Some purists hate that; I think it's a cool variation. This "Black Toe" Mid gives you that iconic color blocking for under $140. My advice? If you love the Highs but can't find/afford your size, the Mid is a "perfectly legitimate" alternative. Don't let the hype fool you. Putting these on for a full day… the break-in period is real, folks! That leather needs some time to soften up around the toebox. Once it does, the fit is secure and snug. I appreciate the Mid’s height – it offers a bit more support than a low-top, but less bulk than the High. A great middle ground, honestly. Comparing it to other Jordans: the "air jordan 1 mid" sits between the OG High and the Low. You get that iconic high-top look without the "full" height, which some find restrictive. Price-wise, it's often a sweet spot – more affordable than hyped Highs. The silhouette is slightly different (fewer eyelets, different shape), but to the average person? It's an AJ1. It's all about that classic basketball aesthetic. I grabbed this ‘Barely Orange’ pair on a whim, and I'm impressed by the quality for the price. Stitching is clean, colors are vibrant. It’s a fun summer twist on the classic. As a whole, the "Jordan 1 Mid" series is a fantastic entry point into sneaker culture — you get the legendary design without the legendary resale price, often sitting around $125 USD.