes. To avoid the headache of wasting money and purchasing a fake, it's essential to understand the key factors to look for in order to authenticate a pair. I hope you are not the victim of these scams. We'll start with the most basic elements, like the box, and then move on to the more nuanced details of the shoe itself. Ready to become a Purple Pigeon expert? Let's go!

Step 1: Examining the Box

Okay, so you've got a potential pair of Purple Pigeons in front of you. Where do you start? The box, of course! Even before you get to the shoes, the box can tell you a lot. First off, check the overall construction of the box. Authentic Nike SB boxes are made from sturdy cardboard. Fake boxes often feel flimsy or cheap. Look for any misspellings, errors in the font, or inconsistencies in the color. These are telltale signs of a fake. The box should have clear, crisp printing. The font should be consistent with what Nike uses.

Next, let's look at the label. The label on the side of the box contains important information, such as the shoe size, style code, color code, and the date of manufacture. Compare the information on the label to known details of the authentic Purple Pigeon. The style code (usually a six-digit number) and the color code should match what you can find online. Pay attention to the font and alignment of the text on the label. Fake labels may have slightly off fonts or poor alignment. Also, examine the overall condition of the box. An authentic box will show signs of handling, but it shouldn't be falling apart. If the box looks brand new and untouched, it could be a red flag, especially for a shoe that's been around for a while. Lastly, check the box's dimensions. Compare them to images of authentic boxes online. Sometimes, the dimensions of a fake box are slightly off.

Remember, the box is just the first step. If the box seems off, it doesn't automatically mean the shoes are fake, but it's definitely a warning sign. Always examine the box carefully and cross-reference the information with multiple sources before moving on to the shoes themselves. Be thorough; it's the only way to protect yourself from getting ripped off.

Step 2: The Shoe Itself: A Detailed Inspection

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty and examine the Nike SB Purple Pigeon itself. This is where the real work begins. We will start with the overall shape and silhouette. Authentic Purple Pigeons have a distinct shape. The toe box should be well-proportioned and not too bulky or flat. Look at the curve of the shoe, from the toe to the heel. It should have a natural, balanced flow. Fakes often have an awkward shape, with proportions that just don't look right. Next up, the materials. Nike is known for its high-quality materials. The Purple Pigeon features premium suede. Inspect the suede closely. It should feel soft and have a rich texture. The color should be consistent throughout the shoe. Fake versions often use cheaper materials that lack the same feel and appearance.

Then, let's talk about the stitching. The stitching on authentic Nike SB shoes is impeccable. It should be neat, even, and consistent. Look for any loose threads or uneven stitches. These are common flaws in fake shoes. Check the placement of the stitching, too. It should align with the design of the shoe. Now, let's talk about the details. Every element of the Purple Pigeon is important. Inspect the laces. Authentic laces are usually flat and high-quality. The color should match the original design. Check the tongue and the inner lining. The tongue should have a comfortable padding, and the inner lining should be soft. Also, check the insole. It should have the Nike SB logo and any other details that are expected. Examine the Swoosh. The placement, size, and shape of the Swoosh are crucial. It should be well-defined and not too bulky or thin. Make sure the color is right and the stitching around the Swoosh is flawless.

Pay attention to the details on the heel. The "Nike" logo should be well-placed and consistent with the original design. Also, look at the outsole. It should be made of durable rubber with a clear pattern. The color should match the original. Also, check the overall construction and the craftsmanship of the shoe. Authentic shoes are made with precision and attention to detail. Fake shoes often show signs of poor craftsmanship, with glue marks, misaligned panels, and other imperfections. By carefully examining all these elements, you'll be well on your way to distinguishing the real deal from the fakes.

Step 3: Examining the Specific Features

Now, let's dive into some of the specific features of the Nike SB Purple Pigeon that are often giveaways of fakes. One of the most critical elements is the iconic purple color itself. The color of the purple panels should be consistent throughout the shoe and match the original shade. Fake shoes often have a slightly off color. It might be too light, too dark, or have the wrong undertones. The quality of the materials used affects this. The panel's quality directly impacts its color and appearance. Next, let's look at the Pigeon graphic. The small Pigeon graphic embroidered on the heel is a defining feature of the shoe. Make sure the size, shape, and placement of the Pigeon graphic are accurate. Fake versions often have an inaccurate graphic. The stitching around the graphic should be neat and consistent. Check for any loose threads or imperfections.

Then, let's talk about the midsole. The midsole is the white portion of the shoe. It should be clean, smooth, and not show any signs of yellowing or discoloration. Make sure the midsole has the correct shape and that it is properly attached to the upper. Now, let's move on to the outsole. The outsole has a clear pattern that provides traction. Make sure the pattern is accurate and that the rubber is durable. Also, check the color of the outsole. It should match the original design. If possible, compare the shoe to a known authentic pair or high-quality photos. This will help you identify any discrepancies in the color, materials, or details. This visual comparison can be invaluable in spotting fakes. Comparing your shoe to an authentic pair allows you to see the subtle differences that might not be immediately obvious. Be patient and take your time when checking these details.

Also, consider where you're buying the shoes. If you are buying from a website, make sure it is reputable. Buying from a trusted seller or marketplace can reduce your risk of getting scammed. Check for reviews and ratings from other buyers. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. If the price is significantly lower than the market value, that's another red flag. Finally, use your common sense. If you have any doubts about the authenticity of the shoes, it's best to err on the side of caution. Don't be afraid to ask for a second opinion from a sneaker expert. It's always better to be safe than sorry when investing in a pair of iconic sneakers like the Nike SB Purple Pigeon.

Step 4: The Insole and Other Details

Let's get down to the details. We're going to check the insole and other critical details that can help you distinguish between real and fake Nike SB Purple Pigeons. The insole is an important aspect of authenticating your shoes. The insole should have a crisp print with the Nike SB logo, often accompanied by the size information and any other design details. Check the insole's material; it should feel durable and high-quality. Fake insoles are often made from cheaper materials, and the print can be blurry or easily worn off. Take a close look at the stitching around the insole. If it's loose or uneven, it could be a sign of a fake. Next, let's inspect the inside of the shoe. The inside should be clean and well-constructed. Look at the stitching, the seams, and the overall construction quality. Authentic shoes are made with precision and attention to detail. Fake shoes often show signs of poor craftsmanship, with glue marks, misaligned panels, and other imperfections.

Now, let's talk about the tongue. The tongue should be well-padded and comfortable. Check for any imperfections or inconsistencies in the stitching. The Nike SB logo should be accurately placed and the right font. The laces are another critical detail. Authentic laces are usually flat and made of high-quality materials. The color of the laces should match the original design. Pay attention to the lace holes. They should be properly aligned and reinforced to prevent fraying. Check the shoe's overall condition, particularly if you're buying a used pair. Look for any signs of wear and tear, such as creasing, scuffs, or discoloration. The amount of wear should be consistent with the seller's description. The bottom of the shoe is another key area to examine. Check the outsole for wear and tear. The pattern should be clear and well-defined. If the shoes are being sold as new, the outsole should be clean and unworn. Also, check the glue job in the shoe. The use of glue is essential in the production of sneakers. However, with fakes, you can often see the glue job. Be sure to look at the seams carefully.

Also, let's not forget the price. If the price is too good to be true, it probably is. Do some research and compare prices from different sellers. If the price is significantly lower than the market value, that's a red flag. Furthermore, make sure to ask the seller for additional photos, especially if you have doubts about the authenticity. Ask them to take photos of specific details, such as the insole, the stitching, or the heel logo. Also, be sure to request the original receipt or any proof of purchase to verify the shoe's authenticity. If a seller is hesitant to provide this information, it could be a sign that they are selling fakes.

Step 5: Utilizing Authentication Services

Okay, guys, you've gone through all the steps, but you're still not sure? That's totally fine! There are several authentication services out there that can help you verify the authenticity of your Nike SB Purple Pigeons. These services are run by sneaker experts who have years of experience authenticating shoes. They'll examine your shoes, and provide you with a detailed report on whether they are real or fake. Some popular authentication services include: Legit Check, StockX, and eBay. To use these services, you'll typically need to submit clear photos of your shoes. The authenticator will examine the photos, looking for specific details that indicate authenticity. Be sure to shop at reputable stores and follow up with an authentication service to check if the sneakers are original.

These authentication services often use a combination of methods to verify authenticity. They'll examine the shoes' overall shape, materials, stitching, and details. They'll compare the shoes to known authentic pairs. Some services also use specialized tools, such as UV light, to detect counterfeit elements. The best part is that it gives you peace of mind. Knowing that a team of experts has verified the authenticity of your shoes can provide you with confidence. You can also get a detailed report explaining why the shoes are considered authentic or fake.

Before you use an authentication service, it's essential to research the service and read reviews. Make sure the service is reputable and has a good track record. Compare prices and turnaround times to find a service that meets your needs. Also, make sure you know the fees and the turnaround time. Some services offer expedited options, but they may cost more. Also, it's crucial to prepare your shoes for authentication. Make sure you take clear, well-lit photos. Include photos of all angles of the shoe. Also, make sure to take photos of the box, the label, the insole, and any other details that are relevant to authentication. Using these services can be incredibly helpful. Be sure to take the time to compare your Nike SB Purple Pigeons with as many images of authentic pairs as possible.

Conclusion: Stay Safe, Stay Fresh!

Alright, folks, that's the lowdown on how to legit check your Nike SB Purple Pigeons! It may seem like a lot, but by following these steps, you'll be well-equipped to spot fakes and ensure you're getting the real deal. Remember to always be cautious, and don't be afraid to ask for help from experts or use authentication services. With a little bit of knowledge and a keen eye, you'll be rocking those iconic kicks with confidence. Stay safe, stay fresh, and happy collecting!