Air Jordan 4 Motorsports: Price Comparison and Finding the Best Deals
The Air Jordan 4 “Motorsports” is a highly sought-after sneaker that pays homage to Michael Jordan’s passion for motorcycle racing, originally appearing in 2006 as an ultra-exclusive friends-and-family pair before its wider public release. Given its popularity and the time since its last retail drop, finding the Air Jordan 4 ‘Motorsports’ at a reasonable price requires careful research and comparison, making a price guide essential for prospective buyers.
Retailer Comparison: The Original Price Tag
The Air Jordan 4 “Motorsports” (style code 308497-117) was last released to the public on March 25, 2017, with a retail price of $190 USD. As this release was several years ago, these sneakers are no longer available directly from primary retailers like Nike, Foot Locker, or Finish Line at their original price. Any “retail” stores you see listing them new today are typically consignment shops or specialty sneaker boutiques that operate on the resale market, meaning their prices will be significantly higher than the original retail.
Resale Market Analysis: Where Are Prices Now?
The resale market is where most buyers will need to look for the Air Jordan 4 “Motorsports” today. Prices vary widely based on condition (new or used), size, and the platform.
- StockX: For new, authenticated pairs, prices typically range from approximately $400 to $600+ depending on the size. More common sizes might hover around the $450-$550 mark.
- GOAT: Similar to StockX, GOAT lists new pairs generally in the $420 to $650 range. Used pairs can be found for less, often starting from $250-$350, depending heavily on condition.
- eBay: Prices on eBay can be more varied. You might find new pairs from reputable sellers with authentication guarantees in a similar range to StockX and GOAT. However, there’s also a wider range of used options and potentially unauthenticated listings, so caution is advised.
Factors Affecting Resale Prices:
- Condition: Deadstock (brand new, unworn, with original box) commands the highest prices. Used pairs depreciate based on wear and tear.
- Size: Very small or very large sizes, as well as the most common sizes (US 8-11), can sometimes fetch slightly higher prices due to demand dynamics.
- Authenticity & Seller Reputation: Verified authentic pairs from reputable sellers or platforms with authentication services (like StockX and GOAT) are more expensive but offer peace of mind.
- Market Hype & Rarity: While the 2017 release was general, the “Motorsports” colorway has a strong following, maintaining its value well over time.
Tips for Finding Deals
- Be Patient: Sneaker prices fluctuate. Monitor listings on multiple platforms to spot dips.
- Consider Used: If you don’t mind a gently used pair, you can save a significant amount. Ensure you see detailed photos and descriptions.
- Compare Platforms: Don’t just check one site. Prices for the same size and condition can vary between StockX, GOAT, eBay, and even local consignment shops.
- Look for Reputable Sellers: On platforms like eBay, check seller feedback and opt for those with a long history of positive reviews and clear return policies if possible.
- Factor in Fees: Remember that platforms like StockX and GOAT add processing/authentication fees and shipping costs, which can add $20-$50+ to the final price.
- Beware of “Too Good To Be True”: If a price seems drastically lower than the market average, especially for a new pair, it’s a major red flag for fakes.
Authenticity Guide: How to Spot Fake Air Jordan 4 Motorsports
With high resale values come counterfeits. Here are general tips for spotting fake Air Jordan 4s (specific to the “Motorsports” where applicable):
- Box and Label: Check the box quality, label font, and SKU (308497-117). The label should be neatly applied, and the information should match the shoe.
- Stitching: Authentic Jordans have neat, consistent, and high-quality stitching. Messy, uneven, or frayed stitching is a bad sign.
- Jumpman Logo: Examine the Jumpman on the tongue and heel. Proportions should be correct (e.g., no “lollipop” head, fingers distinct). The heel Jumpman on the Motorsports is Varsity Royal blue.
- Tongue Tag: The “Flight” script beneath the Jumpman on the tongue should be cleanly embroidered. The overall tag quality should be high.
- Netting: The plastic netting on the sides and lower tongue should be correctly angled and feel sturdy. On fakes, it can be flimsy or incorrectly positioned.
- Materials: The white leather upper should feel premium. Fakes often use cheaper, stiffer materials.
- Shape and Profile: The overall shape of the shoe, especially the toe box and heel, should match authentic pairs. Compare with official Nike photos or trusted sources.
- Smell: Authentic Nikes have a distinct factory smell. A strong, harsh chemical smell can indicate a fake.
- Insole: Check the print quality on the insole (Nike Air logo or Jumpman).
- When in Doubt: Use authentication services offered by platforms like GOAT or third-party legit check services before purchasing from less reputable sources.
Conclusion
The Air Jordan 4 Motorsports is a really cool shoe that lots of people want. It came out a few years ago, so it costs more money now than when it was new in stores. You will probably have to buy it from special online shops or people selling their own pairs. It’s smart to look at prices in different places. Also, some people sell fake shoes, so be careful. Make sure the shoes are real before you buy them. This way, you can get the real deal and feel good about your new sneakers!
“`