12 Ways to Spot Real vs. Fake Nike Air Jordan 4 Shoes

PDF download Download Article
Your complete guide for checking if your Jordan 4s are authentic
PDF download Download Article

Nike Air Jordan 4s are great sneakers to add to your collection, but many factories sell counterfeits to make a quick buck. Fake Jordans can be tough to spot, so we're here to explain how to tell if your Jordan 4s are real, from the label and logos to the stitching and soles. We'll also include warning signs that they’re fake so you learn how to spot a counterfeit pair of sneakers.

Things You Should Know

  • Check the 9-digit style number and UPC code on the box to see if it matches the one printed on the shoe’s label to tell if your shoes are authentic.
  • Look for bright, vibrant colors and high-quality leather and suede on legit Nikes. See if there is neat, even stitching around the soles and mesh panels.
  • Check the logos on the tongue and heel to see if they’re embossed with raised edges. Real Jordan logos have full, solid colors.
1

Shoe Box

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d9\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d9\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-1.jpg\/v4-728px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    info printed on the shoe box label. Air Jordan 4s come in a large, vibrantly-colored box, but the printed design depends on the color of your shoes. Real Jordan 4s have a label on one end of the box listing the size, style number, and UPC code. If all the info matches your shoes, then it’s a good sign you have the real deal. [1]
    • Counterfeit red flags: Small creased box, low-quality printing or design, mismatched or incomplete information on the label
    2. Advertisement
2

Inside Label

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7a\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/7a\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    a 9-digit style number and UPC that matches the box. The information label is typically inside of Jordan 4s. Check the text on the label for clear printing and consistent fonts. Compare the style number and UPC code to the label on the box, and if the details match, then it’s a good sign your Jordans are real. [2]
    • Counterfeit red flags: Mismatching styles numbers or UPC codes, misspellings, bold fonts, and tightly-packed lettering
    • On the label, look for the word “FABRIQUE.” If the tail of the Q starts inside of the circle, it’s a good sign your shoes are authentic.
3

Colors & Materials

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a9\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a9\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    bright, solid colors and high-quality suede and leather. Depending on the colorway of the shoes, Jordan 4s are typically made from high-quality leather with suede accents. [3] The materials on a real pair have consistent and vibrant colors that make them instantly recognizable. [4]
    • Counterfeit red flags: Muted or darker colors, discoloration, nappier suede or lower-quality leather
    • Example: On fake Jordan 4s Lightning, the midsoles may be a lighter or darker shade than an authentic pair, and the suede may have a different nap.
    2. Advertisement
4

Stitching

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/61\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/61\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    consistent, evenly-spaced stitching. Jordan 4s have stitching around the midsole and heel, as well as underneath the triangular accent on the side. Real Jordan 4s have stitch lines that are thin and maintain a consistent space between them. [5]
    • Counterfeit red flags: Large and noticeable stitching, stitching lines that waver or widen apart
    • Example: If you’re checking Jordan 4 Black Cats, stitching on an authentic pair will blend in with the materials while it will stand out against the fabric on fakes.
5

Toe Box

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/55\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/55\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-5.jpg\/v4-728px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    curved, rounded shapes near the toe. Jordan 4 sneakers have a cushioned toe box that’s rounded and more comfortable for your feet. [6]
    • Counterfeit red flags: Squared-off or flattened toe shape [7]
    2. Advertisement
6

Tongue

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a3\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a3\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-6.jpg\/v4-728px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    rounded corners and a clear logo on the front. Jordan 4s have a thick tongue with the Jumpman logo printed on the front. On a real pair, the logo is bright and embossed with a clean edge. The tongues on authentics have rounded corners and a flat top. [8]
    • Counterfeit red flags: Thick stitching around the tongue, interior fabric visible along the edges, low-quality or misshapen Jumpman logo
7

Air Jordan Label

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/33\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/33\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    an upside-down logo with thick, chunky text. Look at the inside of the tongue for the label that reads “Air Jordan.” The text appears upside-down in thick block letters with clear printing. The label also has even stitching around the edges. [9]
    • Counterfeit red flags: Hard-to-read text, right side-up label, loose edges or corners from poor stitching
    2. Advertisement
8

Mesh Panel

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5e\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5e\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-8.jpg\/v4-728px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    consistent patterning that follows the curve of the shoe. Air Jordan 4s have mesh panels on the sides of the shoes and at the base of the tongue. The mesh on real Jordans has a small square pattern, and the lines run parallel to the tops of the shoes. [10]
    • Counterfeit red flags: mesh that runs perpendicular to the tops of the shoes, loose mesh, low-quality stitching, inconsistent mesh panel sizes
9

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/89\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/89\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-9.jpg\/v4-728px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    a bright, embossed logo centered on the heel. Jordan 4s either have the Nike swoosh or the Jumpman logo embossed in rubber on the heel. The logo is centered on the back, has clean raised edges, and fits the heel perfectly. [11]
    • Counterfeit red flags: Dull logo that’s too large or too small, sloppy or loose edges, flat heel shape in profile
    • Real shoes also have a signature curved bump just above the midsole to give the shoes a rounded look.
    • On some fake Jordan 4s, the rubber heel tab may extend higher or have unevenly spaced raised bumps.
    2. Advertisement
10

Insoles

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3a\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3a\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-10.jpg\/v4-728px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    a vibrant logo with tight lettering. The insoles inside of Jordan 4s have the Nike swoosh logo printed by the heel with consistent coloring. The letters of “Nike” are tightly packed together and the bottom of the E touches the swoosh. The insoles also have a size sticker with full black coloring. [12]
    • Counterfeit red flags: Faded logos, stickers without full black, mismatching fonts
11

Outsoles

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6d\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/6d\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-11.jpg\/v4-728px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    deep treads and a clean paint job. Flip your Jordan 4s over and inspect the soles. The treads on authentics are evenly spaced and have a consistent depth. Real pairs have either the Nike swoosh or the Jumpman logo with clean paint lines around them. [13]
    • Counterfeit red flags: Shallow treads, visible paint drips around the logo
    2. Advertisement
12

Price

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ed\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ed\/Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-12.jpg\/v4-728px-Tell-if-Jordan-4s-Are-Fake-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    a price of $150 USD or more. While some Jordan 4s were originally sold for around $100 USD when they were released, they’ve gotten more valuable and have a higher resale value. If you’re buying Jordan 4s, expect to pay at least $150 USD for them. [14]
    • Counterfeit red flags: Jordans sold for under $100 USD or for a price that seems too good to be true

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Video

      Tips

      • If you’re purchasing shoes online, only shop from verified sellers and make sure there are clear pictures of the shoes before you purchase them.
        Thanks
        Helpful 14 Not Helpful 1
      • Differences between real and fake Jordan 4s aren’t noticeable while you’re wearing the shoes. If you bought fake Jordan 4s by mistake and are happy with how they look, then don't worry too much about it.
        Thanks
        Helpful 21 Not Helpful 3
      • There are various designs of Air Jordan 4s, so they may come in different colors and styles than what you see here. Always use your best judgment before buying a pair, and err on the side of caution if you’re unsure.
        Thanks
        Helpful 13 Not Helpful 2
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Find Model Numbers on Nike Shoes
      7 Simple Ways to Tie Your Shoes So They Turn into Slip-Ons
      How to
      Stretch Out Shrunken Crocs So They Fit Again
      How to
      Wear Shoes That Are Too Big
      How to
      Stop a Shoe Tongue from Sliding to the Side
      How to
      Shrink Crocs
      Real vs. Fake Adidas Yeezy Slides: What to Look For
      The Best Way to Clean HOKA Shoes
      How to
      Tell If Yeezys are Fake
      How to
      Repair Scratches on Leather Shoes
      How to
      Stretch Synthetic Shoes
      How to
      Polish Boots
      How to
      Shrink Shoes
      How to
      Dye Crocs Shoes
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://youtu.be/qfdOntje6uc?t=52
      2. ↑ https://fastsole.co.uk/sneaker-news/nike-air-jordan-4-guide/
      3. ↑ https://www.soleretriever.com/news/articles/air-jordan-4-buyers-guide
      4. ↑ https://youtu.be/qfdOntje6uc?t=146
      5. ↑ https://youtu.be/tvFfFVkIK4A?t=195
      6. ↑ https://fastsole.co.uk/sneaker-news/nike-air-jordan-4-guide/
      7. ↑ https://youtu.be/qfdOntje6uc?t=402
      8. ↑ https://fastsole.co.uk/sneaker-news/nike-air-jordan-4-guide/
      9. ↑ https://fastsole.co.uk/sneaker-news/nike-air-jordan-4-guide/
      1. ↑ https://youtu.be/d9gUf8DL8TQ?t=298
      2. ↑ https://youtu.be/tvFfFVkIK4A?t=153
      3. ↑ https://soleinsider.com/article/how-to-tell-if-your-air-jordan-4-are-fake
      4. ↑ https://soleinsider.com/article/how-to-tell-if-your-air-jordan-4-are-fake
      5. ↑ https://www.complex.com/sneakers/a/rich-lopez/air-jordan-4-price-guide

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 85,194 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Anonymous

        Oct 1

        "It helped me see if mine or my friends were real."
      More reader stories Hide reader stories
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement