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Air Jordan 4 Mist Blue: Unpacking Prices and Finding Your Pair
The Air Jordan 4 “Mist Blue,” released in 2006, is a highly sought-after sneaker known for its unique colorway featuring Mist Blue, University Blue, Gold Leaf, and White accents on a premium nubuck upper. As a classic and relatively rare pair, finding the best price for these collectible sneakers can be a journey, so price comparison is key to getting a good deal and avoiding overpaying, especially as they are no longer available at original retail.
Retailer Comparison: The Original Drop
Originally released back on June 24, 2006, the Air Jordan 4 “Mist Blue” (style code 314254-041) retailed for approximately $125. As this release was well over a decade ago, these sneakers are **no longer available through standard retail channels** at their original price. Any “new” pair you find today will be from the resale market.
Resale Market Analysis: Where to Find Them Now
The Air Jordan 4 “Mist Blue” primarily lives on resale platforms. Prices here vary significantly based on condition, size, and whether the original box and accessories are included.
Here’s a general look at what you might expect on popular resale sites (as of late 2023/early 2024, prices can fluctuate):
* **StockX:** Prices for new, authenticated pairs can range from approximately **$400 to $700+** depending on size. More common sizes might sit in the $450-$600 range, while rarer or more popular sizes could fetch higher prices.
* **GOAT:** Similar to StockX, GOAT offers new and used options. New pairs generally align with StockX pricing, perhaps slightly higher due to their verification process. Used pairs can offer significant savings, potentially ranging from **$200 to $400** depending heavily on wear and tear.
* **eBay:** eBay offers a wider spectrum, from heavily used pairs to deadstock (brand new) ones. You might find auctions starting lower, or “Buy It Now” prices comparable to StockX and GOAT. Due diligence is extra important on eBay to ensure authenticity and seller reputation. Prices can be anywhere from **$150 (for very worn pairs) to $700+ (for pristine, new pairs from reputable sellers)**.
**Factors Affecting Resale Prices:**
* **Condition:** Deadstock (DS) pairs with the original box (OG box) command the highest prices. Used pairs depreciate based on wear, sole yellowing, scuffs, and lack of original packaging.
* **Size:** Extremely common sizes or very rare (small or large) sizes can sometimes influence price slightly.
* **Authenticity & Seller Reputation:** Verified authentic pairs from reputable sellers or platforms with authentication services (like StockX and GOAT) are generally more expensive but offer peace of mind.
* **Market Hype & Rarity:** As an older, non-retroed (in recent times) colorway, its relative rarity keeps prices stable to appreciating for pairs in good condition.
Tips for Finding Deals on Air Jordan 4 Mist Blue
Securing a deal on a sought-after pair like the Mist Blue 4s requires patience and strategy:
1. **Be Patient & Monitor Prices:** Sneaker prices fluctuate. Track your desired size across multiple platforms.
2. **Consider Used Condition:** If you plan to wear them, a pair in good used condition (e.g., 8/10 or 9/10) can save you hundreds. Look for detailed photos and descriptions.
3. **Check Multiple Platforms:** Don’t just stick to one site. Compare prices on StockX, GOAT, eBay, and even reputable consignment stores or Facebook sneaker groups.
4. **Look for Reputable Sellers:** On platforms like eBay, check seller feedback and history.
5. **Beware of “Too Good To Be True”:** If a price is significantly lower than the market average for a new pair, it’s a major red flag for fakes or scams.
6. **Factor in Fees:** Remember to include authentication fees, shipping, and potential import duties if buying internationally.
7. **Make Offers:** On platforms like eBay or GOAT (for used pairs), don’t be afraid to respectfully make an offer below the asking price.
Authenticity Guide: How to Spot Fake Air Jordan 4 Mist Blue
With higher resale values come more fakes. Here are key things to check (though professional authentication is always best for high-value pairs):
1. **Overall Shape and Proportions:** Authentic AJ4s have a distinct silhouette. Fakes often get the toe box shape wrong (too boxy or too slim) or the heel bump.
2. **Material Quality:** The “Mist Blue” features nubuck. Authentic nubuck has a specific texture and feel. Fakes often use cheaper, synthetic materials that look and feel off. The plastic wing eyelets and heel tab should also feel sturdy.
3. **Stitching:** Genuine Jordans have neat, consistent, and dense stitching. Look for sloppy, uneven, or loose threads on fakes.
4. **Tongue Tag:**
* The “Flight” script should be clean and well-defined.
* The Jumpman logo should have clear fingers and proper proportions.
* The stitching around the tag should be tidy.
5. **Heel Tab Jumpman:** The Jumpman logo on the heel tab should be well-molded and detailed. Fakes often have a less defined or “chunky” Jumpman.
6. **Netting:** The plastic netting on the side panels and lower tongue should be properly cut and placed. On fakes, it might be too stiff, flimsy, or have incorrect spacing.
7. **Box and Label:**
* Check the box quality and print.
* The label details (style code: 314254-041, size, colorway, barcode) should be accurate and clearly printed. Fakes often have typos, incorrect fonts, or blurry printing.
8. **Smell:** Authentic Nikes often have a distinct factory glue smell. Replicas might have a strong, unpleasant chemical odor.
9. **Insole:** Check the print quality of the Nike Air or Jumpman logo on the insole. Stitching underneath the insole can also be an indicator.
**When in doubt, use an authentication service or buy from platforms that guarantee authenticity.**
Conclusion: Are They Worth It?
Okay, so these Air Jordan 4 Mist Blue shoes are really cool but they are old, so you can’t just buy them in a normal shoe store anymore. You have to find people selling them online, like on websites called StockX, GOAT, or eBay. The price can be a lot of money, maybe $400 or even more, and it changes depending on if they are brand new or used, and what size you need. It’s super important to make sure they are real Jordan shoes and not fakes by looking closely at how they are made, like the stitching and the little logos. So, if you want them, be smart, check different places for the best price, and be careful so you get a good deal on real ones!
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