Okay, here is the blog post about the Air Jordan 4 Military Blue price comparison and deals, formatted for WordPress:
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Air Jordan 4 Military Blue: Finding the Best Price for a Classic
The Air Jordan 4 “Military Blue” is one of the most anticipated sneaker releases, returning in its original form for the first time in years, much to the delight of sneakerheads. With such high demand, figuring out where to buy and at what price can be a real game. That’s why price comparison is key – it helps you understand the market, avoid overpaying, and potentially snag a deal on this iconic footwear.
Retailer Comparison: The Original Drop
The Air Jordan 4 “Military Blue” had an official retail price of **$215 USD** for men’s sizes. They were released through major sneaker retailers, including:
* **Nike SNKRS App:** The primary source for Nike and Jordan Brand releases.
* **Foot Locker:** A major athletic footwear and apparel retailer.
* **Finish Line:** Another key destination for sneaker releases.
* **JD Sports:** Often carries similar stock to Finish Line.
* **Other boutique sneaker shops:** Various smaller retailers also received stock.
As expected with such a hyped release, these sneakers sold out extremely quickly at retail price. Most buyers who secured a pair at $215 did so through raffles or by being very quick on release day. If you missed out, the resale market is your next destination.
Resale Market Analysis: What to Expect Now
Once a highly sought-after sneaker like the Air Jordan 4 “Military Blue” sells out at retail, its price on the resale market typically increases. Here’s a look at common platforms and price trends:
* **StockX:** Prices typically range from **$260 to $400+**, depending on size and current demand. The platform’s bid/ask system shows real-time market value.
* **GOAT:** Similar to StockX, prices for new pairs generally fall within the **$270 to $400+** range. GOAT also lists used pairs, which can be slightly cheaper but vary greatly in condition and price.
* **eBay:** A wider range of prices can be found here, from individual sellers. You might see listings from **$250 up to $450+**. Authenticity Guarantee programs on eBay offer some buyer protection.
**Factors Affecting Resale Prices:**
* **Size:** More common sizes often have more availability and slightly lower prices, while very small or very large sizes can command higher premiums.
* **Condition:** Brand new, deadstock (DS) pairs with original boxing fetch the highest prices.
* **Hype and Rarity:** The “Military Blue” is an OG colorway, which inherently drives up demand.
* **Seller Reputation:** Established sellers with good feedback may price slightly higher.
* **Time Since Release:** Prices can fluctuate. Sometimes they dip slightly a few weeks after release as more pairs circulate, or they can climb if demand remains high and supply tightens.
Tips for Finding Deals (Even on the Resale Market)
While “deals” are relative for a shoe selling above retail, here’s how you can try to get the best possible price:
1. **Be Patient:** If you’re not in a rush, monitor prices. They can sometimes dip a few weeks or months after the initial hype.
2. **Compare Across Platforms:** Don’t just look at one site. Check StockX, GOAT, eBay, and even reputable sneaker consignment shops or Facebook groups.
3. **Look for “Offer” Options:** On eBay, some sellers accept best offers. Don’t be afraid to make a reasonable offer below the asking price.
4. **Consider Pre-Owned (Carefully):** If you’re okay with a pair that’s been lightly worn, you can save significant money. Ensure you vet the seller and photos thoroughly, and use platforms with buyer protection.
5. **Follow Sneaker Accounts & Communities:** Sometimes restocks (though rare for this shoe now) or special deals are announced by sneaker news accounts or in communities.
6. **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.
Authenticity Guide: How to Spot Fake Air Jordan 4 Military Blues
With high resale prices come the counterfeiters. Here are some key things to check when trying to legit check a pair of Air Jordan 4 “Military Blue”:
* **Box and Label:**
* The box should be sturdy, not flimsy.
* Check the label for correct font, spacing, style codes (FV5029-141 for the 2024 version), and UPC. Compare it to images of authentic labels online.
* **Overall Shape and Proportions:**
* Familiarize yourself with the correct silhouette. Fakes often have an incorrect toe box shape (too bulky or too slim), or the overall stance might be off.
* The “netting” on the sides and tongue should be properly placed and made of quality material.
* **Stitching:**
* Authentic Jordans have neat, consistent, and high-quality stitching. Sloppy, frayed, or uneven stitching is a common sign of a fake.
* **Materials:**
* The leather quality should feel premium. Fakes often use cheaper, stiffer, or more plastic-feeling materials.
* The “wings” and heel tab should be made of the correct TPU material and feel solid.
* **Tongue Tag:**
* Examine the “Flight” script and the Jumpman logo on the front of the tongue. The proportions and stitching of the Jumpman should be clean.
* The back of the tongue tag should have the “AIR JORDAN” upside down, with clean lettering.
* **Heel Tab:**
* The 2024 “Military Blue” features “NIKE AIR” branding on the heel. Ensure the font, spacing, and embossing quality are correct. The letters should be well-defined.
* **Insole and Sockliner:**
* Check the print quality of the Nike Air logo on the insole. On fakes, it might rub off easily or be poorly printed.
* **Smell:**
* Authentic Nikes have a distinct factory smell. Fakes often have a strong chemical or glue smell due to cheaper adhesives.
* **Buy from Reputable Sources:** Your best defense against fakes is to buy from trusted platforms that offer authentication (like StockX, GOAT, or eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee) or from highly reputable consignment stores.
Conclusion: Getting Your Grails Smartly
The Air Jordan 4 Military Blue is a very cool shoe. It costs about $215 in stores, but you will pay more if you buy it after it sells out. It’s smart to look at prices in different places online, like StockX or GOAT. This helps you find a better price. Make sure you buy real shoes, not fakes. Check the box, how the shoe is made, and the Nike Air on the back. If you are careful and do your homework, you can get these awesome sneakers without getting tricked.
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