Jordan Brand’s identification for its “Infrared” color closely straddles pink on the spectrum. That’s why I stayed away from the White/Infrared color for June 2010′s “Infrared Pack” release, opting to secure only the Black/Infrared colorway from a split pack.

The black contrasts against the Infrared enough that the color looks more like a bright red, and less like strawberry chapstick.

Nonetheless, I have no idea how Michael Jordan won his first NBA title wearing these sneakers. They’re not very comfortable. I love the design, but as far as walking around in them, the Jordan VI almost feels like walking barefoot on a hard surface.

The air bubble at the heel doesn’t provide the cushion featured in later designs, and the rubber tongue, while stylish, demands you wear long socks — unless you enjoy having shin hair snagged. (If you’re hairless, shut up. I can hear you chortling at the idea of leg hair, and I despise you for it.) More on the long sock note, ankle socks will result in your heel rubbing against the rubber there, too.

Those complaints withstanding, you can’t call it style if it doesn’t make you a little uncomfortable, right?

Honestly, the shoe looks fantastic, and that alone makes a little discomfort totally worth it. So long as you’re not planning to put any miles on your feet that same day, though.