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Air Jordan 4 Motorsport: Price Comparison and Deals Guide
The Air Jordan 4 ‘Motorsport’ is a highly sought-after sneaker that pays homage to Michael Jordan’s passion for motorcycle racing. Originally released in 2017, this colorway draws inspiration from a friends-and-family exclusive from 2006, created for the 4th anniversary of MJ’s racing team. Finding the best price for such a popular sneaker can be challenging, making price comparison essential for savvy collectors and enthusiasts.
Retailer Comparison
Since the Air Jordan 4 ‘Motorsport’ was released in 2017, finding it at its original retail price (which was $190 USD) is virtually impossible today from standard retailers. Major shoe chains like Foot Locker, Finish Line, and even Nike’s own stores no longer stock this model as a new release. Occasionally, specialized sneaker boutiques or consignment stores might have deadstock (unworn, new-in-box) pairs. However, their prices will reflect the current resale market value, not the original retail price. For instance, a boutique might list them anywhere from $400 to $700+ depending on their sourcing and current market conditions, effectively acting as a curated resale point.
Resale Market Analysis
The resale market is where most buyers will find the Air Jordan 4 ‘Motorsport’ today. Prices on these platforms fluctuate based on size, condition, and overall market demand.
- StockX: Prices for a new, authenticated pair typically range from approximately $450 to $700+. More common sizes might sit in the $500-$600 range, while less common or highly demanded sizes can push the price higher. Prices are dynamic and based on bid/ask activity.
- GOAT: Similar to StockX, GOAT offers new and used pairs. New pairs generally align with StockX pricing, perhaps $460-$720, depending on size. Used pairs can offer savings, potentially ranging from $250 to $400+ depending on condition.
- eBay: Prices on eBay can vary wildly. You might find new pairs listed by reputable sellers in a similar range to StockX and GOAT. However, there’s also a broader range of used options and auction-style listings. Extra caution is needed here for authenticity.
Factors affecting resale prices:
- Condition: Deadstock (DS) pairs command the highest prices. Used pairs depreciate based on wear and tear.
- Size: Popular sizes (e.g., US 8-11) often have more availability but also steady demand. Very small or very large sizes can sometimes be more expensive due to rarity.
- Authenticity: Verified authentic pairs from platforms like StockX or GOAT include a premium for their authentication service.
- Original Box & Accessories: Having the original box in good condition, and any original accessories (like hangtags), adds value.
- Market Trends: General hype around Air Jordan 4s or specific collaborations can influence the price of older models like the Motorsport.
Tips for Finding Deals
- Be Patient: Sneaker prices can fluctuate. Monitor prices over a few weeks or months if you’re not in a rush.
- Compare Across Platforms: Don’t just stick to one resale site. Check StockX, GOAT, eBay, and even reputable sneaker consignment shops.
- Consider “Used” or “Very Near Deadstock (VNDS)”: If you’re okay with a pair that’s been lightly worn or tried on, you can often save a significant amount. Ensure you see detailed photos of any wear.
- Look for Reputable Sellers: On platforms like eBay, check seller ratings and reviews meticulously.
- Follow Sneaker Accounts and Communities: Sometimes, individuals in sneaker groups on social media or forums might sell pairs for slightly less than platform prices to avoid fees. Buyer beware and use secure payment methods.
- Beware of “Too Good To Be True” Prices: An exceptionally low price for a new Air Jordan 4 Motorsport is a major red flag for fakes.
- Factor in Fees: Remember that platforms like StockX and GOAT add processing fees and shipping costs, so the list price isn’t the final price.
Authenticity Guide: How to Spot Fake Air Jordan 4 Motorsports
Authenticating Air Jordan 4s can be tricky, but here are key areas to inspect:
- Stitching: Authentic pairs have neat, consistent, and high-quality stitching. Fakes often have sloppy, frayed, or uneven stitching, especially around the panel edges and the midsole.
- Material Quality: The leather on genuine AJ4 Motorsports should feel premium and supple. Fakes often use cheaper, stiffer leather or synthetic materials that may have a strong chemical smell.
- Tongue Tag:
- The “Flight” script should be cleanly embroidered. The font and spacing are crucial.
- The Jumpman logo on the tongue should be well-proportioned, with distinct fingers and (if applicable to the specific model) shoelaces. Fakes often have a “blobby” or misshapen Jumpman.
- The stitching around the tongue tag border should be clean.
- Heel Tab Jumpman & “AIR” Logo: The Jumpman logo on the heel tab should be well-defined. The “AIR” lettering beneath it should be crisp and correctly spaced.
- Netting: The plastic netting on the side panels and tongue base should be properly angled and the material should feel durable, not flimsy. On fakes, the netting might be too thin or incorrectly aligned.
- Shape & Proportions: The overall silhouette, especially the toe box shape, is important. Fakes often have a bulky or misshapen toe box. Compare with photos of confirmed authentic pairs.
- Midsole Paint Job: Paint lines should be clean. Sloppy paint application, especially where different colors meet, can be a sign of a fake.
- Box and Label: The box quality, color, and texture should be correct. The label on the box should have accurate font, sizing information, and product code (308497-117 for the 2017 Motorsport). Misspellings or incorrect fonts are red flags.
- Insole Logo: Check the Nike Air or Jumpman logo on the insole for correct font, placement, and quality. It can wear off with use, but on a new pair, it should be pristine.
When in doubt, consider using a professional authentication service or purchasing from platforms that guarantee authenticity.
Conclusion
The Air Jordan 4 Motorsport is a really cool shoe, but it’s old, so it’s hard to find in regular stores and can cost a lot of money. It’s smart to look at different websites to see who has the best price. You need to be careful to buy real ones and not fakes, so look at the shoe closely for good quality. If you really want these sneakers, save up your money and be smart about where you buy them to get a fair deal.
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