Essentials hoodies, part of the Fear of God line, have become one of the most sought-after streetwear pieces. Unfortunately, their popularity has also led to a flood of counterfeits in the market. Fake Essentials hoodies often look identical to the real thing at first glance, but upon closer inspection, they lack quality, durability, and authenticity.
If you’re spending your hard-earned money on an Essentials hoodie, the last thing you want is to end up with a fake. This guide will walk you through the exact steps to differentiate between authentic and counterfeit Essentials hoodies, so you don’t fall victim to scams.
Understanding Fear of God Essentials Brand
The Essentials line is a sub-brand of Fear of God, designed by Jerry Lorenzo. Unlike the main Fear of God collections, SHOP NOW, which are premium-priced, Essentials hoodies are meant to be more affordable while maintaining high quality.
Why is the Brand So Popular?
- High-quality materials and oversized fit
- Minimalist yet stylish design
- Worn by celebrities and influencers
- Limited stock drops, increasing demand
A typical authentic Essentials hoodie retails between $90 to $120, depending on the collection and release. If you come across one priced significantly lower, it should raise suspicion.
Red Flags in Unauthorized Stores
- Websites offering massive discounts
- No return policy or sketchy terms
- Poor website design and broken English
Material Quality and Fabric Differences
Authentic Essentials hoodies are made from a heavyweight cotton-poly blend, giving them a premium feel. Fake versions tend to be:
- Thinner and less structured
- Made from cheap, lightweight cotton
- Feel rough instead of soft
Stitching and Craftsmanship
- Real hoodies have tight, even stitches
- Fake ones may have loose or irregular stitching
- Check inside seams—authentic pieces have clean finishes
Logo Placement and Font Details
- The “ESSENTIALS” logo should be straight and evenly spaced
- Fake logos may have incorrect font thickness or wrong alignment
Checking the Tags and Labels
One of the easiest ways to detect a fake is by inspecting the inside labels and wash tags.
Differences in Font and Spacing
- Authentic tags have sharp, well-spaced text
- Fake tags may have blurry, uneven, or misaligned text
QR Codes and Serial Numbers
- Some newer Essentials hoodies feature a QR code on the label
- Scanning the code should redirect to the official Fear of God site
Examining the Logo and Print Quality
The logo print on authentic Essentials hoodies has a raised rubberized texture. Fake hoodies often have:
- Flat or glossy print
- Misaligned letters or incorrect font thickness
- Logos that peel or crack easily
To check, run your fingers over the logo—it should feel smooth yet slightly raised.
Inspecting the Fit and Sizing
Essentials hoodies are known for their oversized fit. A fake hoodie may:
- Fit too tight or too small
- Have shorter sleeves or a different shape
- Use incorrect size labels
Always compare measurements with a size chart from an official retailer.
Analyzing the Hood and Drawstrings
The hood on a real Essentials hoodie is thick and structured, while a fake one might be flimsy.
Authentic vs. Fake Drawstrings
- Originals have thick, durable drawstrings
- Fakes may have thin or uneven drawstrings
- Metal aglets should be smooth and polished
Verifying the Packaging
Authentic Essentials hoodies come in high-quality, resealable plastic bags with Fear of God branding.
Fake hoodies often have:
- Cheap, thin plastic bags
- Missing or incorrect branding
- Poor-quality printing on packaging
Price Comparison: Too Good to Be True?
If an Essentials hoodie is selling for $40-$60, it’s likely fake. The official retail price rarely drops below $90 unless it’s a second-hand piece.
Why Discounts Should Raise Suspicion
- Essentials rarely go on massive sales
- Limited-edition pieces hold their value
Checking Customer Reviews and Seller Reputation
Always check the seller’s ratings and feedback before purchasing.
Signs of Fake Reviews
- Overly positive, generic comments
- Many reviews were posted in a short time
- No negative feedback at all
The Feel Test: Weight and Fabric Softness
- Real Essentials hoodies feel heavy and thick
- Fakes tend to be lightweight and flimsy
What to Do If You Bought a Fake Hoodie
- Contact the seller for a refund
- Report the counterfeit to Fear of God or the retailer
- Avoid shady resellers in the future
Conclusion and Final Tips
- Always buy from authorized retailers
- Check fabric, tags, and logo placement
- Compare with a verified authentic piece
By following these tips, you’ll avoid getting scammed and ensure you get a real Essentials hoodie that lasts.
