# Authenticated Sneaker Tags The 'Legit Tag' Protects Consumers from Counterfeit Products By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2018-08-07 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sneaker-tags References: [engadget](https://www.engadget.com/2018/08/03/sneaker-con-nfc-authentication-app/) & [sneakercon](https://sneakercon.com/) The rise of sneaker culture has led to the creation of many highly coveted limited-edition styles but also plenty of counterfeits—yet there are platforms and sneaker tags that are helping to cut down on fakes and save consumers money. [Sneaker Con](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/museum-of-graffiti1), a company that holds conventions for sneakerheads, is now introducing an app where shoe fanatics can [buy and sell shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sneakify). The app sets itself apart with NFC tech, as each physical pair of shoes that is purchased comes with a 'Legit Tag' that allows for the sneaker's model name, size, condition and SKU number to be authenticated. As of now, the NFC tags are attached to sneakers through shoelace holes and require wire cutters for removal. Going forward, a new version will be unveiled that can be snipped with household scissors. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 6.0/10 - Popularity: 81% | Activity: 92% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **NFC Technology:** The rise of NFC tech in sneaker culture allows for the authentication of shoe models, sizes, conditions, and SKU numbers. - **Limited-edition Sneaker Culture:** The demand for highly coveted limited-edition sneakers creates a need for authentication methods that protect consumers from counterfeit products. - **Sneaker Resale Platforms:** The introduction of sneaker resale platforms with authentication tags provides a secure marketplace for buying and selling shoes. ### Who This Affects Most - **Fashion Retail:** The fashion retail industry can leverage NFC technology and authentication tags to enhance the purchase experience for sneaker enthusiasts and protect against counterfeit products. - **Technology:** The technology industry has an opportunity to innovate in the development of more advanced authentication methods using NFC technology and other cutting-edge solutions. - **E-commerce:** The e-commerce industry can benefit from incorporating sneaker authentication tags into their platforms, providing consumers with peace of mind when buying sneakers online. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Sneaker-Validating AI Tools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/osmo-ai.md) - [NFC-Enabled Golden Tags](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/golden-tag.md) - [RFID-Enabled Sport Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/banbroken-artdesign-sport-shoes.md) - [Sneaker Tag-Inspired Car Keys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kicks-key.md) - [Sneaker Collector Preorder Platforms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nike-snkrs-reserve.md) - [Custom Sneaker Marketplaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sneakify.md) - [Elite Authenticator Programs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vestiaire-academie.md) - [Tracker-Concealing Shoe Accessories](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/speck-tagimals-shoe-carriers.md) - [Tracker-Friendly Kids Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/skechers-kids-find-my-skechers.md)