We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of our links. The LA Times editorial staff was not involved in the creation of this content. Learn more

The Best Men's Basketball Shoes To Keep Hooping

  1. Nike Men's Basketball Shoe
  2. Nike Kyrie Basketball Shoe
  3. Adidas Men's Crazy X 4 Basketball Shoe
  4. Under Armour Basketball Shoe
  5. Nike Kobe Venomenon Basketball Shoe
  6. Jordan Mars 270 (Kids) Basketball Shoe
  7. Nike Mens KD Trey 5 VIII Basketball Shoe
  8. Buyer's Guide

Searching for the perfect pair of basketball shoes is no different whether you’re a man or a woman since the game requires the use of the same muscles to play. Having to choose between brands, personal athletic lines and price can become difficult, but there are specific things about how shoes are structured that can help you select the correct one.

Playing the game of basketball puts various amounts of force on your legs, ankles and feet. The shoes you choose should be able to absorb and re-direct the energy so you don’t get tired or injured while playing. The game also requires bursts of acceleration, lateral cuts, and jumping ability which the right shoes can greatly enhance. That’s why a player’s basketball shoe should have the correct flexibility, support and stability to react to these situations.

Depending on the position you play, your shoe type could vary. Post players tend to use high top shoes for added cushioning and support while guards use lighter, lower cut shoes for quicker movements. The list is comprised of both high top and low cut shoes, giving you the opportunity to see what you like best. The flexibility of these shoes will allow any player to cut to the basket without fear of your shoe getting stiff and halting your movement pattern. Their flexibility also allows for tough movements to be made without the concern for visual markings appearing.

The support of each best basketball shoe in 2022 on this list gives the player the proper cushion when they land from jumping in the air, giving them the option to jump up again or accelerate without harming their feet. Lastly, the stability of these selections guarantees the strength of the materials each shoe is constructed from of will never break apart or fall off, whether you’re running down the court, stopping suddenly to make a screen, or landing from grabbing a rebound.

Best Basketball Shoe of 2022 Reviewed in Detail

Nike Men's Basketball Shoe - Best Basketball Shoe Overall

The Nike Hyperdunk shoes are truly a sight to behold. Available in a multitude of colors to choose from, your shoes will individualized and very noticeable. The updated Lunarlon cushioning system will give you a lighter, more responsive ride as you stride back and forth on the court while the molded heel counter gives players the kind of lockdown they need so when they’re in a defensive stance, the ankle won’t bend. The dynamic collar foam and Flyware technology provide comfort, protection and even more lockdown around the foot, allowing for more natural motions while you jump, pivot and trail the opposition. These shoes are a great selection for any player looking to perform at an elite level.

Nike Kyrie Basketball Shoe - Runner Up

The Kyrie shoes gives the player the power to truly make it their own personal shoe. Beginning with multiple base shoe foundations, you can select many different designed parts of your shoe. Parts of the shoe that are customizable include the underlay, lining, outer sole, midsole, heel accent, and even the fabled Nike swoosh logo. The low cut structure of the shoe gives the player’s feet a chance to breath and let’s them move around quicker because the overall weight of the shoe is lessened.

A great upside to this shoe is the advanced traction and zoned support which engages forward motion while maintaining a tight grip on the ground during cuts and set screens. Other highlights are unique zigzag laces and open mesh areas to keep your feet cool.

Adidas Men's Crazy X 4 Basketball Shoe - Honorable Mention

The Adidas Lillard shoe is made with a techfit upper which provides flexible support and a sock-like fit. This gives any agile player the advantage on the court, allowing them to show offensive capabilities and get to the rim very fast. This shoe sports a special forefoot feature called Adiprene which maintains your propulsion and movement efficiency while ensuring you use the least amount of energy doing so.

Having a multitude of customizable parts allows players to create a shoe that reflects their on-court playing style. You can build your own shoe from the ground up selecting designs for components of the shoe including the toe cap, heel, tongue and the logo which makes the shoe truly unique. Since this is a highly customizable shoe, the amount of time it takes to receive your order is a bit longer, usually between seven and eight weeks.

Under Armour Basketball Shoe - Consider

This Under Armour shoe gives the player the opportunity to change the entire game with just their feet. Utilizing UA ClutchFit technology to wrap your foot heel in a “second skin”, you’ll be pivoting and making more precise cuts without damaging your ankle. The midfoot TPU shank gives the player torsional rigidity and lateral stability for better defensive positioning. Also, the full-length Ortholite sockliner in the footbed gives player a cushioning surface to land on when grabbing a rebound. Weighing in at 14 ounces, this shoe will have you racing all over the court without the concern of tearing your shoe or your leg.

Nike Kobe Venomenon Basketball Shoe - Consider

With a durable synthetic upper and black carbon fiber heel counter, the Kobe Venomenon basketball shoes enhance the player’s strength without sacrificing any weight. This allows players to play without worry of the shoe bending or breaking while they shift laterally. The midsole with forefoot unit in these shoes give players the chance to explode off the court to grab a rebound or even dunk with super responsive cushioning. The low cut shoe design allows the players feet to breathe a little easier putting these shoes at the top of the class for point guards and shooting guards alike.

Jordan Mars 270 (Kids) Basketball Shoe - Consider

The Jordan Super.Fly shoes offer a textile upper with synthetic overlays for additional support on both the toe and heel, protecting you from any odd landings or toe stubs that might occur on the court. The flight web fit system gives the player a stabilizing lockdown which adds support during any cuts or jumps the player may make. Even the outsole pattern provides reliable traction on any number of surfaces so that you will never slip while running up and down the court. The clean and simple color scheme of the Super.Fly shoes give off a cool vibe as well.

Nike Mens KD Trey 5 VIII Basketball Shoe - Consider

The KD shoes are the premier low cut perimeter shoe for players. The shoes low cut design allows players to let their feet breath while still maintaining an attacking mantra. The midstrap on the shoe provides players with a lightweight lockdown mechanism so your foot won’t pop loose while you move about the court. The data-informed shank stabilizes the middle section of your foot and allows you to make natural, fluid motions so you don’t roll an ankle when attacking the hoop. An underlying rubber outsole provides players with enough traction and durability to support the constant pounding your feet will be taking while jumping in the air.

Buyer's Guide

During a basketball game, you run, jump, stop quickly, and change directions abruptly. Several other shoes provide the support that some of these movements need, but the right basketball shoes offer them all. Performance, comfort, and fashion are all important aspects of basketball shoes. When you know what features best fit your game, you can go from the bench to the paint in no time.

To make a wise shoe choice, you need to know your playing style and capabilities. Would you rather shoot long-range or from close range? What kind of game do you play? Does it display agility and speed, or power and aggression? How will you respond to each rebound? Will you crash the boards, or will you catch your breath and capitalize in transition?

It's not a good thing to have inadequate or overstocked footwear for athletes. But if you are familiar with your playing skills, then you can easily find your desired features. There are three main sections of a typical basketball shoe: the upper, the midsole, and the outsole. Each section of a shoe influences performance and durability. To get the best gear, you need to identify which features would suit your needs and playing style. Here's a guide on how you can pick the best basketball shoes in 2021.

What should you know about the anatomy of a basketball shoe?

The Upper

To begin, the first thing you have to decide is the height of the upper portion of the basketball shoe. The height of basketball shoes varies from high to mid to low, so each is appropriate for a particular play style.

High

The shoes will provide you with an additional layer of stability and support with the upper wrapped around your ankle. However, this extra coverage can often mean excess weight, possibily inhibiting your ability to run or jump like when wearing other shoes.

Mid

A mid-top basketball shoe provides ankle support that is midway between high and low. Despite its all-encompassing design, the upper material covers a small portion of the ankle without being too overbearing. A mid-top allows for greater flexibility.

Low

Since low-profile basketball shoes are designed for speed and agility, they offer little ankle support. Players may be more prone to ankle injuries when wearing lower basketball shoes.

Upper Security

Many techniques are available for closing shoes, with laces being the most popular. Other basketball shoes may even feature zippers or hook-and-loop closures. You can use these pieces to reinforce your ankles, especially if you are wearing high-top shoes, and add another layer of coverage to your standard laces. Remember that more coverage means more weight.

The Midsole

The midsole of a basketball shoe is where the footwear's cushioning is located. Therefore, it is one of the most important components of a shoe's performance. There is a wide range of midsole foams, with EVA and compressed foam EVA being the lighter options instead of polyurethane, which is more dense and durable. Midsoles are also equipped with brand-specific cushioning, particularly in the heel and forefoot. With this technology, extra cushioning is added to pressure points that will experience a lot of stress during play.

The Outsole

An outsole is the top part of a shoe made of rubber, nylon, or synthetic materials. For optimum balance, choose basketball shoes with a flat outsole and a wide sidewall. Search for outsoles with an outsole pattern, such as herringbone or hexagonal, designed to help you stay on your feet and prevent you from slipping on the court. It's almost impossible to find a basketball shoe that isn't designed for indoor use. If you play exclusively on outdoor surfaces, choose a shoe with a thicker, more durable outsole. Remember that asphalt can eat away at your shoes' tread.

How do you choose basketball shoes based on position?

With basketball positions, we can predict which movements a player will most likely make during a game. Shoes should be tailored to the wearer's position on the basketball court. In terms of shooting guard shoes, what are the best options? Do centers have special basketball shoes? We've outlined some typical shoe features by position.

Guards

A player in this position must be able to move quickly on the court. A low-top basketball shoe suitable for this position offers little ankle support, but it can help you move more fluidly.

Forwards

The forwards need to be in charge of the paint. High-top basketball shoes are great for this position. Although they come with extra weight, they remain a popular option among larger and more aggressive players. A high-top shoe provides additional coverage and support.

All-Around Players

For those of you who play all-around basketball, you'll have to find a nice middle ground. Basketball shoes with a mid-top give your ankles some support but still allow some mobility. A hybrid, multi-position basketball player will appreciate the flexibility offered in this shoe.

Should you also consider how a shoe looks?

Basketball shoes are not only made to last but also to look good. You'll want basketball shoes that aren't just functional but stylish as well.

You can express your style in the colors you choose and the designs you select. For a look that catches the eye, choose bolder colors and design elements. In addition to being worn for sports, basketball shoes are also appropriate for everyday use. The court doesn't have to be the only place where you look good and feel good.

Best Basketball Shoes Buying Guide

FAQs

Which basketball shoe is best?

One of the top-rated basketball shoes for men are the Nike Kyrie 6 Men's Basketball Shoes, and the best basketball shoes for women are the Nike Women's Training Basketball Shoes.

What is the ideal price for basketball shoes?

You can surely improve your performance with a good basketball shoe. You must choose the best shoes within your budget if you are a serious basketball player. The market offers a wide range of options. You can find decent shoes between $75 and $125. You can choose a cheaper one if you are a beginner. Don't forget that your shoe won't just maximize your performance but will also keep you safe from injury.

Is there a way to prevent shoes from smelling?

Continuous use can cause shoes to smell. If feet don't dry off after getting wet, they will produce a smell. Afterward, stinky bacteria are grown, causing the smell. If you want your shoes not to smell, you can follow these tips.

  • Shoes should never be worn barefoot.
  • You should wear socks correctly.
  • It would be best if you took the shoes off after the game.
  • Maintain a cool, dry environment for your shoes.
  • The inner sole should be replaced regularly.
bestcovery team.jpg
Our research team searches out the best of everything so that you can confidently pick the perfect products and services for your needs.
Related Content
Go to top