They're a cornerstone of the Jordan series for a reason. Just go in with the right expectations: legendary looks, classic (firm) feel. For that, they deliver exactly as promised. Final thought: If you see a colorway of the Air Jordan Mid 1 that you "truly" love, go for it. At ~$135 USD, it's a "staple". You're paying for the "design" and "history", not "premium" materials. It's a "workhorse" in a sneaker rotation. Just "manage" your expectations on cushioning, and you'll have a "great", "versatile" shoe from the Jordan series that "never" goes out of style. Alright, so I just got these Air Jordan Mid 1s in the "Panda" colorway. First thing I notice out of the box? The leather feels "pretty decent" for a Mid. The silhouette is clean—classic. For around $125 USD, this is a solid entry into the Jordan series if you're just starting out. Not the most premium, but a great daily wear option. Comparing it directly to the Air Jordan 1 High? The most obvious difference is the collar height—it cuts off right above the ankle. Materials can sometimes be simpler on the Mid version, but for a daily beater, that's fine. The biggest pro is the price point. You're entering the Jordan 1 world at a more accessible level, which is a huge plus for many.