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Air Jordan 4 Motorsports: Finding Your Pair at the Right Price
The Air Jordan 4 ‘Motorsports’ is an alternate version of the ultra-rare ‘Mars’ Air Jordan 4 colorway, which was gifted to the 16 members of MJ’s Motorsports Race Team. Originally given to members of Michael Jordan’s G.O.A.T. racing team, the Air Jordan 4 Retro ‘Motorsport’ was eventually released to the public in March 2017. When hunting for a pair of these iconic sneakers, understanding the price landscape is crucial, as costs can vary wildly depending on where you look, and finding the best deal can save you a significant amount of money.
Retailer Comparison
The Air Jordan 4 Motorsports originally retailed for $190 upon its release in 2017. As this was a limited release from several years ago, finding them at standard retail stores like Nike, Foot Locker, or Champs Sports at their original price is now virtually impossible. These sneakers have long sold out from primary retailers. Therefore, any “retailer” offering them new today would effectively be a resale entity, though some consignment shops might physically stock them.
Resale Market Analysis
The Air Jordan 4 Motorsports lives predominantly on the resale market. Prices here are dictated by supply, demand, condition, and size. Here’s a look at some popular platforms:
- StockX: Prices for a new (deadstock) pair typically range from $350 to $550+, depending on the shoe size. More common sizes might hover around the $400-$450 mark, while less common or highly sought-after sizes can command higher prices.
- GOAT: Similar to StockX, GOAT offers new and used pairs. New pairs are often priced in the same $350-$550+ bracket. Used pairs can vary significantly, from around $200 for well-worn sneakers to $300+ for pairs in excellent, near-new condition.
- eBay: eBay presents a wider spectrum of prices due to individual sellers. You might find new pairs listed anywhere from $300 to $600+. Used pairs can be found for less, but it’s crucial to check seller ratings and look for eBay’s “Authenticity Guarantee” service.
Factors affecting resale prices:
- Condition: Deadstock (DS) or new in box (NIB) pairs command the highest prices. Used pairs depreciate based on wear and tear.
- Size: Very small or very large sizes, or extremely popular sizes, can sometimes be more expensive due to lower availability or higher demand.
- Authenticity: Verified authentic pairs from reputable platforms or sellers with guarantees are more valuable.
- Original Box & Accessories: Having the original box, hangtags, and any included accessories in good condition adds to the value.
- Market Fluctuations: Sneaker prices can fluctuate based on trends, re-releases of similar models, or general market hype.
Tips for Finding Deals
Scoring a deal on a sought-after sneaker like the Air Jordan 4 Motorsports requires patience and strategy:
- Set Price Alerts: Platforms like StockX and GOAT allow you to set price alerts for your desired size, notifying you if the price drops.
- Compare Across Platforms: Don’t just stick to one resale site. Check prices on StockX, GOAT, eBay, and even reputable consignment shops or Facebook groups.
- Consider Used Condition: If you plan on wearing the sneakers, a pair in “very good” or “like new” used condition can save you a considerable amount of money compared to a deadstock pair.
- Be Patient: Sneaker prices can fluctuate. If you’re not in a rush, waiting might lead to a better price.
- Look for Reputable Sellers on eBay: While eBay can have great deals, prioritize sellers with high positive feedback and those who participate in the Authenticity Guarantee program.
- Beware of “Too Good To Be True” Prices: Extremely low prices often indicate a scam or a counterfeit product.
Authenticity Guide
With high resale values come counterfeit sneakers. Here are some general tips to help you spot fake Air Jordan 4s (though professional authentication is always best for valuable pairs):
- Overall Shape and Proportions: Authentic Air Jordan 4s have a distinct shape, especially around the toe box and heel. Fakes often get this wrong, looking too bulky or misshapen.
- Stitching Quality: Check the stitching all over the shoe. It should be neat, consistent, and tight. Messy, uneven, or loose stitching is a red flag.
- Material Quality: The leather on the Motorsports should feel premium. Fakes often use cheaper, plastic-like materials. The netting on the side panels and tongue should be well-defined.
- Tongue Tag and Jumpman Logo: Examine the Jumpman logo on the tongue and heel. Proportions, stitching, and details (like fingers on the Jumpman) should be crisp. The “Flight” script on the tongue tag should also be clean.
- Box and Labels: The box quality, label font, SKU number, and manufacturing dates should match official Nike standards. Compare these details with images of confirmed authentic pairs online.
- Smell: Authentic Nikes usually have a specific factory smell. Counterfeits often have a strong, unpleasant chemical or glue odor.
- Price: If the price is significantly lower than the average resale market value, be very cautious.
- Buy from Reputable Sources: Stick to platforms that offer authentication services (StockX, GOAT, eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee) or highly trusted consignment stores.
Conclusion
So, you want the Air Jordan 4 Motorsports? You will find these cool shoes online, not in normal shops anymore. The price can be different in many places. It is super important to make sure they are real shoes and not fakes. Look around and be smart to find a good deal for your pair. Happy shoe hunting!
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