Air Jordan 4 Columbia: Price Check & How to Cop a Legit Pair

The Air Jordan 4 ‘Columbia’ first graced shelves in 1999, marking one of the initial Retro+ colorways that ventured beyond the original 1989 palette. It was later re-released in 2015, rebranded as the ‘Legend Blue,’ maintaining its clean white leather upper with Columbia Blue accents. For sneaker enthusiasts eager to add this classic to their collection, price comparison is crucial as costs can vary significantly across different platforms, making it important to know where to look and what to expect.

Retailer Comparison

Originally, the 2015 Air Jordan 4 ‘Legend Blue’ (Columbia) retailed for around $190. However, as a highly sought-after release from years past, finding these sneakers at standard retail stores like Foot Locker, Finish Line, or Nike.com for their original price is no longer possible. They are completely sold out through official retail channels. This means your primary avenue for purchasing will be the resale market.

Resale Market Analysis

The Air Jordan 4 Columbia primarily lives on the resale market. Here’s where you’ll typically find them and what influences their price:

* **StockX:** Prices for deadstock (brand new, unworn, with original box) pairs typically range from **$350 to $600+**. The exact price heavily depends on the shoe size, with very common or very rare sizes sometimes fetching higher prices. Market demand also causes fluctuations.
* **GOAT:** Similar to StockX, GOAT lists new pairs generally between **$380 and $650+**. They also offer used pairs, which can be significantly cheaper, often starting around $200-$250 depending on condition.
* **eBay:** eBay presents a wider spectrum. You might find new pairs listed anywhere from **$300 to $700+**, and used pairs can vary even more wildly. Vigilance is key on eBay to ensure authenticity and seller reputation. Look for sellers with high ratings and detailed photos.

**Factors Affecting Resale Prices:**

* **Condition:** Deadstock (DS) pairs command the highest prices. VNDS (Very Near Deadstock), gently used, and visibly worn pairs will see progressively lower prices.
* **Size:** Popular sizes (e.g., US 8-12) can sometimes be more competitive, while very small or very large sizes might have different price dynamics.
* **Original Box & Accessories:** Having the original box, hangtags, and any included accessories (like a retro card, if applicable) increases the value.
* **Authenticity Verification:** Platforms like StockX and GOAT include an authentication service, which can provide peace of mind and support their price points.
* **Seller Reputation:** On platforms like eBay, sellers with established positive feedback often price their items slightly higher.

Tips for Finding Deals

Securing a pair of Air Jordan 4 Columbias without overpaying requires patience and strategy:

* **Monitor Prices:** Keep an eye on platforms like StockX and GOAT using their price history charts to understand market trends. Set price alerts if possible.
* **Consider Used Condition:** If you’re okay with pre-owned sneakers, you can often find pairs in excellent condition for significantly less than deadstock. Ensure you see clear photos of any wear.
* **Local Sneaker Groups & Consignment Shops:** Check local Facebook sneaker groups, sneaker conventions, or consignment stores. You might find a motivated seller or an opportunity to trade. Deals can sometimes be found offline, but always prioritize safety and authenticity.
* **Be Patient:** Prices can fluctuate. Don’t rush into a purchase if the current market price seems too high for your budget. Sometimes, waiting can pay off.
* **Look for “Best Offer” Options:** On eBay, some sellers allow buyers to make an offer, which could lead to a lower price.
* **Beware of “Too Good To Be True”:** If a price seems exceptionally low compared to the market average, especially for a new pair, it’s often a red flag for a counterfeit product or a scam.

Authenticity Guide: How to Spot Fake Air Jordan 4 Columbias

With high resale values, the market is unfortunately flooded with fakes. Here are some key areas to check when authenticating Air Jordan 4s:

1. **Overall Shape & Proportions:**
* Authentic AJ4s have a distinct silhouette. The toe box should have a gradual slope, not be too boxy or too slim.
* The heel bump should be present and correctly shaped.

2. **Stitching Quality:**
* Genuine pairs feature neat, consistent, and tight stitching throughout the shoe.
* Sloppy, frayed, or uneven stitching is a common sign of a fake.

3. **Tongue Tag & Jumpman Logo:**
* The “Flight” script on the tongue tag should be clean and well-defined.
* The Jumpman logo on the tongue should have correct proportions (no “lollipop” head, fingers should be distinguishable). The stitching around it should be neat.
* The back of the tongue usually has an upside-down “AIR JORDAN” tag; check its font and stitching.

4. **Heel Tab Jumpman/Nike Air:**
* For the Columbia/Legend Blue retro, it features a Jumpman on the heel.
* Ensure the Jumpman is well-molded, with good definition and correct proportions.

5. **Netting:**
* The plastic netting on the side panels and at the base of the tongue should be properly aligned and have a quality feel. On fakes, it can be too flimsy or misaligned.

6. **Leather Quality:**
* The 2015 retro used a tumbled leather. It should feel reasonably supple and have a nice texture. Fakes often use cheaper, stiffer, or overly plastic-feeling materials.

7. **Midsole Paint & Air Unit:**
* Paint lines on the midsole should be crisp.
* The Air unit should be clear and correctly sized.

8. **Box and Label:**
* The shoebox should be sturdy, with correct branding and colors.
* The box label is crucial. Check the style code (314254-107 for the 2015 Legend Blue/Columbia), colorway name, sizing information, and barcode. Compare the font and layout to images of genuine labels online.

9. **Smell:**
* Authentic Nike sneakers have a distinct factory glue smell. Fakes often have a strong, overpowering chemical odor.

When in doubt, consult online legit check guides with detailed comparison photos or use a professional authentication service.

Conclusion

Getting Air Jordan 4 Columbia sneakers is cool! But, they can cost a lot of money. It’s smart to check prices in different places like online shops. Always be careful to buy real ones, not fakes. If you look hard, you might find a good deal for these awesome shoes!
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