## Air Jordan 4 Alternate 89: Price Check and Buyer’s Guide
### Introduction
The Air Jordan 4 ‘Alternate 89’ was released in January 2016 as part of Jordan Brand’s ‘Alternate’ collection, imagining player exclusives Michael Jordan might have worn. It features a premium white tumbled leather upper with hits of Gym Red, offering a clean and classic look. When shopping for sought-after sneakers like these, price comparison is crucial; it helps consumers find the best value for their money. By comparing prices, you can save a significant amount and ensure you’re not overpaying for these coveted kicks.
### Retailer Comparison
Originally retailing for $190 USD upon its release in 2016, the Air Jordan 4 “Alternate 89” is no longer available through primary retail channels like Nike, Foot Locker, or Finish Line at its original price. These sneakers sold out quickly, and any new pairs available today are found on the resale market. Therefore, a direct comparison of current “retail” prices isn’t applicable as they are not actively stocked by mainstream retailers.
### Resale Market Analysis
The Air Jordan 4 “Alternate 89” is a popular item on resale platforms. Here’s a general look at what you might expect:
* **StockX:** Prices typically range from approximately $300 to $600+ depending on size, condition (deadstock – new/unworn), and market demand. Less common sizes or those in pristine condition with original packaging command higher prices.
* **GOAT:** Similar to StockX, GOAT offers new and used pairs. New pairs often fall within the $350-$650 range, while used pairs can vary significantly based on wear and tear, potentially starting from $200-$250 for well-worn pairs.
* **eBay:** eBay presents a wider spectrum of prices due to individual sellers and auctions. You might find listings anywhere from $200 (for used or potentially less verifiable pairs) to over $700 (for deadstock pairs from reputable sellers). Buyer diligence is paramount on eBay.
**Factors Affecting Resale Prices:**
* **Condition:** Deadstock (DS) pairs are the most valuable. Used pairs depreciate based on wear, sole yellowing, creasing, and original box condition.
* **Size:** Extremely common or very rare sizes can sometimes be priced differently. Popular sizes often maintain a stable, higher price.
* **Authenticity:** Verified authentic pairs from reputable platforms or sellers fetch premium prices.
* **Hype & Rarity:** While not the rarest AJ4, its age and specific colorway maintain steady interest.
* **Seller Reputation:** Sellers with established positive feedback can often ask for slightly higher prices.
### Tips for Finding Deals
Finding a “deal” on a hyped sneaker like the Alternate 89s requires patience and strategy:
1. **Monitor Multiple Platforms:** Don’t rely on just one resale site. Check StockX, GOAT, eBay, and even reputable sneaker consignment shops regularly.
2. **Consider Used Pairs:** If you’re okay with sneakers that aren’t brand new, you can save a significant amount. Look for pairs in “Very Near Deadstock” (VNDS) or lightly used condition with detailed photos.
3. **Set Price Alerts:** Some platforms allow you to set alerts for when a specific shoe in your size drops to a certain price.
4. **Look for Local Meetups (with caution):** Sneaker groups on social media sometimes facilitate local sales, which can save on shipping and platform fees. However, always meet in safe, public places and be extra vigilant about authenticity.
5. **Negotiate (where possible):** On platforms like eBay (with “Best Offer” options) or in direct sales, there might be room for polite negotiation.
6. **Beware of “Too Good To Be True”:** If a price is drastically lower than the market average, it’s a major red flag for fakes or scams.
### Authenticity Guide
Spotting fake Air Jordan 4s is crucial. Here are key areas to inspect:
1. **Overall Shape and Profile:** Authentic AJ4s have a distinct silhouette. Fakes often have a clunkier or misshapen toe box, heel, or overall stance.
2. **Jumpman Logo:**
* **Tongue:** The Jumpman should be well-defined with clear fingers and shoelaces. Proportions are key; fakes often have “lollipop” heads, overly thick arms/legs, or a poorly defined ball.
* **Heel:** Similar to the tongue, check the Jumpman’s proportions and stitching quality around it.
3. **Stitching:** Genuine Jordans have neat, consistent, and high-quality stitching. Look for sloppy, uneven, or frayed stitching on fakes.
4. **Tongue Tag (“Flight” Script & Back Tag):** The “Flight” script below the Jumpman on the tongue should be clean and correctly fonted. The tag on the reverse of the tongue should have clear, legible text without spelling errors.
5. **Netting:** The plastic netting on the side panels and tongue base should be correctly sized, shaped, and feel durable. Fakes might use flimsy or incorrectly angled netting.
6. **Material Quality:** The “Alternate 89” features premium tumbled leather. Fakes often use cheaper, synthetic-feeling leather that may look or feel “plastic-y.”
7. **Box and Label:** The box should be sturdy with correct branding. The label on the box should have accurate information (style code, size, colorway name, barcode) with clear, correct fonts. Mismatched information or poor print quality is a red flag.
8. **Smell:** Authentic Nikes have a distinct factory glue smell. Replicas often have a strong, unpleasant chemical odor.
9. **Insole:** Check the printing on the insole (e.g., Nike Air logo). It should be crisp and not easily rub off.
When in doubt, use online legit check services or compare with known authentic pairs from reputable sources.
### Conclusion
If you want the Air Jordan 4 Alternate 89, you will mostly find them on resale sites. Prices change based on size and if they are new or used. Always check different websites to find the best price. Be very careful to make sure the shoes are real and not fakes. Look at pictures closely and buy from sellers you trust. This way, you can get your cool sneakers without getting tricked.
