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Chasing the Classic: Air Jordan 4 Mist Blue Price Comparison and Deals
The Air Jordan 4 “Mist Blue” was released in 2006 as a lifestyle colorway, featuring a unique combination of Mist Blue, University Blue, Gold Leaf, and White. For sneakerheads and collectors, finding the best price on coveted pairs like the Air Jordan 4 Mist Blue is crucial, as prices can vary wildly across different platforms due to its age and rarity.
Retailer Comparison: A Look Back
Originally released in August 2006, the Air Jordan 4 “Mist Blue” had a retail price of around $115. As this was a release from over a decade and a half ago, you will not find these sneakers available at standard retail stores like Foot Locker, Nike, or Finish Line for their original price. Any “new” pairs available today are from resellers or collectors who have kept them in deadstock (brand new, unworn) condition.
Resale Market Analysis: Where to Find Them Now
The Air Jordan 4 “Mist Blue” primarily exists on the resale market. Prices here are dictated by rarity, condition, size, and demand. Here’s a look at typical pricing on popular resale platforms (prices are approximate and can fluctuate daily):
- StockX: Prices for new, authenticated pairs typically range from $350 to $600+ depending on size. More common sizes might be on the lower end, while rarer or very popular sizes can command higher prices.
- GOAT: Similar to StockX, new pairs can range from $380 to $650+. GOAT also lists used pairs, which can vary significantly more, perhaps from $200 for well-worn pairs up to $400+ for pairs in excellent used condition with the original box.
- eBay: Prices on eBay can have the widest range. You might find listings from $250 for used pairs to over $700 for pristine deadstock pairs from reputable sellers. Authenticity can be a bigger concern here, so thorough vetting is crucial.
Factors Affecting Resale Prices:
- Condition: Deadstock (DS) pairs with the original box and accessories fetch the highest prices. Used pairs depreciate based on wear and tear.
- Size: Common men’s sizes (8-11) might have more availability but also high demand. Very small or very large sizes can sometimes be more expensive due to lower production numbers.
- Authenticity: Verified authentic pairs from platforms like StockX and GOAT include an authentication fee in their price, offering peace of mind.
- Seller Reputation: On platforms like eBay, sellers with long histories and positive feedback can often command higher prices.
- Market Trends: General hype around Air Jordan 4s or specific collaborations can sometimes influence the prices of older, classic colorways.
Tips for Finding Deals
Finding a “deal” on a rare sneaker like the Mist Blue AJ4 is relative, but here are some tips:
- Be Patient: Prices fluctuate. Monitor listings over time.
- Consider Used: If you plan to wear them, a pair in Very Near Deadstock (VNDS) or excellent used condition can save you a significant amount.
- Compare Platforms: Don’t just check one site. Prices can vary.
- Set Alerts: Many platforms allow you to set alerts for specific sizes or price drops.
- Beware of Scams: If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Avoid sellers with little to no feedback, those asking for payment outside the platform, or those using stock images for used shoes.
- Look for Auctions: On eBay, you might get lucky with an auction ending at a lower price than “Buy It Now” listings, though this is rare for hyped shoes.
Authenticity Guide: How to Spot Fake Air Jordan 4s
With high resale values come fakes. Here are general tips for spotting counterfeit Air Jordan 4s (specifics can vary by colorway):
- Overall Shape and Proportions: Fakes often get the toe box shape, heel height, or overall stance wrong. Compare with verified images online.
- Stitching Quality: Authentic Jordans have neat, consistent stitching. Sloppy, uneven, or frayed stitching is a red flag.
- Jumpman Logo: Check the Jumpman on the tongue and heel. Look for defined fingers, proper proportions, and clean lines. Fakes often have “lollipop hands” or a “pregnant Jumpman.”
- Tongue Tag: Examine the “Flight” script and the details on the back of the tongue tag. Fonts, spacing, and clarity are important.
- Netting: The plastic netting on the sides and lower tongue should be of good quality and properly aligned.
- Heel Tab: The material, shape, and placement of the heel tab (and the Jumpman or Nike Air logo on it) should be precise.
- Box and Label: The box quality, label font, and information should match authentic examples. Check the style code (308497-402 for the Mist Blue).
- Smell: Fake sneakers often have a strong, distinct chemical smell due to cheaper glues and materials.
- Buy from Reputable Sources: Stick to established resale platforms that offer authentication, or buy from trusted individual sellers with strong reputations. If buying locally or from a less known source, consider using a third-party authentication service app before finalizing.
Conclusion
The Air Jordan 4 Mist Blue is a really cool shoe from way back in 2006. You won’t find it in regular shops. You’ll need to look on websites like StockX, GOAT, or eBay. Prices can be high because it’s rare. Always be super careful to make sure they are real Nikes and not fakes. It’s smart to compare prices and buy from sellers you trust so you get a good deal on these awesome kicks!
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