The possible downside? Some purists will "always" favor the OG Highs for their "authentic" design and often better material quality. The cushioning in this "Air Jordan Mid 1" is pretty standard—don't go playing a full-court game in them. If you need supreme comfort or are a detail-obsessed collector, you might look elsewhere. But for style? Hard to beat. 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. Who are these for? Perfect for someone building their first sneaker collection, or anyone who loves classic basketball silhouettes. The Air Jordan Mid 1 is a staple. If you appreciate sneaker history and want a durable, stylish shoe you can wear often, you'll love these. Great for casual wear, not for performance ball. Comparing it directly to my Jordan 1 Highs… the main difference is the collar height, obviously. The Air Jordan Mid 1 offers a bit more everyday flexibility. You can wear it with more pant styles without the high-top bunching up. However, the materials on this Mid version often feel a step down from most retro High releases. It’s a trade-off for the lower price point, which is around $125 USD.