This full-grain leather on the "Air Jordan 11 Rare Air" is gonna hold up so much better than patent leather, which cracks. For someone who actually "wears" their shoes, that's a major win. The White/Metallic Silver colorway is also a dirt-magnet, but at least the material is easy to wipe down. It's a functional design choice I can really get behind. The main advantage of this Air Jordan 11 Rare Air model? Honestly, it's the price & availability. At roughly $200, it sits well below the typical Retro 11 release cost. For someone who loves the 11’s look but can't justify the $225+ price tag – or never hits on a release – this is a… "practical" alternative. You get the iconic profile without the classic 11 hype or price. On feet, the comfort is good—not amazing, but good. The "Air Jordan 11 Rare Air" provides a stable, supportive base. The upper is softer than a standard 11, so it molds to your foot nicely. However, if you're used to the plush feel of modern basketball shoes, you might find it a bit firm. The advantage? That lighter build makes a "big" difference for walking around all day compared to the heavier OG builds. Comparing these to a standard Retro 11? It's a different beast! The Air Jordan 11 Rare Air uses leather, which is more durable for daily use than patent leather (no cracking!). The trade-off? You lose that iconic, dress-shoe shine. The overall build quality feels excellent, though. If you want a "practical" take on the 11, this is it. But purists might miss the original materials.
