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Air Jordan 4 Cool Grey: Price Comparison and Deals Guide
The Air Jordan 4 “Cool Grey” is a highly sought-after sneaker known for its sleek, neutral colorway, first released in 2004 and later retroed in 2019. Its understated yet iconic design has made it a favorite among sneaker enthusiasts and casual wearers alike. When it comes to copping hyped sneakers like these, price comparison is crucial for sneakerheads looking to get the best value for their money and avoid overpaying.
Retailer Comparison
When the Air Jordan 4 “Cool Grey” last released in August 2019, its official retail price was $190 USD. Major authorized retailers like Nike (SNKRS app), Foot Locker, Finish Line, JD Sports, and select boutique sneaker stores stocked the shoe. However, due to its popularity, it sold out very quickly.
Currently, finding the Air Jordan 4 “Cool Grey” at its original retail price from these primary retailers is highly unlikely, as the stock was depleted upon release. Any “new” pairs available now are almost exclusively found on the resale market.
Resale Market Analysis
The resale market is where most people will now have to look to acquire a pair of Air Jordan 4 “Cool Grey” sneakers. Prices here are dictated by supply and demand, condition, and size.
- StockX: Prices for a new, deadstock pair of Air Jordan 4 “Cool Grey” (2019) typically range from $350 to over $600, depending on the shoe size. Smaller and very large sizes often command a premium. The platform authenticates sneakers before they are shipped to the buyer.
- GOAT: Similar to StockX, GOAT offers new and used pairs. New pairs generally align with StockX pricing, ranging from approximately $380 to $650+. Used pairs can be found for less, often starting around $250-$300, depending heavily on condition. GOAT also offers an authentication service.
- eBay: Prices on eBay can vary widely. You might find new pairs listed anywhere from $300 to $700+. It’s crucial to check seller ratings and look for eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee program for sneakers, which provides an extra layer of security. Used options are also plentiful, with prices depending on wear and tear.
Factors affecting resale prices:
- Size: Common sizes (US 8-11) may have more availability but also high demand. Less common or very popular sizes can be more expensive.
- Condition: Deadstock (brand new, unworn, with original box) commands the highest prices. Used pairs will vary significantly based on wear.
- Authenticity Guarantee: Listings with authentication services (like eBay’s or those inherent to StockX/GOAT) often provide more buyer confidence and can stabilize prices.
- Market Fluctuations: Sneaker prices can change based on trends, re-releases of similar colorways, or celebrity endorsements.
Tips for Finding Deals
Scoring a “deal” on a highly sought-after shoe like the Cool Grey 4s is relative, but here are some tips:
- Be Patient: Monitor prices across different platforms. Prices can fluctuate, and sometimes waiting can lead to a slightly better deal.
- Consider Used: If you don’t mind pre-owned sneakers, you can save a significant amount. Look for pairs in “very good” or “like new” condition with detailed photos.
- Check Local Consignment Shops: Physical sneaker consignment stores sometimes have competitive prices or unique finds.
- Follow Sneaker Accounts: Reputable sneaker news accounts on social media might occasionally highlight deals or restocks (though restocks for this model are rare now).
- Beware of “Too Good To Be True”: If a price seems drastically lower than the market average, especially for a new pair, it’s a major red flag for fakes.
- Negotiate (Where Possible): On platforms like eBay where you deal with individual sellers, or in local buy/sell/trade groups, there might be room for polite negotiation.
- Factor in Fees: Remember to include platform fees, shipping, and potential import duties (if buying internationally) into the final cost.
Authenticity Guide: How to Spot Fake Air Jordan 4 Cool Grey
With high resale values come counterfeit sneakers. Here are some general tips to help you spot fake Air Jordan 4s, including the “Cool Grey” colorway:
- Box and Label:
- Authentic boxes are sturdy. Check the label for correct font, spelling, style code (CT8527-005 for the 2019 Cool Grey), and size information. Compare it with images of genuine labels online.
- Stitching Quality:
- Real Jordans have neat, consistent, and high-quality stitching. Fakes often have sloppy, uneven, or frayed stitching.
- Shape and Proportions:
- Familiarize yourself with the overall silhouette of the Air Jordan 4. Fakes often have an incorrect toe box shape (too bulky or too flat), heel shape, or overall stance.
- Materials:
- The “Cool Grey” features a nubuck upper. Authentic nubuck has a distinct feel and quality. Fakes may use cheaper, inferior materials that look and feel off. The netting on the side panels and tongue should also be of good quality and correctly placed.
- Tongue Tag:
- The Jumpman logo and “Flight” script on the tongue tag should be well-defined and crisp. Check the proportions of the Jumpman. The stitching around the tag should be neat.
- Heel Tab:
- The Jumpman logo on the heel tab should be cleanly molded and well-proportioned. The pull tab itself should be sturdy.
- Insole and Footbed:
- Check the logo on the insole for correct font and placement. Sometimes, the stitching underneath the insole (on the footbed) can also be an indicator of authenticity (or lack thereof).
- Smell:
- Authentic Nike sneakers have a specific factory smell. Counterfeits often have a strong, unpleasant chemical or glue smell due to cheaper materials and manufacturing processes.
- Buy from Reputable Sources:
- The best way to avoid fakes is to buy from trusted platforms that offer authentication (StockX, GOAT, eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee) or highly reputable consignment stores.
When in doubt, seek a legit check from online sneaker communities or professional authentication services.
Conclusion
These Air Jordan 4 Cool Grey shoes are really cool, and lots of people want them. They cost a lot more now than when they first came out, so it’s important to look at different places to see all the prices. Always make sure the shoes are real and not fakes before you buy. Being smart and careful will help you get good shoes for a good price.
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