It uses a mix of leather and synthetic—it's fine for the cost. On foot, they feel lighter than they look! The ankle padding is sufficient. The design is just "chef's kiss"—it's why the Jordan 1 Mid remains popular. Honestly, the biggest advantage over the High is often availability and price. Not a performance shoe by any means. Perfect for casual wear, not for balling or long-distance walks. Unboxing this specific colorway was fun. The contrast between the white, black, and that hit of color is "chef's kiss". On foot, it's a head-turner. The build quality on my pair is good—no major glue stains or issues. For a Jordan 1 model that's easier to get, I'm impressed. It feels like a complete, classic sneaker. Opening the box, the quality is... "expected" for a mid-tier Jordan. It's not premium, but it's not bad either. The real win for the Air Jordan Mid 1 is the colorway variety. You can find almost any combo you want. For a sneakerhead starting their collection, or someone who just wants a reliable, iconic design, it's a great option. Not for the "materials snob" though. Comparing this to the recent Jordan 1 Lows, the Mid offers a bit more "presence". The height feels just right — not too high, not too low. This particular "Shadow" colorway is super versatile; it's a "go-to" for almost any fit. Pro? Timeless design that never goes out of style. Con? The materials can be a bit stiff out of the box. They need a short break-in period.