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Air Jordan 4 Purple Metallic: Finding Your Pair at the Right Price
The Air Jordan 4 “Purple Metallic” is a clean and coveted sneaker that dropped as part of the “Metallic Pack” in Spring/Summer 2020, drawing inspiration from an original Air Jordan 1 colorway from 1985. The Air Jordan 4 Retro ‘Purple Metallic’ showcases a simple two-tone color scheme on the classic mid-top silhouette. Given its popularity and the nature of limited-edition sneaker releases, understanding where to buy and what to pay is crucial, making price comparison more important than ever for savvy shoppers.
Retailer Comparison
The Air Jordan 4 “Purple Metallic” was initially released with a retail price of approximately $190 USD. Major retailers like Nike, Foot Locker, Finish Line, and select sneaker boutiques would have carried them upon release. However, being a 2020 release, finding these sneakers at their original retail price from these primary retailers is now virtually impossible. Most stock was depleted quickly upon launch. Any remaining “retail” availability would likely be through smaller, independent boutiques that might have deadstock pairs, but these would typically be priced closer to current market resale values rather than the original MSRP.
Resale Market Analysis
The Air Jordan 4 “Purple Metallic” is now predominantly available on resale platforms. Prices here fluctuate significantly based on several factors:
- StockX: Prices typically range from $350 to $600+ depending on size and current demand. The platform offers authentication services, which adds a layer of trust.
- GOAT: Similar to StockX, GOAT lists new and used pairs. New pairs generally fall within the $380 to $650+ range. Used pairs can be found for less, but condition varies greatly. GOAT also provides authentication.
- eBay: A wider range of prices can be found on eBay, from potentially lower deals to significantly higher asks. Prices might be anywhere from $300 (for used or less popular sizes) to over $700. Authenticity Guarantee is available for many sneaker sales, which is crucial here.
Factors affecting resale prices:
- Size: More common sizes often have more availability and slightly more competitive pricing, while very small or very large sizes can sometimes command higher premiums.
- Condition: Deadstock (DS) or brand new in box (BNIB) pairs fetch the highest prices. Used pairs vary based on wear and tear.
- Authenticity: Verified authentic pairs from reputable sellers or platforms are priced higher.
- Hype and Rarity: While part of a pack, this colorway remains popular, keeping demand relatively steady.
- Seller Reputation: Established sellers with good feedback can often command slightly higher prices.
Tips for Finding Deals
Securing the Air Jordan 4 “Purple Metallic” at the best possible price requires patience and strategy:
- Monitor Resale Sites Regularly: Prices fluctuate. Use price tracking features if available, or check frequently.
- Consider Used Pairs: If you don’t mind a slightly worn pair, you can often find significant savings on platforms like GOAT or eBay. Ensure you check photos and descriptions carefully.
- Look for Auctions: On eBay, auction-style listings can sometimes result in a lower price than “Buy It Now” options, though this is not guaranteed.
- Beware of “Too Good To Be True” Prices: Extremely low prices, especially for new pairs, are often a red flag for fakes.
- Factor in Fees: Remember to include authentication fees, shipping costs, and potential import duties (if buying internationally) when comparing prices.
- Follow Sneaker Accounts: While less likely for an older release, sometimes deals or lesser-known sellers are highlighted by sneaker communities or influencers.
Authenticity Guide
Spotting fake Air Jordan 4s, including the “Purple Metallic,” is key to not getting scammed. Here are some general pointers:
- Box and Label: Check the box quality, the printing on the label (font, spacing, SKU: CT8527-115), and the overall presentation. Fakes often have flimsy boxes and poorly printed labels.
- Overall Shape and Proportions: Familiarize yourself with the correct silhouette of an Air Jordan 4. Fakes can have an off shape, especially around the toe box or heel.
- Stitching: Authentic pairs have neat, consistent, and high-quality stitching. Look for sloppy, uneven, or frayed stitching on fakes.
- Tongue Tag: Examine the Jumpman logo and “Flight” script on the tongue. The proportions of the Jumpman and the quality of the embroidery are often giveaways. The underside of the tongue tag (“AIR JORDAN”) should also be cleanly stitched.
- Netting: The plastic netting on the side panels and lower tongue should be properly aligned and have a quality feel. On fakes, it might be too rigid or flimsy, and the angle can be off.
- Heel Tab: The Jumpman logo on the heel tab should be well-defined. The pull tab itself should be sturdy.
- Midsole Paint Job: Look for clean paint lines on the midsole. Smudged or sloppy paint can indicate a fake.
- Smell: Authentic Nikes have a distinct factory smell. If the shoes have an overly strong chemical or glue smell, it could be a red flag.
- Insole: Check the logo on the insole and the stitching underneath if possible.
When in doubt, use professional authentication services offered by platforms like StockX and GOAT, or consult online sneaker communities for a legit check.
Conclusion
The Air Jordan 4 Purple Metallic is a really cool shoe that lots of people want. Because it’s not new in regular stores anymore, it costs more money now, maybe $350 to $600 or even more. Look at different online shops like StockX, GOAT, or eBay to see who has the best price for your size. Always be careful to make sure you are buying real ones and not fakes. If you really want them, keep looking and be smart about where you buy them from!
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