“`html

Air Jordan 4 Motorsports: Price Check, Deals, and How to Cop Legit

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. Sneaker News mentions, “the Air Jordan 4 “Motorsport” was created to celebrate the 4th Anniversary of Michael Jordan’s Motorsport Racing Team and was given to the 16 members of the team.” While a friends & family version existed earlier, the 2017 release brought this clean colorway to the public. With its popularity and aftermarket status, prices can vary wildly, making it crucial to compare options before you buy.

Retailer Comparison

Originally released in March 2017, the Air Jordan 4 Motorsports had a retail price of approximately $190 USD. As a release from several years ago, these sneakers are long sold out at traditional retailers like Nike, Foot Locker, Finish Line, and other official Jordan Brand stockists. This means that if you’re looking to purchase a pair today, your primary avenue will be the resale market.

Resale Market Analysis

The Air Jordan 4 Motorsports commands a significant price on resale platforms due to its popularity and classic colorway. Here’s a general look at what you might expect:

• StockX: Prices for new, deadstock pairs typically range from $400 to $650+, depending heavily on size. The 12-month trade range, according to StockX data, has seen prices fluctuate, with an average sale price often sitting around the $450-$550 mark.
• GOAT: Similar to StockX, new pairs on GOAT are listed from around $420 to $700+. Used pairs can be found starting from approximately $250 to $450, depending on condition and size.
• eBay: Prices on eBay are more varied. You might find new authenticated pairs from reputable sellers in a similar range to StockX and GOAT. Used pairs can sometimes be found for slightly less, but always verify seller reputation and authenticity.

Several factors influence these prices:

• Size: Less common sizes (very small or very large) can sometimes command higher prices, while more common sizes might have more availability and slightly more competitive pricing.
• Condition: Deadstock (DS) pairs – brand new, unworn, with original box and all accessories – will always be the most expensive. Used pairs will depreciate based on wear, tear, and whether they come with the original box.
• Authenticity Verification: Platforms like StockX and GOAT include authentication in their process, which adds a layer of security and can justify higher prices compared to unverified private sales.
• Market Demand & Hype: While not the rarest Jordan 4, its clean white, blue, and black colorway maintains consistent demand among collectors and casual wearers alike.

Tips for Finding Deals

Finding a “deal” on a hyped sneaker like the Air Jordan 4 Motorsports can be challenging, but here are some tips:

• Be Patient: Prices fluctuate. Monitor listings on various platforms if you’re not in a rush. You might catch a seller looking for a quick sale.
• Consider Used: If you don’t need a pristine, deadstock pair, a lightly used pair in good condition can save you a significant amount of money. Ensure you see detailed photos and descriptions.
• Negotiate (Where Possible): On platforms like eBay or in private sales (e.g., Facebook groups, sneaker conventions), sellers may be open to reasonable offers.
• Check Local Sneaker Consignment Shops: Sometimes, local shops might have a pair at a competitive price, and you can inspect them in person.
• Beware of Scams:
  • If a price seems too good to be true, it almost certainly is. Extremely low prices are a major red flag for fakes.
  • Only buy from reputable sellers with strong positive feedback and a history of selling authentic sneakers.
  • When buying from private sellers, use secure payment methods like PayPal Goods & Services, which offers buyer protection. Avoid direct bank transfers or methods like Zelle or Venmo with strangers.
  • Ask for tagged pictures (seller’s name and date written on a piece of paper next to the shoes) to ensure they have the item in hand.

Authenticity Guide

Spotting fake Air Jordan 4s, including the Motorsports colorway, requires attention to detail. Here are some key areas to check:

• Overall Shape & Proportions: Authentic Air Jordan 4s have a distinct silhouette. Fakes often have a bulky or misshapen toe box, incorrect heel shape, or an overall “off” look. Compare with photos of confirmed authentic pairs.
• Stitching Quality: Nike’s quality control is generally high. Authentic pairs will have neat, consistent, and tight stitching. Look for sloppy, uneven, or frayed stitching on fakes.
• Jumpman Logo:
  • Tongue:** The Jumpman logo on the tongue tag should be well-defined with clear proportions. Fakes often have a “lumpy” Jumpman, incorrect finger details, or a “lollipop” hand (round palm). The “Flight” script should also be clean.
  • Heel:** The Jumpman on the heel tab should also be crisp.
• Netting: The plastic netting on the side panels and at the base of the tongue should be properly angled, firm, and have consistent spacing. Fakes might use flimsy material or have incorrectly sized or angled netting.
• Tongue Height and Padding: The tongue on an authentic AJ4 is well-padded and stands tall. Fakes may have a shorter, thinner, or poorly shaped tongue.
• Air Unit: The visible Air unit in the heel should be clear, properly inflated, and the correct color. Fakes can have cloudy, deflated, or misshapen air units.
• Box & Label:
  • Compare the box label details (style code, size, font, spacing) with online images of authentic labels for the Air Jordan 4 Motorsports (Style Code: 308497-117).
  • The box construction itself should be sturdy.
• Smell: Authentic Nikes have a distinct factory glue smell. A strong, overpowering chemical smell can be a red flag for fakes.
• Insole and Footbed: Check the printing on the insole and the stitching underneath it. These details are often overlooked on fakes.