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Air Jordan 4 Craft “Photon Dust”: Price Check & Deals Guide
Introduction
The Air Jordan 4 Craft ‘Photon Dust’ DV3742-021 showcases a nuanced color palette and premium materials, elevating the iconic silhouette. This particular model reimagines the classic with an emphasis on refined textures like suede and leather, and subtle detailing, making it a sought-after piece for collectors and casual wearers alike. Given the popularity of Air Jordans, price comparison is crucial for sneaker enthusiasts looking to secure a pair at the best possible value, whether at retail or on the resale market, especially for a release as clean as the “Photon Dust.”
Retailer Comparison
The Air Jordan 4 Craft “Photon Dust” was officially released with a retail price of $210 USD. Upon its launch, primary retailers included:
- Nike SNKRS App
- Foot Locker
- Finish Line
- JD Sports
- Various boutique sneaker stores (e.g., Kith, Concepts, A Ma Maniere – though availability varies widely)
As of now, being a past release, these sneakers are largely sold out at these standard retail outlets. Occasionally, a surprise restock might occur, but this is rare. Therefore, most prospective buyers will need to turn to the resale market.
Resale Market Analysis
The resale market is where the Air Jordan 4 Craft “Photon Dust” is most readily available. Prices here are dynamic and influenced by supply, demand, size, and condition.
- StockX: Prices generally fluctuate between $230 to $350 depending on the size. Smaller and larger sizes often command a premium. StockX includes an authentication service.
- GOAT: Similar to StockX, prices for new pairs typically range from $240 to $380. GOAT also offers authentication for new and used pairs. Used pairs can be found for less, depending on condition.
- eBay: A wider spectrum of prices can be found on eBay. You might find listings from individual sellers slightly lower than StockX/GOAT, but also higher. Authentication (eBay Authenticity Guarantee) is available for many sneaker sales, which is highly recommended. Prices can range from $220 to $400+.
Factors Affecting Resale Prices:
- Size: Popular sizes (US 8-11) often have more stable pricing, while less common or highly demanded sizes (e.g., US 12+ or smaller women’s sizes converted) can be more expensive.
- Condition: Deadstock (DS) – brand new, unworn, with original box – will fetch the highest prices. Used pairs will vary significantly based on wear and tear.
- Hype & Popularity: The “Craft” series and the clean “Photon Dust” colorway have maintained good popularity, keeping demand steady.
- Seller Reputation: Established resellers with strong positive feedback may price slightly higher due to the trust factor.
Tips for Finding Deals
Securing the Air Jordan 4 Craft “Photon Dust” at the best price requires patience and strategy:
- Set Price Alerts: Use features on StockX, GOAT, or eBay to get notified if the price drops to your desired level.
- Monitor Fluctuations: Sneaker prices aren’t static. Check regularly, as prices can dip, especially a few months after the initial hype.
- Consider Used or VNDS: If you don’t mind a shoe that’s been lightly worn (Very Near Deadstock – VNDS) or gently used, you can save a significant amount. Ensure the seller provides detailed photos.
- Follow Sneaker Influencers & Deal Accounts: Some social media accounts specialize in announcing restocks or price drops.
- Local Consignment Shops: Check local sneaker consignment stores. You might find a fair price, and you can inspect the shoe in person.
- Be Wary of “Too Good To Be True” Deals: Extremely low prices, especially from unknown sellers or sketchy websites, are often indicative of fakes.
- Wait for Sales/Promos: Resale platforms occasionally offer discount codes or promotional events (e.g., eBay sometimes has sitewide coupons).
Authenticity Guide: Spotting Fakes
With high-value sneakers, fakes are unfortunately common. Here are key areas to inspect on the Air Jordan 4 Craft “Photon Dust”:
- Box and Label:
- The box should be sturdy, with correct colors and font for the Air Jordan 4 packaging.
- The label on the box should have accurate information (style code DV3742-021, size, colorway, barcode). Compare fonts and spacing with confirmed authentic pairs.
- Material Quality:
- The “Photon Dust” features premium suede and leather. The suede should feel soft and have a noticeable texture. Leather should feel supple. Fakes often use cheaper, stiffer materials.
- Stitching:
- Authentic pairs have neat, consistent, and tight stitching throughout. Look for loose threads, uneven lines, or double stitching in odd places on fakes.
- Jumpman Logo:
- Tongue: The Jumpman logo should be well-defined with clear fingers and shoe laces. Proportions are key. The “Flight” script underneath should be clean.
- Heel: The Jumpman on the heel tab should also be well-proportioned and cleanly molded.
- Tongue Tag (Interior):
- Check the text and font on the backside of the tongue tag. Details like the “AIR JORDAN” text should be sharp.
- Overall Shape and Proportions:
- Familiarize yourself with the distinct silhouette of the Air Jordan 4. Fakes often get the toe box shape, heel height, or overall stance wrong. The netting on the sides should be properly aligned and made of quality material.
- Insole:
- The print on the insole (Jumpman logo) should be crisp and durable. On fakes, it might rub off easily.
- Smell:
- Authentic Nikes have a particular factory glue smell. Replicas often have a strong, unpleasant chemical odor.
- Price:
- If the price is significantly below market value for a new pair, it’s a major red flag.
- Source:
- Always buy from reputable sellers or platforms that offer authentication services (StockX, GOAT, eBay Authenticity Guarantee).
Conclusion
So, you want the Air Jordan 4 Craft Photon Dust? They cost $210 in stores when they first came out. Now, you’ll mostly find them online on cool sites like StockX or GOAT. The price can change a lot, and some shoe sizes cost more than others. It’s super important to make sure you buy real ones and not fakes! Look closely at the box, how the shoe is sewn, and the famous Jumpman picture. If a price seems way too cheap, it might be a fake shoe. Have fun looking, and good luck getting your awesome sneakers!
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