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Air Jordan 4 Motorsports: Nailing the Best Price on a Classic
The Air Jordan 4 “Motorsport” is a highly sought-after sneaker that pays homage to Michael Jordan’s passion for motorcycle racing. Originally a friends-and-family exclusive in 2006, a slightly altered version saw a general release in 2017, making it more accessible but still a prized possession for collectors. Given its popularity and varying availability since its release, comparing prices is crucial for savvy buyers looking to add this iconic pair to their collection without overpaying.
Retailer Comparison: The Original Drop
The Air Jordan 4 “Motorsports” (Alternate, style code 308497-117) was officially released on March 25, 2017. At that time, its suggested retail price (MSRP) was $190 USD.
Major sneaker retailers that would have stocked this release include:
- Nike.com / SNKRS App
- Foot Locker
- Champs Sports
- Finish Line
- Eastbay
- And select boutique sneaker stores.
However, as this release is several years old, these sneakers are no longer available at retail price from these original sellers. The only way to acquire them now is through the resale market.
Resale Market Analysis: What to Expect Today
The resale market is where most sneakerheads will now find the Air Jordan 4 “Motorsports.” Prices here fluctuate significantly based on several factors.
Key Resale Platforms:
- StockX: Prices for a new pair typically range from approximately $350 to $600+, depending heavily on size. Common sizes often hover around the $400-$500 mark.
- GOAT: Similar to StockX, new pairs range from roughly $380 to $650+. GOAT also offers used pairs, which can be a more budget-friendly option, potentially starting from $200-$300 depending on condition and size.
- eBay: Prices on eBay show the widest variation. You might find new pairs listed anywhere from $300 to $700+. Used pairs can be found for less, but authenticity checks are crucial.
Factors Affecting Resale Prices:
- Condition: Deadstock (brand new, unworn, with original box) commands the highest prices. Used pairs will be cheaper, with the price dropping based on wear and tear.
- Size: Common sizes (US 8-11) often have more availability but also steady demand. Rarer sizes (very small or very large) can sometimes be more expensive due to scarcity.
- Authenticity: Verified authentic pairs from reputable platforms will always be more expensive than potentially unverified pairs.
- Seller Reputation: Established sellers with positive feedback may price slightly higher.
- Market Demand: Hype and general interest in Air Jordan 4s can influence prices. As time passes, well-maintained pairs can become more valuable.
Tips for Finding Deals and Avoiding Scams
Scoring a deal on a popular shoe like the Air Jordan 4 “Motorsports” requires patience and strategy.
- Monitor Resale Sites Regularly: Prices fluctuate. Set up alerts on StockX or GOAT for your size if possible.
- Consider Used Pairs: If you don’t mind a gently worn shoe, you can save a significant amount. Look for pairs with detailed photos and descriptions of condition.
- Check Multiple Platforms: Don’t rely on just one site. Compare prices across StockX, GOAT, eBay, and even reputable sneaker consignment shops.
- Look for Auctions on eBay: Sometimes, you can snag a deal if an auction doesn’t attract many bidders, but be cautious and check seller feedback.
- Beware of “Too Good To Be True” Prices: If a price is significantly lower than the market average, it’s a major red flag for fakes or scams.
- Buy From Reputable Sources: Stick to well-known platforms with buyer protection and authentication services. For private sales (e.g., Facebook groups, local meetups), be extra vigilant.
- Patience Pays Off: Don’t rush into a purchase. Wait for a price you’re comfortable with.
Authenticity Guide: How to Spot Fake Air Jordan 4 Motorsports
With high demand comes the unfortunate reality of counterfeit sneakers. Here are some key areas to inspect when trying to authenticate Air Jordan 4 “Motorsports”:
- Overall Shape and Proportions: Fakes often get the toe box shape, heel height, or overall silhouette wrong. Compare with pictures of authenticated pairs online.
- Stitching Quality: Authentic Jordans have neat, consistent, and high-quality stitching. Loose threads, sloppy lines, or uneven spacing are red flags.
- Jumpman Logo:
- Tongue: Check the Jumpman’s proportions (fingers, ball, feet). Fakes often have “lollipop” hands or poorly defined details. The “Flight” script underneath should be clean and well-placed.
- Heel: The Jumpman on the heel tab should also be well-defined.
- Tongue Tag (Inside): Look at the font, spacing, and quality of the text on the tag inside the tongue. Compare it to known authentic examples.
- Netting: The plastic netting on the side panels and at the base of the tongue should be properly aligned and have a specific texture. On fakes, it can be too stiff, too loose, or angled incorrectly.
- Heel Tab: The plastic heel tab should be sturdy. The “NIKE AIR” or Jumpman logo (depending on the AJ4 release) should be well-molded. For the Motorsports, it’s a Jumpman.
- Box and Label: The box quality, color, and texture should be consistent with Nike standards. The label on the box should have correct font, spacing, style code (308497-117), and sizing information. UPC codes should match.
- Smell: This is a classic tell. Fake sneakers often have a strong, distinct chemical or glue smell due to cheaper manufacturing processes. Authentic Nikes have a more neutral scent.
- Insole and Footbed: Check the printing on the insole (Nike Air or Jumpman logo). Underneath the insole, the stitching on the footbed should be neat.
When in doubt, use professional authentication services or consult online sneaker communities with detailed photos before purchasing from less reputable sources.
Conclusion
The Air Jordan 4 Motorsports is a really cool shoe that many people want. It first came out a while ago, so you can’t buy it in regular stores anymore. You have to find people selling it online. The price can be very different, from a few hundred to many hundred dollars. Some shoes might be fake, so you have to be careful. Look closely at things like the stitching and the Jumpman logo to make sure it’s a real one. If you want these shoes, check different websites and be smart about buying them so you get a good deal on real ones.
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