How to spot a fake 2005-06 Arsenal Nike home shirt with photos

• One of the most common fake shirts we see on the market is the iconic 2005 Arsenal home shirt by Nike
• This article outlines 5 tips to spot if your vintage 2005 Arsenal shirt is the real deal or a fake
• Read the guide with photos below 
• Browse our collection of vintage Arsenal shirts here

One of the most common fake shirts we see on the market is the iconic 2005 Arsenal home shirt made by Nike.  It was worn in the last season at Highbury and on their run to the Champions League final and unique because of the simple design and the colour.  You can picture Thierry Henry wearing it standing over the corner flag.  

How do you know if your Arsenal shirt is authentic or a rip-off.  Here are 5 tips to help you spot a fake 2005 Arsenal Nike shirt.  

The writing on the back of the shirt

Turn the shirt over and check the writing on the back that says “Highbury 1913-2006”.  Notice the quality difference between the real and the fake shirt. The number 3 in 13 is often a clear stand out error on a fake.

The Highbury wording around the badge is also a give away.  On fake Arsenal shirts the writing on the crest is often too big and bunched. Also keep an eye out for too much gold on the fake badges. The only gold should be the stitching not on the inner of the actual badge itself.

Where the shirt is made

Check to see where the shirt is made. The real deals are made in Morocco and often the fakes will say Portugal.  This will be under the collar and printed on the shirt.  

The shade of the shirt

The redcurrant shade of the 2005 Arsenal shirt is unique.  In this photo you can see a clear different in the shade of the shirt between an authentic and fake shirt.  The real Arsenal version will often have a stronger and bold colour than the fake.  When placed next to each other it really stands out.

Labels and tabs

Finally the black Nike tab on the inside of the shirt is really important. This should have a silver thread running through it. If you zoom your camera lens in on this you'll be able to see the Nike hologram.  If the shirt is missing this tab it is likely not real.

Material feel

The material feel is another give away.  If the material feels very light and coarse it is often a reproduction.

If there are any tips missing let us know in the comments below and give Jake a follow on Twitter here  

Browse our collection of vintage Arsenal shirts here.