12 Best Low Top Basketball Shoes 2023
Having the proper footwear is essential for dominating the basketball court.
Due to their lightweight construction, increased mobility, and sleek design, low-top basketball shoes have become popular among players.
Whether you’re a professional athlete or a casual player looking to improve your game, investing in the best low-top basketball shoes can provide you with the support, stability, and comfort you need,
In this buying guide, we will look at some of the best low-top basketball shoes on the market, highlighting key features, performance aspects, and factors to consider before purchasing.
Top Choice as best low-top basketball shoes:
Product | Features | Pirce |
1-WAY OF WADE 10 | Best Overall | |
2-HARDEN VOL. 6 | Runner Up | |
3- Curry Flow 10 | Best Ankle support | |
4-Nike PG 6 | Best Outdoor | |
5- Luka 1 | Best Budget |
Here are 12 Best Low Top Basketball Shoes
1. WAY OF WADE 10 (Best low-top basketball shoes of all time)
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
The Way of Wade 10 is an extremely bouncy basketball shoe that can compete for performance shoe of the year. In all court conditions, the traction is superb. The materials aren’t high-end, but they do the job and keep the shoe light for what it offers.
Other Experts Say?
These are some of the best gripping shoes I have ever tried
Overall it felt amazing, right? So you have a nice bounce. It’s comfortable, excellent compression
Way of Wade 10 gives that springy and bouncy feel on the court
Pros
- Bouncy cushion
- Most Comfortable
- Ankle support
- Midfoot support
- Premium lightweight Material
- Lateral stability
- Great Aesthetics
Cons
- Not suitable for outdoors
- Narrow fit
Detail:
The Way of Wade 10 has excellent traction performance. The pattern is mostly radial and extends up the medial side of the body.
The only drawback we found is the need for more durability on outdoor floors. While it still grips the concrete and blacktop well, the rubber is too pliable to last long.
Although these shoes won’t have an extremely low-to-the-ground feel, it’s a good enough mix of cushion and court feel.
BOOM is the full-length midsole. Although there is midsole caging, it is made of soft TPU, allowing the Pebax-based foam to breathe.
As per our expertise, this shoe is ideal for quick, explosive players who prefer a bouncy feel in their shoes.
See Full: Li Ning Way Of Wade 10 Review
2. HARDEN VOL. 6 (Best low-top basketball shoes for outdoor)
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
The Adidas Harden Vol. 6 is a fantastic basketball shoe. Its cushioning gives off much energy, and the shoe structure only ensures a secure fit. The court feel of the shoe is also excellent. The materials are stiff initially, but they quickly become foot-conforming and comfortable.
Other Experts Say?
They will be great for heel pain, Achilles pain, shock-inducing injury, or forefoot pain
The traction was a really good cushion, super responsive low to the ground, and containment and lockdown were also good
Harden Vol 6 is a top-tier performer to me, no doubt about that, and it’s got excellent cushioning
Pros
- Excellent traction
- Incredible and comfortable cushioning
- Great ankle lockdown
- Provides stability and responsiveness
- Great for outdoor games
Cons
- It has to be broken in
- Not good quality materials
Detail:
Adidas’ Boost foam returns in the 2022 iteration, and the shoe feels responsive.
Based on our first hand experience, the Boost has a similar feel to the Harden Vol. 1 regarding stability and responsiveness while providing impact protection.
The rubber outsole and tread pattern on this Harden Vol. 6 are incredibly compelling; it has a great bite, even on wet floors. As a result, this shoe is an excellent choice for outdoor activities.
However, it should be noted that this shoe still needs to be broken in before it can bite well on indoor courts.
It has a narrow fit so if you have a wide foot, consider getting a size up.
The tongue, laces, and heel pads are soft, breathable materials. Yet, the upper is not at all breathable. It also has a cheap feel to it.
This shoe is for you if you want a sneaker that has a reliable grip on indoor and outdoor courts, even when wet, and supports your quick movements.
See Full: Adidas Harden Vol 6 Review
3. Curry Flow 10
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
Guards and players who want to get past opponents, get quick rebounds, and score a lot will benefit greatly from this shoe. The Curry 10 is light and stable, with excellent traction and fit and a smooth cushion that isn’t too firm and offers adequate impact protection.
Other Experts Say?
If you’re someone that plays with a lot of speed and really aggressive fast kind of Shifty footwork, these are tremendous.
It never picked up dust; even if it did, it was a super easy wipe.
The shoe’s base is wide, great for planning and making hard movements.
Pros
- Amazing traction on indoor courts
- Smooth heel-to-toe transition
- Bouncy
- Decent court feel
- Comfortable upper
- Supportive structure
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not for outdoors
Detail:
Through our practical knowledge, we found the traction to be incredibly grippy, especially on clean courts. Curry 10 can also handle dust with relative ease. The outsole’s durability is the shoe’s biggest flaw.
Flow provides cushion on the Curry 10, and it’s a smooth, well-balanced setup that works exceptionally well for guards.
There’s plenty of court feel here, and the lack of an extra layer of rubber on the shoe’s bottom certainly helps.
It is an excellent choice for athletes who value court feel over impact protection and has narrow feet.
Furthermore, hoopers who rarely play their games outdoors and basketball players whose style of play involves a lot of jumping will benefit from these shoes.
See Full: Under Armour Curry Flow 10 Review
4. Nike PG 6
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
The Nike PG 6 is a versatile shoe with unmatched comfort, support, and explosiveness. We highly recommend the Nike PG 6 because it suits various playstyles.
Other Experts Say?
The cushioning setup is perfect. It’s very responsive with good impact protection. It’s comfortable, and there’s excellent compression.
The fit was just fantastic, so I enjoyed playing in these.
It is the best of both worlds. When I was playing with these, I couldn’t help but keep thinking about the curry flow 9 and how this had the best aspects of the curry flow.
Pros
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
- The midsole is extremely responsive.
- The sensation of soft underfoot
- The upper is soft and comfortable.
- Suitable Wide-footer
- On foot, it feels light.
- Aesthetically pleasing
Cons
- Material is not breathable
- Break-in is needed
Detail:
On both the hardwood and concrete outdoor courts, PG 6 has a great bite as per our expertise. Though the traction works well outdoors, the rubber doesn’t feel hard enough to last.
Sometimes dust gets stuck in the grooves, but nothing a wipe can fix. A full-length React midsole makes the shoe feel explosive, soft, and springy.
Because of the effective lacing system, foot containment will not be an issue. The upper’s materials are supportive without being restrictive.
They feel soft and comfortable, but they are not very breathable.
PG 6 is an excellent choice for players who regularly perform vertical movements and have wide feet.
See Full: Nike Pg 6 Review
5. Air Jordan XXXVII Low (Best low-top basketball shoes for ankle support)
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
This shoe is ideal for players who enjoy fast runs and fine footwork due to the bounce in the forefoot. The traction is good, especially on clear courts, but it can quickly pick up dust. Make sure to wipe. If the game is expected to be intense and action-packed, this basketball shoe is the one to choose.
Other Experts Say?
I am giving them a four out of five for comfort and support because these shoes break in right out of the box.
It has a good cushion, has good traction, and also very, very good support. Just keep in mind the cushion is crazy.
The traction pattern is the same as on the regular version with no changes. It’s pretty thick and flat.
Pros
- Excellent traction on indoor courts
- Comfortable and breathable upper materials
- Good bounce
- True-to-size fit
- Good ankle lockdown
- Smooth heel-to-toe transition
Cons
- Not suitable for outdoor use
Detail:
The Air Jordan 37 Low is nearly identical to the Air Jordan 37 but with a lower collar height and upgraded materials that provide better support and comfort.
Drawing from our experience, this low-top basketball shoe has excellent traction, especially on indoor courts. It may collect dust easily, but it’s nothing that a quick wipe or two can’t fix.
Combining the double-stacked Zoom units and the bottom molded shank works exceptionally well. Although the Phylon and Formula 23 provide bounce, they are not the best for shock absorption.
The materials used to build the upper can effectively support and contain the foot.
The outsole and midsole will take some time to break in, but these are the most comfortable Jordan basketball shoes in a long time.
The Air Jordan 37 Low is ideal for basketball players who spend most of their time on indoor hardwood courts and guards who are lighter and faster on their feet.
It’s also ideal for players who are picky about ankle lockdowns in their shoes.
See Full: Air Jordan 37 Review
6. Nike Ja 1 (Best low-top basketball shoes for guards)
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
The Nike Ja 1 is a versatile performer that appeals to many players, from guards who value high-energy returns to heel strikers and more prominent men who require good impact protection. The Nike Ja 1 is an excellent on-court performance basketball shoe. You can go right with good traction, solid cushioning, and quality materials.
Other Experts Say?
I went true to size right, and it fits me well. I like to have a very, very snug fit.
It is a good shoe for small Shifty guards who are quick on their feet and, like many courts, feel and respond.
In an outdoor Court, you’ll get all the benefits of this shoe.
Pros
- Amazing taction both indoors and outdoors
- Comfortable and supportive wraparound
- Great cushioning
- Good forefoot bounce
- Durable structure
- True-to-size fit
Cons
- Materials are not premium quality
- It needs to be broken down
Detail:
The Nike Ja 1 has a solid rubber outsole with an aggressive herringbone traction pattern and is excellent indoors and outdoors. Though the outsole is not made of the most durable rubber we’ve ever seen.
After putting it to test we found that it features a lightweight Phylon midsole with a small, top-loaded Zoom Air unit in the forefoot for a responsive, low-to-the-ground on-court feel.
The materials could be better, but that doesn’t affect performance. They are light and breathable. The shoe’s fit is the most consistent, and we recommend going true to size.
This Nike signature shoe is ideal for quick guards who need a lot of energy return and bigger athletes who benefit greatly from heel plushness
See Full: Nike Ja 1 Review
7. LeBron XX
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
It meets the needs of athletes who want to be agile on the court and players who wish to have a lot of impact protection. Overall, the Nike LeBron 20 is a strong performer in every aspect. Most players will benefit from the traction, cushioning, and support.
Other Experts Say?
Carbon fiber is an excellent premium touch for a 200 shoe, making the overall sole more rigid.
LeBron 20 is the best low-top basketball shoe I have tried recently.
A huge Zoom Air unit provides good impact protection and is topped with a cushioned midsole.
Pros
- Outstanding overall performance
- Excellent traction
- Great impact protection
- Pronounced court feel
- Upper is comfortable
- Amazing foot containment
- Good looking shoes
Cons
- Expensive
- Not suitable for outdoors
Detail:
The Nike Basketball LeBron 20 is undoubtedly one of the best low-top basketball shoes.
Though the rubber’s durability is lacking, it is certainly playable.
After trying out this product we found the traction much better on an organic surface like hardwood, so we recommend using it only for indoor games.
Its non-uniform pattern on the outsole allows the shoe to grip the floor in various directions.
The full-length cushion feels soft initially but gets much better as you play in them. The impact protection is also excellent.
The shoe provides excellent lockdown and is extremely contained. The tongue is semi-gusseted to keep the foot from sliding.
The 20th Nike LeBron basketball shoe is ideal for larger players who require a lot of cushioning and players who value speed and footwork.
It is also an excellent choice for those with a large budget and athletes who typically play on indoor courts.
See Full: Nike LeBron 20 Review
8. Luka 1 (Best budget low top basketball shoes)
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
Jordan and Luka Doncic’s signature line, the Luka 1, is off to an excellent start. The new Formula 23 foam from Jordan Brand feels better to React. The shoe is low to the ground with responsive cushioning.
Other Experts Say?
Luca 1 playability it’s just some of the best out there right now because of their cutting and stopping power.
It’s a very wide base, too, so lateral stability was also very good. So for supporting lockdown, I was good; I had no issues.
The traction took a little time to break in, but it worked like magic afterward.
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:
The Luka 1 is a fantastic low-top sneaker that offers superb traction. It bites hard in all directions and is tacky.
The new Formula 23 cushioning system in the Jordan Luka 1 feels great underfoot.
As per our expertise, the cushion’s impact protection, bounce, responsiveness, and court feel were all adequate.
The side pods and a unique shank plate of the shoe offer stability and some bounce back.
And finally, the materials are solid and cozy to wear.
The Luka 1 is an excellent option for basketball players on a budget because it is designed for quick players and guards who play similarly to Luka Doncic.
See Full: Jordan Luka 1 Review
9. Zoom Freak 4
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
Because of the observable improvement it brings over the Nike Zoom Freak 3, the Nike Zoom Freak 4 is an excellent upgrade to the Freak 3s—players who frequently rebound and make fast runs to the basket benefit from it the most. The price you pay for this pair of Nike basketball shoes is well worth it.
Other Experts Say?
It is very thin rubber so you will get tremendous traction on a more organic surface-type court like hardwood.
The heel is super comfortable. You can feel your heel dig into that like soft foam.
I played on several indoor surfaces, and the traction was excellent. I was able to make a quick first step.
Pros
- Excellent traction for indoor courts
- It doesn’t catch dust
- Pronounced court feel
- Good bounce
- Breathable
- True-to-size fit
Cons
- OK for outdoors
- Not good quality material
Detail:
Though the traction isn’t the best, the Nike Zoom Freak 4 has a solid bite, especially after they’ve been properly broken in. The shoe’s outsole grooves are wide enough not to trap dust.
However, our findings show that wearing this shoe outside is not recommended because the outsole is thin rubber. The court feel is excellent because of the thinner cushion in the forefoot area.
The independent Zoom units in the forefoot, and the midsole, provide perfect bounce, allowing it to be extremely fast.
If you go true to size, the shoe has a nice snug fit and fits perfectly, and since the shoe is slightly narrow, wide-footers and those looking for a more spacious fit should size up at least half a size.
The material is not high-end, but the breathable upper ensures it is well-ventilated.
Nike Zoom Freak 4 is ideal for quick basketball players who are lighter and players who enjoy many rebounds and jump shots.
It is also an excellent choice for those with narrow to medium feet who prefer to play solely indoors.
See Full: Nike Zoom Freak 4 Review
10. Puma MB 01 low (Best low-top basketball shoes for wide feet)
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
These are ideal for guards who require dependable lockdown but prefer responsiveness over compression. It is also suitable for people with wide feet and can be played safely outside. Overall, the Wade 10 is a fantastic basketball shoe.
Other Experts Say?
You get Puma’s nitro-infused foam and a very balanced cushion setup.
They have excellent padding. It feels super nice and cozy on top of your foot
Midfoot shank at the bottom of the outsole, which allows your foot to conform to the shoe while providing support.
Pros
- Good traction on clean courts
- Great cushioning with pronounced court feel
- Well-padded upper
- Secure support and lockdown
- Suitable for wide-footer
- Lightweight
Cons
- Impact protection is OK
- Gets dusty
Detail:
The shoe’s best feature is its aggressive and grippy traction, which squeaks outside.
The midsole is full-length Nitro-infused foam, and the shoe includes a thick Ortholite insole for added step-in comfort. The setup is fantastic.
Based on our observation, the Puma MB.01 Low provides enough impact protection to keep you pain-free and responsive for 2-3 hours on the court.
The materials used in making the upper are incredibly durable. They are also padded on the inside to provide next-to-skin comfort when worn.
These shoes are ideal for guards who enjoy court feel and have slightly wider feet. It is also an excellent choice for quick, explosive players who prefer a bouncy feel in their shoes.
See Full: Puma MB 01 lo Review
11. LeBron NXXT Gen
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
Compared to the ‘upper-tier’ LeBron 20, this shoe has a lower profile, providing better responsiveness and more solid control over footwork. The Nike LeBon Nxxt Gen is an excellent supportive shoe. It is one of the Best Ankle Support Basketball Shoes.
Other Experts Say?
A pretty decent price tag for a shoe, and the build quality and the material quality do live up to that price tag.
It’s an excellent all-around cushioning setup. It’s not too bouncy; it’s not too crazy for me; it’s not too soft; it’s not too mushy.
This whole series is awesome, like these shoes and the LeBron 20.
Pros
- Excellent traction
- Comfortable and supportive
- Lightest LeBron shoe
- Effective foot containment
- Bouncy with pronounced court feel
- Impressive impact protection
Cons
- Not for wide feet
Detail:
The Nike LeBron NXXT Gen’s traction pattern is an Akron map performed excellently on clean and dirty courts.
The cushioning is similar to that of the LeBron 20. Although the foam feels firmer, the Zoom units offer impact protection and responsiveness.
When we tried it out, we found that the shoe’s lockdown capabilities allow it to secure the foot on the footbed securely.
Nike’s signature basketball shoe is sure to please LeBron James fans.
It is suitable for buyers looking for a less expensive alternative to the LeBron 20 and basketball players who require a lot of impact protection from their footwear.
Those with narrower and smaller feet and hoopers looking for kicks that can be worn for outdoor games will also find these shoes suitable.
See Full: Nike LeBron Nxxt Gen Review
12. Jordan Tatum 1
Overall Rating
Shoe Specs
Infohoops Verdict
The Jordan JT 1 is a fantastic on-court basketball shoe. The cushioning has received widespread praise for being bouncy and comfortable beneath the forefoot and heel. It needs to catch up in terms of appearance and style.
Other Experts Say?
Tech in the forefoot is all the best elements of the shoe.
It’s a very light, minimal, and pretty damn responsive shoe.
Tatum 1 retails for 120 dollars, an excellent price for a first signature shoe with the amount of tech you’re getting.
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 it grips the court exceptionally well in the case of Flow.
It could be better suited for outdoor use but is a fantastic indoor traction system.
The shoe features an exposed high-volume Zoom Air unit covering most of the forefoot, providing the most cushioning possible.
It isn’t the most bouncy Zoom Air implementation we’ve seen, but it does the job.
These shoes are also appropriate for point-and-shoot guards who prefer shoes with high responsiveness.
Things To Consider Before Buying the Best Low Top Basketball Shoes
- Fit and Comfort: Finding a low-top basketball shoe that fits well and is comfortable is critical. Look for secure, snug shoes that do not limit movement.
- Cushioning: Cushioning systems, such as responsive foam or gel, can provide excellent impact absorption, reducing strain on your feet and joints.
- Traction: Look for low-top basketball shoes with durable rubber outsoles with multidirectional or herringbone patterns.
These patterns provide superior grip and prevent slipping on various court surfaces, allowing you to make sharp turns and quick stops without sacrificing control.
- Support and Stability: While low-top basketball shoes allow for more ankle mobility, it is critical to ensure that they also provide adequate support and stability.
Look for features that help secure your foot and prevent ankle rollovers, such as reinforced heel counters, internal support systems, or midfoot straps.
Low-top models may include additional cushioning or padding around the ankle area for added protection.
- Budget: Finally, when choosing low-top basketball shoes, remember your budget. Depending on different specs, brand and technology, prices may vary. Set a reasonable budget range and compare various options to find the best value for your money.
Who Should Get Low-Top Basketball Shoes
Low-top shoes are best for players who place an above-average emphasis on speed and agility because they lack the cushioning and support of high tops.
This makes them especially useful for quick guards and forwards who prefer rapid shifts or outside positioning.
Another thing to consider is that low tops are lighter than other shoes. As a result, players who want to increase their speed or agility will enjoy them.
They also provide a great deal of mobility. Those shoes are ideal if you like to cut and dribble in traffic.
Check our Recommendation of: Best Nike Basketball Shoes
Conclusion:
Selecting the best low-top basketball shoes can significantly impact your performance on the court.
You can make an informed decision by considering factors such as fit, comfort, traction, support, durability, style, and budget.
Remember that what works best for one player may not work for another, so prioritize your specific needs and preferences.
Investing in high-quality low-top basketball shoes will not only improve your game. Still, it will also provide the necessary support and protection to keep you playing at your best and prevent injuries.
We hope this article helped you with the best low-top basketball shoes.
FAQs
1. Are low-top shoes better for basketball?
Some findings show that wearing low-top shoes can provide more ankle flexibility.
2. What NBA players wear low-top shoes?
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Stephen Curry Kevin
Durant
Luka Doncic
LeBron James
3. Are low tops OK for basketball?
They are a good choice for playing basketball as they provide ankle support and prevent injury during sports.
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