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Air Jordan 4 Motorsports: Price Check & Buyer’s Guide
The Air Jordan 4 ‘Motorsport’ is a highly sought-after sneaker that draws inspiration from Michael Jordan’s passion for motorcycle racing, first hitting shelves in 2017. This iconic shoe, known for its crisp white, black, and varsity royal blue colorway, remains a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts alike. For sneaker enthusiasts, understanding price variations across different platforms is crucial; price comparison not only helps in snagging a good deal but also in avoiding overpayment for hyped releases.
Retailer Comparison: A Look Back
The Air Jordan 4 Motorsports was originally released in 2017. This means finding them at traditional retail stores brand new today is highly unlikely. At its launch, the retail price for the Air Jordan 4 Motorsports was typically around $190 USD. Most major sneaker retailers like Foot Locker, Finish Line, and Nike’s SNKRS app would have stocked them upon release. However, as these are no longer in production, your main source for these sneakers will be the resale market.
Resale Market Analysis
The resale market is where the Air Jordan 4 Motorsports currently thrives. Prices here are dictated by supply, demand, condition, and size.
- StockX: Prices for a new pair (deadstock) typically range from $350 to $600+, depending heavily on the shoe size. Smaller or very large sizes often command different prices than more common sizes. The platform’s “Ask” and “Bid” system means prices are dynamic.
- GOAT: Similar to StockX, GOAT offers new and used pairs. New pairs are often in the same $380 to $650+ range. Used pairs can be found for less, starting from around $200 upwards, depending significantly on condition.
- eBay: eBay provides a wider spectrum of prices, including both new and used pairs from various sellers. You might find new pairs listed from $300 to $700+. Vigilance is key here to ensure authenticity and seller reputation.
Factors affecting resale prices include:
- Condition: Brand new, “deadstock” (DS) pairs with the original box command the highest prices. Used pairs vary greatly based on wear and tear.
- Size: More common sizes might have more availability, but highly sought-after sizes can drive prices up.
- Authenticity & Seller Reputation: Verified authentic pairs from reputable sellers or platforms with authentication services (like StockX and GOAT) are generally more expensive but offer peace of mind.
- Market Trends & Hype: While an older release, its classic status keeps demand steady. Any resurgence in popularity of AJ4s or specific colorways can influence its price.
Tips for Finding Deals
Finding a “deal” on a sought-after shoe like the Motorsports AJ4 requires patience and strategy:
- Monitor Resale Platforms Regularly: Prices fluctuate. Set up alerts for your size on StockX, GOAT, or eBay.
- Consider Used Pairs: If you don’t mind a gently used pair, you can save a significant amount. Ensure you see detailed photos of the condition.
- Look for Auctions on eBay: Sometimes, auction-style listings can end at a lower price than “Buy It Now” options, though this is rare for hyped shoes.
- Check Local Sneaker Groups/Consignment Shops: Sometimes local sellers or consignment stores might offer better prices to avoid platform fees, but ensure authenticity.
- Beware of “Too Good To Be True” Prices: If a price is significantly lower than the market average, especially from an unknown seller, it’s often a red flag for fakes or scams.
- Factor in Fees and Shipping: Resale platforms add buyer premiums, processing fees, and shipping costs. Consider the total price.
Authenticity Guide: Spotting Fakes
With the high value of Air Jordan 4s, counterfeit versions are unfortunately common. Here are some general tips to help you spot potential fakes (it’s always best to get a professional legit check if unsure):
- Box and Label: Check the box quality, the label font, spelling, and information (style code, size, UPC). Compare it with known genuine examples online. The style code for the Air Jordan 4 Motorsports is 308497-117.
- Stitching Quality: Genuine Air Jordans have neat, consistent, and high-quality stitching. Messy, uneven, or frayed stitching is a red flag.
- Tongue Tag: Examine the “Flight” script and the Jumpman logo on the tongue. The font, spacing, and proportions should be correct. Fakes often have sloppy lettering or a poorly defined Jumpman.
- Jumpman Logo: Pay attention to the Jumpman logo on the heel tab and insole. Look for correct proportions – fakes often have stubby arms, incorrect hand details, or a “butt crack” on the Jumpman that’s too pronounced or non-existent.
- Netting: The plastic netting on the side panels and at the base of the tongue should be correctly angled and have a quality feel. On fakes, it can be too flimsy or incorrectly placed.
- Heel Tab: The shape of the heel tab and the quality of the Jumpman logo or “Nike Air” (if applicable to the model) are important. The stitching around it should also be clean.
- Overall Shape and Materials: Authentic Air Jordan 4s have a distinct silhouette. Fakes may have an off-shape, use cheaper materials that feel flimsy, or have a strong chemical smell. The “Motorsports” has a distinct white leather upper – feel the quality.
- Sole Details: Check the stars on the toe of the outsole and the Jumpman logo. They should be well-defined.
- Buy from Reputable Sources: Your best defense is purchasing from established resale platforms that offer authentication services or from highly reputable individual sellers.
Conclusion
So, if you want the Air Jordan 4 Motorsports, you’ll mostly look online because they’re not new in stores. Prices can be very different, so check a few places like StockX or GOAT. Always be careful to make sure you’re getting real shoes and not fakes by looking at things like the stitching and logos. If you look carefully and wait for a good price, you can find a great pair of these cool sneakers!
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