Air Jordan 4 Alternate 89: Price Check & Steal Guide

Introduction

The Air Jordan 4 ‘Alternate 89’ was part of a three-shoe pack called the ‘Alternate Collection’ that imagined what player exclusives for Michael Jordan would’ve looked like, had he worn non-Bulls colors. When it comes to copping iconic kicks like these, knowing where to look and what to pay can save you a lot of cash and ensure you get an authentic pair, making price comparison crucial for any serious sneakerhead.

Retailer Comparison

Originally released on January 2, 2016, the Air Jordan 4 ‘Alternate 89’ had a retail price of $190 USD. As this was a limited release from several years ago, finding these sneakers at original retail price from standard retailers like Nike, Foot Locker, or Finish Line is now virtually impossible. These retailers have long since sold out of their stock. Therefore, your quest for the Air Jordan 4 ‘Alternate 89’ will primarily lead you to the resale market.

Resale Market Analysis

The resale market is where the Air Jordan 4 ‘Alternate 89’ currently thrives. Prices vary significantly based on condition (new/deadstock vs. used), size, and the platform used. Here’s a general look:

StockX: As of late 2023 / early 2024, prices for new pairs typically range from $350 to $550. Popular sizes might command higher prices, while less common sizes could occasionally be found at the lower end of this spectrum. The platform’s “ask” and “bid” system means prices are dynamic.
GOAT: GOAT often has similar pricing to StockX, sometimes slightly higher due to their verification process and seller base. Expect new pairs to be in the $380 to $600 range. Used pairs can offer savings, potentially dropping below $300 depending on wear and tear.
eBay: eBay is a more varied marketplace. You can find new and used pairs, with prices for new ones potentially ranging from $300 up to $600+. However, diligence is key on eBay to ensure authenticity and seller reputation. You might find better deals on used pairs here if you’re willing to search.

Factors affecting these prices include:

Condition: Deadstock (brand new, unworn, original box) commands the highest prices. Used pairs will be cheaper based on wear.
Size: Extremely common or very rare sizes can sometimes be more expensive.
Authenticity & Seller Reputation: Verified authentic pairs from reputable sellers or platforms with authentication services (like StockX and GOAT) fetch higher prices due to buyer confidence.
Market Trends: General sneaker hype and the popularity of the Air Jordan 4 silhouette influence pricing.

Tips for Finding Deals

Scoring a deal on a sought-after pair like the Alternate 89s requires patience and strategy:

Monitor Multiple Platforms: Don’t just stick to one site. Check StockX, GOAT, eBay, and even dedicated sneaker forums or Facebook groups regularly.
Consider Pre-Owned: If you’re okay with lightly used sneakers, you can save a significant amount. Look for pairs in “Very Near Deadstock” (VNDS) condition.
Be Patient & Set Alerts: Prices fluctuate. Set price drop alerts on platforms like StockX or eBay if possible.
Look for Reputable Sellers: On platforms like eBay, check seller feedback and history extensively.
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.
Negotiate (Where Possible): On eBay, some sellers accept offers. Don’t be afraid to try, but be reasonable.

Authenticity Guide: Spotting Fakes

The Air Jordan 4 is a popular model for counterfeiters. Here are some key areas to check when trying to authenticate a pair of ‘Alternate 89s’:

Overall Shape and Proportions: Familiarize yourself with the correct silhouette. Fakes often have bulky toe boxes, incorrect heel shape, or overall clunky proportions.
Stitching Quality: Authentic Jordans have neat, consistent, and high-quality stitching. Messy, uneven, or loose threads are red flags.
Jumpman Logo:
- Tongue: The Jumpman should be well-defined with clear fingers and shoe details. The “Flight” script underneath should be crisp.
- Heel: The Jumpman on the heel tab should also be clean and proportional. Pay attention to the hands and the ball.
Netting: The plastic netting on the sides and lower tongue should be properly aligned and have a specific texture and spacing. On fakes, it can be too loose, too stiff, or incorrectly angled.
Tongue Tag (Inside): Check the “AIR JORDAN” lettering on the backside of the tongue tag. Font, spacing, and stitching quality are important.
Box and Label: The box quality, color, and printing on the label (font, spacing, style code – 308497-106 for the Alternate 89) should match official Nike standards. Fakes often have flimsy boxes or poorly printed labels with errors.
Smell: Authentic Nikes have a distinct factory smell. Fakes often have a strong, unpleasant chemical glue smell.
Insole: Check the printing on the insole (Nike Air logo) and the material of the insole itself.

When in doubt, get a second opinion from experienced sneakerheads online (e.g., Reddit communities like r/sneakers or r/LegitCheck) or use a professional authentication service.

Conclusion

The Air Jordan 4 Alternate 89 is a really cool shoe. It came out a while ago, so it costs more now if you want to buy it. You can find it on websites like StockX or eBay. But the prices are different depending on the site and the shoe size. Some sizes cost more money than others. Always make sure the shoe is real before you buy it. You don’t want to get tricked by a fake one. Look carefully and be smart when you buy your sneakers!

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