Air Jordan 4 Loyal Blue: Price Comparison, Deals, and Authenticity Guide

The Air Jordan 4 Retro WNTR ‘Loyal Blue’ updates the iconic silhouette with a winterized construction, perfect for colder weather. Released in December 2019, this sneaker features a rich blue nubuck upper, reminiscent of the rare Eminem ‘Encore’ Air Jordan 4, with striking habanero red accents. Finding the best deal on coveted sneakers like the Air Jordan 4 Loyal Blue can save you significant money. With prices varying across retailers and the resale market, a little research goes a long way.

Retailer Comparison

Originally retailing for around $200, the Air Jordan 4 Loyal Blue (Style Code: BQ7669-401) is long sold out at primary retailers like Nike, Foot Locker, and Finish Line. At the time of its release, it was a sought-after item, and securing a pair at retail price was a challenge for many. Currently, your primary avenue for purchasing these sneakers new is the resale market, as official retailers no longer stock this model.

Resale Market Analysis

The Air Jordan 4 Loyal Blue is readily available on major resale platforms. Here’s a general look at what you might expect:

StockX: Prices for new, deadstock (DS) pairs typically range from approximately $300 to $550, depending heavily on the size. Common sizes often float in the $350-$450 range.
GOAT: Similar to StockX, new pairs on GOAT can be found from around $320 up to $600+. They also offer used options, which can provide significant savings if you’re willing to accept some wear, with prices varying widely based on condition.
eBay: Prices on eBay are more varied. You might find new pairs listed from $300 upwards, and used pairs with a broader price spectrum. Authenticity can be a greater concern here, so it’s crucial to buy from reputable sellers with good feedback and utilize eBay’s authenticity guarantee service when available.

Factors affecting resale prices include:

Size: Less common sizes (very small or very large) can sometimes be more expensive due to scarcity, while common sizes may have more competition among sellers.
Condition: Brand new, unworn pairs with the original box (deadstock) command the highest prices. Used pairs will be priced based on their level of wear and tear.
Authenticity: Verified authentic pairs from reputable platforms or sellers will naturally be priced higher than potentially unverified or counterfeit sneakers.
Market Demand & Hype: While not a new release, the unique “Winterized” features and colorway keep demand relatively steady.
Seller Reputation and Platform Fees: Prices will also reflect seller asking prices and any associated platform fees for authentication, shipping, and selling.

Tips for Finding Deals

Scoring a “deal” on a sold-out sneaker like the Air Jordan 4 Loyal Blue usually means paying the lowest possible resale price for an authentic pair. Here’s how:

Set Price Alerts: Platforms like StockX and GOAT allow you to set price alerts for specific sizes, notifying you if the asking price drops to your desired level or if a bid you placed is accepted.
Compare Across Platforms: Don’t limit your search to one site. Check prices on StockX, GOAT, eBay, and even reputable consignment stores.
Consider Lightly Used: If you plan on wearing the sneakers, a pair that’s been worn a few times but is in excellent condition can save you a considerable amount compared to a deadstock pair. Look for detailed photos and descriptions.
Be Patient: Sneaker prices can fluctuate. If you’re not in a rush, monitor prices over time. Sometimes sellers adjust prices to make a quicker sale.
Check Seller Ratings: Especially on platforms like eBay, buy from sellers with a long history of positive feedback and experience selling authentic sneakers.
Look for “Best Offer” Options: Some eBay sellers allow you to make an offer. You might be able to negotiate a slightly lower price.
Beware of “Too Good To Be True” Prices: 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

With desirable sneakers like the Air Jordan 4, counterfeit versions are common. Here are some general tips to help you spot potential fakes (though professional authentication is always recommended for high-value purchases):

Box and Label:
- The box quality should be sturdy, with correct colors and branding.
- The label on the box should have the correct style code (BQ7669-401 for the WNTR Loyal Blue), size, colorway name, and barcode. Fonts should be crisp and correctly spaced. Compare with images of retail boxes online.
Stitching: Authentic Air Jordans have neat, consistent, and high-quality stitching. Loose threads, uneven lines, or sloppy stitching are red flags.
Shape and Proportions: Familiarize yourself with the overall silhouette of an authentic Air Jordan 4. Fakes often have incorrect toe box shapes, heel heights, or general proportions.
Materials: The Loyal Blue features a distinct nubuck upper and winterized elements like rubberized wings and a perforated synthetic material replacing the usual mesh. These materials should feel premium. Fakes often use cheaper, lower-quality materials that might feel stiff or plasticky.
Tongue Tag:
- The Jumpman logo on the front of the tongue tag should be well-defined with correct proportions. The “Flight” script underneath should be clean.
- Check the stitching around the tag.
Heel Tab: The Jumpman logo on the heel tab should be cleanly molded and well-defined. The plastic tab itself should feel sturdy.
Netting/Perforated Panels: For the Loyal Blue, the traditional side netting is replaced by a perforated synthetic material. Ensure this looks correct and is properly integrated.
Insole: The Jumpman logo or Nike Air branding on the insole should be clearly printed and correctly positioned. On fakes, this can sometimes rub off easily or be poorly printed.
Smell: This is a classic tell. Counterfeit sneakers often have a strong, distinct chemical or glue smell due to cheaper manufacturing processes and materials. Authentic pairs usually have a more neutral scent.
When in Doubt: Use authentication services offered by platforms like StockX and GOAT, or third-party legit check services if buying from a less regulated marketplace.

Conclusion

The Air Jordan 4 Loyal Blue is a cool shoe, but it’s older so it costs more now. You’ll mostly find them on sites like StockX or GOAT. Always check if they’re real, not fakes. Look around for the best price. If you love them and find a real pair that fits your money, they can be a great buy!

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