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The History, Fit & Difference Between Jordan 1 Mid and High

Expert Advice

The History, Fit & Difference Between Jordan 1 Mid and High

Feb 21, 2025

You’ve got a closet full of Highs and Lows — but what about the Mids? An incredible slept-on silhouette, the Jordan 1 Mid is heavily influenced by the OG High. But what’s the big difference anyway? Are Jordan 1 High Tops comfortable? And why do sneakerheads prefer the high cut shoes? Here’s the scoop on the Jordan Mid vs. High on-feet differences and background, along with a few style pointers.

What's with all the hate?
Jordan Mid vs Jordan High

In this episode of Hibbett’s Toe-to-Head series, host Justin Romello gives his thoughts on a very serious question: Why do Jordan Mids get so much hate? Dive in as he explains the difference between Jordan 1 Mid and Jordan High sneakers, and which camp he falls into.

History of the Jordan 1 High vs. Mid

The Air Jordan as we know it was born when the Chicago Bulls drafted a rookie by the name of Michael Jordan in 1984. The following year, the first Nike Air Jordan 1 High, in the iconic “Bred” or “Banned” colorway, hit the market. From the time the sneaker burst onto the scene, its popularity never waned. 

But what if that first sneaker had been a mid cut shoe? That’s how the prototype was made, and Jordan himself preferred a mid cut basketball sneaker when playing. In the end, the brand released the Air Jordan 1 high cut counterpart instead. 

It wasn’t until 2001 that the Jumpman released its mid cut sneaker, but the world — and Jordan himself — had moved on. And without the hype of a celebrity, the Mids got a “mid” reception at best.

White and Grey Air Jordan 1 Mid
Black and White Air Jordan 1 Mid
Blue and White Air Jordan 1 Mid
Blue Air Jordan 1 Mid
White and Grey Air Jordan 1 Mid
Black and White Air Jordan 1 Mid
Blue and White Air Jordan 1 Mid
Blue Air Jordan 1 Mid

Jordan 1 Low, Mid, High Comparison

Even though the Jordan 1 High top inspired the Jordan 1 Mid, there are definitely contrasts between the two, aside from the slight height difference. The Air Jordan Lows are easiest to differentiate with their low cut look. But here are some ways to differentiate between the Jordan 1 Mid and High.

Jordan 1 Retro Mid
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Jordan 1 Retro High OG "Lucky Green" Preschool Kids' Shoe
Jordan 1 Retro High OG "Lucky Green" Preschool Kids' Shoe
$85.00
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Air Jordan 1 High Features & Availability 

  • The Air Jordan 1 High top is the OG silhouette, making it more expensive and coveted than the Jordan 1 Mid. 
  • This streetwear staple remains the most sought-after style for sneakerheads.
  • Provides ankle support and a classic basketball look.
  • Features premium materials including leather, suede and even patent leather, along with Air cushioning.
  • OG colorways include classic “Bred,” “Royal” and “Chicago” editions.
  • The high cut shoe enjoys frequent collabs with brands and artists, ranging from Off-White to Travis Scott.

Air Jordan 1 Mid Features & Availability

  • The Jordan 1 Mid is a more accessible — and often better priced — option for a wider audience. 
  • On the hardcourt, the Jordan Mid 1 offers nearly identical ankle support and lateral stability, but the Mids are slightly less restrictive because of their lower collars. In fact, MJ himself preferred the Mids on the court, which is why the Jordan 3 was originally a mid top.
  • The lower height of the Mid’s collar may be more comfortable for sneakerheads who prefer a less restrictive ankle fit.
  • The Mids aren’t as hyped as the Highs, but they’re still a solid sneaker.
  • The Jumpman branding on the tongue also differs from the Mid to the High. The Jordan Mid 1 features the Jumpman logo underlined with “AIR,” while the Jordan 1 High top boasts the more nostalgic “Nike Air” tag.
Jordan 1 Retro High
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Jordan 1 Retro High OG "Lucky Green" Preschool Kids' Shoe
Jordan 1 Retro High OG "Lucky Green" Preschool Kids' Shoe
$85.00
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On-Feet Styling

  • Pair your favorite Jordan 1 Mids with a colorful graphic Jumpman tee, looser-fitting Jordan pants that match one of the shoe’s tones and a light-colored Air Jordan hoodie.
  • Wear your Jordan 1 High tops with your favorite denim pants and a solid-colored tee or polo.
  • Sport either shoe with leggings and a crop top for an effortless athleisure look.  
  • Joggers or jeans, a button-up shirt and your Mids make an easy-to-wear silhouette.

Because the Jordan 1 High tends to be the more coveted sneaker in the line, the Jordan Mid 1 is more readily available in Hibbett stores and on our website. Air Jordan 1 Mid vs. High — whatever shoe you choose will infuse your wardrobe with trending style. To add even more uniqueness to your Jordan fit, try individualized lacing styles.

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