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. Alright, so I just got my hands on this pair of Air Jordan 1 High 'Chicago' — and wow, the box feels classic. First look? The silhouette is just ... perfect. That red, white, and black combo is iconic for a reason. At around $180 USD, you're paying for the legacy. The leather feels decent — not super premium, but it's got that nice, stiff structure that defines the "Air Jordan 1 High". I'm excited to see these on feet. Now, the cons – and you gotta know 'em. The comfort isn't for everyone. It's a stiff, break-in period. If you have wide feet, "definitely" consider sizing up. Also, at $180+, it's a premium for what is, technically, a simple shoe. You're buying the icon, not groundbreaking performance features in 2024. To wrap it up – the Air Jordan 1 High isn't perfect for "every" situation, but it's perfect for what it is: the original icon. Would I recommend it? 100%. Just know what you're getting: legendary style, premium materials (in most cases), and a firm, classic feel. It's a solid investment in your sneaker journey.