Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon: Price Check & Finding Your Pair

The Air Jordan 4 “Mars Blackmon,” often linked to the iconic “Fire Red” colorway featuring Spike Lee’s character on the heel, is a legendary sneaker first hitting shelves in 1989 and seeing retro releases, notably in 2006 and 2012. As Sneaker News notes, “the Air Jordan 4 is one of the most popular Jordan Brand models on the market.” With such popularity, understanding its price landscape is crucial. Price comparison is essential because “sneaker prices can vary significantly between retailers and resale platforms,” ensuring you get the best value for these coveted kicks.

Retailer Comparison: The Original Price Tag

Originally, the Air Jordan 4 silhouette retailed for $110 back in 1989. The 2012 “Mars Blackmon” (Fire Red with Mars logo) retro had a retail price of around **$160**.

It’s important to understand that these sneakers are no longer available at their original retail price from primary retailers like Nike, Foot Locker, or Finish Line. Any pair you find now will be through the resale market. When they were available at retail, prices would have been consistent across authorized sellers, with minor variations perhaps due to regional taxes or occasional store-specific promotions (which would have been rare for such a hyped release).

Resale Market Analysis: Where the Action Is

The Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon, particularly the 2012 retro, primarily trades on resale platforms. Prices here fluctuate significantly based on several factors:

* **Condition:** Deadstock (DS) or brand new, in-box pairs command the highest prices. Used pairs will vary based on wear and tear.
* **Size:** More common sizes might have slightly lower prices due to more availability, while very small or very large sizes can sometimes be pricier.
* **Platform:**
* **StockX:** As of late 2023 / early 2024, prices for the 2012 Air Jordan 4 Retro ‘Mars’ (Fire Red) typically range from **$350 to $700+**, depending on size and recent sales. The average sale price often hovers around $450-$550.
* **GOAT:** Prices are comparable to StockX, with new pairs often listed between **$400 and $750+**. Used pairs can be found for less, sometimes starting around $250-$300 depending on condition.
* **eBay:** eBay shows a wider range due to individual sellers and auction formats. You might find pairs from **$300 (for used or less popular sizes) up to $800+** for pristine, well-documented pairs. Authenticity Guarantee helps, but vigilance is still key.

**Factors Affecting Resale Prices:**

* **Hype & Nostalgia:** The “Mars Blackmon” connection and the iconic status of the AJ4 keep demand high.
* **Scarcity:** Being an older retro, fewer deadstock pairs remain.
* **Seller Reputation:** Established sellers with positive feedback can often command slightly higher prices.
* **Market Trends:** Overall sneaker market fluctuations can impact specific models.

*Disclaimer: Prices on resale markets are highly volatile and can change daily. The prices listed are estimates based on recent data and should be used as a general guide.*

Tips for Finding Deals

Scoring a deal on a classic like the Mars Blackmon AJ4 requires patience and strategy:

1. **Compare Across Platforms:** Don’t just check one site. Prices for the same size and condition can vary.
2. **Monitor Price History:** Sites like StockX show historical sales data. This can help you understand if a current price is high, low, or average.
3. **Consider Used:** If you plan to wear them, a gently used pair in good condition can save you a significant amount. Look for detailed photos and descriptions.
4. **Set Price Alerts:** Some platforms allow you to set alerts for when a shoe hits your desired price point.
5. **Look for “Best Offer” Options:** On eBay, some sellers accept offers, giving you a chance to negotiate.
6. **Be Wary of “Too Good To Be True”:** Extremely low prices on rare sneakers are often a red flag for fakes.
7. **Factor in Fees:** Remember to include platform fees, shipping, and potential import taxes in your final cost.

Authenticity Guide: Spotting Fakes

The Air Jordan 4 is heavily counterfeited. Here are key things to check:

* **Overall Shape & Stance:** Authentic AJ4s have a distinct shape, especially the toe box and heel. Fakes often look bulky or misshapen.
* **Stitching Quality:** Nike’s stitching is generally neat and consistent. Sloppy, uneven, or frayed stitching is a warning sign.
* **Jumpman Logo:** Examine the Jumpman on the tongue and heel (if applicable, though the Mars version has Nike Air or the Mars logo on the heel). Proportions, fingers, and the ball should be well-defined.
* **Mars Blackmon Logo (Heel):** For this specific version, the Mars logo should be clear, well-defined, and correctly proportioned. Low-quality prints or poorly molded logos are red flags.
* **Netting:** The plastic netting on the sides and lower tongue should be properly cut and aligned. On fakes, it can be flimsy or poorly attached.
* **Tongue Tag:** Check the “Flight” script and the Air Jordan lettering. Fonts, spacing, and stitching quality are crucial.
* **Insole:** The print on the insole (Nike Air logo) should be crisp. Check the stitching underneath the insole if possible.
* **Box and Label:** The box quality, label font, UPC code, and style number should match official releases. Compare with images of authentic boxes online.
* **Smell:** A strong chemical or glue smell can sometimes indicate a fake, though this isn’t definitive.

When in doubt, use authentication services offered by platforms like eBay (Authenticity Guarantee) or GOAT, or get a second opinion from online sneaker communities.

Conclusion

The Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon is a super cool shoe from a long time ago. You can’t find it in normal shoe stores now. You have to look online where people sell old sneakers, like StockX or GOAT. The price can be a lot or a little less, it changes. Always check to make sure the shoe is real and not a fake. If you’re not sure, ask a grown-up to help you look. Good luck finding your awesome Jordans!
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