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. Let's talk about the elephant in the room... comparing it to the High Top. The Air Jordan 1 Mid lacks that top ankle strap and is, well, a mid-cut. For some purists, that's a deal-breaker. For me? I actually like the easier on-and-off. It's also usually more available and affordable. This 'Gym Red' version pops nicely and for $125, it's a steal if you dig the color-blocking. Just got this Air Jordan 1 Mid 'Light Smoke Grey' in hand. Initial thoughts? The materials feel a step up – nice tumbled leather! The grey & white is super wearable. Putting them on... the ankle collar is stiff "initially", but the midfoot lockdown is good. Compared to my Dunks, the AJ1 Mid feels more structured. I love the classic basketball profile on foot. Downside? The outsole is a bit slippery on smooth surfaces. At around $120, it's a great entry into the Jordan series. But if you have wide feet? "Proceed with caution." Final verdict on the "Air Jordan 1 Mid". For the price, it's a gateway into the Jordan series. The silhouette is iconic, and it's incredibly easy to style. The "downside" is the basic, unremarkable footbed. Compared to modern performance shoes, it feels dated. But that's not the point, right? It's a lifestyle icon. I'd recommend it to anyone wanting a piece of sneaker history on a budget. I'd "not" recommend it to anyone seeking cutting-edge comfort or tech.
