In the world of sneaker enthusiasts, the Air Jordan 1 Mid often finds itself at the center of a heated debate. Despite its iconic status and stylish appeal, it’s often shunned by purists in favor of its taller sibling, the Air Jordan 1 High. But why do people hate Mids? Let’s delve into the heart of this sneaker controversy.
The History and Differences Between Mids and Highs
The Air Jordan 1, designed in 1985, has become a symbol of culture and style. However, a continuous debate exists between two models of this classic sneaker: the Air Jordan 1 Mid and the Air Jordan 1 High. While they might appear similar at first glance, there are notable differences between the two. You can learn all about the differences between Mids and Highs in our deep dive article.
The most noticeable difference is their height. The Mids are a bit shorter than the Highs, which translates to a variation in eyelets: Highs feature nine, while Mids have eight. The height difference also affects the price point. Highs are often more expensive than Mids due to their closer resemblance to the original design and limited quantities. Leading to increased demand and higher resale prices of the Air Jordan 1 High.
The Stigma Attached to Mids
Despite these differences, the main reason for the disdain towards Mids has more to do with the hype and price point than the shoe’s functional DNA. According to Inverse, scoring a High is seen as a victory, either in winning a raffle or having the funds to buy a shoe that’s often sold at lavish resale prices. Consequently, settling for a more available Mid is deemed a consolation prize and a laughable defeat. Inverse also notes the fact that a lot of men disregard Mids due to their “feminine” associations. Don’t be that guy! Mids are valid!
Moreover, the term “mid” (describing something as below average) didn’t help either. Collectors don’t want to be caught with a “mid” shoe. Many obviously associate it with another stigmatized “mid” product we… won’t discuss. Though many don’t realize when sneaker hype itself is driven by something much more analytical.
The Changing Perception of Mids
However, the narrative around Mids is changing according to Inverse. Despite the long-term bad reputation, its newfound popularity (and increased price) is switching the narrative in an “invisible-nerd-turned-popular-jock way.” Older sneakerheads may have kicked the Mid to the “bottom of the sneaker food chain.” However, its rise in price, sales, and street cred is giving it an exclusivity it hasn’t had before. This is making the Jordan 1 Mid a bit more desirable and harder to cop. While you can still find plenty of Mids online the more attractive colorways don’t sit for long.
The Verdict
The choice between Air Jordan 1 Mids and Highs comes down to your personal preference. Factors such as your budget, and how much you value factors like height, price, colorways, material quality, and branding. Both versions carry the Jordan brand’s legacy, but with distinct features catering to different audiences. Whether you’re a hardcore sneakerhead or just a casual fan, understanding these differences is key to building your dream collection.
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