First off, let’s be real, the NMD R1 was *the* shoe for a minute. Everyone and their grandma wanted a pair. So, naturally, the knock-off factories went into overdrive. That first reddit thread nails it – some fakes are so bad, they’re practically comical. Like, XR1 details on an R1? Come on, guys! It’s like putting a Ferrari spoiler on a Prius. Even Stevie Wonder could spot that one.
But then, things get trickier. That other post mentions OG NMDs, and that’s where the real headaches begin. These guys get *good*. We’re talking microscopic stitching differences, boost material that *looks* legit, but feels like compressed styrofoam after a few wears. It’s a minefield, honestly.
My personal opinion? Unless you’re buying directly from Adidas, a reputable retailer, or a trusted reseller (and I mean *really* trusted, do your research!), you’re playing Russian roulette with your wallet. I saw some chump on Craigslist trying to pass off some *atrocious* fakes as “lightly used” OG NMDs. Like, dude, the boost looked like it had been through a cheese grater.
And honestly, the thing that bugs me the most is the sheer *effort* these counterfeiters put in. Imagine if they used that skill to, you know, create something original? But no, gotta rip off a good design and screw over unsuspecting sneakerheads.
So, how *do* you spot the fakes? Well, that second post probably has the nitty-gritty details. Check the boost (it should have a specific texture and “nip” placement), inspect the stitching (it should be clean and consistent), look at the heel tab (the angle and placement are key), and pay attention to the overall shape (fakes often look clunkier).
But here’s the thing: even with all the knowledge in the world, it’s getting harder and harder. These fakes are evolving. They’re getting better. It’s a constant arms race.
