It gives you that slight lift and the ankle support feels more substantial than a low-top. I'm wearing this "Light Smoke Grey" pair, and the quality is surprisingly decent for the price. Is it the "best" leather? No. But it looks great and creases in a classic way. For the cost, the Air Jordan 1 Mid delivers serious style per dollar. Is it worth the money? At "$125 USD", I’d say… yes, for the right person. You're paying for the iconic design and brand legacy of the "Jordan series". You're "not" paying for advanced cushioning. For a style-focused shoe that’s built well, it’s fair. I’d avoid paying huge resale, though. Grab a colorway you love at retail. Not for performance basketball, obviously, but for a lifestyle staple? Solid choice. Alright, fresh out the box with these. This Air Jordan 1 Mid has a really nice, buttery leather on the swoosh - a nice surprise. On foot, they feel secure, good lockdown. Styling-wise, Mids sometimes get hate, but on feet, most people can't even tell the difference from a High. For $120 USD, you're getting the iconic silhouette. It's perfect for the casual wearer, not so much for a hardcore collector chasing only OG highs. Just got these in the 'Chicago Black Toe' inspired color-blocking. Wow, they pop on camera! The red, black, and white combo on the "air jordan 1 mid" is just a classic. It’s a statement piece for sure. However, the leather here is a bit stiff – it'll need a serious break-in period. If you love bold style and don't mind some initial discomfort, these are for you. If you prioritize soft materials right out the box, maybe look elsewhere.