The leather is decent—not the highest tier, but perfectly fine for the price point (~$120). Honestly, compared to some recent AJ1 Highs, the quality here feels pretty consistent. A major pro? The Mid's slightly lower cut can be easier to style with certain pants. Love it for a spring/summer vibe. Final verdict? The "Air Jordan 1 Mid" is a legend for a reason. It’s my go-to recommendation for someone entering the sneaker world. You get the look, the heritage, without the complexity. Who should "avoid" it? Anyone with serious foot comfort needs or those who only wear maximalist cushioning. But if you appreciate classic design and a snug, secure fit… you'll probably love these. That’s my honest take! 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. For my wide-foot friends, listen up. The Air Jordan 1 Mid tends to run a bit narrow. I'd suggest going up half a size for a better fit—they do break in, but the toebox is snug. The synthetic leather versions can be less forgiving than all-leather pairs. Just something to keep in mind before you cop!