The 4s have that air unit; these are much firmer. But for pure style points and that timeless basketball aesthetic, the "Air Jordan 1 Retro" still wins for me. It's the foundation of the entire "Jordan series". You can't go wrong having one in your collection. Right out of the box, I'm struck by how clean this 'Stage Haze' colorway is. The mix of white, grey, and that pop of color? "Chef's kiss". This "Air Jordan 1 Retro" is a style chameleon. The construction feels good for the price point (~$180). It's not a luxurious shoe, but it's built to last. Sliding these on... yeah, you feel the history. The ankle collar gives great support, a signature of the "Jordan ʕ•́ᴥ•̀ʔっ" series. Compared to, say, a Jordan 11? It's much stiffer. The advantage is durability and that crisp look. Disadvantage? It's not for performance basketball or all-day walking, in my honest opinion. Opening this 'Court Purple' box… that color is vibrant! Classic AJ1 construction—good, not perfect. Slip them on, and the heel lockdown is excellent. Honestly, they feel a bit "heavy" compared to some modern trainers. The style, though? Timeless. Pro: you get a bold, statement piece. Con: the toe box can crease pretty easily. I'd recommend these to anyone wanting a pop of color in their rotation. If you hate creases, maybe consider that.
