How to tell an original Santoni from a fake
To understand how to verify the authenticity of Santoni, you need to look deeper into the very essence of the production processes that cannot be replicated in mass counterfeit manufacturing. In this article, we reveal the brand’s unique features that allow you to unmistakably recognize a fake.
What fakes never have — the Velatura dyeing technique
The brand’s main pride and its key protective mechanism is its hand-dyeing technique known as Velatura. This technique makes the question of how to detect a counterfeit almost irrelevant once you have seen a genuine pair.
An authentic pair of Santoni shoes passes through the hands of an artisan who applies up to 15 layers of various dyes and waxes. The result is a deep, multifaceted color with a patina effect. The color does not simply sit on the surface — it seems to glow from within. The transitions between shades look natural and smooth. If you look closely at the toe of the shoe, you will see a unique hand-worked pattern.
A fake always loses at the dyeing stage. Replica manufacturers use spray guns or cheap industrial pigments. The color turns out flat, plastic-looking, and lacking depth. Even when counterfeiters try to imitate patina, it appears as dirty smudges rather than the noble aging of genuine leather.
Signature orange color: original vs fake
If you want to know how to tell whether Santoni is genuine, pay attention to color. Orange is not just a shade for the brand — it is its DNA.
In most classic models, the interior lining is made of soft leather in a deep orange color. This shade is patented and has a specific richness.
Many original Santoni models feature a bright orange insert on the sole or an entirely orange bottom. The color must be clean, without foreign specks.
Storage accessories also use this color. Santoni original and counterfeit products are often distinguishable by the shade of the packaging: fakes tend to be too neon or shift toward yellow.
Handwritten codes — the best authenticity marker
Another unique method of distinguishing an original Santoni is hidden inside the shoe. The brand remains faithful to tradition, so information about the pair is often written by hand.
Look inside the shoe, on the side of the lining. In an authentic model, you will see the number, size, and width written by hand with a special silver or white marker. The handwriting is calligraphic and precise.
Counterfeit manufacturers usually print this information directly onto the leather or attach a printed label.
The handwritten code is the artisan’s signature, which is extremely costly to imitate in mass counterfeit production.
How fake Santoni accessories differ from the originals
Although footwear is the core of the brand, Santoni also produces bags and fragrances, which follow strict identification rules as well.
The main difference between an authentic Santoni bag and a fake is the same patina technique. The bag’s leather must match perfectly in color and texture with the brand’s footwear. Pay attention to the hardware: metal components often have a matte finish or aged silver. Each clasp features a deep and precise engraving of the brand name, while on fakes the letters are often painted or shallowly etched.
The Santoni fragrance line stands out for its minimalism and luxurious materials. Bottle caps are often wrapped in the same leather used in the footwear and are hand-dyed. If the leather on the cap is glued carelessly or shows seams with loose threads — it is a fake.
The scent of an authentic perfume is always complex, revealing notes of leather and precious woods, while a replica emits an alcoholic trail within five minutes.
Technological protection through NFC chips
In the latest collections, the brand has begun implementing modern verification methods. An NFC chip is embedded into the sole or tongue of the item. When scanned with a smartphone, it should open the official page confirming authenticity.
This is the most reliable way to determine Santoni authenticity. If the chip does not scan or redirects to a suspicious site — it is a replica.
Authentic Santoni footwear at the Domino online store
To avoid disappointment and prevent purchasing a fake disguised as luxury, it is essential to trust reliable retailers.
At the Domino online store, we offer only authentic Santoni collections. Our retailer works directly with Italian suppliers and guarantees the authenticity of every pair of shoes, bag, or accessory.
If you have doubts or want to personally verify the uniqueness of the Velatura technique, our consultants are always ready to assist. They can show you the authenticity markers: from the handwritten codes inside the shoe last to the specific scent of naturally tanned leather. We know everything about the world of high fashion and will help you make the right choice.
Visit the Domino catalog, choose your perfect model, and experience true Italian comfort. Place your order today and showcase your impeccable style with Santoni.
