Stephen Curry, Lebron James, and all elite basketball players have something in common: they wear the right footwear to their game that guarantees maximum performance and safety on their feet. Some will say that the shoes will not improve the throws of three or the passes.
But if they can help to have a better grip on the track at the time of sprinting or make a change of direction, maintain stability in the ankles or cushion each support. That is to say, they are a fundamental equipment and with influence on the game and for that reason we recommend multiple best basketball shoes with different characteristics so that each player finds the ones that fulfill their demands.
If you are searching for the best portable basketball hoop, you must read our great guide on it before making any buying decision.
What are the best basketball shoes of 2024?
Table of Contents
If you train basketball or want to start practicing this sport, you may be in search of a suitable model of shoes, that will help you to have a better performance on the court and that is appropriate for your needs. Before selecting a random model, there are certain basic characteristics that you should consider. For this reason, we have prepared a comparison table and buyer’s guide for you to buy the best basketball shoes on the market, in which we explain and detail these important specifications, hoping that it will be helpful when choosing.
Warnings
Playing basketball with a pair of shoes worn out from overuse can cause foot injuries. The American Academy of Sports Medicine and Podiatry recommends that basketball players in high school or college replace their shoes once a month. The daily use of this footwear for practices and games wears it down and reduces its ability to provide the cushioning and support needed to protect your feet.
Best Basketball Shoes Comparison Table
Best Price Guarantee | Top Picks | 5-Stars Ratings
Basketball Shoes Name | Price $$ | ||
---|---|---|---|
NIKE Men's Air Precision (Recommended) | view on Amazon | ||
Nike Jordan B. Fly (Editor's Choice) | view on Amazon | ||
NIKE Unisex-Adult Air Force 1 Gs | view on Amazon | ||
ASICS Men's GEL-Tactic | view on Amazon | ||
Under Armour Men's Lockdown 2 | view on Amazon | ||
WETIKE Kid's Basketball Shoes | view on Amazon | ||
Adidas Men's NXT LVL SPD V | view on Amazon | ||
AND1 Men's Rocket 3.0 | view on Amazon | ||
Armour Unisex Best for Womens | view on Amazon |
Best Basketball Shoes 2024 Products Overview
1.NIKE Men’s Air Precision: Best Basketball Shoes for Men
Getting a suitable shoe is not an easy task, but if you are looking for a recommended model for men, this may interest you. This is a model of sports manufacturer Nike, which in this opportunity offers shoes made from high-quality materials, among which stand out textiles, lightweight and durable materials that are part of the outer structure and the lining of these basketball shoes.
In addition, the rubber is incorporated in the sole for better grip and durability. The Nike Air Precision has an innovative design, plus they are available in various colors and sizes, so you can choose the most appropriate one.
Thanks to its technology and sports development, this model is efficient to achieve better launches without causing damage, with the Dynamic Fit system that provides firmness to the foot. Also, in the area of the heels has Nike Air units, which improve the landing after a jump, are light and mold to the foot.
The best thing about this model of basketball shoes is that it incorporates state-of-the-art sports technology, which helps to improve the impact on the falling heels, thanks to the fact that it is equipped with Nike Air units, which allows the shock damping efficiently.
- This is one of the top performing basketball shoe
Bottom Line: It is a striking model with a design suitable for training and games because it is made of quality materials that make it durable, lightweight and comfortable at the same time.
2. Nike Jordan B. Fly (Editor’s Choice)
If you want to get the best basketball shoes ever, you should not lose sight of the characteristics of this model of the Nike brand, which features the Jordan B. Fly, shoes that are recognized by a large number of users as an appropriate option, because they are manufactured with high-quality materials, which combine on the outside fabric with a synthetic coating, for greater durability.
In addition, the sole is rubber, which allows a better grip on the court. The heel area is wide, to give support and traction when landing after a jump.
Its closure system is through laces, so that the grip and pressure of the shoe can be controlled by the user, while the foot is protected. They are available in more than five colors and have a modern design, so you can choose the tone that best suits your personality.
Nike has used its Flywire technology in which a kind of cables stabilizes the upper part of it. Basketball shoes for players who do not want to neglect any footsteps.
- Air-Sole technology. Better comfort, greater durability and lighter. This technology is located in the midsole, under the heel to provide greater flexibility.
- The materials used in these shoes give us a guarantee of robustness.
- The entire upper part of the shoe is made of genuine leather and nubuck.
- The interior reinforced with synthetic lining. Rubber sole.
Bottom Line: They are modern design slippers with lace closure, practices for basketball, which are available in various colors. In addition, they provide grip, ankle support, and traction, for a better performance on the court.
3. NIKE Unisex-Adult Air Force 1 Gs
If you are looking for the best basketball shoes of 2024, then you should review the properties and features of this pair of Nike brand shoes, which features the Air Force 1 (GS) model, a shoe that has all the advantages of developing of the giant Nike, but this time, designed for the comfort and use of children.
The Nike Air Force 1 (GS) features a conventional and iconic design of Nike shoes, which was enhanced to create a fresh look with classic style.
Hence, they are available in black and white colors. In addition, its tip is rounded. They are made from high-quality materials, which give the confection more comfort and durability because the leather or synthetic leather is incorporated with a cloth lining, which gives comfort to the foot.
Its flat sole is made of rubber with synthetic fiber. On the other hand, the interior has a filling that protects against cold and the mechanism of closure is through laces.
The best thing about this model is that it is a Nike classic, so Air Force has a conventional design with a fresh and modern touch, so not only serve for basketball but also to wear with jeans.
- Fastened practical, The Velcro closure, supported by some laces, is easy to handle, providing great comfort to put on and take off this shoe.
- PU midsole, Improves cushioning and lightness.
- Exterior revestment
Bottom Line: It is a lightweight model that weighs less than a kilo, being durable and practical, with a thick flat sole that cushions fall and is made with quality materials.
4.ASICS Men’s GEL-Tactic
Designed for better performance on the basketball court, this model from the manufacturer Asics answers the question that users ask themselves about which are the best basketball shoes, because it has features that make it among the favorites and most recommended.
This model Gel-Tactic of shoes for women has a colorful design, which incorporates Black, white and /Pale Goldin its outer structure. In addition, this footwear is equipped with a closure system through laces, which allow a better fit of the foot.
It has a non-slip rubber sole that gives better grip, as well as gel cushioning in the rearfoot and forefoot, to give better performance on the court. The shoes are light and flexible so that they do not mistreat the foot, but on the contrary, they adapt to the shape of it to provide comfort and stability.
- Excellent GEL cushioning for comfort and shock absorption.
- Durable construction ideal for indoor sports like volleyball.
- Lightweight design enhances agility and speed.
- Breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool.
- Strong grip on indoor surfaces for quick movements.
- Narrow fit may not be ideal for wider feet.
- Arch support may not be sufficient for some users.
- Stiff at first and requires a break-in period.
Bottom Line: The ASICS Men's GEL-Tactic Shoes provide great cushioning, durability, and traction for indoor athletes. Though the narrow fit and break-in period may be drawbacks for some, they are a reliable choice for comfort and performance on the court.
5.Under Armour Men’s Lockdown 2
Available in eight striking colors, these can be the best basketball shoes of value for money, because they are among the cheapest. The Under Armor shoes have a casual but efficient design, which provides greater performance and protection both the heel and the ankle.
They have a flat heel and at the same time reinforced that cushions the blows, with an improved technology around the ankle to avoid incidents. They are light, they weigh only 340 grams, so they are suitable for games.
One of the best features of this model of shoes is that they are made from materials of a high level of quality, which combine synthetic leather on the outside, with a cloth coating, giving greater durability to the footwear.
In addition, they have a leather fabric on the instep for adequate breathability, as well as a mesh panel to prevent the concentration of bad odors. As for the sole, this is rubber with traction patterns, which give better movement and control on the court.
- It has textile ankle collar for extended support the ankle
- Design. Great comfort and flexible support.
- EVA sole. It provides us with extreme comfort and traction at the same time.
- They are a little hard on the instep and narrow on the toe, it may be advisable to take one size more.
Bottom Line: They are good shoes for people who have a tight budget but want quality shoes at the same time. They are shoes with a reasonable price.
6.WETIKE : Kid’s Basketball Shoes
If you are looking for cheap basketball shoes but quality, both in terms of design as comfort or robustness, this model will meet your expectations.
The shoe is covered with a synthetic leather of great durability and high quality. The upper part of the synthetic material has a mesh lining to help the foot ventilation. The heel with which it is equipped measures 3 cm and the closure is lace. Their materials offer us at the same time robustness, resistance, flexibility, and comfort.
As soon as we see the boot, we realize that its design is sober but elegant at the same time, we also have several colors to choose the one that we like the most. It is a suitable shoe for teenagers and adults, thanks to the variety of colors that we can find of this model.
The versatility of these shoes makes them able to adapt to all types of terrain, whether parquet, PVC or other fields.
As we can put their templates, they are too soft and thin for the taste of some of their users, while their sole has perforations providing great grip.
- Synthetic leather upper, synthetic rubber sole, ensuring good durability for its price.
- The high performance molded design with excellent cushioning gives us optimized comfort.
- The mesh lining provides good ventilation to our feet keeping them dry.
- The sole is non-slip, providing good security.
- Smell of plastic when we take it out of the box for the first time, passing it with the time of use.
- Cushioning could be better for extended wear.
- Limited arch support might not suit all foot types.
Bottom Line:The WETIKE Kid's Basketball Shoes are a stylish, lightweight option for young basketball players. They offer good ankle support and grip for fast-paced play, but may require careful sizing and additional insoles for better comfort.
7. Adidas Men’s NXT LVL SPD V : Basketball Shoe
If you are a big fan of this sport, why not aspire to get a shoe from one of the best sports brands recognized worldwide. The Adidas brand is among the most popular in the world. It is not only used by elite athletes, but also by fans and fans of any sport.
This pair of basketball shoes that we compare today offers us a retro design without departing from the current fashion. It meets our expectations when choosing this model in terms of comfort and grip.
The heel is wedge-shaped, covered with synthetic material of excellent quality. The sole is rubber, ensuring a great grip. Inside we find a textile lining. All these materials give these shoes great robustness and comfort.
As we have said, they are shoes with a retro design, but at the same time following current trends. If you are looking for a versatile shoe, this may be your choice. As against we can say the little variety of colors since we only find it in black.
- Design. Retro with modern touches, both teenagers and adults like it.
- Value for money
- It has no inner textile lining
Bottom Line: The Adidas Men's NXT LVL SPD V is a lightweight, high-performance basketball shoe offering great traction and support. While it may feel narrow for some and requires break-in time, it's a solid choice for players looking for speed and comfort on the court.
8. AND1 Men’s Rocket 3.0 Cheap Basketball Shoes
Available in various colors, these men's basketball shoes are modern, youthful and colorful, ideal to fully enjoy this sport and get a good grip on the floor. They guarantee great comfort in each step as well as a good grip of the feet.
These slippers, with lace closure, are made of high-quality materials, materials of great strength and durability. This model has sturdy seams and perfect finishes, careful to the smallest detail. The tongue, the inside of the shoes and external sides have the brand of shoes.
A really interesting product, colorful, cheerful and ideal to combine with the rest of your equipment to practice basketball, as they match perfectly with any style. These shoes are synonymous with quality, design and good price, so they are presented as an interesting bet.
- Ideal basketball shoes in terms of comfort are concerned, being perfect for the daily practice of this sport without problems.
- These shoes are resistant, durable, with good finishes and sturdy seams. Its design is youthful, colorful and modern.
- It is not recommended to wash them by machine, so they must be washed by hand to have them always ready and perfect to practice your favorite sport.
Bottom Line: The AND1 Men's Rocket 3.0 offers solid performance at an affordable price, making it a good option for casual or beginner players. While it may not have the cushioning or durability of premium basketball shoes, it provides comfort and decent traction for recreational play.
9. Under Armour Unisex Adult Jet ’23 : Best Basketball Shoes for Women
The Under Armour Jet '23 Basketball Shoe offers a versatile and durable option for athletes looking for a balance of performance, comfort, and support. Constructed with a mixed-material upper, it provides enhanced durability and breathability, allowing players to stay comfortable throughout the game. The shoe’s lightweight design ensures support where it's needed, and the plush foam sockliner offers exceptional underfoot comfort, reducing fatigue during long periods of wear.
One of the standout features is the Micro G midsole, designed to absorb impact on landings and turn it into explosive takeoffs. This makes the shoe perfect for players who rely on quick jumps and dynamic movements. The durable rubber outsole, with its anatomical traction pattern, ensures superior grip on the court and flexibility, allowing for smooth transitions during play. Standard lace-up closure offers a secure fit, giving players confidence in their movements.
However, a notable downside is the inclusion of a warning about the presence of chemicals like chromium (hexavalent compounds), which are known to cause cancer and other reproductive harm according to California state regulations. This may be a point of concern for environmentally-conscious buyers or those sensitive to chemical exposure.
- Durable mixed-material upper enhances both breathability and support.
- Plush foam sockliner offers excellent underfoot comfort for extended wear.
- Full-length Micro G midsole provides great cushioning and responsive takeoffs.
- Rubber outsole with anatomical traction pattern ensures superior grip and flexibility.
- Lightweight design suitable for fast, dynamic movements on the court.
- Chemical warning about chromium compounds may concern health-conscious buyers.
- Limited color options compared to other basketball shoes in the market.
- Standard lace closure may not provide the most secure fit for some players.
Bottom Line: The Under Armour Jet '23 Basketball Shoe delivers on durability, comfort, and performance, making it a great choice for players who need reliable footwear on the court. While it provides excellent grip, cushioning, and support, the chemical exposure warning is something to keep in mind for potential buyers.
Best Basketball Shoes Buyer’s Guide
Since basketball is a popular sport, it is not surprising that the sports footwear industry has a wide and growing range of models and brands, so selecting a specific model can be somewhat complex, so to make the selection easier, We have developed a buyer's guide section with which will brief you to keep these factor in mind, before making any buying decision and so you can select the one that suits your needs and particular requirements.
Manufacturing Materials
If before deciding to buy, you want to know how much basketball shoe cost, then you must take into account what materials were used to make the shoes because this depends largely on the final price on the market that the user must pay. There are several materials that are used to make these sports items, but natural leather or leather will always be the most expensive.
Some models are manufactured almost entirely in this material, while others incorporate synthetic leather as a coating. This is also quality, but after a while, it is possible that it starts to flake, a product of moisture. In the same way, other models incorporate fabric, since it allows for greater flexibility and breathability.
According to the opinion of the users, the best and most suitable according to the price and benefit are those models that combine several materials, such as a leather interior that protects from the cold and gives comfort, with a textile exterior and covered in synthetic material. Thus, the advantage is taken that each material offers in the same footwear.
Sole
Some users look for quality, other affordable prices, but when it comes to sports shoes, especially if they are basketball shoes, all agree that they should be good and economical.
This implies that they have an adequate performance with durability over time and also an attractive price that allows them to acquire them, but above all, it is important that the sole is of quality, because nothing will serve an economic shoe if your sole is not practical.
It will not be so useful if it is a shoe with a resistant upper part if its sole is not slippery and does not help a good balance in the jumps.
In this sense, the advisable thing in the basketball shoes is that they have a rubber sole with traction patterns, which allow a good grip, that give rise during the jump, but that collect the force of the impact and distribute it throughout the foot when falling so that the heel is protected. Also, it is convenient that the soles are wide, cooked and of a relatively lightweight, without this diminishing their anti-slip function.
Technology
Each manufacturer incorporates different technologies to achieve a shoe that, besides being attractive for its design, is practical and efficient for its quality of performance.
The competition between the different brands is strong, that is why each one strives to introduce to the market models that are striking; the greater the quality and technology that they incorporate, the better their copies will be, and therefore, their sales.
In this sense, some brands have equipped their shoes with sporting advances in terms of footwear, which allows a better cushioning of falls after jumps, while others incorporate air units on the heel insole for a better boost. Also, there are models manufactured in microfiber to give greater comfort.
Similarly, there are brands that add gel to the base of their shoe prototypes, which gives a more comfortable foot feel, with better cushioning. Each option has its advantages, so there is not one that is considered the best, since some may be more advisable than another, depending on the needs and tastes of each user.
Sizing:
The basketball shoe can not stay small. If this is the case and you notice some discomfort, this will be accentuated in sports practice. Try both feet, it is the most normal thing in the world to have one foot slightly larger than the other. Try to wear socks similar to those you use, and if you use some kind of bandage or protection, keep that in mind.
Protects the ankle
The boot-style basketball shoes are very famous since they offer maximum protection to the ankle, but there are also sports with a medium cut or freeing the ankle since they offer greater mobility.
But as I said before, the most important thing for a basketball shoe and, in general for any sports shoe, is to wear the exact size that fits the size of your foot. To check that your shoe size is, once put pressure on the tip and check that there is not much distance between your fingers and the end of the sport.
Design and colors
In the comparison of basketball shoes, it is necessary to include the design and colors of the different models. Each design has its advantages and characteristics that make them more or less attractive to users.
In this sense, you must be clear if you want a model that is suitable only for training and the game or want a design that suits a casual style to use with jeans. Also, you must analyze who the shoes are for since the models are different for men, women, and children.
There are from modern designs to some more iconic ones that represent sports classics, so selecting one or the other will depend on the tastes of each one. In addition, it is important that you define if you want a round tip, velcro closure or laces, striking or neutral colors.
Outdoor vs Indoor Basketball Shoes
Another important aspect when choosing the shoe or basketball boot is to know the track (s) where you are going to play and the time you are going to dedicate to it.
If the track you play on is as hard as all the outdoor tracks are, you will need to buy basketball shoes with the best possible cushioning to avoid damage to your knees and ankles. These are known as outdoor basketball shoes and are the all-terrain of the world of basketball.
If the track you play on is soft and already has its own cushioning, an excess of this can hurt you more than it helps you, so you'll have to reduce or even eliminate the cushioning of the basketball shoes you choose.
The other aspect to consider is that you play in different places and that sometimes you do it on hard ground and sometimes on the soft ground. In this case, you will have to weigh the purchase of two pairs of shoes or, if a very high% of the game you do in one of them and the% over the other is almost negligible, you should always choose the footwear for the ground on the what else do you play
If you almost always play on a soft track and sporadically you do it on a hard one, you can also save yourself buying some basketball shoes to play outdoors. And vice versa, if you always play outside and sometimes sporadically you do it on parquet, it may not compensate you to buy different sneakers.
How to keep the basketball shoes?
When we train a sport like a basketball, the most important thing is to improve the skill, dribbling or shooting, but also in this sport is a good player depends on the speed, the ability to change rhythm and direction and the explosiveness. For all these elements to work with continuity, it is required to have an adequate team, this equipment includes, of course, basketball shoes.
Every basketball player knows a lot about this section, the shoes used must be in excellent conditions. Therefore, we have added a few tips to help you extend the life of your basketball shoes, these tips will keep the basketball chapels properly.
Keep the shoes properly
First, the shoes should not stay in the bag to avoid deformations caused by pressure on their seams. It will also prevent odors from being trapped by a lack of ventilation. It is much better than the footwear is a well-ventilated place, with good air flow. Once the shoes have dried, they can be put back in their box and you can also use a deodorant to keep them cooler.
Do not use indoor footwear outdoors
If your shoes are for indoor, that is, for use in parquet or gym, avoid using them outdoors, for example in asphalt or cement. If you use them in these fields, they will lose traction and a lot of useful life.
Clean the shoes properly
To reduce odors, shoes should be cleaned at least after each day, it is important to also remove debris from the sole, thus avoiding loss of traction.
Never put your basketball shoes in the washing machine, immerse them completely in water.
Proper cleaning of the basketball shoes is done in the following way. First, we remove the excess dirt from the sole with a soft bristle brush or, failing that, a toothbrush. Once this work is finished, we take a sponge or a cloth dampened with warm water, we can mix it with a drop of laundry detergent, we clean the stained areas of the footwear. If the shoe is leather, we better use a special leather cleaner. For the template, we will use the same cloth or sponge. To finish with a wet sponge, remove the excess soap.
To dry our shoes, we will not expose to direct sunlight or heat sources, such as a hairdryer, we will let it dry at room temperature.
Best Brands of Basketball Shoes
Basketball shoes differ from other types of shoes in several characteristics. For example in the design and in which their soles adapt to the type of floor. It is not difficult to detect if a shoe is for basketball or another sport, but choosing the brand is another matter.
In this comparison, we will try to help you differentiate one brand from the others.
Nike
It is the most famous sporting goods brand in the world and therefore it can't be missing from this list. The Nike brand is present in almost all sports, and basketball shoes are among its most popular products.
We can see the big stars equipped and sponsored by this brand. The quality of their shoes is indisputable, but they are also the most representative when it comes to seeing innovations in each launch of new models of shoes.
Adidas
The Adidas basketball shoes are among the most popular basketball items around the world. We can see many models and series that are in the minds of fans of this popular sport. It is clear that Adidas is committed to being one of the best brands of basketball shoes.
Many of the great champions of the NBA are attracted by the articles of this brand, the results obtained are among many other things, unique models and a very striking design, also help players improve their performance within the field of the game.
New Balance
This brand is less known in the world of basketball, but New Balance still has a great influence in this sport. Their shoes have special characteristics that differentiate them from other brands. New Balance has its own design inside the basketball shoes.
Many of the great teams of this sport have adopted shoes of this brand, becoming the supplier of their team, it is not surprising then, that this brand gets more followers every day among young fans of this sport.
Jordan
Created by and for the great legend of the NBA Michael Jordan, American player known by all fans of the sport. The Jordan brand is a true culture within the world of basketball. A basketball fan will always consider this brand when choosing his shoes to play this sport.
Asics
Another famous brand among basketball fans is Asics. It has stood out offering some unconventional basketball shoes, but suitable for the practice of this sport so expanded in the world. The price of the shoes manufactured by the Asics brand is lower compared to other brands, this gives it an advantage over its competitors. Being more affordable, it reaches a wider audience and is also less classic models than the designs of other brands more established.
Best Basketball Shoes FAQs
1. What should I look for in a good basketball shoe?
Look for durability, cushioning, ankle support, traction, and a comfortable fit. The shoe should provide stability and protect your feet from impact while allowing for quick movements on the court.
2. Are high-tops or low-tops better for basketball?
High-tops offer more ankle support, which is helpful for players prone to ankle injuries or who play in the post. Low-tops are lighter and provide more flexibility, ideal for guards and fast-moving players.
3. How often should I replace my basketball shoes?
Basketball shoes should typically be replaced after 70-100 hours of play. This can vary based on the intensity of play, the court surface, and the shoe's quality.
4. Do expensive basketball shoes perform better?
While more expensive shoes often come with advanced technology and materials, performance depends on your playing style, position, and comfort preferences. It's important to find a shoe that suits your specific needs, not just the price tag.
5. Can I use basketball shoes for running?
Basketball shoes are designed for lateral movements and jumps, not long-distance running. While they offer good cushioning, using them for running regularly could lead to discomfort and reduced shoe lifespan.
Conclusion
When selecting the best basketball shoes, it's essential to consider various factors such as comfort, support, traction, and style. The ideal pair will enhance your performance on the court, whether you're a guard needing agility or a forward requiring stability. Popular choices from brands like Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour offer innovative technology for optimal performance. Ultimately, the best basketball shoes for you will align with your playing style and personal preferences, ensuring you feel confident and capable during every game.