Hockeytown NON-Authentics

[joey_corleone 0]

Ok this is something I wanted to post because it is really irritating and NOBODY has been able to give me a straight answer. This is an anamaly my brother and I discovered last season, and it has continued into this season. Whats more frustrating, is that it seems to be spreading like some sort of disease, and many people probably don't even realize it.

THE PROBLEM:

There is a major issue with the "replica" jersey's now being sold by Hockeytown Authentics, and the vendors inside Joe Louis (I think they get their stuff from the same place) The replica jersey's that sell for $155 are being made and sold with incorrect numbers! Yes, the numbers are actually way too small. If you compare a jersey that was made properly before last season, or compare with an "official" jersey you will no doubt recognize this. The numbers on the newer replicas are much smaller, particularly they are not as long. This makes the jersey really a waste of money as far as I'm concerned.

Now, if I was purchasing a wings jersey from some shady guy on the street corner, I would expect this sort of product. But, when I am purchasing a jersey directly from the wings, or from their "official" store that prides themselves on selling authentic merchandise (the word "authentic" is even in the store name!) I expect....well authentic merchandise.

WHY?

Nobody has been able to clear this up for me. I've spoken to Hockeytown Authentics in Troy, and 3 different stands at the Joe Louis. Nobody gets it. In fact, most get defensive when ask them why they are selling jerseys with incorrect numbering and marketing them as replicas. One older guy working there told me "they have always been like that" which is bullcrap because my family, friends, and myself have had redwings replica jerseys for 25 years and never had this issue until last year. Another lady working at a different stand says it's because they are the replica's and thats why they are $155 instead of $330 like the new Rebok. I asked her what replica means, which she replied a copy. I then asked her if it's a copy how can the numbers be smaller...it was like arguing with a brick wall.

This all started when my brother was given a Holmstrom jersey last year for his birthday that was purchased at hockeytown authentics. It was the new smaller and incorrect numbering. He had to argue and plead just to get a refund. Not only that, but he then went over to Perani's and got one correctly done with no problem. I know I can't be the only one that notices this or cares. It seems whoever is supplying the "official" redwings merchandise has made a horrible mistake and nobody will even acknowledge there is a problem.

If this irritates you and you want your REAL jerseys back then BOYCOTT HOCKEYTOWN Non-Authentics crappy jerseys and demand they do them right.

[Gizmo 21]

I'll take a guess as to the reason... Since replicas come in all sizes, the normal size numbering and lettering would probably look too large when placed on replica jerseys that are a lot smaller than the sizes worn by players. I doubt many players wear the equivalent of an Adult Small jersey. So my guess is they go with a "least common denominator" size and go smaller than "the real thing". I'm not saying you have to like it, but "replica" can also mean a scale model. However, I don't think I'd accuse HA of perpetrating a fraud. There are a number of stylistic difference between the replicas and "authentic". In addition to lettering and numbering differences, the hems are also different and the "authentic" models don't have big ugly size tags above the front hem.

Edited October 4, 2007 by Gizmo

[joey_corleone 0]

I'll take a guess as to the reason... Since replicas come in all sizes, the normal size numbering and lettering would probably look too large when placed on replica jerseys that are a lot smaller than the sizes worn by players. I doubt many players wear the equivalent of an Adult Small jersey. So my guess is they go with a "least common denominator" size and go smaller than "the real thing". I'm not saying you have to like it, but "replica" can also mean a scale model. However, I don't think I'd accuse HA of perpetrating a fraud. There are a number of stylistic difference between the replicas and "authentic". In addition to lettering and numbering differences, the hems are also different and the "authentic" models don't have big ugly size tags above the front hem.

What does not make any sense is that this all the sudden started last season. I am 25 years old. I got my first Yzerman jersey in 1987, followed by one in 1995, and 2002...all perfect. I've had many other jerseys over the years, and so have my brothers. We've worn everything from Small to Extra Large. It has to do with the ratio in size. It makes no sense

Edited October 4, 2007 by joey_corleone

[Guest micah]

The sollution is to quit buying lamo replica jerseys. If you want your new sweater to look like what the guys on the ice wear, you might want to consider buying the ones that the guys on the ice wear. The replicas look so-so, and that's understandable because they cost half as much.

[joey_corleone 0]

In the past, the only major difference was that the "official" ones had 1) The fight strap sewn in, and 2) tougher stitching around the elbows. That was IT. There was no difference in lettering or numbering.

This was as far back as I remember, including CCM, KOHO, and Nike. Again, it was only last year that these lame ones started popping up. Before then, there were never "replica" jerseys being sold in general around stores, and certainly not from the actual redwings organization with improperly done numbering

Edited October 4, 2007 by joey_corleone

[Gizmo 21]

What does not make any sense is that this all the sudden started last season. I am 25 years old. I got my first Yzerman jersey in 1987, followed by one in 1995, and 2002...all perfect. I've had many other jerseys over the years, and so have my brothers. We've worn everything from Smal to Extra Large. It has to do with the ratio in size. It makes no sense

True... but such a decision could have been made after 2002. Or, it might be a simpler reason: Smaller Letters and Numbers = Less cost to make.

[joey_corleone 0]

True... but such a decision could have been made after 2002. Or, it might be a simpler reason: Smaller Letters and Numbers = Less cost to make.

I agree, it could easily be a matter of making things cheaper. If things have changed to the point where they can't even make a $155 replica jersey with proper numbering, then I *still* will never buy one again but thats just me. At the very least, let people know. The people selling them seem oblivious to the fact that anything has changed.

[Gizmo 21]

In the past, the only major difference was that the "official" ones had 1) The fight strap sewn in, and 2) tougher stitching around the elbows. That was IT. There was no difference in lettering or numbering.

This was as far back as I remember, including CCM, KOHO, and Nike. Again, it was only last year that these lame ones started popping up. Before then, there were never "replica" jerseys being sold in general around stores, and certainly not from the actual redwings organization with improperly done numbering

Actually, there were a couple of other differences.

1) The material on the replicas was a bit lighter weight.

2) The band on the sleeve wasn't stitched in on the authentics, but instead the color change was dyed into the same piece of material.

3) And finally, the NHL logo on the back hem.

[joey_corleone 0]

Actually, there were a couple of other differences.

1) The material on the replicas was a bit lighter weight.

2) The band on the sleeve wasn't stitched in on the authentics, but instead the color change was dyed into the same piece of material.

3) And finally, the NHL logo on the back hem.

You are absolutely correct, and now I recall these other minor differences. Thanks for correcting me. These are all things that in the past didn't merit another $150 to me personally...as long as the lettering, logo, and numbers were correct, oh and also the "C" or "A" if I had a sweater from a captain. I once got a Gretzky LA jersey that was so badly butchered I can't even wear it out of embarrassment now.

Anyways, since I would never spend alot of money on a jersey then go ruin it by actually wearing it to play in, the replica was always perfect for me. I guess that has changed.

I guess the thing that bothers me is that nobody working there will even acknowledge the problem, and that I know there are a lot of fans out there, or people buying sweaters for fans that are just not that into it or knowledgeable about the difference. To me, the wrong numbers is a very significant difference, and I wouldn't even want a jersey that was done like that. Oh, the other thing I guess is that they have made something I used to love to buy cheaper and dumbed down, so yeah of course that makes me mad. Something I bought before is now the same price and less quality.

Edited October 4, 2007 by joey_corleone

[Gizmo 21]

I guess the thing that bothers me is that nobody working there will even acknowledge the problem, and that I know there are a lot of fans out there, or people buying sweaters for fans that are just not that into it or knowledgeable about the difference.

I understand where you're coming from, really. I collect game worn jerseys and notice stuff like that. But you gotta realize that we're far in the minority. You're average fan doesn't care that they're buying a 7/8th scale model. Also, with the exception of the guy working at the HA store at JLA, no souvenir vendor is going to know more about the product other than the name on the back, the size, replica vs. authentic, and the price. They're just there working for someone else and looking to make some extra dough.

[metalwinger_13 0]

Ive noticed the same thign with the "replicas' sold inside the Joe, and slight variations outside. I was looking forwrd to buying a Filppula or hank jersey in the newer style jersey. I went up to the stand and was shocked, well not really that the numbers looked small. My friend who was with me noticed and she asked me to trun around so she coudl compare the numbers. Sure enough mine were right and the others looked like a E-Bay rip off. Now ill just wait it out til the place i go gets the newer style since they do a great job of making them look as good as the real thing.. well ofcourse its everything but the fight strap and the minor stuff, that isnt the name and number. Ive also noticed at retailers like Dick's and Dunhams, the wings jerseys have name plates on them and there is also a larger gap between the bottom of the letters and the numbers. But ya what a friggin scam!! atleast last night i got Dats to sign my jersey, which was a Dats jersey.

[lfd250 1]

In reality I doubt people even knew. So now you've made everyone look at their jersey. I agree it's not the greatest thing for them to do, but I think the people here are right, it's just easier to stamp out one name and number size for all jersey's. What I find funny is all the people who bought brutuzi Jerseys last year. I'm alway afraid to buy a jersey and then the guy will be gone the next year.

[joey_corleone 0]

Ive noticed the same thign with the "replicas' sold inside the Joe, and slight variations outside. I was looking forwrd to buying a Filppula or hank jersey in the newer style jersey. I went up to the stand and was shocked, well not really that the numbers looked small. My friend who was with me noticed and she asked me to trun around so she coudl compare the numbers. Sure enough mine were right and the others looked like a E-Bay rip off. Now ill just wait it out til the place i go gets the newer style since they do a great job of making them look as good as the real thing.. well ofcourse its everything but the fight strap and the minor stuff, that isnt the name and number. Ive also noticed at retailers like Dick's and Dunhams, the wings jerseys have name plates on them and there is also a larger gap between the bottom of the letters and the numbers. But ya what a friggin scam!! atleast last night i got Dats to sign my jersey, which was a Dats jersey.

I'm glad I'm preaching to the choir in your case. At least we have 1 more informed person now that will not pay for this garbage. I can tell you Perani's hockey world will do you a good job. Thats where my brother went for his holmstrom after we got the ebay rip off version from hockeytown "authentics" in Troy. His new one looks perfect.

Edited October 4, 2007 by joey_corleone

[betterREDthandead 58]

You're asking for an "authentic replica"? A replica is exactly what it sounds like: an imprecise copy. That's why they're cheaper.

[joey_corleone 0]

You're asking for an "authentic replica"? A replica is exactly what it sounds like: an imprecise copy. That's why they're cheaper.

Why have all the replica's officially sold by the Wings in the years prior to 2006-2007 all had exactly matching lettering and numbering with regards to their size?

The replicas sold before had the right letters and numbers and were STILL cheaper. Nothing has changed here, except that they are now making replicas with wrong numbers for the same amount of money.

What I am asking for is what always was before -- replica jerseys that had no difference to the authentics other than the ones pointed out earlier, which was fight strap, certain minor stitching differences, and a patch...not something as dramatically different as completely wrong numbering

Edited October 4, 2007 by joey_corleone

[metalwinger_13 0]

I think its sad thatif ya buy your "ripped" off replica.. if we can call it that at the Joe for 155, I can get ones like i stated before that are pretty much authentics except for the lil minor detail s***, for ill say 120. Now i have to go buy a new one so i can frame my Dats jersey. Well i coudl always wear my candy striped wings jersey with Howe 9 sewn on it to stuff. But ya. i noticed some what i think are wing nuts at the game buying the ripped off s***.. well its not my money there spending.

[Yzerfan1999 81]

The replicas from a few years back also had a funny outline around the winged wheel.

This is a small example - i hope you can see what i mean

can you see this difference? I hope i am not imagining this...it seems like there is some sort of rounded boarder around the winged wheel - you can see it better on the red jerseys but i cant seem to find a good pic.

[Yzermania19 1]

I remember several years back when Starter was making replicas, many of their replicas had that funny rounded red border around the winged wheel logo on the front and the player names were on a tackle twill name plate sewn on to the back of the sweater, rather than the letters sewn right on to the sweater itself. And I have seen more than a few replicas from the likes of CCM, KOHO and Nike that had the wrong size/shape numbers and misplaced C's and A's on them. So this isn't a problem that is new or a Reebok problem.

I think the best way to remedy the situation is to buy a blank replica - when they become available - and have it customized by a reputable shop, like Perani's or the Goalie's Den (I think they still customize). Places like that adhere to the NHL standards for size and style of numbers/lettering. They won't put a 3/4 size number on a jersey, unless you specify that's what you want. You might pay a little more, but nowhere near what you would for an authentic, and you will get a more authentic-looking replica.

[betterREDthandead 58]

Why have all the replica's officially sold by the Wings in the years prior to 2006-2007 all had exactly matching lettering and numbering with regards to their size?

The replicas sold before had the right letters and numbers and were STILL cheaper. Nothing has changed here, except that they are now making replicas with wrong numbers for the same amount of money.

What I am asking for is what always was before -- replica jerseys that had no difference to the authentics other than the ones pointed out earlier, which was fight strap, certain minor stitching differences, and a patch...not something as dramatically different as completely wrong numbering

You're talking about the same organization that charges $76 for seats in the upper level. Personally I think you're right - if they lowered the quality of the product but not the price, and you can get better for cheaper elsewhere, then you should in fact look elsewhere. But you sure are overreacting to such a piddling little issue. The workers you'll find there are cash-register monkeys and not in charge of the decision so you can't expect them to indulge you with a dissertation on what benefit it provides the organization to alter the numbers.

[OsGOD 3]

www.fanaticu.com

or

www.sportsk.com

Both get there lettering kits straight from the Horses mouth (JLA) so yeah they rock!

[Edge 0]

Well first thing you are getting what you pay for....If you want an authentic jersey with authentic size letter/numbers you have to pay for it. Second they don't buy their numbers/letters from the same place which is one of the many reasons its cheaper for cost effectiveness.

Here is a brain storm why don't you write the company that made the sweater in question and ask them....They could probably give the answer to your questions

Edited October 5, 2007 by Edge

[jgagnon2 0]

Well I'm sorry you're having this huge problem - I can definately relate, having been a jersey collector since I've been about 12 years old.

I've noticed that Hockeytown Non-Authentics (as you call it) are no authority on jerseys in general, whatever they have is what they think is "authentic" when it isnt necessarily the case.

I have bought my last 2 jerseys from the Old Man at Joe Louis Arena (I really should get his name, since we are practically buddies now) - he runs the little stand thats like inside the Gordie Howe Entrance to the left. He has authentics that are STRAIGHT from like, Paul Boyer. He can order you any player. He's amazing. I got a Zetterberg away jersey from him back during Zata's rookie year, he ordered it for me, and its just amazing. I did the same thing with a Datsyuk a year later.

As for buying replica jerseys, I honestly have not bought a replica since I was very young. Nonetheless, I definately HAVE noticed that the new RBK Edge "Premier" or whatever NONSENSE they are calling the replica version, is TERRIBLE. It has cuts on the sides, and like you said, the lettering is NOT AUTHENTIC whatsoever, much smaller and not even close to being the same thing.

When they start getting RBK EDGE authentics in at Joe Louis Arena, I will probably buy one (I'm hoping by then Grigorenko will be tearing it up in the NHL - haha) - I would rather pay $330 and get the EXACT s*** I'm trying to get then pay $155 for something that is not going to satisfy me. I know its a lot of money, but you will feel so much better in authentics.

[spydrwebb 0]

pictures of each would help.

[OsGOD 3]

Well I'm sorry you're having this huge problem - I can definately relate, having been a jersey collector since I've been about 12 years old.

I've noticed that Hockeytown Non-Authentics (as you call it) are no authority on jerseys in general, whatever they have is what they think is "authentic" when it isnt necessarily the case.

Thats because they still hope that Kris Draper will jump out of the clothing section to Verify if it was real. I am sorry with the treatement I had tryign to get playoff tickets from them last year and their lazy ass bastards they hire.... HA is dead to me.... I can actually say 4-ever. I can get everything i need or that they offer for a lot better price AND friendly service.

/rant

Hats off to another avid jersey collector... I didn't chime in here because well i chime in about the jerseys all the time I KNOW YOUR PAIN!!!!!

Some good advice by purchasing from the older fella @ the Joe; ya know it's authentic

I have purchased a few of the "older style" semi-pro jerseys (stocking up) since I don't care for the new RBK abominations.

I would so be stocking up... although I have so many that each self section i hang them on seem to collapse... they weight of almost 70 jersies is too much i guess.

I find it funny that people, like myself, who have been collecting jerseys for 15+ years are the ones that hate the RBK jerseies. My biggest issue is well documented... i have yet to see a lettered one on the shelve but i have heard they look fine... just that tag ::Shakes fist avidly::

[BlakChamber 8]

If I had to guess, Hockeytown Authentics doesn't design the jerseys and they probably don't put the letters on the replicas either. Your beef should probably be with whoever is making the replica jerseys, not the sellers.