Literally! The patent leather is a statement. On foot, they're a bit stiffer than the standard leather versions. They're louder, for sure. I love them for special fits, but they're not an everyday beater. Worth the premium? If you love the look, yes. If you want subtlety, maybe grab a classic matte pair instead. First look at the Air Jordan 1 High 'Pollution Grey'. This colorway is super underrated! The mix of grey hues and that icy blue outsole is so clean for a muted fit. Opening the box, the leather feels plush. On-foot impression? The high-top collar gives great support, but the shoe itself has some heft to it—you feel grounded. It’s a stylish, wearable shoe from the Jordan series, but the tech inside is "decades" old. For $170, you're buying a legend. Ideal for minimalist sneakerheads, not for performance basketball. Final verdict? The "Air Jordan 1 High" is a legend for a reason. Whether it’s this ‘Obsidian’ pair or another color, you’re buying a piece of culture. At ~$180 USD, it's an investment in a versatile, iconic silhouette. It's not perfect for performance, but for style, history, and collectibility — it’s absolutely worth it in my book. What do you guys think? Conversely, it's "not" for everyone. If you need all-day comfort, or have really wide feet, "seriously" consider trying them on first. The narrow fit and firm ride are deal-breakers for some. Also, if you prefer low-tops, the high-top collar might feel restrictive. It's a specific vibe.
