The silhouette is lower profile than a standard 11. The materials feel more modern & maybe a bit less premium than the classic tumbled leather & full patent leather combo. Think of it as a "what if" version. If you're a purest who loves the original 11 blueprint, this "rare air" interpretation might feel too distant. But for something fresh in the Jordan series, it works. Who should skip? If you're a collector seeking the exact OG experience, just save for the retro. If you need maximum cushioning tech, look at newer models. And if you "love" that patent leather crackle – this isn't it. The Rare Air Jordan 11 exists in its own lane. It’s not trying to replace the original, and that's okay. Alright, let's get into it. Just unboxed these "rare air jordan 11" & my first thought is... it's different! The silhouette is familiar but this "Rare Air" treatment? It's wild. You've got this mix of materials & a color-blocking that's way more experimental than your typical AJ11. For $230, you're paying for a bold statement piece, not a safe retro. Alright, let's get these out of the box. First impression? The "rare air jordan 11" has a super clean, almost minimalist look compared to the classic 11s. The build quality here is solid - you can feel it. At $210 USD, you're getting a premium leather upper instead of patent leather, which is a "major" shift. It's a really interesting take on the iconic silhouette, you know?