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. Got these "Air Jordan 1 Highs" in the 'Pine Green' colorway. Love the rich green against the black. Stepping into them, the heel lockdown is excellent. Compared to a Jordan 3, the ankle feel is different—more restrictive, but also more supportive. The clear advantage is its status as a style icon. The drawback? That iconic high-top can feel warm and restrictive in summer. So, perfect for fall/winter fits, maybe less so for hot weather. So, wrapping up—this Air Jordan 1 High 'University Blue' gets a big "thumbs up" from me for what it is. A legend, executed well. It’s not trying to be something it’s not. You're buying into history and a "forever" flex. Just... maybe wear thick socks for the first week, okay? Trust me on that. Alright, let's get into these! "First impression" out of the box? This "Bred" colorway is just iconic — the black and red pops against that classic white. The leather feels pretty standard for a retro, but the construction on this "air jordan 1 high" is solid. Stitching is clean. Honestly, it’s everything you expect from a core "Jordan" series release, priced around $180. It’s a legend in shoe form.