“`html
Air Jordan 4 Mist Blue: Price Check & Steal Guide
The Air Jordan 4 ‘Mist Blue’ is a highly sought-after sneaker originally released in 2006 as a Lifestyle (LS) model. Known for its unique colorway featuring a grey nubuck upper with accents of Mist Blue and gold, it has become a collector’s item. With such a popular and older shoe, prices can vary wildly, making price comparison essential to ensure you’re getting a fair deal and an authentic pair.
Retailer Comparison
As the Air Jordan 4 ‘Mist Blue’ was released way back in 2006, you won’t find it sitting on the shelves at standard retail stores like Nike, Foot Locker, or Finish Line today. These sneakers were a limited release and have long since sold out at their original retail price (which was around $125-$150 at the time).
Therefore, your primary, and realistically only, source for these kicks will be the resale market.
Resale Market Analysis
The Air Jordan 4 ‘Mist Blue’ is a popular item on major resale platforms. Here’s a general look at where you might find them and what influences their price:
* **StockX:** Prices can range significantly based on size and condition (new/deadstock). Expect prices to be anywhere from **$350 to $700+** for new pairs, with very popular or rare sizes sometimes commanding more. Last sales often hover in the $400-$600 range for common sizes.
* **GOAT:** Similar to StockX, GOAT offers new and used pairs. Prices for new pairs are comparable, typically in the **$400-$750+** range. Used pairs can offer savings, potentially dropping to $200-$350 depending on wear and tear.
* **eBay:** A wider range of prices and conditions can be found here. You might find pairs from dedicated sneaker resellers or individual collectors. Prices for new, authenticated pairs often align with StockX and GOAT, but you need to be more diligent about checking seller reputation and authenticity. Used pairs can vary greatly.
**Factors Affecting Resale Prices:**
* **Condition:** Deadstock (DS) or brand new, unworn pairs with the original box command the highest prices. Used pairs will be cheaper, with the price decreasing based on the level of wear.
* **Size:** Extremely small or large sizes, or very common sizes (like US 9-11 for men), can sometimes be more expensive due to specific demand.
* **Authenticity:** Verified authentic pairs from reputable platforms or sellers with strong proof of purchase are valued higher.
* **Original Box & Accessories:** Having the original box, and any original tags or accessories (like a retro card, if applicable), can add value.
* **Market Hype & Rarity:** While an older release, its unique colorway and AJ4 silhouette keep it in demand. Limited production numbers from 2006 contribute to its current rarity.
Tips for Finding Deals
Securing a “deal” on a sought-after retro like the Mist Blue 4s requires patience and strategy:
1. **Set Price Alerts:** On platforms like StockX and GOAT, you can set alerts for your desired size to be notified if the price drops to your target.
2. **Consider Used (Carefully):** If you’re okay with pre-owned sneakers, you can save significantly. Ensure you get detailed photos and buy from sellers with excellent feedback. Platforms like GOAT offer authentication for used pairs too.
3. **Monitor eBay Auctions:** Sometimes, you can snag a deal through eBay auctions if you’re lucky, but be prepared for bidding wars. Always check seller feedback.
4. **Follow Reputable Resellers:** Some resellers on social media or with their own small shops might offer competitive prices. Do your due diligence on their reputation.
5. **Patience is Key:** Prices fluctuate. Don’t jump on the first pair you see unless it’s a price you’re very comfortable with.
6. **Beware of “Too Good To Be True”:** If a price seems unbelievably low, especially for a new pair, it’s a major red flag for fakes.
Authenticity Guide
Spotting fake Air Jordan 4s is crucial, especially with a desirable colorway like the ‘Mist Blue’. Here are some general tips for Air Jordan 4s:
* **Overall Shape & Proportions:** Authentic AJ4s have a distinct shape. Fakes often have a bulky toe box, incorrect heel tab height, or a misshapen tongue.
* **Stitching Quality:** Nike’s stitching is typically neat, tight, and consistent. Sloppy, frayed, or uneven stitching is a common sign of a counterfeit.
* **Jumpman Logo:**
* **Tongue:** The Jumpman should be well-defined with clear fingers and shoelaces. The proportions should be correct.
* **Heel Tab:** Similarly, the Jumpman on the plastic heel tab should be crisp. Fakes often have a “pregnant” looking Jumpman or one with undefined features.
* **Netting:** The plastic netting on the side panels and at the base of the tongue should be well-cut and properly attached. On fakes, it can be flimsy, poorly cut, or have the wrong angle.
* **Tongue Tag:** Check the “Flight” script below the Jumpman on the tongue. The font, spacing, and quality should match official Nike products. The information on the back of the tongue tag (production dates, factory codes) should also be consistent with authentic pairs.
* **Box and Label:** The box quality and the label details (style code, size, barcode, font) should match authentic examples. Compare with images online. Fake boxes often have flimsy cardboard or incorrect label printing.
* **Smell:** Authentic Nikes have a particular factory smell. Fakes often have a strong, cheap chemical or glue smell.
* **Sole Details:** The stars on the toe and heel of the outsole should be well-defined. The Nike logo or Jumpman on the outsole should be crisp.
When in doubt, get a legit check from a reputable online community or a professional authentication service before purchasing, especially from less established sellers.
Conclusion
So, if you want the Air Jordan 4 Mist Blue, remember they are pretty old shoes. You won’t find them in regular stores. You need to look online where people sell used or collectible sneakers. The price can be very different, so it’s good to look at a few places. Always try to make sure the shoes are real and not fakes by looking closely at pictures and buying from sellers you can trust. Good luck getting these cool sneakers!
“`