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Air Jordan 4 Mist Blue: Price Comparison & Finding Authentic Deals
The Air Jordan 4 “Mist Blue” originally released in August 2006 as a lifestyle colorway, not tied to Michael Jordan’s on-court career but rather his off-court style. For sneaker enthusiasts, finding a pair at a fair price is crucial, especially for a classic like the Air Jordan 4 ‘Mist Blue.’ Price comparison is key to ensuring you’re not overpaying and are getting a genuine product, particularly as this model is now primarily found on the resale market.
Retailer Comparison: The Original Price Point
When the Air Jordan 4 “Mist Blue” (style code: 314254-041) first hit shelves in 2006, its retail price was approximately $125 USD. As this was a “Lifestyle” (LS) release, it was available at select Jordan Brand retailers.
However, being a release from over a decade ago, you will not find the Air Jordan 4 “Mist Blue” available for its original retail price at standard retailers like Nike, Foot Locker, Finish Line, or JD Sports today. These sneakers have long since sold out and are now exclusively available through the secondary resale market.
Resale Market Analysis: What to Expect Today
The resale market is where you’ll primarily find the Air Jordan 4 “Mist Blue.” Prices here can vary significantly based on several factors:
- Condition: Brand new (Deadstock – DS) pairs with original boxing command the highest prices. Used pairs will be cheaper, with the price depending on wear and tear (e.g., VNDS – Very Near Deadstock, PADS – Pass As Deadstock, or general wear).
- Size: Common sizes can sometimes be more expensive due to higher demand, while very small or very large sizes might fluctuate.
- Platform:
- StockX: Prices for new pairs typically range from $350 to $700+, depending on size. Bids and asks fluctuate daily.
- GOAT: Similar to StockX, new pairs are listed from around $380 to $750+. GOAT also offers used pairs with clear photos and condition grading, which can range from $200 to $500+.
- eBay: A wider range of prices and conditions. You might find new pairs listed from $300 to $800, and used pairs from $150 upwards. Authenticity Guarantee is available for many sneaker sales, which adds a layer of security.
- Authenticity & Seller Reputation: Verified authentic pairs from reputable sellers or platforms with authentication services will fetch higher prices.
- Rarity & Hype: While not the most hyped Air Jordan 4, its age and unique colorway make it a sought-after piece for collectors.
Expect to pay a premium over the original retail price. For a new, authenticated pair in a common size, budgeting at least $400-$600 is a realistic starting point, with prices potentially going higher for rarer sizes or pristine conditions.
Tips for Finding Deals on Air Jordan 4 Mist Blue
- Be Patient and Monitor Prices: Resale market prices fluctuate. Set up alerts on platforms like StockX, GOAT, and eBay for your desired size.
- Consider Used Condition: If you plan to wear them, a gently used pair (VNDS or PADS) can save you a significant amount of money. Scrutinize photos and descriptions carefully.
- Check Multiple Platforms: Don’t rely on a single source. Compare prices across StockX, GOAT, eBay, and even reputable consignment stores or social media sneaker groups (with caution).
- Look for “Best Offer” Listings: On platforms like eBay, some sellers accept offers, allowing for potential negotiation.
- Factor in Fees: Remember to include platform fees, shipping, and potential import duties if buying internationally.
- Beware of “Too Good To Be True” Prices: If a price seems drastically lower than the market average, it’s a major red flag for fakes or scams.
- Buy from Reputable Sellers: Check seller ratings and reviews, especially on platforms like eBay.
Authenticity Guide: How to Spot Fake Air Jordan 4s
Authenticating Air Jordan 4s can be tricky, but here are key areas to inspect:
- Overall Shape and Profile: Familiarize yourself with the distinct silhouette of a genuine Air Jordan 4. Fakes often have a clunky or misshapen profile, especially around the toe box and heel.
- Stitching Quality: Authentic pairs have neat, consistent, and tight stitching. Crooked, sloppy, or frayed stitching is a bad sign.
- Jumpman Logo:
- Tongue: The Jumpman should be well-defined with clear fingers (not webbed) and distinct shoelaces. Proportions are key. The “Flight” script underneath should be clean.
- Heel Tab: The Jumpman logo on the heel tab should be cleanly molded and centered.
- Tongue Tag (Interior): Check the font, spacing, and overall quality of the text on the backside of the tongue tag. “AIR JORDAN” should be clearly printed.
- Netting: The plastic netting on the side panels and at the base of the tongue should be made of quality plastic, cut cleanly, and have a specific angle. On fakes, it can be too flimsy or poorly attached.
- “AIR” Unit: The visible Air unit in the midsole should be clear, properly sized, and well-sealed. Foggy units or excessive glue stains are red flags.
- Box and Label: The box quality, color, and label details (style code, size, barcode, font) should match official Nike standards. For the “Mist Blue,” the style code is 314254-041.
- Smell: Authentic Nikes have a distinct factory smell. Fakes often have a strong, cheap chemical or glue smell.
- Insole: Check the print quality of the Nike Air logo or Jumpman on the insole. It shouldn’t rub off too easily on a new pair.
When in doubt, use a professional legit check service or purchase from platforms that offer robust authentication like StockX or GOAT’s “New” sneaker purchases, or eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee program.
Conclusion: Getting Your Kicks
The Air Jordan 4 Mist Blue is a cool older shoe. This means it’s not in regular stores anymore. You’ll find it on resale websites, but prices can be high. It’s super important to check if the sneakers are real before you buy. Look around for the best price and be careful to avoid fakes so you can be happy with your shoes!
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