As sneaker enthusiasts and collectors, it is important to be able to distinguish between authentic and fake sneakers.
This is especially true when it comes to limited edition sneakers such as the Cool Grey colourway, which is highly sought after and often replicated by counterfeiters.
One of the methods to identify fake sneakers is by using black lights.
In this article, we will discuss what black lights are, how it works, and how to use it to spot fake cool grey sneakers.
Understanding black lights
A black-light, also known as ultraviolet (UV) light, emits a type of radiation that is not visible to the human eye.
This radiation falls outside the visible spectrum and is of a shorter wavelength than visible light.
Black lights emit ultraviolet radiation in the range of 320-400 nanometers (nm).
This radiation can cause certain substances to fluoresce or emit visible light, making them easier to detect.
There are different types of black lights, including fluorescent tubes, compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), and light-emitting diodes (LEDs).
Fluorescent tubes are the most common type of black light and are often used for industrial and scientific purposes.
CFLs are smaller and more energy-efficient than fluorescent tubes, making them ideal for home use.
LEDs are the newest type of black light and are the most energy-efficient, but they are also the least powerful.
How to Spot Fake Cool Grey Sneakers with a Black Light
Step 1:
Examine the Sneakers
Before using black lights, examine the sneakers for any obvious signs of fakes.
Look for inconsistencies in the shape and size of the sneakers, as well as any misspelt words or incorrect logos.
Check the quality of the materials used and any stitching or glue marks. Authentic sneakers will have clean stitching, while fake sneakers may have messy or uneven stitching.
Step 2:
Turn off the Lights
To use a black light, turn off all the lights in the room and close any curtains or blinds.
This will ensure that there is no visible light interfering with the ultraviolet radiation emitted by the black light.
Step 3:
Shine the Black Light on the Sneakers
Shine the black light on different parts of the sneakers, including the sole, upper, and laces.
Authentic sneakers will not fluoresce or emit visible light under a black light, while fake sneakers may emit a green or blue glow.
However, not all fake sneakers will glow under a black light, so this method should be used in conjunction with other authentication methods.
Step 4:
Identify Different Materials and Their Reactions to Black Light
Different materials will react differently to black light. Leather, for example, will not fluoresce or emit visible light, while some synthetic materials may emit a blue or green glow.
To identify the type of material used in the sneakers, shine the black light on different parts of the sneakers and note any areas that emit visible light.
Step 5:
Common Signs of Fake Sneakers
There are some common signs of fake sneakers that you can look out for when using a black light.
These include:
Uneven or inconsistent glow:
If the sneakers emit a glow under a black light, the glow should be consistent throughout the sneakers.
If the glow is uneven or inconsistent, it may be a sign of a fake.
Visible glue marks:
Some fake sneakers may have visible glue marks that emit visible light under a black light.
Misspelt words or incorrect logos:
Check the sneakers for any misspelt words or incorrect logos. These are common signs of fake sneakers.
Other Methods to Spot Fake Sneakers
Using a black light is just one method to identify fake sneakers.
Here are some other methods that you can use in conjunction with a black light:
Comparison with authentic sneakers:
If you have access to an authentic pair of cool grey sneakers, compare them side by side with the pair you suspect is fake.
Look for any inconsistencies in shape, size, colour, and stitching.
Examining details and quality:
Check the quality of the materials used and any details such as logos, labels, and tags.
Authentic sneakers will have high-quality materials and attention to detail.
Checking labels and tags:
Check the labels and tags on the sneakers for any misspelt words or incorrect logos.
Authentic sneakers will have accurate and high-quality labels and tags.
Conclusion:
Using a black light to identify fake cool grey sneakers is a useful tool for sneaker enthusiasts and collectors.
However, it should be used in conjunction with other authentication methods to ensure the authenticity of the sneakers.
By following the steps outlined in this article and using other authentication methods, you can protect yourself from purchasing fake sneakers and ensure that your collection is authentic.
Remember to always purchase from reputable sources and do your research before making any purchases.
FAQs
Q: Can all fake sneakers be identified with a black light?
A: No, not all fake sneakers will emit visible light under a black light. While using a black light is a useful tool, it should be used in conjunction with other authentication methods to ensure the authenticity of the sneakers.
Q: What materials will emit visible light under a black light?
A: Some synthetic materials, such as certain types of glue, may emit a blue or green glow under a black light. However, leather and other natural materials will not fluoresce or emit visible light under a black light.
Q: Is it safe to use a black light on sneakers?
A: Yes, using a black light on sneakers is safe as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and do not look directly at the black light. It is important to turn off all the lights in the room and close any curtains or blinds to ensure that there is no visible light interfering with the ultraviolet radiation emitted by the black light.
