Hey sneakerheads! Today, we're diving deep into the world of Jordan 4 Infrareds, specifically how to tell the difference between a real pair and a sneaky fake. This is crucial because nobody wants to drop their hard-earned cash on a counterfeit. So, let's get right to it and break down the key areas to inspect. We'll cover everything from the overall shape and materials to the finer details like stitching and the Jumpman logo. By the end of this guide, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to confidently authenticate your Jordan 4 Infrareds and avoid getting scammed. Remember, the devil is in the details, and we're here to help you spot them!

1. Overall Look and Shape

Okay, guys, first things first, let's take a good look at the overall shape of the shoe. The authentic Jordan 4 has a very specific silhouette. Fakes often get this wrong, and it's usually a dead giveaway.

• Silhouette: The real deal boasts a streamlined, athletic profile. Fakes frequently appear bulky or awkwardly shaped. Pay attention to how the shoe tapers from the toe box to the heel. A genuine pair will have a smooth, gradual curve. Counterfeits often have a more abrupt or uneven transition. Also, inspect the height of the shoe. Fakes might be noticeably taller or shorter than the authentic version. This is especially noticeable around the ankle collar.
• Stance: Place the shoes on a flat surface. Do they sit evenly? Fakes might lean to one side or have a wobbly stance due to poor construction. The sole should be flat and make full contact with the surface. If you notice any rocking or tilting, it's a red flag.
• Proportions: Check the proportions of different elements. Is the toe box too long or too short? Is the heel counter too high or too low? Are the wings positioned correctly? Often, counterfeit manufacturers miss the subtle nuances of the shoe's proportions. Comparing your pair to official images of the Jordan 4 Infrared can help you identify any discrepancies. Remember, a keen eye for detail is your best weapon against fakes. So, take your time and carefully assess the overall look and shape of the shoe before moving on to the next step.

2. Material Quality

Now, let's talk materials. This is another area where fakes often fall short. Authentic Jordan 4s use high-quality materials, and you can usually feel the difference. The upper should be made of premium nubuck or suede, depending on the specific release. Fakes will often use cheaper, synthetic materials that feel stiff and unnatural. The texture should be smooth and consistent throughout the shoe. Check for any imperfections like creases, wrinkles, or uneven grain. Real Jordan 4s are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, so any flaws in the material are a cause for concern. Similarly, inspect the mesh panels on the side of the shoe. The mesh should be tightly woven and have a clean, uniform appearance. Fakes often use a looser, cheaper mesh that looks and feels flimsy. Also, pay attention to the color of the materials. Authentic Jordan 4s have a rich, vibrant color that is consistent throughout the shoe. Fakes may have a dull, faded, or uneven color. The midsole should be made of a durable, responsive foam. Press down on the midsole and see how it feels. It should have some give but should also spring back quickly. Fakes often use a cheaper, less responsive foam that feels hard and lifeless. Remember, quality materials are essential for both the look and the performance of the shoe. So, don't be afraid to get up close and personal with the materials to determine if they are the real deal.

3. Color Accuracy

Color is key, guys! Especially with a shoe as iconic as the Infrared 4s. The infrared color needs to be spot on. Fakes often struggle to replicate the exact shade. Compare your pair to official images from Nike or reputable sneaker retailers. Pay close attention to the intensity and hue of the infrared accents. Is it too pink? Too orange? Too red? Any deviation from the authentic color is a red flag. The black portions of the shoe should also be a deep, rich black. Fakes may appear faded or grayish. Also, check the color consistency throughout the shoe. Are there any variations in color between different panels or materials? Authentic Jordan 4s have uniform color throughout the shoe. In addition to the infrared and black colors, pay attention to the other colors used on the shoe, such as the gray accents on the wings and heel counter. Make sure these colors are also accurate and consistent. Color accuracy is crucial for capturing the overall aesthetic of the shoe. So, don't overlook this important detail when authenticating your Jordan 4 Infrareds.

4. Stitching Quality

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty – the stitching. This is where a lot of fakes reveal themselves. Authentic Jordan 4s have clean, consistent, and tight stitching. Look closely at the stitching around the various panels, the midsole, and the Jumpman logo. The stitches should be evenly spaced and perfectly aligned. There should be no loose threads, skipped stitches, or crooked lines. Fakes often have sloppy stitching with uneven spacing, frayed threads, and noticeable imperfections. Pay particular attention to the stitching around the toe box and the heel counter. These areas are often prone to wear and tear, so any weaknesses in the stitching will be more apparent. Also, check the density of the stitching. Authentic Jordan 4s have a high stitch density, meaning there are a lot of stitches per inch. Fakes often have a lower stitch density, which makes the stitching look weaker and less durable. Don't be afraid to use a magnifying glass to get a closer look at the stitching. The more you scrutinize the stitching, the better your chances of spotting any inconsistencies or flaws. Remember, high-quality stitching is a hallmark of authentic Jordan 4s. So, don't settle for anything less than perfection.

5. Jumpman Logo

The Jumpman logo is an iconic symbol, and it's a crucial detail to examine when authenticating your Jordan 4 Infrareds. There are several things to look for. First, check the proportions of the logo. The Jumpman should be well-defined and accurately proportioned. Fakes often have distorted or misshapen Jumpman logos. The arms, legs, and basketball should all be in the correct position and size. Second, examine the stitching around the logo. The stitching should be clean, tight, and evenly spaced. There should be no loose threads or skipped stitches. Fakes often have sloppy stitching around the Jumpman logo, which is a clear sign of a counterfeit. Third, pay attention to the texture of the logo. The Jumpman logo should be smooth and slightly raised. Fakes often have a flat or bumpy texture. Also, check the color of the logo. The Jumpman logo should be a consistent color throughout. Fakes may have variations in color, which is another indication of a counterfeit. Finally, compare the Jumpman logo to official images of the Jordan 4 Infrared. Make sure the logo on your pair matches the logo on the authentic version. Pay close attention to the details, such as the position of the fingers, the shape of the basketball, and the overall silhouette of the Jumpman. By carefully examining the Jumpman logo, you can significantly increase your chances of spotting a fake.

6. Sole and Outsole

Let's flip the shoe over and examine the sole and outsole. The sole should be made of a durable, responsive material that provides cushioning and support. Press down on the sole and see how it feels. It should have some give but should also spring back quickly. Fakes often use a cheaper, less responsive material that feels hard and lifeless. The outsole should have a good grip and traction. Examine the tread pattern and make sure it is consistent and well-defined. Fakes often have a shallow or poorly defined tread pattern, which can affect the shoe's grip. Also, check the color of the outsole. The outsole should be a consistent color throughout. Fakes may have variations in color or discoloration, which is another sign of a counterfeit. In addition to the overall quality and appearance of the sole and outsole, pay attention to the details, such as the placement of the Air Jordan logo on the heel. The logo should be accurately positioned and well-defined. Fakes often have the logo misplaced or poorly defined. Also, check the shape and size of the traction pods on the outsole. These pods should be evenly spaced and have a consistent shape and size. Fakes may have irregular or poorly shaped traction pods. By carefully examining the sole and outsole, you can gain valuable insights into the authenticity of your Jordan 4 Infrareds.

7. Packaging and Accessories

Don't underestimate the importance of the packaging and accessories. The box itself should be made of sturdy cardboard and have a clear, crisp print of the Jordan logo and the shoe's name. Check for any misspellings, blurry images, or inconsistencies in the font. Fakes often have poorly made boxes with noticeable errors. The shoe should also come with the correct accessories, such as the original laces, hangtags, and any other promotional materials. Make sure these accessories are authentic and match the ones that came with the original release. Check the quality of the laces. They should be made of a durable material and have the correct length and thickness. Fakes often have cheap, flimsy laces that are easily frayed or broken. Examine the hangtags closely. They should have clear, crisp printing and be securely attached to the shoe. Fakes often have poorly printed hangtags that are easily detached. If the shoe came with any promotional materials, such as stickers or posters, make sure they are authentic and in good condition. Fakes often have low-quality promotional materials that are easily damaged. Remember, the packaging and accessories are an integral part of the overall product. So, don't overlook these details when authenticating your Jordan 4 Infrareds. A complete and authentic set of packaging and accessories is a good sign that your shoes are the real deal.

8. Price Point

Okay, let's talk money, guys. Price can be a significant indicator of authenticity. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Authentic Jordan 4 Infrareds retail for a certain price, and if you're seeing them for significantly less, it's a major red flag. Do some research and find out the average market price for the shoe. Factor in any discounts or promotions that may be available, but be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Counterfeiters often lure unsuspecting buyers with ridiculously low prices. They know that people are always looking for a bargain, and they exploit this desire to sell their fake products. Keep in mind that authentic Jordan 4 Infrareds are in high demand, and they often sell out quickly. This means that they are unlikely to be heavily discounted. If you come across a website or seller offering a steep discount on these shoes, be very cautious. It's always better to pay a little more for a guaranteed authentic pair than to save a few bucks and end up with a fake. Remember, you get what you pay for. So, don't let a low price cloud your judgment. Stick to reputable sellers and be willing to pay a fair price for authentic Jordan 4 Infrareds.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! A comprehensive guide to spotting fake Jordan 4 Infrareds. By paying attention to the overall look, materials, colors, stitching, logos, sole, packaging, and price, you'll be well-equipped to avoid getting scammed. Remember, knowledge is power! Always do your research, buy from reputable sources, and trust your gut. If something seems off, it probably is. Stay vigilant and happy sneaker hunting!