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Hunting for Grails: Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon Price Comparison and Deals
The Air Jordan 4 “Mars Blackmon,” also known as the “Fire Red” retro from 2006, is a highly sought-after sneaker that pays homage to the iconic Spike Lee character and the original 1989 colorway. When looking to purchase highly coveted sneakers like these, price comparison is crucial as costs can vary significantly across different sellers and platforms, ensuring you get the most value for your investment.
Retailer Comparison
As the Air Jordan 4 “Mars Blackmon” was originally released in 2006, finding it at its original retail price from authorized retailers like Nike, Foot Locker, or other standard shoe stores is virtually impossible today. These sneakers sold out long ago. Therefore, your primary avenue for purchasing these sneakers will be the resale market.
Resale Market Analysis
The resale market is where the Air Jordan 4 “Mars Blackmon” primarily trades hands. Prices here are dictated by supply, demand, condition, and size.
* StockX: On StockX, a platform that authenticates sneakers, prices for a new (deadstock) pair of Air Jordan 4 “Mars Blackmon” can range significantly. You might see last sale prices anywhere from $400 to $700+, depending heavily on the size and current market demand. Popular sizes may command higher prices.
* GOAT: GOAT, another popular marketplace for authentic sneakers, shows similar pricing trends. New pairs are often listed in the $450 to $750+ range. Used pairs can offer savings, with prices varying widely based on condition – potentially from $250 to $500+ for pairs in good, wearable condition.
* eBay: eBay offers a broader spectrum of sellers, from individuals to consignment stores. Prices for new pairs can be competitive, often aligning with StockX and GOAT, but you might find listings anywhere from $400 upwards. Used pairs can be found at various price points, but diligence is key to ensure authenticity and accurate condition description.
Several factors influence these prices:
* Condition: Deadstock (DS – brand new, unworn, with original box) pairs command the highest prices. Very Near Deadstock (VNDS) or lightly used pairs will be less expensive. The more wear, the lower the price.
* Size: Extremely common or very rare sizes can sometimes be more expensive due to specific demand.
* Original Packaging & Accessories: Having the original box, retro card (if applicable), and any other included accessories significantly adds to the value.
* Authenticity & Seller Reputation: Purchases from platforms with strong authentication processes (like StockX and GOAT) or highly reputable eBay sellers often provide more peace of mind, which can be reflected in the price.
Tips for Finding Deals
While “deals” on such a coveted sneaker are relative, here’s how to maximize your chances of a good purchase:
* Be Patient and Monitor: Sneaker prices fluctuate. Keep an eye on listings across multiple platforms over time.
* Consider Used Condition: If you plan to wear the sneakers, a pair in excellent used condition can save you a significant amount compared to a deadstock pair.
* Check Multiple Platforms Regularly: Don’t rely on a single source. New listings appear daily.
* Look for Reputable Sellers: On platforms like eBay, check seller feedback, history, and return policies.
* Beware of Prices “Too Good To Be True”: Exceptionally low prices for a “new” pair are often a red flag for fakes or scams.
* Factor in All Costs: Remember to include shipping fees, import duties/taxes if buying internationally, and authentication fees charged by platforms like StockX.
* Set Alerts: Some platforms allow you to set alerts for specific sneakers in your size when they hit a certain price point.
Authenticity Guide: Spotting Fake Air Jordan 4s
With high-value sneakers like the Mars Blackmon 4s, fakes are unfortunately common. Here are general tips for spotting counterfeit Air Jordan 4s (it’s always best to compare with confirmed authentic pairs, perhaps via online guides or videos specific to this colorway):
* Overall Shape and Proportions: Authentic AJ4s have a distinct silhouette. Fakes often have incorrect toe box shapes, heel bumps, or overall stances.
* Stitching Quality: Genuine Jordans have neat, consistent, and high-quality stitching. Messy, frayed, or uneven stitching is a red flag.
* Mars Blackmon Logo: For this specific model, pay close attention to the Mars Blackmon silhouette logo on the heel. The details, proportions, and clarity should be sharp. Fakes often have poorly defined or misshapen logos.
* Tongue Tag: Examine the “Flight” script and the Jumpman logo on the tongue. The font, spacing, and stitching quality are key. The Jumpman should have distinct fingers and shoelaces.
* Netting: The plastic netting on the side panels and lower tongue should be of good quality and correctly angled.
* Heel Tab: The “Nike Air” (on OGs) or Jumpman logo on the heel tab should be well-defined and correctly proportioned. The pull tab itself should feel sturdy.
* Box and Label: The shoebox label should have correct fonts, product codes (style code for the Mars Blackmon is 308497-162), and sizing information. Compare it to images of authentic labels online.
* Smell: Authentic sneakers have a particular factory smell. A strong, overwhelming chemical or glue smell can be an indicator of a fake.
* Insole: Check the logo on the insole and the stitching underneath if possible.
When in doubt, seek a legit check from a reputable online sneaker community or professional authentication service.
Conclusion
So, you want the Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon? These cool shoes are not in regular stores anymore because they’re older. You’ll find them on websites where people resell sneakers, like StockX, GOAT, and eBay. Prices can be very different, so look at all of them to find the best deal. It’s super important to make sure the shoes are real and not fakes before you spend your money. If you’re careful and look around, you can find these awesome sneakers without paying too much!
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