The Best Basketball Shoes
Whether you're reaching for stardom on the court or you're simply a regular hoop aficionado who enjoys a game of ball in their downtime, you'll know that what you put on your feet makes all the difference when you're in the midst of the action. Basketball sneakers come in all shapes and sizes, and finding the right pair to suit your style of play could help elevate your performance to the next level. What better way to express your taste, or give a reverent nod to the giants of the game, than by rocking the right pair of basketball shoes? As we searched for the best basketball shoes that money can buy, we had three questions in mind: Does the cushioning of the soles support a range of dynamic motion and provide comfortable support during use? Are these sneakers suitable for indoor courts as well as outdoor surfaces like concrete and asphalt? Do they come in a range of colors so that they can be coordinated with outfits or uniforms to express your true hues? With all that in mind, we landed on a few favorites. We love the Lou Williams Streetball sneakers from Peak, a solidly performing option that won't break the bank when compared with some top brand options. If you're looking for a great all-rounder with equal utility off the court, check out the New Balance's classic cross-trainers. Read on below to discover the rest of our top picks.
Peak Lou Williams Streetball Sneakers
Top of your game
Get ready to step into the shoes of a legend with these high-performance sneakers from Peak. This balanced design will keep you poised and mobile on the court. Cushioned rubber soles are molded to the geometry of Peak’s stabilization module, which provides optimal balance and ample forefoot support during lateral movements. The slick finish results from an integrated weaving and hot-melt process, resulting in a resilient and flexible sneaker that’s sure to stand the test of time.
Pros:
- Upgraded wear-resistant rubber on the sole means these sneakers are equally suited to indoor or outdoor courts.
- This spacious toe box leaves plenty of room to maneuver inside, and brings breathability and freshness during play.
- You won’t miss the chance to flaunt your moves, with 12 distinctive color options to choose between.
Cons:
- This insole doesn’t provide as much cushioning as some other options.
Mevlzz Low Top Basketball Sneakers
Bounce to the top of your game in these liberating and dependable low tops. These sneakers will put a serious spring in your step, thanks to a flexible PU sole and a patented Visible Air unit in the heel that work together to provide unparalleled impact absorption. The sleek contours of the upper body are formed from lightweight and breathable synthetic mesh, ensuring you stay cool and quick on your toes during the heat of the moment.
Pros:
- These thick soles offer a few inches of elevation to your stature, which could provide a deciding advantage during a tough catch.
- The PU sole is incredibly flexible, allowing you to roll these shoes up for tight storage in a cramped gym bag.
- If you’re looking for familiar comfort and aesthetics at a fraction of the price, this option could offer a similar fit and feel to pricy leading brand sneakers and save you a chunk of cash in the process.
Cons:
- These trainers can run small, so check the sizing chart before ordering.
Adidas D.O.N. Issue 2 Court Shoes
Eye catchers
You’ll be the real MVP with these winning sneakers designed in close partnership with the great Donovan Mitchell. Adidas is known for its dependable footwear on the court, and this pair is no exception. The sneakers boast a lightweight mesh body that provides a flexible and breathable fit for unimpeded motion as you weave through the action. Engineered cord lacing allows your feet to move freely inside with a secure fit that leaves no room for slips or loosening at crucial moments.
Pros:
- Adidas provides a detailed sizing chart so you can measure up beforehand to ensure the perfect fit.
- Thanks to the twelve striking colorways on offer, it’s up to you whether you want to draw eyes with bright patterning or adopt an understated aesthetic.
- The rubber outsole is exceptionally grippy on indoor court surfaces.
Cons:
- These sneakers might take a while to break in, as the toe box has a tighter fit than some other designs.
Nike KD Trey 5 VIII Basketball Shoes
Sport science
No list of basketball shoes would be complete without a contender from the top-dogs in the game, Nike. This sporting giant probably offers more models of sneakers than there are stars in the observable universe, making it a tricky feat to decide on the pair for you. The KD Trey 5 VIII sneakers will bring you the best of Nike’s sports engineering at a relatively reasonable price point for the brand, so you can wear that tick with pride as you channel your inner beast on the court.
Pros:
- A spacious opening means these sneakers can be worn comfortably with ankle guards.
- The mid-top design facilitates full ankle motion and flexibility while ensuring you’re feet are locked in.
Cons:
- Despite these sneakers being one of the more affordable offerings from Nike, you’ll notice the jump in price from other brand options.
New Balance 605 V5 Cross Trainers
One for all
If you’re new to playing ball, or your time on the court only makes up a fraction of your athletic lifestyle, you might be looking for a footwear option with a little more versatility than your average pair of basketball sneakers. These iconic cross-trainers from New Balance are built with adaptability in mind, bringing comfort and equilibrium to your game while also offering a dependable option for track, gym, and daily wear.
Pros:
- The three available widths for each size give you plenty of options, so it shouldn’t be hard to find the ideal fit.
- The injection-molded EVA foam soles lend a cushioned bounce to each step.
- We love that this flat sole geometry will give you firm traction on indoor court surfaces.
Cons:
- These removable insoles aren’t for everybody, so you might want to factor in the additional cost of custom inserts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best way to clean my basketball shoes?
It might be tempting to throw your dirty sneakers in the washing machine, but you’d likely end up regretting it. Synthetic fabrics and sole cushioning can be irreversibly damaged if soaked through and exposed to high temperatures, so when the time comes to freshen up, it’s best to take matters into your own hands. We recommend first using a soft brush or toothbrush to remove dirt buildup. After larger debris is clear, use a mixture of warm water and laundry detergent to wipe your sneakers clean.
How can I ensure a great fit when buying sneakers online?
While standard shoe sizing provides a useful baseline when shopping online, not all sneakers are built equal. Some brands can run slightly large or small, so it’s worth taking the time to study manufacturer-specific size charts before you add a pair to your online shopping cart.
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