WHICH BASKETBALL SHOES IS BEST?
With the right basketball shoe, you’re likely to notice an improvement in your game. You’ll have more support for your feet and ankles, giving you a higher level of performance.
What’s even better about basketball shoes is that they’re stylish enough to wear off the court, too. Besides looking cool, they can provide all-day comfort for almost any activity.
To learn more about what to look for when shopping for basketball shoes, keep reading our buying guide, which includes a few reviews of our favorites at the end. For the best mix of price, performance, and style, we like the Jordan Air 6 Rings shoes.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY BASKETBALL SHOES
Fit
- Low-top: The upper cuff of a low-top shoe sits below the ankle, so it doesn’t provide any support for the ankle. Instead, it gives the player the greatest freedom of movement versus other types of fits. Players with no ankle problems can wear this type of shoe successfully.
- Mid-top: With a mid-top fit in a basketball shoe, the top cuff sits in the middle of the ankle joint. It gives the wearer a little bit of ankle support while allowing some freedom of movement. Players who have occasional problems with ankle sprains can wear a mid-top shoe.
- High-top: A high-top style of basketball shoe has a tall area at the top of the shoe that gives players the maximum amount of ankle support. Players who frequently have ankle problems want a high-top shoe, even though it restricts ankle movement.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN QUALITY BASKETBALL SHOES
Materials
Synthetic materials in a basketball shoe provide the highest level of support and stability. They give you the freedom of movement you need to play the game at a high level.
Manufacturers also use leather and canvas when constructing basketball shoes. These materials allow for a lower-priced shoe than synthetic shoes. Canvas shoes have very little stability, so they may be better worn off the court.
Closure design
The majority of basketball shoes use the traditional lace-up method of tightening the shoe on the foot. This allows the wearer to create a fit as tight or loose as desired. Some shoes include a Velcro strap at the top of the shoe. This secures the shoe to the foot and covers the knot in the laces so it won’t pull loose during play.
You may find basketball shoes with Velcro straps across the entire shoe instead of laces, but you can’t make this style of shoe as tight as one with laces.
Outsole
The outsole is the bottom portion of the basketball shoe. It often uses rubber or a synthetic rubber with a textured pattern imprinted on it to provide the greatest level of grip with the court surface.
A wide and flat outsole gives the player a nice level of balance when jumping or making the sudden movements required in basketball.
HOW MUCH YOU CAN EXPECT TO SPEND ON BASKETBALL SHOES
The least expensive basketball shoes cost $25-$75 per pair, but they don’t provide maximum support for the foot and ankle. For highly cushioned and supportive shoes, expect to pay $75-$300 or more per pair.
BASKETBALL SHOES FAQ
Q. Do I need a different type of shoe for outdoor basketball vs. indoor basketball?
A. Asphalt and concrete courts are tough on shoes. For this reason, you may not want to wear your most expensive shoes when playing outdoors.
Q. Are basketball shoes only for basketball players?
A. No. Some people like the style a basketball shoe provides for everyday wear. Basketball shoes may work for other sports played on a hard surface, like volleyball or tennis.
WHAT ARE THE BEST BASKETBALL SHOES TO BUY?
Top basketball shoes
What you need to know: These high-quality, aesthetically pleasing shoes are responsive and durable.
What you’ll love: They’re made of leather, meaning they can hold up during heavy-duty play. The padded base with Zoom Air units in the heel allows you to jump easily.
What you should consider: They’re stiff and not very breathable.
Top basketball shoes for the money
adidas Men’s Ownthegame Basketball Shoe
What you need to know: These affordable shoes are ideal for casual players.
What you’ll love: They’re really comfortable, and the mesh on the top allows for increased circulation. The Lightmotion cushion makes it easy for you to jump, and the outsole has great grip.
What you should consider: They’re not as durable as some other options.
Worth checking out
What you need to know: These shoes stand out for their combination of good performance, excellent style and comfort.
What you’ll love: These shoes are inspired by NBA player Kevin Durant and are very comfortable. The outsole has superb traction and the upper mesh keeps your feet cool.
What you should consider: They run small.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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