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. 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. Final verdict? For the $135 price tag, the Air Jordan Mid 1 is an "easy recommend" for most. You get that legendary design, solid quality, and endless outfit options. My advice? Pick a colorway you love—like this "Royal" one—and just enjoy a true sneaker icon. You really can't go wrong. Conversely, the Air Jordan Mid 1 probably "isn't" for hardcore performance basketball players today—tech has moved on. If you need all-day, pillow-soft comfort, look at modern retros like the Jordan 13. This is about style & heritage, first and foremost. Keep those expectations in check.