Air Jordan 4 Fire Red: Price Comparison & Deals Guide
The Air Jordan 4 “Fire Red” is one of the original and most beloved colorways of Michael Jordan’s fourth signature shoe, first released in 1989 and retroed several times since, including a highly anticipated 2020 version with the “Nike Air” branding on the heel. Finding the best price for these iconic kicks can save you a lot of money, so understanding the market is crucial before you make a purchase.
Retailer Comparison: The Original Price Point
When the Air Jordan 4 “Fire Red” (2020) was released, its official retail price was typically $200-$220 USD for adult sizes. Major retailers that stocked this release included:
- Nike SNKRS App
- Foot Locker
- Champs Sports
- Finish Line
- JD Sports
- Select boutique sneaker stores
However, due to high demand and limited supply, these sneakers sold out almost instantly at retail. Finding them at their original retail price today is extremely rare, unless a surprise restock occurs, which is uncommon for such a popular model long after its release date.
Resale Market Analysis: What Are They Worth Now?
The resale market is where most people will now look to acquire a pair of Air Jordan 4 “Fire Reds.” Prices here are dictated by supply and demand, condition, size, and authenticity verification.
Key Resale Platforms:
- StockX: Prices for a new/deadstock pair of the 2020 Air Jordan 4 “Fire Red” typically range from $350 to $550+, depending on size. Smaller or very large sizes can sometimes be more expensive due to rarity.
- GOAT: Similar to StockX, prices for new pairs are in the $380 to $600+ range. GOAT also offers used pairs, which can be found for slightly less, starting around $250-$300 depending on condition.
- eBay: Prices vary widely on eBay. You might find new pairs from reputable sellers with Authenticity Guarantee in the $370-$580 range. Used pairs can be found for less, but diligence is required.
Factors Affecting Resale Price:
- Condition: Brand new (deadstock) with original box commands the highest price. Used pairs depreciate based on wear.
- Size: Common sizes (US 8-11) have high demand, but sometimes very small or very large sizes can be pricier due to lower production numbers.
- Authenticity: Verified authentic pairs from platforms like StockX, GOAT, or eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee program are trusted and fetch higher prices.
- Release Year: The 2020 “Nike Air” heel tab version is particularly sought after. Older retros (e.g., 2012 with Jumpman on heel) might have different price points.
Tips for Finding Deals
- Be Patient and Monitor Prices: Resale prices can fluctuate. Use platform features to track price history.
- Consider Used Pairs: If you don’t mind a gently worn pair, you can save a significant amount. Ensure you check photos and descriptions carefully.
- Look for Local Sneaker Groups: Facebook groups or local meetups can sometimes offer better deals, but carry higher risk if not dealing with trusted members.
- Check Reputable Consignment Shops: Some physical consignment stores might have pairs, allowing you to inspect them in person.
- Beware of “Too Good To Be True” Prices: Extremely low prices often indicate fakes or scams. Stick to platforms with buyer protection and authentication.
- Set Price Alerts: Many resale platforms allow you to set alerts for when a shoe in your size hits a certain price point.
Authenticity Guide: How to Spot Fake Air Jordan 4 Fire Reds
With high resale values come counterfeits. Here are some general tips to help you spot fakes (specifically focusing on the 2020 retro):
- Box Label: Check the font, spacing, and information (style code, size, UPC) against official examples. Fakes often have sloppy printing.
- Overall Shape and Proportions: Fakes can have a clunky or incorrect silhouette. Compare with photos of authentic pairs. The toe box shape is a common giveaway.
- Stitching Quality: Authentic Jordans have neat, consistent stitching. Fakes often have messy, uneven, or loose threads.
- “Nike Air” on Heel: For the 2020 version, the “Nike Air” logo should be well-defined, correctly proportioned, and properly embossed/printed. The font and spacing are crucial.
- Tongue Tag: The “Flight” script and Jumpman logo should be crisp. The stitching around the tag should be clean. The reverse side of the tongue tag (“AIR JORDAN”) should also be neat.
- Netting: The plastic netting on the side panels and tongue should be correctly angled and have a quality feel. On fakes, it might be too stiff or flimsy, and the angle can be off.
- Material Quality: Authentic pairs use good quality leather. Fakes often use cheaper, plastic-feeling materials.
- Smell: Authentic Nikes have a distinct factory smell. Fakes often have a strong, unpleasant chemical odor due to cheaper glues and materials.
- Insole: Check the logo print on the insole and the stitching pattern underneath it.
When in doubt, use authentication services offered by resale platforms or consult online sneaker communities with detailed legit check guides.
Conclusion
Getting Air Jordan 4 Fire Reds is super cool, but they can cost a lot. New ones are hard to find cheap, so many people buy them from other sellers online. Always check if the shoes are real and not fakes. Look around for good prices and be smart so you don’t get tricked. Happy shoe hunting!
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