Your foot sits "on" the platform, not "in" it, if that makes sense. The arch support is minimal. If you're used to modern, engineered sneakers, this will feel... basic. But that's also its charm - it's pure, unfiltered heritage basketball design. Comparing it directly to an Air Jordan 1 High, the Mid obviously gives you less ankle coverage. For some, that's a plus for mobility and a cleaner look. For pure, classic basketball aesthetic, the High wins. But for daily versatility? The Mid 1 holds its own, no doubt. 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 on feet. The initial feel? The Air Jordan Mid 1 offers a snug, true-to-size fit for me. The ankle padding is decent — it's not as high as the OG Highs, but it gives good support. The cushioning is... well, it's firm. Don't expect modern, bouncy comfort; it's more about that classic, stable court feel.