Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Examine the Logo Embroidery
The FaZe logo should be crisp, dense, and well-defined. On authentic hoodies and hats, the stitching is tight with no loose threads. The letters "F" and "Z" in the lightning bolt are connected properly. Fake logos often use thin thread that leaves gaps or has uneven borders. Pro tip: run your finger over the embroidery - if it feels flat or flimsy, it's likely counterfeit.
Step 2: Check the Tag and Label
Authentic FaZe merch includes a woven neck label with the FaZe logo and size. The tag should be stitched neatly into the seam, not glued or stapled. Inside, look for a fabric content tag with specific percentages (e.g., 80% cotton, 20% polyester). Common mistake: fakes often omit the second tag or use blurry print. A real tag feels like thick cardstock, not paper.
Step 3: Evaluate the Print Quality
For screen-printed tees, the ink should be smooth and slightly raised. Authentic prints don't crack or peel after a few washes - they're heat-pressed with high-quality plastisol ink. Flip the shirt inside out: the print should not bleed through or look faded. Pro tip: stretch the fabric gently - if the print cracks immediately, it's fake.
Step 4: Inspect the Fabric and Construction
Real FaZe hoodies use heavyweight fleece (9-10 oz.) with double-stitched seams. T-shirts are made from 100% combed ring-spun cotton that feels soft but sturdy. Fake merch often uses thin, scratchy polyester blends that pill quickly. Check the hem: authentic garments have a straight, even stitch with no puckering. A crooked hem is a dead giveaway.
Step 5: Compare with Official Product Photos
Visit the official FaZe merch store and study the product images. Note the exact shade of red, the placement of logos, and the fit. Fakes often use a slightly different red (more orange or maroon) or misplace the logo by an inch. For limited drops, look at the specific artwork details - counterfeiters rarely get the colors right.
Step 6: Verify the Price
If a deal sounds too good to be true, it is. Authentic FaZe hoodies rarely drop below $50, and tees under $20 are almost always fake. Sellers on resale platforms like eBay or Grailed offering "new with tags" for half the retail price are major red flags. Stick to trusted retailers or the official store.
Step 7: Check the Packaging
Official FaZe merch ships in branded poly bags or boxes with the FaZe logo. The packaging includes a verification sticker or insert for limited releases. Fakes often arrive in plain plastic or even reused boxes. If your order comes with no branding at all, be suspicious.