The stitching is clean on my pair. The real "advantage"? Pure versatility. This shoe goes with literally anything in your closet. A potential "downside"? That classic, stiffer leather might need a short break-in period for some people. Just a heads-up! On foot for a few hours now. The break-in is real – they start a bit stiff but are molding to my foot. The arch support is decent for me. They feel secure. Walking on pavement, you feel that Air unit in the heel, but it's subtle. Again – not a performance shoe! It's a lifestyle icon, and for that role, the feel is exactly what I expected. On-foot feel update: After a full day, the cushioning is… adequate. The air unit in the heel is noticeable, but the forefoot is firm. They're not uncomfortable, just "substantial". You feel the weight (which isn't crazy, but it's there). The leather started to crease naturally – which I actually like on an AF1. It adds character. Just know, it's part of the journey with this model. One major "pro"? Durability. The materials on this shoe are built to last. The leather upper and the solid rubber outsole can take a beating. For a sneaker you might wear several times a week, that's a huge plus. You're getting your money's worth in the long run.
