That patent leather doesn't have much give. Also, that firm cushioning I mentioned might not be for everyone seeking maximum comfort. If you want a super soft, sink-in feel from the get-go, this classic setup might feel a bit stiff initially. In summary, the Air Jordan 11 Retro delivers. From unboxing to on-foot, it feels special. It has its quirks, like any classic design, but the pros heavily outweigh the cons. If you like this colorway and the 11 model, I say go for it. You won't be disappointed. That's my genuine review of this classic. Comparing it to other Jordans? The Jordan 11 Retro has a distinct feel. It's more structured and formal-looking than, say, a Jordan 1. The cushioning is also different – less board-like than a 1, but not as bouncy as a Jordan 13 or some of the newer models with Zoom Air. It occupies its own unique space in the Jordan series lineage. Comparing it to other Jordans? The AJ11 Retro is in its own league. It's more structured and formal-looking than an AJ1, and the cushioning setup is totally different—more stable than the Zoom Air in some later models. I'd say it's less of a casual, throw-on sneaker and more of a statement piece. If you love the 11's profile, you'll love this. If you prefer a more broken-in, flexible feel from the jump, maybe look at an AJ3 or AJ4.