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. Yo, I just unboxed this Air Jordan 1 Mid in the 'Gym Red' colorway. Gotta say—the red and black combo just pops on camera! The build feels sturdy, a bit stiff out the box for sure. But for that iconic Jordan style at a more accessible price than some Highs? It's a solid entry point into the series. Let's address the elephant in the room: sneakerheads sometimes sleep on the Mid. But for "actual" everyday wear? I reach for my air jordan 1 mid shoes a lot. They're easier to get on and off than Highs. The break-in period is short, and the leather softens up nicely. If you want a "set it and forget it" sneaker that goes with everything, this is it. After reviewing so many sneakers, I keep coming back to models like the Air Jordan 1 Mid. Why? Consistency and recognizability. Every time I wear a pair, people notice that shape. The value is in its design language. Is the tech advanced? No. But does it make you feel cool and connected to sneaker history? 100%. For a daily driver, it's a reliable choice in a sea of overly-complicated designs.