“`html
Air Jordan 4 ‘Neon 95’: Finding Your Pair at the Right Price
The Air Jordan 4 Retro SE ‘Air Max 95 Neon’ pays homage to the iconic OG colorway of the Air Max 95, blending two legendary designs from Nike’s archives. This unique sneaker, released to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Air Max 95, quickly became a sought-after item. For sneakerheads looking to cop this unique pair, comparing prices is key to getting the best deal and ensuring authenticity.
Retailer Comparison: The Original Drop
When the Air Jordan 4 ‘Neon 95’ (also known as Air Jordan 4 Retro SE ‘Air Max 95 Neon’) first dropped on March 21, 2020, it had a retail price of $225 for men’s sizes and $160 for grade school (GS) sizes. These were available through Nike’s SNKRS app and select Jordan Brand retailers.
Currently, as this was a limited release, these sneakers are no longer available at their original retail price from standard retailers. Any “new” pair you find will be on the resale market.
Resale Market Analysis: Where to Buy Now
The resale market is where most enthusiasts will need to look for the Air Jordan 4 ‘Neon 95’. Prices here vary significantly based on several factors:
- Condition: Brand new, deadstock (DS) pairs with the original box command the highest prices. Used pairs will be cheaper, with the price depending on wear and tear.
- Size: More common or popular sizes (e.g., US 8-12) might have more availability but also high demand. Less common sizes can sometimes be more expensive due to rarity, or cheaper due to lower demand.
- Platform:
- StockX: Prices for new pairs typically range from $280 to $500+. The platform acts as a middleman, authenticating shoes before they reach the buyer. You bid or buy at the current lowest ask.
- GOAT: Similar to StockX, GOAT offers new and used pairs, with authentication. Prices for new pairs are often in the $300 to $550+ range. Used prices can vary widely, starting from around $200 depending on condition.
- eBay: A wider range of prices and conditions can be found here. You might find deals, but the risk of fakes is higher if not buying from reputable sellers with authentication guarantees (eBay now offers an “Authenticity Guarantee” service for many sneakers). Prices can fluctuate from $200 (used) to $600+ (new, rare sizes).
- Seller Reputation & Authenticity: Prices from highly reputable sellers or those offering strong authenticity guarantees might be slightly higher but offer peace of mind.
Generally, expect to pay a premium over the original retail price. As of late 2023 / early 2024, a new pair in a common size will likely cost you between $300 and $450 on average.
Tips for Finding Deals
Finding a “deal” on a hyped shoe like the Air Jordan 4 ‘Neon 95’ 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.
- Monitor Multiple Platforms: Don’t just stick to one site. Check prices across StockX, GOAT, eBay, and even reputable consignment stores.
- Consider Used or “VNDS” (Very Near Deadstock): If you plan to wear them, a pair that’s been lightly worn can save you significant money. Look for detailed pictures and descriptions.
- Be Patient: Sneaker prices fluctuate. Sometimes, waiting a bit after a restock rumor or during off-peak seasons can lead to slight price drops.
- Look for Local Sneaker Groups/Consignment Shops: You might find better deals locally, avoiding shipping and platform fees. However, exercise caution and ensure authenticity.
- Beware of “Too Good To Be True”: If a price seems drastically lower than the market average, especially for a new pair, it’s a major red flag for fakes.
Authenticity Guide: Spotting Fakes
The Air Jordan 4 is a heavily counterfeited model. Here are key areas to inspect when trying to determine if a pair of ‘Neon 95s’ is authentic:
- Overall Shape and Proportions: Authentic AJ4s have a distinct silhouette. Fakes often get the toe box shape, heel height, or overall stance wrong. The “Neon 95” features layered suede panels that should look high quality and well-defined.
- Stitching Quality: Check for clean, consistent, and tight stitching throughout the shoe. Messy, frayed, or uneven stitching is a bad sign.
- Suede Quality and Color Gradient: The ‘Neon 95’ features distinct grey suede panels that get darker towards the bottom. The suede should feel premium. The netting on the sides and tongue should also be the correct color and material. The lace eyelets should have the signature neon green to grey gradient.
- Jumpman Logo:
- Tongue: The Jumpman on the tongue tag should be well-defined, with clear fingers and shoe laces. The “Flight” script should be sharp.
- Heel: The heel features a Nike Air logo, true to the OG Air Max 95 inspiration. Ensure the font and placement are correct.
- Tongue Tag (Inside): Check the “AIR JORDAN” lettering on the upside-down tag on the inner side of the tongue. Fonts should be correct and clearly printed.
- Netting: The plastic netting on the sides and lower tongue should be properly aligned and have the correct spacing and material feel. On this colorway, it should be a light grey/white.
- Insole: The insole should feature the Nike Air logo, and the material should feel appropriate. The sock liner color should match the neon accents.
- Box and Label: The box should be the correct type for this specific release (often a cement print Jordan box). The label on the box should have accurate information (style code CT5342-007, size, colorway, barcode). Mismatched fonts or typos are red flags.
- Smell Test: Authentic Nikes have a particular factory smell. Fakes often have a strong, unpleasant chemical or glue smell.
- Buy from Reputable Sources: Your best defense is buying from trusted platforms with authentication services or highly reputable consignment sellers.
Conclusion
The Air Jordan 4 ‘Neon 95’ is a cool shoe. It mixes two famous sneaker looks. You won’t find it in regular stores now. So, you’ll look on sites where people resell them. Prices can change a lot. Always check if the shoes are real before you buy. Be smart to find a good deal, and you can enjoy these awesome sneakers!
“`
