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Chasing the Grail: Air Jordan 4 Motorsports Price Comparison & Deals
The Air Jordan 4 “Motorsport” is a highly sought-after sneaker, originally released in 2017 as a nod to Michael Jordan’s passion for motorcycle racing. It features a clean white, black, and game royal blue color scheme, reminiscent of the livery on MJ’s racing team bikes. When it comes to copping hyped sneakers like these, price comparison isn’t just smart—it’s essential to ensure you’re getting a fair deal and not overpaying, especially since they are no longer available at standard retail prices.
Retailer Comparison: A Look Back
Originally, the Air Jordan 4 Motorsports retailed for approximately $190 when they launched in March 2017. However, being a popular release from several years ago, you won’t find these kicks sitting on the shelves at standard retail stores like Foot Locker, Nike.com, or Finish Line today. Their availability is now almost exclusively on the resale market, which operates on a completely different pricing structure based on demand, rarity, and condition.
Resale Market Analysis: Where the Action Is
The resale market is where you’ll primarily find the Air Jordan 4 Motorsports. Prices here can fluctuate significantly based on several factors:
- Platform: Sites like StockX, GOAT, and eBay are the main players.
- StockX: As of late 2023 / early 2024, prices for a new (deadstock) pair typically range from $400 to $650+, depending heavily on size. Smaller or very large sizes can sometimes command higher premiums.
- GOAT: Prices are similar to StockX, with new pairs often listed between $420 and $700. Used pairs can vary widely, from $250 upwards, depending on condition.
- eBay: This platform offers the widest range. You might find auctions starting lower or “Buy It Now” prices that compete with StockX and GOAT. However, vigilance is key to ensure authenticity and seller reputation. Used pairs can sometimes be found for $200-$350, but condition is paramount.
- Condition: New, “deadstock” (DS) pairs with original box and tags will always be the most expensive. Used pairs will see a price drop based on wear and tear, presence of original box, etc.
- Size: More common sizes (e.g., US 8-11) might have more availability but also steady demand. Less common or highly sought-after sizes can be pricier.
- Authenticity & Fees: Platforms like StockX and GOAT include authentication services, which adds to buyer confidence but also means seller fees are factored into the price. eBay has an authenticity guarantee program for many sneaker sales now as well.
Tips for Finding Deals on Air Jordan 4 Motorsports
Securing a “deal” on a hyped shoe like this is relative, but here are some tips:
- Be Patient: Prices can fluctuate. Monitor listings over time; sometimes prices dip slightly.
- Consider Used: If you plan to wear them, a gently used pair (often called VNDS – Very Near Deadstock) can save you a significant amount. Look for listings with many clear photos.
- Check Multiple Platforms: Don’t just rely on one site. Compare prices across StockX, GOAT, eBay, and even reputable sneaker consignment shops or Facebook groups (with extreme caution).
- Negotiate (Where Possible): On platforms like eBay, some sellers accept offers. It doesn’t hurt to try a reasonable offer.
- Beware of “Too Good To Be True”: If a price is drastically lower than the market average, especially for a new pair, it’s a major red flag for fakes.
- Follow Sneaker Accounts: Sometimes, sneaker news accounts or deal aggregators might highlight specific listings or sales, though this is rarer for older releases.
Authenticity Guide: How to Spot Fake Air Jordan 4 Motorsports
With high resale values come counterfeit sneakers. Here are some general tips for spotting fake Air Jordan 4s (always cross-reference with specific “Motorsports” legit check guides online or on YouTube for detailed comparisons):
- Overall Shape and Proportions: Fakes often get the toe box shape, heel height, or overall stance wrong. Real AJ4s have a distinct, somewhat chunky but sleek look.
- Stitching Quality: Authentic pairs have neat, consistent, and tight stitching. Sloppy, frayed, or uneven stitching is a bad sign.
- Tongue Tag: Examine the “Flight” script and the Jumpman logo. The font, spacing, and stitching around the tag should be clean. The Jumpman should have defined fingers and shoelaces.
- Heel Tab Jumpman: The Jumpman on the heel should be well-defined and proportionate. On the Motorsports, the Jumpman is blue. Check its placement and the quality of the mold.
- Netting: The plastic netting on the sides and lower tongue should be properly aligned and have a specific texture. On fakes, it can be too flimsy or oddly angled.
- Box Label: The label on the shoebox should have correct fonts, SKU (product code: 308497-117 for the 2017 release), sizing information, and barcode. Compare it to known genuine labels online.
- Smell: Authentic Nikes have a distinct factory smell. Fakes often have a strong, unpleasant chemical odor due to cheaper glues and materials.
- Insole and Footbed: Check the printing on the insole and the stitching underneath it (Strobel stitch).
When in doubt, use professional authentication services or consult reputable online communities before purchasing from less established sellers.
Conclusion: Worth the Chase?
To get Air Jordan 4 Motorsports, you will probably buy them from someone else, not a big store. The price can change a lot. So, look at sites like StockX or GOAT to see what they cost. It’s super important to make sure you buy real ones and not fakes. Check how they are sewn and look at the logos very carefully. If you are smart and look around, you can find a good pair of these cool shoes without paying way too much money.
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