The initial stiffness is real, especially in the ankle. If you prioritize immediate, cloud-like comfort – these aren't it. They're built for style and a bit of court heritage, not for all-day walking comfort right out of the gate. Just being honest! Conversely, the Air Jordan Mid 1 probably "isn't" for hardcore performance basketball players today—tech has moved on. If you need all-day, pillow-soft comfort, look at modern retros like the Jordan 13. This is about style & heritage, first and foremost. Keep those expectations in check. Alright, let's get these unboxed. First look? The iconic silhouette is all there, and this 'Varsity Red' colorway just pops. For a pair of Air Jordan Mid 1s, the materials feel decent right out of the box. That classic high-top shape in a mid-cut version is such a versatile look. At around $135 USD, it's a more accessible entry into the Jordan series, which I appreciate. To wrap it up, if you see a colorway of the Air Jordan Mid 1 that you truly love—go for it! Just know what you're getting. It’s a piece of sneaker culture at a relatively friendly price point. For me, it’s a yes, but with those caveats. It fills a specific niche in the Jordan lineup very well. Hope this honest review helps you decide!