People wanted softer, so Nike changed the "backing" material on the leather.
If you pick up a 2013/2014 try and press on the black toe guard. It will be stiff. Do that to the frags and you can push them all the way in.
I think Nike used much thinner backing material so the leather would have more give. This means easier to deform, but also softer feel.
My particular right shoe looks like it was either worn or like it was at some point smashed or forcibly flexed at the toe and held in that position. Normal walking can't do this, this is like doing fob squats in them and holding it.
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Paypal told me to ask for a partial refund. And if not that, then a full refund since it looks worn.
Seller said to go call Nike and complain and that "he doesn't know much about shoes and how flaws affect value".