You're buying the iconic design, the history, & a super versatile shoe. It's not the most exciting release ever, but it's a "workhorse" in any collection. I'd recommend it to almost anyone looking for a classic, go-to sneaker. Comparing it directly to the Air Jordan 1 High? The main difference is, of course, the collar height. The "air jordan mid 1" gives you slightly more ankle freedom, which I actually prefer for all-day wear. However, some purists might miss the complete, iconic High top look. For $125, it's a more accessible entry point into the Jordan 1 lineage, which is a big plus. Who is this for? I'd say the Air Jordan Mid 1 is "ideal" for a style-focused wearer who "appreciates" the heritage. It's for the person who wants that "Jordan" badge and iconic "look" without the "hassle" or cost of a High-top release. It's "not" for performance basketball, and it's "definitely" not for someone seeking "cloud-like" comfort. Know what you're buying! Major pro here? Versatility. This specific "Gym Red" Mid is a statement piece. You can rock these with so many fits. The build quality on my pair is actually good—no major glue stains or anything. For the Jordan series, these Mids offer great style-per-dollar value.