The leather is stiff initially – no way around it. The flat footbed is the biggest thing to note; it's not a "comfort" shoe out of the box. But man, on foot, the profile is so sharp. It's a shoe that makes an outfit. Ideal for sneakerheads who appreciate the history. I'd steer clear if you have wide feet or need a lot of cushioning. The potential downside? Some colorways use stiffer materials. Always check reviews for the specific pair! My "Court Purple" version here is decent. It's a trade-off: you get the legendary Jordan 1 look at a great price, but maybe not the "absolute" best materials. For me, that's a fair deal. The Air Jordan 1 Mid remains a go-to for a reason. Comparing it directly to an AJ1 High... the "Air Jordan 1 Mid" sacrifices a bit of that classic, high-top aesthetic. But - and it's a big but - it's often more affordable and easier to put on. The silhouette is nearly identical from most angles. If you love the look but find Highs a hassle, this is your move. Honestly? I grabbed this "Black Gym Red" colorway because it's a straight-up classic. The build quality is decent—no major flaws out of the box. Comparing it to an OG High, you notice the fewer lace holes and slightly different collar shape immediately. But on foot, from a few feet away? Most people won't know the difference. It's a "smart" buy for a beater sneaker.
