In the world of streetwear, authenticity is everything. The Trapstar brand, known for its bold designs and association with urban culture, has become one of the most coveted labels in the fashion scene. As the brand’s popularity has skyrocketed, so too has the number of counterfeit products flooding the market. If you’re in the market for a genuine Trapstar hoodie, it’s crucial to know how to spot a fake. This guide will walk you through the key details that differentiate an authentic Trapstar hoodie from a knockoff.
1. Check the Quality of the Fabric
One of the first things you’ll notice when you receive a genuine Trapstar hoodie is the quality of the fabric. Trapstar hoodies are made from high-quality cotton or a cotton-blend material that feels soft, durable, and comfortable. Counterfeit versions, on the other hand, often use cheaper materials that can feel rough or thin. If the fabric feels flimsy or doesn’t have the soft, premium feel that you'd expect from a high-end streetwear brand, it's likely a fake.
What to look for:
Soft and thick cotton or cotton-blend fabric
Well-constructed seams and stitching
No loose threads or noticeable imperfections
2. Examine the Logo and Graphics
Trapstar’s logo is one of the brand's most distinctive features, often prominently displayed on the chest or sleeve of their hoodies. On authentic Trapstar products, the logo is crisp, clean, and professionally printed or embroidered. Fake Trapstar hoodies tend to have poorly done logos, whether they’re misshaped, uneven, or fading.
What to look for:
Crisp, well-defined logo
Clean embroidery or high-quality print
No smudges or faded colors
Correct placement of logos (Trapstar’s logo typically appears on the chest or sleeve, and sometimes near the neck or back area)
3. Inspect the Tags and Labels
Authentic Trapstar hoodies have a few key tags that provide information about the product. These tags should feel like they’re sewn into the fabric, not glued or cheaply attached. A legitimate Trapstar hoodie will have:
A brand label with “Trapstar London” or simply “Trapstar”
A size label that’s consistent with the sizing chart
Care instructions printed on the inside of the hoodie
Some newer versions may also feature a limited edition tag or special branding, depending on the collection.
What to look for:
Clear and properly stitched brand tags
The right font and design for the logo on the tag
Care instructions that look professionally printed
No misspellings or inconsistent fonts on the labels
4. Examine the Stitching and Construction
The stitching on a genuine Trapstar hoodie is always neat, consistent, and sturdy. Fake versions, however, may have uneven stitching, loose threads, or crooked seams. Pay close attention to the construction of the hoodie, especially around the pockets, cuffs, and neckline, where sloppy stitching is most likely to appear.
What to look for:
Even and tight stitching throughout
No loose threads or fraying at seams
Neat stitching around logos or designs (whether printed or embroidered)
5. Look for the Hood and Drawstrings
Authentic Trapstar hoodies have a thick, high-quality drawstring that feels solid and durable. The drawstrings often have aglets (the small metal or plastic tips at the end) that are neatly finished. On counterfeit hoodies, the drawstrings may be flimsy, thin, or lack aglets altogether.
What to look for:
Thick, durable drawstrings with well-made aglets
The hood should be a proper size—neither too small nor oversized
No signs of wear or damage on the drawstrings (for a new hoodie)
6. The Fit and Cut
Trapstar hoodies are designed with a specific fit in mind – they’re typically a relaxed fit, but with tailored cuts that maintain a structured look. Counterfeit hoodies may appear too large, boxy, or lack the clean lines of an authentic piece. If the hoodie looks off in terms of proportions, it might not be genuine.
What to look for:
A well-proportioned fit, with a relaxed but structured shape
The sleeves should fit comfortably, with cuffs that aren’t too tight or too loose
The body of the hoodie should fall naturally, without looking too bulky or ill-fitting
7. Check the Price
While it’s tempting to jump at a deal that seems too good to be true, an authentic Trapstar hoodie typically retails for a premium price. If you come across a hoodie being sold for a fraction of the retail price, especially from an unfamiliar source, there’s a high chance that it’s a counterfeit.
What to look for:
Authentic Trapstar hoodies usually cost anywhere from $80 to $150, depending on the collection and retailer.
If the price seems unusually low, be cautious and consider the legitimacy of the seller.
8. Buy from Authorized Retailers
To avoid buying a fake, your best bet is to purchase directly from authorized Trapstar retailers or the official website. These retailers guarantee the authenticity of their products and offer a secure buying experience. If you’re buying from third-party platforms like eBay or Grailed, make sure to check the seller’s ratings and reviews.
What to look for:
Official Trapstar website or partnered retailers
Trusted resellers with positive reviews and ratings
Secure payment options and return policies
Conclusion
Buying a genuine Trapstar hoodie is about more than just getting a stylish garment; it’s about ensuring you’re investing in a piece of urban culture and fashion that’s built to last. By carefully inspecting the fabric quality, logos, stitching, tags, and overall fit, you can confidently spot a fake Trapstar hoodie and avoid the disappointment of being duped. Always buy from trusted sources, and take your time to examine the details before making your purchase. When in doubt, authenticity is always worth the investment.
