You lose some of the High's "legendary" ankle coverage & styling options, but you gain a bit more everyday flexibility. Versus a modern Jordan like the 36? It's a completely different world — this is about heritage, not performance tech. For $135 USD, it's a style piece. So, I put the Air Jordan Mid 1 on foot. Initial feel? The ankle collar is "noticeably" lower than a High. The "cushioning" is firm—it's not super plush or "anything". You're getting that classic, "flat" court feel. The break-in period is real; these can be stiff at first. "Honestly", if you want supreme comfort out the gate, this might "not" be your shoe. But for style? The Mid 1 "absolutely" kills it. So, who is this shoe for? It's perfect for someone who wants the Jordan 1 look for daily casual wear without breaking the bank. It's great for collectors who want to grab specific colorways. The Jordan series Mid is also good for people who find High-tops too restrictive. If style > ultimate comfort is your mantra, you'll likely love these. Who should "avoid" these? If supreme all-day comfort is your #1 priority, look at modern performance models or lifestyle runners. Also, if you're a purest for the OG High-top silhouette, the Mid's shorter collar might bug you. But if you appreciate the design language of the Jordan 1 and want a practical version? The Air Jordan Mid 1 is a fantastic option.
