Air Jordan 4 Motorsports: Price Check & Buyer’s Guide

The Air Jordan 4 Retro ‘Motorsports’ is a 2017 retro release that brings back a coveted colorway, inspired by Michael Jordan’s passion for motorcycle racing. Originally created exclusively for the Michael Jordan Motorsports racing team in 2006, this version finally gave fans a chance to own a piece of that history. When hunting for iconic sneakers like these, comparing prices across different platforms is essential to ensure you’re getting a fair deal and an authentic pair.

Where to Buy: Resale Platform Price Comparison

Since the Air Jordan 4 Motorsports was released in March 2017 (and an “Alternate Motorsports” version in June 2017), it’s no longer available at traditional retail stores for its original price of around $190. You’ll primarily find them on resale markets. Here’s a look at what you might expect (prices vary greatly based on size, condition, and seller, and are subject to market fluctuations):

StockX: For the primary “Motorsports” (White/Game Royal-Black, Style Code: 308497-117), prices for new pairs typically range from $400 to $600+, depending on size. The “Alternate Motorsports” (Black/Game Royal-Matte Silver-White, Style Code: 308497-006) tends to be slightly less, often in the $300 to $500+ range.
GOAT: Similar to StockX, with prices for new “Motorsports” pairs often in the $450 to $650+ range. Used pairs can be found for less, starting from around $250-$300 depending on condition. The “Alternate” version also follows a similar pattern, slightly lower than the primary.
eBay: A wider spectrum of prices here. You might find new “Motorsports” from reputable sellers ranging from $400 to $700+. Used pairs can vary significantly, potentially from $200 upwards. Exercise extreme caution and buy only from highly-rated sellers with clear photos and authenticity guarantees if possible.
Flight Club/Stadium Goods: These consignment stores usually have higher prices due to their instant availability, physical stores, and pre-authentication services. Expect “Motorsports” to be in the $500 – $800+ range, sometimes higher for rarer sizes.

Note: Prices are estimates based on recent data (as of late 2023/early 2024) and can change daily. Always check the platforms directly for the most current pricing for your specific size and desired condition.

Understanding Resale Market Prices

Several factors influence the price of the Air Jordan 4 Motorsports on the resale market:

Condition: “Deadstock” (DS) or brand new, unworn pairs with the original box command the highest prices. Used pairs will be cheaper, with the price decreasing based on the level of wear and tear.
Size: Common sizes (US 8-11) often have more availability but also steady demand. Very small or very large sizes can sometimes be rarer and thus more expensive, or conversely, less in demand and cheaper.
Authenticity & Seller Reputation: Verified authentic pairs from reputable sellers or platforms with robust authentication processes (like StockX and GOAT) are generally more expensive but offer greater peace of mind.
Hype and Rarity: While this was a general release (GR) in 2017, its connection to the original, extremely rare Player Exclusive (PE) for the Motorsports team and the overall popularity of the Air Jordan 4 model keep demand consistent.
Original Box and Accessories: Having the original box, hangtag (if applicable), and any other included accessories in good condition adds value.
Market Fluctuations: Sneaker prices can act like stocks, rising and falling based on overall market trends, news, or re-releases of similar models.

Tips for Scoring the Best Deal

Set Price Alerts: Platforms like StockX and GOAT allow you to “Bid” or set price alerts for your desired size, notifying you if a seller lists at your price or if the market price drops.
Be Patient: Sneaker prices can fluctuate. If you’re not in a rush, monitor prices for a while; you might catch a dip.
Consider Used Pairs: If you don’t mind a lightly worn pair (VNDS – Very Near Deadstock, or even well-maintained used), you can save significant money. Always ask for detailed photos from multiple angles.
Follow Sneaker Accounts & Communities: Some social media accounts, subreddits (like r/Sneakers), or forums share information about deals or price drops on resale sites.
Compare Across Platforms: Don’t just check one site. Prices for the same shoe in the same condition can vary between StockX, GOAT, and eBay.
Look for Local Sneaker Groups: Facebook groups or local sneaker conventions can sometimes offer opportunities for face-to-face transactions, potentially saving on fees and shipping (but always prioritize safety and authenticity checks).
Beware of “Too Good to Be True” Deals: Extremely low prices, especially for a new pair, are often a major red flag for fakes or scams. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Spotting Fakes: A Quick Authenticity Guide

Protect yourself from counterfeits. The Air Jordan 4 is a commonly faked model. Here are some general things to look out for on the “Motorsports” colorway:

Box and Label: Check the box quality, color, and texture. The label details (style code: 308497-117, UPC, size, font, spacing) should be accurate and match official releases. Fakes often have flimsy boxes or incorrect label fonts.
Overall Shape (Silhouette): Authentic AJ4s have a distinct shape, especially the toe box and heel. Fakes often get this wrong, appearing too bulky or misshapen. Compare with verified photos online.
Stitching: Genuine Jordans have clean, consistent, and high-quality stitching. Messy, frayed, or uneven stitching is a common sign of a fake.
Tongue Tag: The “Flight” script and the Jumpman logo on the tongue tag should be well-defined, with correct proportions. The stitching around the tag should be neat.
Heel Tab Jumpman: The Jumpman logo on the heel tab should be crisp, well-proportioned, and deeply embossed/molded. Fakes may have a “flat” or poorly defined Jumpman. The tab itself should feel sturdy.
Netting: The plastic netting on the side panels and at the base of the tongue should be properly cut and aligned. On fakes, the netting might be too stiff, too flimsy, or have incorrectly sized holes.
Materials: The leather quality on an authentic pair should feel premium. Fakes often use cheaper, synthetic-feeling materials. The blue accents should be the correct shade of “Game Royal.”
Smell: Authentic Nikes usually have a specific factory smell. A strong, overpowering chemical or glue smell can be an indicator of a counterfeit.
Insole: Check the logo print on the insole (Jumpman or Nike Air, depending on the specific AJ4 release – for Motorsports, it’s a Jumpman). It shouldn’t rub off too easily. The insole itself should be well-cut.

When in doubt, consider using a professional authentication service or stick to purchasing from highly reputable platforms that offer an authenticity guarantee.

Final Thoughts

The Air Jordan 4 Motorsports is a cool shoe with a racing story. It costs more now because it’s not new in stores. You can find it on websites like StockX or GOAT. Always check different sites to see the prices. Be super careful about fake shoes. Look at the shoe’s box, the stitching, and the little details. If a price is too low, it might be a fake. If you want a good deal, look around and be smart. Getting cool sneakers is fun, but always be safe when you buy them online!

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