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Air Jordan 4 Columbia: Price Check & Finding the Best Deals
The Air Jordan 4 “Columbia,” also known as “Legend Blue” from its 2015 retro, is a highly sought-after sneaker known for its clean white leather upper and subtle blue accents. It’s a non-OG colorway that first dropped in 1999 and has remained popular ever since. When you’re looking to buy popular sneakers like these, comparing prices is super important. It helps you make sure you’re not paying too much and can even help you find a great deal.
Retailer Comparison
The Air Jordan 4 “Columbia” (or “Legend Blue” as it was called for the 2015 re-release) originally retailed for around $190 USD when it last dropped in January 2015.
Since this model is now several years past its release date, you won’t find it available at standard retail prices from official Nike stores or major sneaker chains like Foot Locker or Finish Line. These sneakers sold out quickly upon release. Therefore, the primary way to acquire a pair now is through the resale market.
Resale Market Analysis
The resale market is where most people will need to look for the Air Jordan 4 Columbia today. Prices here can vary significantly based on several factors:
* StockX: Prices for a new (deadstock) pair typically range from $350 to $600+, depending heavily on size. Smaller or very large sizes can sometimes command higher or lower prices than common sizes.
* GOAT: Similar to StockX, new pairs on GOAT are often listed in the $380 to $650+ range. GOAT also offers used pairs, which can be significantly cheaper, potentially starting from $200-$300 depending on condition.
* eBay: eBay shows a wide spectrum of prices. You might find new pairs listed anywhere from $300 to over $700, and used pairs can be found for less. Authenticity can be a bigger concern here, so buying from reputable sellers with authenticity guarantees is crucial.
Factors Affecting Resale Prices:
* Size: Common sizes (US 8-11) often have more availability but also high demand. Less common sizes can sometimes be more expensive due to scarcity.
* Condition: Brand new, unworn pairs (deadstock) with the original box and all accessories will always command the highest prices. Used pairs will vary greatly depending on the level of wear, presence of original box, and any flaws.
* Authenticity: Verified authentic pairs from platforms like StockX and GOAT (with their authentication services) often fetch higher prices due to the buyer’s peace of mind.
* Hype & Demand: The Air Jordan 4 is a classic silhouette, and this clean colorway remains popular, keeping demand relatively high.
Tips for Finding Deals
Finding a “deal” on a sought-after sneaker like the Jordan 4 Columbia on the resale market requires patience and strategy:
1. Set Price Alerts: Platforms like StockX and GOAT allow you to set “bids” or “want” prices. If a seller lists a pair at your desired price, you might get it.
2. Consider Used Pairs: If you don’t mind a slightly worn pair (VNDS – Very Near Deadstock, or lightly used), you can often save a significant amount of money. Ensure you get detailed pictures.
3. Be Patient & Monitor Prices: Sneaker prices fluctuate. Monitor them over time; sometimes, prices can dip during lulls in general sneaker hype or if more pairs hit the market.
4. Check Multiple Platforms: Don’t rely on just one source. Compare prices across StockX, GOAT, eBay, and even reputable consignment shops or social media sneaker groups (with extreme caution for authenticity).
5. Look for “Best Offer” Listings: On eBay, some sellers accept offers. You might be able to negotiate a slightly lower price.
6. Beware of Scams: If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Stick to reputable platforms or sellers with strong positive feedback and buyer protection.
Authenticity Guide: How to Spot Fakes
The Air Jordan 4 is a heavily counterfeited shoe. Here are some general tips to help you spot fakes:
* Overall Shape & Proportions: Fakes often have an incorrect stance, toe box shape (too boxy or too slim), or heel bump. Compare with official images from Nike or reputable sneaker sites.
* Stitching Quality: Authentic Jordans have neat, consistent, and high-quality stitching. Fakes may have sloppy, uneven, or frayed stitching.
* Material Quality: The Columbia 4s use tumbled leather. Fakes often use cheaper, plastic-feeling materials that don’t have the same texture or quality.
* Jumpman Logo:
* Tongue: Check the Jumpman logo on the tongue tag. Look for clean lines, correct proportions (e.g., no “lollipop” head, defined fingers). The “Flight” script should also be clear and well-placed.
* Heel: The Jumpman on the heel should be well-defined and properly embossed or stitched (depending on the specific AJ4 model, though Columbias have an embossed Jumpman).
* Netting: The plastic netting on the side panels and tongue base should be of good quality, correctly angled, and feel sturdy. Fakes often have flimsy or poorly aligned netting.
* Tongue Height & Padding: The tongue on an authentic AJ4 is typically well-padded and stands relatively tall. Fakes may have shorter, thinner tongues.
* Box and Label: The shoebox label should have correct fonts, sizing information, style code (314254-107 for the 2015 retro), and barcode. Compare with images of authentic labels online. The box construction itself should be sturdy.
* Smell: Fake sneakers often have a strong chemical or glue smell due to cheaper manufacturing processes.
* Insole: Check the print quality of the logo on the insole and the stitching underneath the insole.
When in doubt, use a legit check service or consult with experienced sneakerheads in online communities by providing detailed photos.
Conclusion
Getting Air Jordan 4 Columbia shoes is cool. But, they can cost a lot of money because they are old. Look at different online shops to find the best price. It’s very important to make sure they are real shoes and not fakes. If you look hard and are careful, you can find a good pair without spending too much.
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