How to spot the difference between authentic and fake Super Bowl LX merchandise

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- With Super Bowl LX just days away, official NFL popup shops are already rolling into the Bay Area.

While most of the NFL Shop's temporary retail locations will open inside San Francisco hotels next Thursday, a few are already up and running around Fisherman's Wharf -- giving fans an early chance to grab Super Bowl gear before the crowds arrive.

At one of the wharf popups on Jefferson Street, manager Stu Fishman says they're ready for the rush.

"We're waiting for the real fans to come in," Fishman said, showing off some of the store's hottest items, including motorcycle jackets and this year's Super Bowl-branded apparel.

"If you can before Wednesday, please come see us," NFL shop Manager Derek Collins said. "Because the line is a two-hour wait sometimes."

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Counterfeit concerns: how to spot a fake

With the expected tens of thousands of visitors descend on the Bay Area next week, officials warn that counterfeiters will be out in full force. Last year alone, the Department of Homeland Security seized nearly $40 million in fake sports merchandise ahead of the Super Bowl.

Fishman says there are reliable ways to tell if your merch is authentic.

"Everything we sell in the store has a Super Bowl logo on it, and you can always look for the hologram on the item to ensure that it's real," he said.

Here are the best tips for spotting the difference:

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Look for the NFL hologram tag

Authentic Super Bowl gear includes an official NFL hologram or serial number

Check the quality of stitching and printing
Logos should be sharp, colors accurate and stitching clean. Blurry graphics or uneven seams are common red flags.

Beware of street tables or popup tents
If you see merchandise sold from a folding table, sidewalk rack or tent, it's likely not licensed. Official locations have clear NFL and Super Bowl signage outside the storefront and often have a digital footprint.

Be skeptical of steep discounts
Deeply discounted hats, jerseys, or jackets -- especially during Super Bowl week -- are a strong sign the products aren't legitimate.

Cash only? Walk away.
Official popups accept credit cards and digital payments. "Cash only" sellers are often dealing in counterfeits.