What I Really Think About Air Jordan 4 Fear
The Air Jordan 4 Fear has been sitting in my collection for years now, and I’ve got some thoughts to share. As someone who’s been collecting sneakers since before Instagram made it cool, these particular Jordans hold a special place in my rotation. Not just because they look good, but because they tell a story.
Released back in 2013, the Air Jordan 4 Fear was part of the “Fear Pack” that included the Jordan 3 and Jordan 5. The name itself comes from the marketing campaign “Look me in the eyes and tell me you can’t do it better.” Pretty bold statement, right?
The Design That Stands Out
The color scheme is what first catches your eye. A mix of black, white, cool grey, and that subtle touch of pale green on the outsole. Not flashy. Not trying too hard. Just right. The materials feel premium – that suede upper has held up surprisingly well over the years.
What makes this shoe different from other Jordan 4s is the balance it strikes. Dark enough to match with almost anything, but with enough character to stand out. The speckled details on the midsole and the wing eyelets add just the right amount of texture without going overboard.
Comfort: Better Than Expected
Let’s talk about how they feel on feet. Jordan 4s aren’t known for being the most comfortable silhouette in the Air Jordan line. That’s just facts. But the Fear 4s feel better than most. The cushioning has stayed responsive even after all these years.
For all-day wear? Maybe not my first choice. But for a few hours out? Absolutely fine. The padded collar helps prevent that stiffness around the ankle that some 4s are known for.
How They’ve Aged
One thing I appreciate about the Jordan 4 Fear is how well they’ve aged style-wise. While some sneakers from 2013 look dated now, these still feel current. The neutral color blocking has kept them relevant through changing trends.
The materials have held up too. No major cracking in the midsole (the downfall of many older Jordans). The suede still has life, though it needs a brush now and then to keep it looking fresh.
Value and Rarity
These weren’t the easiest to get when they dropped, and finding a clean pair now is even harder. Their value has gone up steadily – not the explosive growth of some hype releases, but a gradual appreciation that reflects their quality and limited availability.
For collectors focusing on Jordan 4s, the Fear is often mentioned as a must-have. Not quite at the level of the Bred or White Cement in terms of iconic status, but definitely in that next tier of highly respected colorways.
Final Thoughts
The Air Jordan 4 Fear represents what Jordan Brand does best when they’re not just pushing retros of the classics. It shows creativity while respecting the silhouette’s heritage. The colorway tells a story without relying on gimmicks or collaborations.
If you’re thinking about adding these to your collection, be prepared to pay above retail. But unlike many sneakers commanding premium prices these days, the Fear 4s justify their value through quality, wearability, and a design that continues to feel fresh years after release.
Not every sneaker stands the test of time. The Air Jordan 4 Fear has. And that’s about the highest praise I can give any shoe in my collection.