It's a practical one. The "Panda" colorway of the Air Jordan Mid 1 is everywhere for a reason – it's simple, it's clean, it works. You're paying for the silhouette and brand heritage at $135, not groundbreaking tech. And you know what? That's totally fine for a lot of us. Now, the not-so-great part. If you need plush cushioning for all-day wear or balling, look elsewhere. This is a retro basketball shoe in design only. Also, that stiff leather can crease in a pretty noticeable way. It's part of the charm for some, but if you like your sneakers pristine, this might bug you. Just unboxed these Air Jordan Mid 1s in the 'Black Gym Red' colorway, and "wow" — the leather quality is honestly solid for the $135 USD price point. The classic silhouette is instantly recognizable. I was "slightly" concerned about the mid-top height, but holding them, the proportions look great. It's a timeless piece of the Jordan series that feels built to last. First impression? Very, very positive. Bottom line: The Air Jordan Mid 1 nails its brief. It delivers the iconic look at a more accessible point. The 'Black Toe' vibe on this pair is fire. It's not the most innovative shoe in 2024, but it doesn't need to be. It's a solid, dependable classic. Would I buy it again? For sure — it's a no-brainer for casual, everyday style.
