11 Best Jordan Basketball Shoes 2023
Jordan basketball shoes, designed in collaboration with basketball legend Michael Jordan, have become synonymous with performance, style, and innovation.
Whether you’re a professional athlete or a casual basketball fan, the right pair of Jordan basketball shoes can significantly improve your performance on the court.
We’ll walk you through some key factors to consider when choosing the best Jordan basketball shoes for your needs in this buying guide, ensuring you make an informed decision that optimizes style and performance.
Our Top picks for Best Jordan Basketball Shoes
- Best Overall: Jordan Zion 2
- Runner Up: Air Jordan XXXVI
- Best Value: Luka 1
Here are 11 Best Jordan Basketball Shoes
1. Jordan Zion 2 (Best Overall jordan outdoor basketball shoes)
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
Its design and overall structure contain a lot of force and aggression on the court– there is little to dislike. This is an excellent choice if you like a low-to-the-ground, supportive basketball shoe. You’ll be ready to go if you don’t mind the cheap materials and are willing to break in that traction.
Other Experts Say?
These shoes give you a lot of containment on both sides of your foot. I do like how they incorporated Air Strobel and Zoom Air.
It has an orientation of the traction pattern, and how it performs on clean floors is fantastic.
The cushioning setup is one of my favorite cushioning setups in recent history. It’s really, really nice.
Pros
- Excellent traction
- Incredible support and lockdown
- Good court feel
- True-to-size fit
- Breathable material
- Suitable for bigger men
Cons
- Easily gets dusty
- Needs breaking in
Detail:
The best feature we found in Zion 2 is the multidirectional traction, which covers you during all movements. Remember that peak performance requires about an hour of break-in time.
The grip is good outdoors but will only last for a short time due to the shallow traction pattern. However, you will have a fantastic experience for as long as it lasts.
The cushioning is responsive while also being bouncy. It was well-balanced, if not exceptionally plush.
Support and lockdown were two of the better, more consistent features. The strap, in particular, does an excellent job securing you to the shoe.
Overall, the Jordan Zion 2 performs admirably for players who make a lot of hard cuts.
This basketball shoe is ideal for bigger players with aggressive play styles and guards who value a lot of courts feel for their offensive drives.
It is also suitable for people with narrow to normal-sized feet.
For Details Check: Jordan Zion 2 Review
2. Air Jordan XXXVI (Best jordan basketball shoes)
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
The Air Jordan 36 has everything one would expect from the best basketball shoes, including greater cushioning, support, and material. The traction is incredible. It is effective on both clean and dusty courts.
Other Experts Say?
We have a fully translucent outsole, and it’s freaking amazing, guys, so on a clean court, you’re going to be stopping on a dime. It has a phenomenal bite, a top-tier bite on a clean court.
This is a more durable compound for outdoor use than some other shoes.
Upper is very flexible and molds to your feet, you know, after you know you break them in.
Pros
- Amazing traction
- Lightweight and durable
- Smooth heel-to-toe transition
- Excellent impact protection
- Responsive with good bounce
Cons
- Lacks ankle support
Detail:
The Air Jordan 36 features tried-and-true herringbone traction. Herringbone tread provides simple yet effective, multidirectional traction.
After trying out this product we found full-length Air Strobel fantastic because it is plush and comfortable underfoot.
It is incredibly snug, and players with slightly wider feet can still wear it true to size.
There are all of the support features you require.
On the inside is a heel counter, and the middle of the foot has a shank plate. They also have a reasonably broad base. The protruding forefoot Zoom Air was the only issue. It wobbles, which you will notice until you get used to it.
This Air Jordan 36 is suitable for guards and scorers who require a lot of propulsion to the basket and big players who need a lot of impact protection.
For more Details Check: Air Jordan 36 Review
3-Jordan Zoom Separate
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
The Zoom Separate provides everything a typical player looks for in a basketball shoe. It is the most affordable model in the Jordan brand lineup. It has good traction and performs well on most court surfaces. The most noticeable feature of the shoe is its cushioning.
Other Experts Say?
It’s a really, really snug fit, but then this textile material stretches out a little bit.
These are great shoes if you want breathability and durability, especially in the outsole tread.
This pair of basketball shoes can make the top performance list in a few categories.
Pros
- Excellent cushioning
- Forefoot impact protection
- Comfortable and breathable material
- Solid forefoot support
- True to size
- Suitable for outdoors
- Affordable
Cons
- Gets dust easily
- Problem with heel support
Detail:
As indicated by our tests, there are no grip issues as long as the game is played on clean courts. The various grip patterns and the 3-mm deep tread depth provide excellent grip on various courts.
Most of the outsole consists of an aggressive radial pattern derived from the herringbone pod.
The cushion is forefoot-heavy. A bottom-loaded, protruding Zoom unit runs from the forefoot’s middle to just before the midfoot. It feels soft and comfortable underfoot.
To achieve a perfect fit, those with average-sized feet should either go true to size or get a half-size smaller.
The materials aren’t the most durable, but they do the job. These are supportive and stable on the ground.
The Zoom Separate is better suited to players who dig it, such as Luka Doncic.
These are players whose movements are primarily focused on the forefoot. The forefoot air unit makes this shoe ideal for forefoot-heavy players looking for impact protection.
For More Details Check: Jordan Zoom Separate Review
4. Luka 1 (Best cheap Jordan basketball shoes)
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
With the Luka 1, Luka Doncic’s signature line with Jordan is off to a good start. Jordan Brand’s new Formula 23 foam feels like a step up from React. The cushioning is low to the ground and responsive.
What Experts Say About It
Other Experts Say?
It has top-tier traction, and if you’re playing in a dusty setting, it’s good; right, it does pick up dust quickly, but it’s a very easy wipe.
If you are somebody with heel or arch pain, yeah, in initial comfort, they will be tremendous.
Luca 1 has an incredible grip where you can quickly change directions, just like Luca himself. It also does an excellent job of stopping on a dime and stabilizing your feet when doing hard cuts and sudden pivots.
Pros
- Good traction
- Nice impact protection
- Comfortable upper materials
- Breathable
- Responsive with good court feel
- No need for a break-in
Cons
- Low-quality materials
- Not suitable for outdoors
Detail:
Luka 1 provides an exceptional traction experience. It’s tacky and bites hard in all directions.
The Jordan Luka 1 features a brand-new cushion setup, Formula 23, which feels great underfoot.
As per our expertise, the cushion had adequate impact protection, bounce, responsiveness, and court feel.
The shoe’s side pods and unique shank plate provide support and some bounce back.
Lastly, the materials are durable and comfortable to wear.
Players looking for a more affordable basketball shoe should consider the Luka 1 because it is made for quick players and guards who play very much like Luka Doncic himself.
See Full: Jordan Luka 1 Review
5. Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG (Best retro Jordan basketball shoes)
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
Overall these are playable, which is one of the most important things. Though the cushioning setup could be more impressive, the overall quality for the budget shoes could be better, with excellent traction and court feel.
Other Experts Say?
This pair was flawless from a build and craftsmanship standpoint.
These guys are made out of this one and don’t have a shiny look or anything like that. It’s very matte, and I love it.
Even the materials on this pair of sneakers are excellent by Jordan 1 standard.
Pros
- Excellent traction
- Very lightweight and durable
- Breathable upper materials
- No break-in time needed
- No dust buildup
- Lots of courts feel
- Smooth steps
Cons
- Cushioning could be better
Detail:
We found the traction incredible from the front to the back because of the multidirectional circles and the soft and flexible rubber.
Based on our first hand experience, the traction surface performed well on clean and dusty indoor courts and would perform excellently outdoors.
The cushion could be better with just a little compression. The shoes are average at best and are typical of a budget shoe.
The material used is leather, which provides added strength and durability and can be useful.
The heel, as well as the midfoot, provide excellent lockdown.
With more time on the court, you’ll notice the fit loosening up due to moisture and heat buildup.
It suits you if you like different colorways and want a shoe that supports your ankles.
Also, if you are looking for a shoe that has an indoors and outdoor grip, this is the right option for you.
6. Jordan Why Not .6 (Best jordan basketball shoes for athletics)
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
Jordan Why Not Zer0.6 is a strong performer with excellent support features. The traction is good, and the material is aesthetically pleasing. This shoe will perform well as long as the games are played indoors.
Other Experts Say?
I will give them a 4 out of five; not much to complain about except that they are bulkier shoes.
Overall traction performance if you’re playing on a clean Court, you should be good
The materials are super thin, just like the one that takes four. You can see the eyelids underneath, so this minimal upper provides excellent breathability. The most notable feature is the tip collar laid out diagonally.
Pros
- Comfortable and responsive cushioning
- Good bite on indoor courts
- Secure ankle lockdown
- Durable upper with soft tongue
- Quality construction
- Can accommodate wide feet
- Supports fast movements
Cons
- Need to properly break-in
- Not suitable for outdoors
Detail:
The Jordan Why Not Zer0.6 outsole features a solid herringbone pattern in the center. The sides are also covered in small multidirectional dotted patterns.
The rubber compound used to make the sole is ideal for indoor courts.
As per our expertise, the full-length Phylon provides adequate compression beneath the foot. It’s comfortable and responsive.
It’s not as soft as full-length Nitrocel or Bounce but balances comfort and a low-to-the-ground feel.
The shoe also provides excellent support for the whole foot. Its grip around the ankle calls for special mention because it provides a robust feeling of security” around the ankle.
Aside from being durable, the upper of the Jordan Why Not.6 feels nice, with a super soft tongue.
Indoor players will appreciate everything that this basketball shoe has to offer. The Jordan Why Not.6 is also suitable for players with wide and normal-sized feet.
It is an excellent choice for larger and more aggressive players who require a lot of impact protection and athletes concerned about ankle lockdown.
See Full: Jordan Why Not Zer0.6 Review
7. Air Jordan XXXVII (Most comfortable Jordan basketball shoes)
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
Overall, the cushioning, support, and traction are extremely solid. Any big man with quick feet would love to play in them. The materials are not high-end, but they outperform in every way. Many players prefer premium materials other than mesh. However, Jordans are taking a risk to improve their players’ comfort and stamina.
Other Experts Say?
It has a fantastic bite, stops very hard, and you stop on a dime, right, so a fantastic bite on a clean cord, but its performance on dust could be better
For the cushion, you have Air Jordan 37s and this lightweight phylon material in the forefoot. Overall it offers a nice compression rate out of the box
These had an excellent traction profile, especially on indoor courts
Pros
- Great bounce
- Excellent traction in indoor courts
- Comfortable and breathable material
- True-to-size fit
- Good ankle lockdown
- Nicely felt forefoot flex
- Smooth heel-to-toe transition
Cons
- It needs time for a break-in
- Easily picks up dust
Detail:
When we tried this product, we found that Air Jordan 37 needs some break-in to be good after the first few days. If you’re playing on a clean court, you’ll be good with a fantastic bite.
However, the performance on dust could be better. It picks up dust, but it’s an easy wipe.
For durability, the grooves on the Jordan 37 are intense and thick, and the rubber is tough, so you should be fine even if you play on an outdoor court.
When compared to Air Jordan 36, the fit is better. It better accommodates slightly wider feet.
For the cushioning setup, we have Formula 23 in the heel and a double-stacked Zoom unit in the forefoot, which helps with the compression and bounce.
It is suitable for those who want a lot of compressions and a lot of balance in the forefoot; this is a great option. But if you want anything more responsive and mellow, there may be better options.
We suggest these shoes for forefoot-heavy players who want a bouncy setup.
See Full: Air Jordan 37 Review
8. Jordan One Take 4
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
Overall, the Jordan One Take 4 is a good performer. The traction stands out, and it’s inexpensive. Herringbone is a grippy and stable pattern. However, performance is not compromised. There were no issues with support or lockdown and the stability also held up well.
Other Experts Say?
You have a load of the ground and a wide base, so a lot of stability will be good. Also, it dips down deeply, and you have a pretty high heel tab, which makes the shoe pretty damn easy to put on.
One of my favorite parts of the One Take 4 is the outsole tread, shape, and tread profile; especially for one of Jordan’s budget model shoes, you get an aggressive herringbone from heel to toe.
Traction is the best feature of this shoe. We all know that herringbone traction performs well. It gives you good multidirectional coverage, and indoors and outdoors work well.
Pros
- Overall performance is notable
- Truly lightweight
- Breathable upper materials
- No break-in time needed
- Reliable traction
- Sole resists dust buildup
- Lots of courts feel
- Smooth steps
Cons
- Impact protection is lacking
- Cheap-looking
Detail:
For the traction, we got herringbone, and you can’t go wrong with multidirectional herringbone.
The bite on wood floors is all right but could be better, with a little squeak.
For outdoor use, it will be suitable for the given price range.
After putting it to the test, we found the rubber is very hard, and the grooves are super deep, which makes them very good for outdoor use.
For the cushioning setup, we got a full-length Phylon with some compression in the heel. And for the forefoot, we have a zoom unit, so the court feels like a good setup.
If you are not concerned about your budget, this may be your best option.
It is also suitable for players who prefer a lot of courts feel over ample impact protection and hoopers who want to avoid spending time breaking in.
Overall, the Jordan One Take 4 is a good performer. The traction stands out, and it is inexpensive.
See Full: Jordan One Take 4 Review
9. Jordan Jumpman Team II
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
Overall, it didn’t have amazing materials, but the traction and the cushion were excellent. So, if you don’t care about looks, these shoes are right for you.
Other Experts Say?
The cushioning setup you’re looking for is suitable insoles for everyone and is very comfortable.
For the weight, they’re light. It’s very easy to move around and jump in, which is excellent.
The leather that they use on the side panels is very nice. It’s not premium, but it’s very lovely. It reminds me of the OG stuff.
Pros
- Excellent traction
- Reactive cushioning
- Material conforms well
Cons
- Not much impact protection
- Cheap materials
Detail:
The outsole tread is the best part of the shoe. It’s an aggressive herringbone that provides a lot of grip and stability.
Our findings show that the rubber is grippy enough for indoor use. The rubber is durable, and the grooves are extensive which is a good option for outdoor play.
The cushioning isn’t plush; there’s little impact protection, but it’s responsive. The shoe’s materials are cheap and flimsy.
The fit is more forgiving than other shoes and can accommodate a wide range of foot shapes.
The synthetic materials conform well to your foot, and there is no need for a break-in time.
These shoes are suitable for guards and defensive stoppers.
10. Jordan Why Not .5 (Best jordan basketball shoes for wide feet)
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
The Jordan Why Not Zer0.5 is a lightweight, supportive shoe designed for players who want to move quickly. Its traction pattern is effective on rough surfaces, making this shoe a reliable companion for outdoor activities. The Jordan Why Not.5 has everything you need in a performance basketball shoe except traction. It could be better if it could consistently grip the court.
Other Experts Say?
The heel-to-toe transition is very smooth when you’re running down the court. It feels very nice
The mid and outsole shape up into this aggressive posterior rocker now, giving you a lot of fluid movement.
I appreciate that there’s no cushion in the heel; however, it’s adequate that you shouldn’t be experiencing too much pain
Pros
- Good traction on rough surfaces
- Comfortable fit with secure lockdown
- No need to break-in
- Suitable for wide-footer
- Ready for the outdoors
- Light and supportive
- Great for everyday wear
Cons
- Low-quality materials
- Not impressive traction
Detail:
We found the traction performance of Why Not 0.5 quite decent. The nubs on the rubber outsole prevent slips and keep the feet firmly planted.
The traction of this basketball shoe is best felt on surfaces with the most friction. The front of the shoe features a Zoom unit that provides significant energy return.
The forefoot structure also allows the shoe to provide a good amount of court feel. The forefoot Zoom is bouncy and offers a smooth ride.
While the heel area can still compress on impact, its protection is mediocre to that of more comfy shoes like the Nike LeBron.
This Jordan basketball shoe had enough room for the toe. There are no issues with the shoe’s support or lockdown, and it feels stable laterally.
This Jordan basketball shoe is ideal if you have wide feet and prefer lightweight, supportive sneakers that do not require break-in.
11-Jordan Tatum 1
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
The Jordan JT 1 proved to be an excellent on-court basketball shoe. The cushioning has received widespread praise for being bouncy beneath the forefoot and comfortable beneath the heel. In terms of appearance and style, it lags slightly behind. Every penny spent on this is sure to be well spent.
Other Experts Say?
In terms of traction performance, the rubber part of the shoe performed very well from the start
They are the lightest Jordan hoof shoes of all time, which is good. The materials are very nice. You know they’re very breathable. They get the job done.
For indoors, you get excellent impact protection up front, and the overall Heel To Toe transition is nice.
Pros
- Good traction on clean courts
- Pronounced court feel
- True to size
- Durable with good stability and lockdown
- Suitable for narrow to wide feet
- Lightweight and breathable
- Aesthetically appealing
Cons
- Not a lot of plushness
- Not suitable for outdoors
Detail:
The Jordan JT 1 has a different traction setup for a Jordan sneaker, and in the case of Flow, it grips the court extremely well.
It could be better for outdoor use but is an excellent indoor traction system.
Vases on our observation, the shoe’s heel relies entirely on the foam in that area of the shoe, but Jordan Brand packed all of the cushioning technology in the forefoot.
We have an exposed high-volume Zoom Air unit that covers the majority of the forefoot of the shoe, providing the most cushioning possible.
It’s not the bouncy Zoom Air implementation we’ve seen, but it gets the job done.
Lightweight, breathable, and comfortable materials are used. There are no issues with the shoe’s support, but the setup is odd.
Overall, the Jordan Tatum 1 remains a perfect first shoe in Tatum’s collection. The Tatum 1 is ideal for players who rely heavily on their forefoot in their footwork.
These shoes are also suitable for point-and-shooting guards who like shoes with a lot of responsiveness.
Things To Consider Before Buying The Best Jordan Basketball Shoe
1. Fit and Comfort:
Fit and comfort are two of the most important factors to consider when purchasing basketball shoes.
Different Jordan basketball shoe models may have slightly different sizing, so try them on or look into the manufacturer’s sizing chart.
Look for snug shoes but not too tight, as this will provide stability and prevent your feet from sliding inside the shoe during vigorous movements.
2. Playing Style:
Remember your playing style and position on the court when selecting Jordan basketball shoes.
Guards who need quick cuts, agility, and responsiveness may prefer lightweight traction shoes.
Shoes with enhanced ankle support and responsive cushioning may be more appropriate for forwards and centers who require additional support and cushioning for rebounds and jumps.
3. Traction:
Look for shoes with a multidirectional traction pattern for good traction on various indoor and outdoor surfaces.
High-quality rubber outsoles with deep grooves and solid grip patterns will help you stay stable on the court and avoid slipping.
4. Durability:
Look for shoes made of tough materials that can withstand frequent movements, cuts, and jumps, such as synthetic leather or woven uppers.
Reinforced stitching and overlays in high-stress areas, such as the toe box and heel, will also help the shoes last longer.
5. Style:
Jordan basketball shoes are well-known for their iconic designs and aesthetic appeal. While performance should be your top priority, finding a shoe that matches your style can boost your confidence on the court.
Jordan has various colorways and design options, allowing you to find a shoe that fits your personality and tastes.
Conclusion:
Investing in the best Jordan basketball shoes can significantly impact your court performance and style.
When choosing, consider fit, comfort, playing style, traction, durability, and style preferences.
By carefully considering these factors and striking the right balance, you’ll have a pair of Jordan basketball shoes that improve your game and make a statement with their iconic design.
We hope this article helped you with the Best Jordan Basketball shoes.
FAQs
Do NBA players use Air Jordans?
Jordan Brand currently sponsors 17 NBA players with active contracts.
Are Jordan shoes good for basketball?
Modern Jordans are consistently among the top basketball shoes available for performance.
