# Air Jordan 4 Motorsports: Price Check & Deal Hunter’s Guide
The Air Jordan 4 ‘Motorsport’ is a highly sought-after sneaker that pays homage to Michael Jordan’s passion for motorcycle racing. Originally a friends and family exclusive in 2006, this iconic colorway saw a general release in 2017, much to the delight of sneakerheads worldwide. Given its popularity, finding the best price for the Air Jordan 4 Motorsports requires careful research and comparison across different platforms.
## Retailer Comparison
When the Air Jordan 4 Motorsports first dropped in March 2017, its official retail price was **$190**. As a highly anticipated release, it sold out very quickly at major authorized retailers like Nike, Foot Locker, Champs Sports, and select sneaker boutiques.
Today, finding these sneakers brand new at their original retail price is virtually impossible. These shoes are no longer stocked by standard retailers. Therefore, anyone looking to purchase a pair will almost exclusively have to turn to the resale market.
## Resale Market Analysis
The resale market is where most sneaker enthusiasts will now find the Air Jordan 4 Motorsports. Prices here can vary significantly based on several factors.
* **StockX:** As of late 2023 / early 2024, prices for new, authenticated pairs typically range from **$350 to $550 USD**, depending heavily on the shoe size. Common sizes often sit in the middle of this range, while less common or highly demanded sizes can push the price towards the higher end.
* **GOAT:** Similar to StockX, GOAT lists new pairs generally in the **$360 to $580 USD** range. Used pairs offer a more affordable option, with prices starting from around **$200-$250 USD**, contingent on their condition and completeness (e.g., original box).
* **eBay:** eBay offers a wider spectrum of listings, including new and used pairs from various sellers. Prices for new pairs often align with those on StockX and GOAT, but diligent searching might uncover auctions or “Buy It Now” listings that are slightly lower or, conversely, much higher from opportunistic sellers. Authenticity Guarantee programs on eBay have increased buyer confidence.
**Factors Affecting Resale Prices:**
* **Condition:** Deadstock (DS) pairs – brand new, unworn, with the original box – command the highest prices. Used pairs depreciate based on wear and tear.
* **Size:** Popular sizes (e.g., US 8-11) often have more availability but also high demand. Very small or very large sizes can sometimes be rarer and thus more expensive.
* **Authenticity:** Verified authentic pairs from reputable platforms or sellers are crucial and will always be worth more than unverified or potentially fake sneakers.
* **Seller Reputation & Platform Fees:** Established sellers with positive feedback may price slightly higher. Platform fees (like those on StockX or GOAT) are also factored into the final price.
* **Market Hype & Rarity:** While not the rarest Jordan 4, the “Motorsports” colorway is beloved and its value has steadily held or increased since release.
## Tips for Finding Deals
Finding a “deal” on a sold-out, popular sneaker like the Air Jordan 4 Motorsports is relative, but here are some tips:
1. **Compare Across Platforms:** Don’t settle on the first price you see. Check StockX, GOAT, eBay, and even reputable consignment stores.
2. **Consider Used Condition:** If you’re okay with gently worn sneakers, you can save a significant amount. Ensure you thoroughly check photos and descriptions.
3. **Be Patient & Monitor Prices:** Resale market prices can fluctuate. If you’re not in a rush, monitor listings for potential dips, especially during off-peak shopping seasons.
4. **Look for Local Sneaker Groups/Meetups:** Sometimes, buying directly from a local collector (with caution) can help avoid platform fees. Always prioritize safety and authenticity.
5. **Beware of Scams:** If a price seems too good to be true, it almost certainly is. Stick to reputable platforms with buyer protection or well-vetted sellers. Avoid direct unsecured payments to unknown individuals.
6. **Factor in All Costs:** Remember to include platform fees, shipping costs, and potential import duties or taxes when comparing the final price.
7. **Wait for “Alternate” Versions:** While the 2017 release is the focus, sometimes Nike releases similar colorways (like the “Motorsport Alternate” which was black-based) that might be more affordable if you like the theme but not a specific iteration.
## Authenticity Guide
Spotting fake Air Jordan 4s is crucial to avoid being scammed. Here are key areas to inspect:
1. **Overall Shape and Proportions:** Authentic AJ4s have a distinct silhouette. Fakes often get the toe box shape, tongue height, or heel shape wrong.
2. **Stitching Quality:** Real Jordans have neat, consistent, and high-quality stitching. Messy, uneven, or frayed stitching is a red flag.
3. **Tongue Tag:**
* The “Flight” script should be clean and well-defined.
* The Jumpman logo should be sharp with clear fingers and shoe laces.
* The stitching around the tag should be neat.
4. **Heel Tab Jumpman:** The Jumpman logo on the heel tab should be well-proportioned and cleanly molded. The “AIR” text underneath (if present on the model, though Motorsports has the Jumpman) should be crisp.
5. **Netting:** The plastic netting on the side panels and at the base of the tongue should be correctly sized, shaped, and have a quality feel. On fakes, it can be too flimsy or incorrectly angled.
6. **Box and Label:**
* The box quality should be sturdy.
* The label on the box should have correct fonts, spacing, and information (style code: 308497-117 for the 2017 Motorsports). Compare it with images of genuine labels online.
7. **Insole:** Check the printing of the Nike Air logo or Jumpman on the insole. It should be sharp. The material and stitching of the insole itself can also be an indicator.
8. **Smell:** Authentic Nikes often have a specific factory glue smell. Counterfeits can have a strong, harsh chemical odor.
9. **”Wings”:** The plastic lace eyelet “wings” should be made of quality material and be correctly shaped and positioned.
10. **Consult Online Resources:** Use legit check apps, forums (like r/Sneakers), or YouTube comparison videos if you’re unsure.
## Conclusion
The Air Jordan 4 Motorsports are super cool shoes. But now, they can cost a lot of money since they are not in normal stores anymore. It’s smart to look at different online shoe places to find the best price. Watch out, because some people sell fake shoes. So, make sure you buy real ones. If you check well and find a good, real pair, you’ll be really happy to wear them!
