Whether you’re a team player or a collector, these Pro Tips will help guide your decision.
Basketball shoes are designed with performance, comfort and fashion in mind. Knowing what features best fit your game can help take you from the bench to the paint in no time.
Before you make any decision on a shoe, you need to understand your playing style and capabilities. Do you shoot from long range or are you more comfortable in the key? Does your game showcase agility and speed, or power and aggression? Are you going to crash the boards for every rebound, or hang back and capitalize in transition?
Being over or underequipped in footwear is a problem no athlete wants. Once you understand your playing prowess, you can search for your desired features more easily.
Your typical basketball shoes get separated into three main sections: the upper, the midsole and the outsole. Each section of your shoe has qualities that will affect durability and performance. So, identifying which features fit your needs and playing style is vital to copping the right gear.
ANATOMY OF A BASKETBALL SHOE
THE UPPER
When discussing the upper portion of basketball shoes, the first decision you have to make is which height you want. Basketball shoes are available in high, mid or low heights; each of these appealing to a different style of player.
High: The upper wraps around your ankle to provide an extra layer of support and stability. With this extra coverage often comes extra weight.
Mid: As the name suggests, mid-top basketball shoes provide a happy medium for players in terms of ankle support. The upper material sits right at the ankle to provide some coverage without an all-enclosing design. Mid-tops allow for increased flexibility.
Low: Built for speed and agility, low basketball shoes have little ankle support due to their lower profile.
UPPER SECURITY
There are a number of closure techniques available, laces being the most popular.
You might also find basketball shoes with zippers, straps or hook-and-loop closures. These pieces can add more support to your ankle, especially in high-top models, as well as provide another layer of coverage over your standard laces. Keep in mind added coverage means added weight.
THE MIDSOLE
A basketball shoe’s midsole is where the footwear’s cushioning will be found. This makes this section one of the most essential parts of a shoe’s performance. Most midsoles are comprised of various foams, EVA and compressed EVA foam being the lighter options, compared to polyurethane midsoles, which are dense and more durable.
Brand-specific cushioning technologies are also found in the midsole; namely in the heel and forefoot. This technology is added to give extra cushioning in pressure points that will endure a lot of stress during the course of a game.
THE OUTSOLE
A shoe’s outsole is made of a rubber or synthetic material and is the point of traction for your footwear. When deciding on basketball shoes, look for a relatively flat and wide outsole to provide you with maximum balance. For added grip, search for outsoles that feature a herringbone or hexagonal pattern, since these are designed to help secure your feet and prevent you from sliding up and down the court.
Nearly all basketball shoes are designed with indoor play in mind. Outdoor courts are less forgiving than indoor hardwood ones. So, if you know that you’ll be playing exclusively on outdoor surfaces, look for a shoe with a thicker, more durable outsole. Also, keep in mind that asphalt can eat up your shoe’s tread.
BASKETBALL SHOES BY POSITION
What are the best shoes for shooting guards? Are there specific basketball shoes for centers? Here’s a breakdown of some common shoes worn by position.
Guards: This position requires quick movements on the court. Low-top basketball shoes offer little ankle support, but can help with fluid movement.
Forwards: Forwards need to command the paint. High-top basketball shoes come with extra weight, which can be popular among these larger, more aggressive players. High-top shoes have additional coverage and support.
All-Around Players: If you’re an all-around basketball player on the court, you’ll need to find a nice middle ground. Mid-top basketball shoes provide ankle support, but still give you some room to move around. There is more flexibility in this shoe, which is great for hybrid, multi-position basketball players.
BASKETBALL SHOE SIZING
Athletes have a wide variety of shoes to choose from. But before you lace up your new pair, you need to determine your shoe size. Don’t know where to start? Consult this Pro Tips guide on how to measure your shoe size.
Once you have your size, it’s time to pick the perfect shoe. There are plenty of unisex shoes to choose from, too. For this reason, basketball shoes on our site are displayed in unisex sizes noted within an “M/W.”
Normally, there is a 1-1.5 size difference between male and female shoes. However, this can vary based on brand, so be sure to check sizes before purchasing or trying on a new shoe.
AESTHETICS
When choosing a new pair of basketball shoes, you not only should consider how they’re made, but also how they look. You’ll want basketball shoes that not only function well but make a statement, too.
Show your personality by choosing color schemes and designs that appeal to your tastes. If you’re looking to stand out, choose a style with more bold colors and design elements. If you’re looking to rep your school colors on the court, some of your favorite signature models are also available in team colors to match your uniform.
Basketball shoes can also be worn as a lifestyle option. Looking good and feeling good doesn’t just apply to the court. It can also carry over to the classroom and everyday life. Want to look fresh heading into school? A pair of kicks with signature details from your favorite athlete can help you stand out. Of course, you’ll want to keep them looking brand new. For advice on how to keep your shoes clean, make sure to brush up on these Pro Tips.
Searching for the right size? Look for the True Fit icon on apparel and footwear product pages when shopping online at DICK’S Sporting Goods. Get personalized size and fit recommendations with just a few clicks. Learn more about True Fit.
Related Articles
Top 5 Tips for Picking the Perfect Outdoor Basketball Shoe
There is no timetable for how long any particular shoe will last outdoors, but there are some simple tips that you can use for picking the perfect outdoor basketball shoe and help you make the best decision possible prior to you spending your hard-earned cash.
Picking an outdoor basketball shoe may seem daunting, but it’s really not that difficult of a task. Some think too much about it or just have their heart set on a shoe that wasn’t intended for primary outdoor use. If you happen to play basketball primarily outdoors, then these are the top 5 tips for picking the perfect outdoor basketball shoe.
In this article, we will also go over the top outdoor basketball shoes currently available to purchase.
Top 5 Tips for Picking the Perfect Outdoor Basketball Shoe
Rubber
How do you know what shoe features dense rubber?
Traction Pattern
Materials
Cushion
Price
Top 5 Best Outdoor Basketball Shoes (updated May 2022)
Nike KD 15
adidas DON Issue 4
Li-Ning Sonic Team Low
Adidas Son of Chi 2
Puma Court Rider 2
Updated 10.19.22
Rubber
When picking a new shoe that you know will be your primary outdoor option, the rubber outsole is the first thing to consider.
Solid or translucent rubbers are perfectly fine, but be sure that you’re aware of the density and thickness of the rubber.
If your rubber is dense, then it’ll last longer against the abrasions that rough outdoors surfaces cause. Softer rubbers will burn out quickly and you’ll be left with a bald outsole before you know it.
How do you know what shoe features dense rubber?
You can always watch or read a review from a reliable source — most reviewers will say whether the rubber is soft or firm. Going in-store and holding the product in-hand works wonders as well. I understand online shopping is very convenient, and for some shoppers, it’s their only option. But if possible, head out to a retail store and feel the rubber for yourself. It’ll be very apparent which outsoles are too soft for rough outdoor courts and which ones will hold their own.
The thickness of the pattern is also a key component when looking at the rubber outsole. This is a feature that can be easily spotted as well. You can quickly and easily assess whether or not a traction pattern looks too thin for consistent outdoor usage or not.
Again, some might have their hearts set on a particular shoe that may not be intended for outdoor use. If that’s you, and you end up with a shoe that wears down too quickly, just know all the signs were there that the specific shoe you chose was not the best option in terms of longevity.
XDR (Nike’s version of durable rubber) outsoles are an option overseas and can be purchased via third-party sellers on eBay, but the shoe’s upper is built to fit a bit wider. This might be great for some and not-so-great for normal/narrow footers. XDR outsoles are also an option on NIKEiD (Nike By You) but if the pattern is thin then XDR won’t add a significant amount of time onto the lifespan of the sole.
Traction Pattern
Aggressive traction patterns work beautifully (indoors) but they wear down pretty quickly outdoors.
Look for something that has its traction pattern recessed into the outsole a bit. This type of pattern implementation will help promote even wear and tear while you play on rougher surfaces and tend to last longer in general.
Those types of outsoles tend to work well no matter what surface you play on as they practically repel dust and debris from the outsole. Without a pattern for the debris to get stuck into, you’re usually safe. As a bonus, it usually wears evenly as well.
Materials
Basketball shoes are built with a variety of materials — some last longer than others.
Raw materials feel better around your foot and break in nicely. However, they can show signs of wear much faster than most modern synthetics. If you wish to avoid having your shoe look beat too quickly then builds comprised of TPU (plastic) such as a Hyperfuse will typically last a bit longer.
However, if you’re like me, and insist on wearing raw materials then look for a pair with multiple overlays — especially with overlays located at typical high-wear areas such as the heel and toe.
The K1X Antigravity featured in the image above is a synthetic-based sneaker. However, the image is to show you what I meant by finding a shoe with overlays along the upper.
Cushion
Sometimes overlooked when thinking of your next outdoor basketball shoe, but an aspect that should be considered.
When playing outdoors you’re playing on a surface that isn’t very forgiving. Ensuring you have some decent cushion will keep your knees a bit fresher for a little longer. Everyone has their preferences when it comes to cushion, so whatever that preference is…make sure the sneaker has a lot of it.
If you happen to love Zoom Air, then make sure it’s full length. Or, at the very least, heel and forefoot. If you love a good foam like Micro G or UA Flow, make sure it’s the rubber bouncy variety like in the Curry 8 and not the firm Curry 7 variety.
Exposed cushion systems should be reconsidered for those looking for longevity. Visible full-length Air units of any kind are great for outdoors in terms of impact protection, but the units are exposed and can pop much quicker than if this was your indoor shoe.
As an example, the Air Jordan 11 and Nike LeBron 8 both feature full-length Max Air cushion. The Air Jordan 11’s Air unit is encapsulated within the midsole while the Nike LeBron 8’s full-length Air cushion is exposed. If you wear the 11s long enough to grind through the outsole and you start seeing the Phylon foam, well, that means you play a lot of outdoor basketball, but it also means your cushion is still protected by the Phylon midsole itself. However, if you were to grind down the outsole on the LeBron 8 then the cushion becomes exposed to the concrete/blacktop and you’ll end up grinding a hole into your Air unit — rendering the cushion useless.
While the LeBron 8 provides more impact protection with its thicker cushion system, it’s a bit more vulnerable.
Price
Once you’ve figured out what it is you need and what it is you want, the last step is making sure you find that product for as little money as possible. Outlets are perfect for this.
It’s true, shopping at the outlet will oftentimes ensure that your footwear choices are from the previous year, but those products still feature the same tech specs and you’ll be able to see and feel the product in hand prior to purchasing. Sure, waiting for sales on current hoop shoes is also an option, but your best bang-for-your-buck typically can be found at outlets and discount stores.
Personally, I’ve never really understood buying the latest and greatest at full retail price and then taking them outdoors. If you’re a big baller like that then that’s awesome, but I grew up with limited funds which meant my new outdoor shoe was typically my old pair of sneakers that I had worn for the entire previous school year while my new day to day shoe was, well, my new day to day shoe and my new indoor shoe. Ah, you gotta love the 90s.
Obviously, you can do what you like to do with your money. It’s yours. You’ve earned it. But if you wanted to be a bit more informed about where that hard-earned cash is going then this might end up helping you make sure you get the most out of that hard-earned purchase.
Top 5 Best Outdoor Basketball Shoes (updated May 2022)
Taking into account all the previous points, it’s time to present our picks for the best current outdoor basketball shoes available. Not only do these sneakers meet the aforementioned criteria, but they have received ample testing time on concrete to put them through their paces. Here are our top 5 picks of the best kicks for outdoor hoops, you can check out our full list as well.
Nike KD 15
The Nike KD 15 is a great outdoor option, especially if you get the EP version, usually available in Asian markets, with the extra-durable rubber (XDR). Another reason why this works well for outdoor hoopers is the cushioning system. Cushlon is used as the primary foam carrier and on top of that is the full-length Nike Zoom Air Strobel unit to provide impact protection and bounce under your feet. It’s a combo that makes hours of outdoor hooping much more manageable. See the full review. Price: $150
9.5/10
Total Score
Buy Nike KD 15
adidas DON Issue 4
The adidas DON Issue 4 is a good shoe for those who love stability. The cushion is stiff, making it stable; a substantial shank plate and a broad base contribute to its overall feel. The traction performed well on outdoor settings despite it being mostly translucent rubber. The upper is Jacquard, that’s both light and durable. Going true to size is recommended. See the full review. Price: $120
8/10
Total Score
Buy adidas DON Issue 4
Li-Ning Sonic Team Low
The Li-Ning Sonic Team Low is an outdoor basketball hooper’s dream shoe, especially if you’re a point guard. The outsole is made of what they call “Tuff RB” for tough rubber. And did it ever stick to that name. The shoe can hold up not only hours upon hours but also months of outdoor play. The grip was never inconsistent and just looked dirty after all the hours put in it. The midsole is Light Foam, which does a good enough job of protecting you from impact, but it’s still neutral and low to the ground. See the full review. Price: TBA
9/10
Total Score
Buy Li-Ning Sonic Team Low
Adidas Son of Chi 2
The adidas Son of Chi 2 may end up as the best adidas basketball shoe of 2022. The traction is a big highlight of its performance. Even with translucent rubber, the shoe gripped all floors well. It’s also durable and will last longer outdoors than most rubber outsoles today. The midsole is full-length Bounce, providing the impact protection needed for long hours on outdoor courts. Everything aspect is well-balanced and functional. Read the full review. Price: TBA
9/10
Total Score
Buy Adidas Son of Chi 2
Puma Court Rider 2
The Puma Court Rider 2 is the follow-up to the shoe LaMelo Ball wore before he got his own signature sneaker, the MB. 01. Though he’s 6’8” and can jump, he’s still a point guard. And that usually means preferring a lower-to-the-ground ride, which is the case with the Court Rider. What makes these more interesting are the layers of materials, a rarity nowadays. Puma has been doing a great job with their basketball shoes, and these are their best outdoor basketball shoes. Read the full review. Price: $110
How to choose the right shoes for basketball? | iMotion
Perseverance and the desire to win, regular training and exercise are all important components of a successful sports activity. Equally important for performance, comfort and avoidance of injury is the right choice of equipment. The constant load on the legs - running, jumping - makes you think about comfortable shoes for training and performing at competitions.
Basketball shoes, designed specifically for basketball - they fix the ankle very well , so mostly basketball models are "high". These shoes provide stability during lateral movements and protect against shock loads when jumping. Let's talk a little more about how to choose the right shoes for basketball.
Choosing the right shoes for basketball!
The main selection criteria for basketball shoes are:
Outsole
Material
Degree of fixation of the ankle joint
First of all, you should pay attention to them:
Sole. It is divided into two types - for playing on the street and in closed halls. So, soft sole is best suited for playing on artificial surfaces of indoor stadiums , while the hard sole is the best option for street play . The area of the sole is also important - the larger it is, the better the friction and braking. Stability during stops and turns will give the correct tread pattern - Herringbone pattern is recommended.
Material. It is considered that for basketball it is most comfortable to wear shoes made from a combination of leather and synthetic mesh . Leather is one of the most durable materials, and mesh provides flexibility and ventilation for the foot. However, basketball shoes with full synthetic uppers are becoming more and more popular on the market and are rapidly gaining popularity as they are lighter and stronger due to the use of modern synthetic materials.
Ankle protection and fixation. Basketball shoes are divided into three types depending on the design:
1. High sneakers (high). They have the advantage of providing protection to the athlete's ankle as well as good ankle stability. Ideal for beginners, this shoe is the most popular type of sneaker among basketball players. Strong and versatile basketball players love to wear them.
2. Trainers (mid) with medium height. The strength of this shoe is freedom of movement. Mid-height sneakers do not restrict the movement of the athlete's legs, unlike high ones. However, there are caveats - these sneakers will not guarantee the safety of the ankles, and inexperienced players can lead to injury. These shoes are most often chosen by fans of high-speed basketball.
3. Low sneakers (low). They are rarely used in basketball. The top of low shoes ends at anterior ankle. Light and free, they allow the basketball player to show the maximum of their abilities. But the high risk of injury makes players think twice before buying low-top basketball shoes. Suitable for very fast and agile athletes.
Also ! Optimal fixation of the ankle is provided by a system of laces, Velcro and other fasteners.
Some fitting tips
After choosing a particular model, you must immediately try on a pair of sneakers on both feet. It's best to try to jump into them or stop abruptly, that is, try to do what usually happens in the game.
When trying on basketball shoes, it is advisable to try them on with socks that are similar to the ones you are going to play in. If a player constantly uses an elastic bandage or ankle calipers, shoes should be tried on in them.
It is important to determine if the foot is stable enough in the shoe. It must not be pinched, but must not slip or dangle. Like any sports shoe, basketball shoes need to be chosen 0.5 sizes looser. Because the leg swells from tension during the game, and the shoes will press you and injure your foot and fingers. Thus, trying on sneakers is a very responsible step, which will provide you with comfort, convenience and health of your feet.
Basketball shoes for kids - which is better?
An important choice of children's basketball shoes. Fast movements, sudden stops, maneuvers - all this can lead to possible injuries. The ankle is particularly susceptible to these injuries. Therefore, the best choice for children will be - safety :
Mandatory requirements for choosing basketball shoes for children are a hard heel, elastic and soft sole. Try to keep the sneakers fixed the entire foot, while the toe of the shoe should be soft and easy to bend.
If the child plays basketball indoors more often, make sure that the soles of the shoes do not slip . If, however, most of the time training takes place on the street, then pay attention to the choice of sneakers with excellent abrasion resistance so that you do not have to buy several pairs per season.
For the grass turf option, any running shoe will fit, which is soft on its own and will not hinder the movement of a beginner athlete.
And finally! We also advise you to choose shoes from well-known manufacturers. This is a good way to protect yourself from fakes and buy a quality product. After all, to maintain its reputation, the manufacturer tries to make quality things, and you are guaranteed comfort and safety. You can buy children's sneakers from well-known manufacturers here.
Leading manufacturers or how it all began!
Now the leading brands of manufacturers of basketball shoes, which invariably fight among themselves for the best quality and "game wins", traditionally include such giants as Adidas, Nike, Puma, Converse and Reebok. And this continuous "race" began one fine day in 1917. When famous basketball player Chuck Taylor tried on the Converse All-Star sneakers. He was fascinated by the novelty and from that moment played only in them. Soon the model name was changed to Chuck Taylor All-Star , thus, the famous sneakers became the first personalized basketball shoe in history.
The Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star dominated for more than 40 years before being gradually replaced by leather sneakers in the early 70s. Over 750 million All-Stars sold in 144 countries. Converse sneakers are inextricably linked not only with basketball, but also with modern culture, which they became an integral part of in the 50s. Buy basketball shoes from leading European brands here!
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How to choose basketball shoes | Useful tips and nuances
We love basketball because this sport is quite fast and dynamic. At some moments we make sharp jerks, high jumps, unexpected stops and, of course, this is what helps us to dominate the game and love it for unique moments.
When playing basketball, there is always a high risk of getting various kinds of injuries that overshadow our pleasure and send us to the infirmary for recovery, which can last from a few days to a year. But no matter what happens, we still love this game and try to protect ourselves as much as possible when necessary, in order to feel comfortable and convenient with every step.
But why should any basketball player think about safety as much as about a clean and beautiful hit in the basket, leaving behind a pleasant sound of rustling net? A simple example: the more powerful a car's engine is, the more manufacturers focus on various systems that help make driving safer and more enjoyable. The same goes for basketball, the more jumps and jerks we make, the more we need to pay attention to safety in this game.
Of course safety and comfort in basketball is achieved by many factors. For example, this is a complete and balanced diet that saturates our body with numerous useful microelements and vitamins. Also, safety in the game is achieved by performing various exercises to strengthen the ligaments and joints during training periods outside the game. An equally important factor is a good warm-up before the game itself and the cleanliness of the surface on which we will perform various movements. And all these are important components that will directly or indirectly help us avoid various injuries in the future.
A quality basketball shoe is essential for a successful, comfortable and safe game. Of course, it is important to mention that any footwear is not able to protect us from injury by 100%. Even if we follow all the recommendations described above.
But does this mean that you can play basketball in any sneakers? No. And here are a few reasons. Some models are simply not designed to perform the actions that a basketball game involves. Other sneakers may have mediocre quality or short-lived materials that can lead to unfortunate consequences.
And here comes the question. How to choose basketball shoes that would help you get maximum pleasure and enjoyment from the game? Based on the ratings and reviews of both amateur and professional athletes, BasketZilla has collected the necessary information to help anyone make a choice and understand what factors to look for when buying basketball shoes.
Original, branded shoes or any other?
We recommend that you start your choice with this question. We immediately want to mention the importance of buying only original basketball shoes from reputable manufacturers. Why exactly? Signature sneakers from brands like Nike, Adidas, Jordan Brand, Under armour, Reebok, ANTA, PUMA, Converse, Peak and a few more provide quality shoes with durable materials and proven technologies that have passed quality control and numerous tests. The production of branded sneakers is based on the feedback of professional athletes and their subsequent use during the game itself. Accordingly, branded basketball shoes will allow us to feel more comfortable and confident on the court.
Here it is important to emphasize the danger of counterfeiting branded shoes. Now, when buying on the Internet or in shopping centers, you can stumble upon such fake basketball shoes that are difficult to distinguish at first glance, even for some specialists. There are a number of factors on how to distinguish a fake from the original. Here is some of them.
verified online stores or brand departments that represent the brand
sizes. Pay attention to the availability of half sizes and plus sizes. On sites selling fakes, often only running sizes for men and women.
prices should not differ much or even several times from the average market value among official sellers.
By the way, our service, BasketZilla, offers to buy only original basketball shoes from well-known manufacturers in trusted and reliable online stores that have proven themselves exclusively on the positive side! Everyone has the opportunity to compare prices among these suppliers, see photos, read reviews, learn about discounts and available sizes. Our service makes it much easier to find a better option. Available options can be found at the end of the article.
But does this mean that it is dangerous and better not to buy non-branded basketball shoes? Not always. In any case, when choosing sneakers, it is worth considering several factors:
how high-quality materials are used in them. For example, how are the seams made, are they taped in areas of increased wear? What is the upper material, does it have good wear resistance? How is the lacing system done? Is the sole durable and what is the cushioning system?
how comfortable the shoes are. For example, is your leg comfortable when you stand, when you walk, when you jump? How tight is the foot and is there any excessive discomfort?
So, regardless of the financial component and their priorities, everyone has something to think about. Some are guided by the phrase "the miser pays twice", others do not want to "overpay for the brand. " Be that as it may, pay attention to the performance of the specific basketball model that you want to purchase. Determine for yourself at what level you will play - amateur or professional, because the more serious the approach to the game, the more serious investments should be.
Shoe Heights and their Impact on Playing Style
There are three types of basketball shoe heights - High, Mid and Low. It used to be that taller players fighting under the basket should wear taller shoes, and accordingly the shorter the player, the lower the profile height of their model should be for speed and agility. Now, this stereotype has begun to become more and more blurred, as the concept of the position of a player in basketball has changed a lot. This is especially felt in the NBA, where the real breakthrough was made by Kevin Durant with the Nike KD line of sneakers and Giannis Adetoumbo with his Freaks, forever washing away the notion of classic position distribution according to player height.
Now, when everyone wants to be LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo or Kevin Durant, profile height should be chosen based on your playing style. For example, if you want to play at high speeds, using dribbling and first step speed, feel free to choose a low profile and in some cases a medium one when it has an elastic zone in the ankle area. If you want to score from above or fight under the basket, look for higher models that will help protect your joints with excellent cushioning and a padded collar. That is, although height and weight sometimes affect the style of play and these factors also need to be considered when choosing the height of a sneaker, nevertheless, not everyone wants to play in a certain position, and not everyone plays at a professional level.
Therefore, the average height of the profile in modern basketball shoes is more versatile, which can be used by both center and heavy forwards, as well as light forwards, defensemen and even point guards. Don't focus too much on your height and weight, as your main factor should be comfort and convenience with the standard basketball moves that you tend to do the most. It's also worth considering that if you're using an ankle brace, then you should choose shoes that allow you to secure it tightly.
If you play at a professional or semi-professional level, then you should approach the choice of profile height more carefully, perhaps after consulting with your coach, who will tell you what position he is going to use you in the future. If you are clearly assigned to a certain position, then think about what role is assigned to you in the team, what exactly is expected of you? What do you tend to do during the game itself - go under the basket, fight for rebounds, or organize fast attacks?
There is also an opinion that the height of the profile greatly affects the protection and safety of the ankle. But think about this. For example, if the ligaments in the ankle area are naturally weak, prone to twisting, or even just already stretched over years of repeated injuries, then the height of the profile will not be able to save 100% from getting a relapse. For example, a high profile will protect the ankle, but when tucked, it will create a load on the ligaments and tendons of the knee joint. A low profile, on the other hand, has a high risk of re-injury, but allows you to wear a brace and does not burden the knee. The Mid profile has something in between and is therefore more versatile, although we emphasize that no profile can completely protect your ankle.
The height of the profile also allows for a different fit with the lacing system. Sometimes a lot depends on the leg lift, which determines the positive or negative feedback about a particular model.
So, the height of the profile should help when playing basketball, and not interfere or cause discomfort. The surest way to choose a profile height is to play with each of these types and try to experience their advantages and disadvantages for yourself.
About the surface on which we plan to play
Before buying basketball shoes, it is worth considering whether we buy them for indoor or outdoor play. In the halls, as a rule, there is often parquet and, in rare cases, a rubberized coating. In outdoor areas, the coating is usually more rigid for durability in open spaces. Therefore, depending on the surface, we should choose our running shoes.
For example, for a gym, we'd better take a softer sole, which will help to achieve maximum grip on the surface, of course, provided that the parquet is carefully cleaned and there is no dust, dirt or even unpainted spots on it. The tread pattern is also responsible for grip, and many note the high efficiency of the so-called “Christmas tree”, but it should not be made a priority when choosing, since other patterns have no less positive reviews.
For the outdoors, we should opt for a shoe with a firmer outsole to avoid wear and tear on tarmac or any other rough surface. It must be remembered that any sneakers on outdoor playgrounds wear out faster, which means that they should be more carefully cared for.
Many people point out the advantages of those models that bend better towards the toe and are quite rigid or less flexible in the middle. This will make jumping much easier on any of the surfaces.
Another important factor is the cushioning system. Each brand and model is different. And of course, some shoes are designed specifically for speed, others for overhead shots. But depreciation should be, otherwise soon you can get problems not only with the knee, but also with the spine. Many basketball players who played on different grounds note that playing on asphalt is more traumatic and uncomfortable for jumping than on other surfaces. Therefore, if you plan to play at full strength on asphalt, then consider when choosing good cushioning and reliable traction with a wide sole that will increase stability and stability during the game.
Now there are balanced basketball shoes that can be used both indoors and outdoors. We emphasize that a lot depends on your style of play, further operation and care of the model.
Therefore, determine for yourself the surface on which you will play. It may be worth taking a few sneakers so that one can be used in the gym, the other on the street. This is the most correct approach if you play often and at the limit of your capabilities.
About the upper materials
Basketball shoes today are made from a variety of materials than they were in the past. For a long time it was believed that only natural leather is able to meet all the requirements of basketball shoes. However, despite the high strength, such models are quite heavy for a modern fast game. And so now most brands use a combination of genuine leather, synthetic leather, textiles, mesh materials, plastics and other components that can create the perfect option for any basketball player.
Everyone has their own priorities when choosing the material of the upper. For some, the basis is durability and strength, for others, lightness and ventilation are the most important factors. Modern basketball shoes have a balanced composition of materials that meets even the most demanding requirements.
Look at your old running shoes and identify their weaknesses and worn spots. For some, this will be the area in the forefoot in the area of the big toe, and not only the materials of the upper, but also the sole. Someone has a lot of wear on the rear end and the depreciation system. For others, the lacing system and uncomfortable tongue are uncomfortable. Whatever it is, take this moment to yourself so that when buying new sneakers, think about how they will cope with our problem areas.
So upper materials often emphasize certain points - lightness, ventilation, comfort, flexibility, and so on. Think about what is more important for you and choose ahead.
What to look for when trying on
Ideally, each model would be well tried on. But what if you are shopping online? It’s good if you know your size for each brand and purchase it on subsequent purchases, because each manufacturer has its own size grid. But what if we buy sneakers for the first time and through an online store?
The most important thing is to measure the length and width of the foot. It is important to focus on the size grid of the manufacturer! It is necessary to take measurements of the foot on a flat surface while standing and preferably in the second half for when we walked enough. Stand on a white sheet of paper and circle the foot at a vertical angle with a pencil or pen. Measure the length from the thumb to the heel. This is a classic version with the definition of the length of the foot. There are rare cases when different models sit differently in the same company. It depends on the structural features of the shoe and the technologies that were used to create it. Also, to determine the size, you can go to the nearest department with the sale of sneakers of a particular company. But this option is only possible if original sneakers are sold there, and not a fake, in which the dimensional grid has a difference. In extreme cases, you can try on your friend's shoes, who have a similar or close size.
If the purchase is made directly in the store, then it is best to do it in sports socks and after we have walked enough, because our legs have already received some tension and, accordingly, are slightly swollen. This is quite normal, because during the game our feet also tend to swell. If the purchase is made in the morning or when the legs did not have enough tension, then it is better to take a model half a size larger to avoid discomfort during the game. If you need a tight fit, it is better to take the size in size.
Be sure to try on both feet, as the length of the foot may vary and one of the feet may feel uncomfortable later on.
Pay attention to the removable insole, which can be washed or even replaced in case of need.
The next step is to lace up the shoes tightly, because one of the most important things about basketball shoes is the ability to lock the foot in tight thanks to the lacing system. Now, in addition to the laces, there are various straps, latches and sometimes zippers. Tight fixation of the foot is the key to good stability and stability. Some NBA players, for example, periodically lace up their shoes at halftime during a game for optimal performance.
Of course, it is worth noting that some people do not like the tight fixation of the sneaker, which is why you can notice the models periodically flying off the feet of the players. The best thing is to find a middle ground. You do not need to pinch the foot too much, because there is a risk of poor blood circulation in that area of the body. But you should not allow the foot to “walk” in the sneaker, because there is a danger of slipping, which can lead to injury.
Next, get up and walk around, if possible, make jumps and sudden stops, as during the game (Warn the seller in advance to avoid misunderstandings). Take your time in this moment, let your feet feel the shoes, get used to it.
If at this moment you notice a sharp discomfort, then either change the size or the model itself. If this discomfort is not significant, then this may indicate that the model needs to be smashed. Remember that if the shoes fit you in size, then subsequent rubbing and calluses are a feature of your foot or the operation of a particular model. If they do not go away, you can use various spacers, stretching sprays, special insoles, or use folk tricks to get the desired result.
If there are any features, such as a wide foot or anatomical deviations, then take care of a consultation with a specialist, orthopedic insoles, ointments, exercises, and so on.
So, trying on shoes should be mandatory. However, if the purchase is made through an online store, carefully take measurements and, if necessary, consult with a manager or consultant.
Conclusions and highlights
So let's summarize and look at the points that you need to consider when buying.
Buy branded, branded and original shoes from trusted online stores or points of sale. Remember, the better your feet are taken care of, the more they will be grateful to us throughout their lives. If you find budget, non-branded sneakers, determine if they will meet the basic requirements of basketball models.
Define your playing style and choose a profile height that will help you perform your usual game movements with ease and comfort.
Think about what kind of surface you take your shoes for. The hall is a soft sole, the street is more solid. You can buy universal ones, but do not be lazy to take care of the shoes so that they last a long time.
Consider what is most important to you in a basketball shoe? Lightweight, breathable, durable, flexible and choose your upper design accordingly. Think about the wear spots on old sneakers and focus on strengthening them in the model you're going to buy.
Do not rush to buy right away. Try on carefully. If you buy through the online store, take measurements and consult with the sales manager. Do not be afraid to make a mistake, since most models are made to fit standard foot sizes.
Therefore, listen, but in no case rely on the opinions of others about this or that model, because not only the shape of the foot is different for everyone, but also the style of play.
Please note that finding the perfect shoe can take some time and effort.
The upper material sits right at the ankle to provide some coverage without an all-enclosing design. Mid-tops allow for increased flexibility.
But before you lace up your new pair, you need to determine your shoe size. Don’t know where to start? Consult this Pro Tips guide on how to measure your shoe size.
You can quickly and easily assess whether or not a traction pattern looks too thin for consistent outdoor usage or not. 
This type of pattern implementation will help promote even wear and tear while you play on rougher surfaces and tend to last longer in general.
Everyone has their preferences when it comes to cushion, so whatever that preference is…make sure the sneaker has a lot of it.
However, if you were to grind down the outsole on the LeBron 8 then the cushion becomes exposed to the concrete/blacktop and you’ll end up grinding a hole into your Air unit — rendering the cushion useless.
If you’re a big baller like that then that’s awesome, but I grew up with limited funds which meant my new outdoor shoe was typically my old pair of sneakers that I had worn for the entire previous school year while my new day to day shoe was, well, my new day to day shoe and my new indoor shoe. Ah, you gotta love the 90s.
See the full review. Price: $150
The grip was never inconsistent and just looked dirty after all the hours put in it. The midsole is Light Foam, which does a good enough job of protecting you from impact, but it’s still neutral and low to the ground. See the full review. Price: TBA
01. Though he’s 6’8” and can jump, he’s still a point guard. And that usually means preferring a lower-to-the-ground ride, which is the case with the Court Rider. What makes these more interesting are the layers of materials, a rarity nowadays. Puma has been doing a great job with their basketball shoes, and these are their best outdoor basketball shoes. Read the full review. Price: $110
These shoes provide stability during lateral movements and protect against shock loads when jumping. Let's talk a little more about how to choose the right shoes for basketball. 
Trainers (mid) with medium height. The strength of this shoe is freedom of movement. Mid-height sneakers do not restrict the movement of the athlete's legs, unlike high ones. However, there are caveats - these sneakers will not guarantee the safety of the ankles, and inexperienced players can lead to injury. These shoes are most often chosen by fans of high-speed basketball. 
It's best to try to jump into them or stop abruptly, that is, try to do what usually happens in the game. 
Fast movements, sudden stops, maneuvers - all this can lead to possible injuries. The ankle is particularly susceptible to these injuries. Therefore, the best choice for children will be - safety : 
This is a good way to protect yourself from fakes and buy a quality product. After all, to maintain its reputation, the manufacturer tries to make quality things, and you are guaranteed comfort and safety. You can buy children's sneakers from well-known manufacturers here. 
At some moments we make sharp jerks, high jumps, unexpected stops and, of course, this is what helps us to dominate the game and love it for unique moments. 
Other sneakers may have mediocre quality or short-lived materials that can lead to unfortunate consequences. 
Accordingly, branded basketball shoes will allow us to feel more comfortable and confident on the court. 
Our service makes it much easier to find a better option. Available options can be found at the end of the article. 
" Be that as it may, pay attention to the performance of the specific basketball model that you want to purchase. Determine for yourself at what level you will play - amateur or professional, because the more serious the approach to the game, the more serious investments should be. 
Don't focus too much on your height and weight, as your main factor should be comfort and convenience with the standard basketball moves that you tend to do the most. It's also worth considering that if you're using an ankle brace, then you should choose shoes that allow you to secure it tightly. 
For example, a high profile will protect the ankle, but when tucked, it will create a load on the ligaments and tendons of the knee joint. A low profile, on the other hand, has a high risk of re-injury, but allows you to wear a brace and does not burden the knee. The Mid profile has something in between and is therefore more versatile, although we emphasize that no profile can completely protect your ankle. 
In the halls, as a rule, there is often parquet and, in rare cases, a rubberized coating. In outdoor areas, the coating is usually more rigid for durability in open spaces. Therefore, depending on the surface, we should choose our running shoes. 
This will make jumping much easier on any of the surfaces. 
It may be worth taking a few sneakers so that one can be used in the gym, the other on the street. This is the most correct approach if you play often and at the limit of your capabilities. 
It is important to focus on the size grid of the manufacturer! It is necessary to take measurements of the foot on a flat surface while standing and preferably in the second half for when we walked enough. Stand on a white sheet of paper and circle the foot at a vertical angle with a pencil or pen. Measure the length from the thumb to the heel. This is a classic version with the definition of the length of the foot. There are rare cases when different models sit differently in the same company. It depends on the structural features of the shoe and the technologies that were used to create it. Also, to determine the size, you can go to the nearest department with the sale of sneakers of a particular company. But this option is only possible if original sneakers are sold there, and not a fake, in which the dimensional grid has a difference. In extreme cases, you can try on your friend's shoes, who have a similar or close size. 
This is quite normal, because during the game our feet also tend to swell. If the purchase is made in the morning or when the legs did not have enough tension, then it is better to take a model half a size larger to avoid discomfort during the game. If you need a tight fit, it is better to take the size in size. 
If they do not go away, you can use various spacers, stretching sprays, special insoles, or use folk tricks to get the desired result. 
