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Air Jordan 4 Loyal Blue: Price Check & Where to Cop (Safely!)
The Air Jordan 4 Retro WNTR ‘Loyal Blue’ updates the iconic silhouette with a winterized construction, perfect for braving the elements in style. This iteration, released in December 2019, boasts a Loyal Blue nubuck upper, complemented by black and grey accents, and a vibrant Habanero Red on the tongue lining. When you’re looking to buy sought-after sneakers like these, comparing prices across different sellers is crucial to ensure you’re getting a fair deal and not overpaying.
Retailer Comparison
As the Air Jordan 4 Loyal Blue was released in late 2019, finding them at their original retail price (around $200 USD) from authorized retailers like Nike, Foot Locker, or Finish Line is now virtually impossible. These sneakers sold out quickly upon release and are no longer stocked by primary retailers. Therefore, your primary avenue for purchasing these kicks will be the resale market.
Resale Market Analysis
The resale market is where collectors and individuals sell their pairs, often new and unworn (deadstock) or lightly used. Prices here can vary significantly based on several factors:
Key Platforms:
- StockX: As of late 2023 / early 2024, expect prices for new, deadstock (DS) pairs of the Air Jordan 4 Loyal Blue to range from approximately $280 to $450+. Prices fluctuate daily and are heavily dependent on shoe size.
- GOAT: Similar to StockX, GOAT offers both new and used options. New pairs are in a comparable price bracket ($270-$460+). Used pairs in good condition can offer some savings, potentially ranging from $200-$350, depending on wear and completeness (e.g., original box).
- eBay: Prices on eBay can be more volatile. You might find listings starting from around $250 for used pairs up to $500+ for new pairs from reputable sellers. Buyer diligence is paramount here due to a higher risk of fakes or misrepresented conditions. Always check seller ratings, return policies, and opt for eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee program when available.
Factors Affecting Resale Prices:
- Size: Popular men’s sizes (US 8-11) often have more availability but also see high demand. Less common sizes (very small or very large) can sometimes command higher prices due to rarity.
- Condition: Deadstock (brand new, unworn, with original box and accessories) pairs command the highest prices. Used pairs will vary based on the degree of wear and tear, and whether the original box is included.
- Authenticity: Verified authentic pairs from reputable platforms or sellers will always be more expensive than unverified ones. The peace of mind is part of the cost.
- Market Fluctuation: Sneaker prices are dynamic, influenced by trends, current hype, and overall scarcity. What’s hot today might cool off tomorrow, or vice-versa.
Tips for Finding Deals
While “deals” on hyped sneakers are relative, here are some tips to get the best possible price:
- Be Patient: Prices fluctuate. Monitor listings on platforms like StockX and GOAT over time. You might catch a dip.
- Consider Used: If you’re okay with pre-owned sneakers, you can save significantly. Look for pairs in “Very Near Deadstock” (VNDS) or lightly used condition with good photos.
- Set Price Alerts: Platforms like StockX allow you to set a “Bid” or “Make Offer,” and GOAT allows you to set price alerts. You’ll be notified if a seller accepts your offer or if a pair in your size drops to your desired price.
- Check Local Consignment Shops: Reputable sneaker consignment stores might have a pair. You can inspect them in person, but prices will likely reflect current market value.
- Beware of “Too Good To Be True”: If a price is significantly lower than the market average, especially for a new pair, it’s a major red flag for fakes.
- Follow Reputable Resellers: Some established resellers on social media or their own websites occasionally run promotions or offer slightly better prices, but always vet them thoroughly.
Authenticity Guide: How to Spot Fake Air Jordan 4 Loyal Blue
With high resale values, the market is unfortunately flooded with fakes. Here’s a quick guide to help you spot potential counterfeit Air Jordan 4 Loyal Blues:
- Overall Quality & Shape: Authentic Air Jordan 4s have a distinct shape, especially the toe box (not too bulky, not too slim). Replicas often get this wrong. The materials on the “Winterized” Loyal Blue should feel premium – the nubuck-like upper and the fleece lining. Cheap materials are a giveaway.
- Stitching: Official pairs have neat, consistent, and dense stitching. Fakes often have sloppy, uneven, or sparse stitching, with loose threads.
- Jumpman Logo:
- Tongue: The Jumpman logo on the tongue patch should be well-defined with clear proportions. Fakes might have a “lollipop” head, overly thick limbs, or messy embroidery. The “Flight” script underneath should also be crisp.
- Heel: The Jumpman logo on the heel tab should be cleanly molded and well-proportioned.
- Netting: The plastic netting on the side panels and at the base of the tongue should be correctly angled and feel sturdy. On fakes, it might be flimsy, poorly cut, or incorrectly angled.
- Tongue Tag (Inner): Check the text, font, and spacing on the information tag inside the tongue. Compare it with online images of authentic pairs. Misspellings or odd font choices are red flags.
- Heel Tab & “Wings”: The plastic heel tab and the “wing” lace holders should be made of quality plastic and correctly shaped. Flimsy or poorly molded plastic is a sign of a fake.
- Box & Label: The box should be sturdy with correct colors and branding. The box label is crucial:
- Style Code: For the Air Jordan 4 WNTR Loyal Blue, it’s BQ3685-400.
- Font & Spacing: Compare the font, text alignment, and spacing on the label with verified authentic examples online. Fakes often get these details wrong.
- Barcode: Try scanning the barcode.
- Smell: Authentic Nikes have a specific factory smell from the materials and adhesives used. A strong, overpowering chemical or glue smell can be indicative of a counterfeit pair.
- Price: As mentioned, if a deal seems too good to be true for a new pair, it almost certainly is.
- Purchase Source: Stick to reputable platforms that offer authentication services (like StockX, GOAT, eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee) to minimize risk.
When in doubt, consult online legit check guides with detailed comparison photos or seek opinions from trusted sneaker communities.
Conclusion
The Air Jordan 4 Loyal Blue is a cool shoe that you can’t find in regular stores anymore because it’s older. You’ll need to look on websites where people sell used or collectible sneakers. The price can be very different depending on the shoe size and if it’s brand new or used. It’s super important to check carefully to make sure you are buying real Jordans and not fake ones. If you look around and are careful, you can find these awesome sneakers for your collection!
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