Recognising Genuine Paul & Shark: An Authentication Guide
Rediscovered by the casual and terrace wear scene, Paul & Shark has seen its market value climb — and with it the counterfeits of its down jackets and shark polo shirts. Here is how to check a piece from the Italian nautical label.
At NB08, every piece is checked and authenticated in our boutique before it goes on sale. Here are the key markers.
Why check the authenticity of a Paul & Shark piece?
Recent pieces and 90s vintage alike are changing hands more and more: the copies follow demand, especially on down jackets and logo sweatshirts.
The embroidered shark and the logos
The embroidered shark is crisp and detailed (fin, precise silhouette), the 'PAUL&SHARK YACHTING' lettering even and well spaced. Loose embroidery, a misshapen shark or crooked lettering: a counterfeit.
Labels and markings
Detailed inside labels (brand, multilingual composition, care) with product code and Italian manufacture claimed on many pieces; crisp, consistent printing. The brand also takes care over its swing tags and packaging on new pieces.
Materials and technical finishing
Nautical heritage demands it: dense, water-repellent fabrics on the outerwear, sturdy zips (often branded), Watershed knit and thick cottons on the polo shirts and jumpers. The overall finishing — seams, press studs, drawcords — is even and solid.
Price and seller: the warning signs
A new Paul & Shark down jacket sold off cheap should raise questions. Ask for macro photos of the shark and the labels.
Checklist: authenticating a Paul & Shark piece in 7 points
- Crisp, detailed embroidered shark
- Even YACHTING lettering
- Multilingual labels + product code
- Dense, water-repellent fabrics
- Sturdy, branded zips
- Even seams and press studs
- Realistic price and reliable seller
Buy an authenticated piece at NB08
Every piece we offer is checked and authenticated in our boutique before it goes on sale.
