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Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon: Price Check & Buyer’s Guide
The Air Jordan 4 ‘Mars Blackmon’ is a legendary sneaker, first hitting the scene in 1989 as part of the original “Fire Red” colorway, but with the iconic Mars Blackmon (Spike Lee’s character) logo on the heel. This distinct feature made the 2006 retro particularly special. Given its iconic status and rarity, finding the best price for such a popular shoe can save you a lot of money and ensure you get a genuine pair. Price comparison is crucial because the value of these sneakers can fluctuate significantly based on condition, availability, and seller.
Retailer Comparison
Unfortunately, since the Air Jordan 4 ‘Mars Blackmon’ was a limited release, particularly the 2006 version with the heel logo, it’s no longer available at standard retail stores like Nike, Foot Locker, or Finish Line for its original retail price (which was around $115 back in 2006). The 2012 “Fire Red” retro did not feature the Mars Blackmon logo, making the 2006 version the one most collectors seek when referencing this specific nickname.
This means your main avenue for purchasing will be the resale market.
Resale Market Analysis
The resale market is where you’ll find the Air Jordan 4 ‘Mars Blackmon’. Prices here are driven by supply, demand, condition, and size.
- StockX: Prices for deadstock (brand new, unworn) pairs typically range from $500 to $900+ depending on size. Smaller or very common sizes might be at the lower end, while rarer sizes or those in pristine condition with original packaging command higher prices.
- GOAT: Similar to StockX, GOAT offers new and used pairs. New pairs are often in the $550 to $950+ range. Used pairs can vary significantly, from $300 for well-worn pairs to $700+ for pairs in excellent, near-new condition. Always check seller ratings and photos for used items.
- eBay: eBay provides the widest range of conditions and prices. You might find deals on used pairs for $250-$450, but be extra vigilant about authenticity. New pairs from reputable sellers often align with StockX and GOAT prices, perhaps $500-$900+. Auctions can sometimes yield lower prices, but “Buy It Now” options are common.
Factors affecting resale prices:
- Condition: Deadstock (DS) with original box and all accessories commands the highest price. VNDS (Very Near Deadstock), lightly worn, and heavily worn pairs will see progressively lower prices.
- Size: Extremely common sizes or very large/small (less common) sizes can sometimes be slightly cheaper or more expensive, depending on demand. Popular sizes (US 9-11) often have stable high demand.
- Authenticity: Verified authentic pairs from platforms like StockX and GOAT command a premium due to the reduced risk for buyers.
- Original Packaging: Having the original box, retro card (if applicable), and any hangtags in good condition adds value.
- Market Trends: Sneaker hype can fluctuate. If a similar model is re-released or featured prominently, it can impact prices.
Tips for Finding Deals
- Be Patient: Prices fluctuate. Don’t rush into the first pair you see. Monitor prices across platforms.
- Consider Used: If you’re okay with a gently worn pair, you can save significant money. Look for VNDS (Very Near Deadstock) pairs.
- Check Multiple Platforms: Don’t limit your search to one site. Compare prices on StockX, GOAT, eBay, and even reputable consignment stores or sneaker Facebook groups (with caution).
- Look for Seller Sales/Negotiate: On platforms like eBay, some sellers might accept offers lower than their asking price. Some consignment shops might also have sales.
- Beware of “Too Good To Be True”: If a price seems incredibly low for a deadstock pair, it’s often a red flag for a counterfeit product or a scam.
- Factor in Fees: Remember that platforms like StockX and GOAT have buyer fees, and eBay might have shipping costs. Calculate the total price.
Authenticity Guide
Spotting fake Air Jordan 4s, especially sought-after pairs like the ‘Mars Blackmon’, is crucial. Here are key areas to inspect:
- Overall Shape and Proportions: Familiarize yourself with the authentic silhouette. Fakes often have a bulky toe box, incorrect heel shape, or an overall “off” look.
- Stitching Quality: Authentic Jordans have neat, consistent, and high-quality stitching. Messy, frayed, or uneven stitching is a red flag.
- Mars Blackmon Logo (Heel): This is specific to this shoe. The graphic should be crisp, well-defined, and correctly proportioned. Blurry or poorly detailed logos are common on fakes. Compare to verified online images.
- Jumpman Logo (Tongue & Insole): Check the Jumpman’s proportions – fingers should be distinct, and the “lacing” on the shoes should be visible on well-made logos. Fakes often have a “potbelly” Jumpman or misshapen hands/feet.
- Netting: The plastic netting on the side panels and tongue base should be correctly angled and have a quality feel. On fakes, it might be too stiff, too flimsy, or incorrectly placed.
- Tongue Tag: The “Flight” script and Jumpman on the tongue tag should be clear and well-executed. Check the stitching around the tag. The backside of the tongue tag (“AIR JORDAN”) should also be cleanly stitched.
- Sole Details: The Nike Air unit (if visible) and the traction pattern on the outsole should match authentic pairs. Color accuracy is also important.
- Box and Label: The box quality, label font, style, and information (style code, size, barcode) should match official Nike standards. Mismatched information or flimsy boxes are warning signs. The style code for the 2006 Air Jordan 4 ‘Mars’ is 308497-162.
- Smell: Authentic Nikes have a distinct factory smell. Fakes often have a strong, unpleasant chemical or glue smell.
- Buy from Reputable Sources: Using platforms with authentication services (like StockX and GOAT) significantly reduces your risk, though no system is 100% foolproof. If buying from individual sellers, do thorough research and ask for detailed, tagged pictures.
Conclusion
The Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon is a very cool shoe from a long time ago. You can’t find it in regular stores now. You have to look online at places like StockX, GOAT, or eBay. The price can be high if the shoe is new, or lower if it’s used. Make sure you check if the shoe is real and not a fake. Look carefully at pictures and buy from sellers you trust. If you search well, you might find a good price for these awesome sneakers!
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