Buying Basketball Shoes Online (Ultimate Buying Guide)

Buying Basketball Shoes Online‒Surefire Tips for Getting The Perfect Pair 

Are you looking for basketball shoes for yourself or your kids? Shopping for basketball shoes online offers many benefits, including more models to choose from, custom options, lower prices, and even huge discounts!

But shopping for basketball shoes online can be challenging as well. For one thing, you can’t try out the shoes in person or on the court to find out if they are comfortable and fit perfectly. There’s also the risk of getting a fake pair and dealing with the hassles of returns and warranty claims. 

But we can help! Here we go over some of the most useful and effective strategies for getting the perfect pair of basketball shoes online. We walk you through the process of finding your ideal basketball shoes and help you avoid some of the most common pitfalls. 

So if you want to get a great deal on basketball shoes or are looking for a specific model you can’t find in your store, take a deep dive into our massive guide on buying basketball shoes online! 

1. Size-Wise: Getting the Right Size and Fit

It’s always a good idea to know your foot size and shape when buying basketball shoes. But knowing your foot’s size and shape is doubly important when buying shoes online because you can’t try them out beforehand.

The quickest way to determine your shoe size is to look at the shoes you already have. With most models, the size is usually indicated in a label under the tongue flap. 

If the shoe fits nicely and feels comfortable, you could simply order the same size of shoe from an online shop. If it has gotten tighter since you purchased them, you could move up to a half or full size up. 

So far, so good. But what if the label has faded and you’ve never taken note of your foot size? Your best option is to measure your foot and compare it against the size chart provided by most major shoe manufacturers. 

Here’s how to measure your foot at home:

1. Place a piece of paper larger than your foot on the floor against a wall.
2. Stand on the paper with your heel touching the wall.
3. Using a pencil or pen, make a mark on the paper at the end of your longest toe.
4. Measure the distance from the edge of the paper to the mark you made in centimeters or inches.
5. Repeat the process for the other foot.

Remember to measure your feet at the end of the day when they are slightly swollen from walking and standing. Also, make sure to wear the type of socks or shoes you plan to wear with the shoes you’re measuring for.

After you’ve measured your foot in inches or centimeters, compare it with the size chart provided by many shoe manufacturers. You should then be able to determine your shoe size in US, UK, or Japan measurements. 

Don’t forget to account for width! Shoes often come in narrow and wide variants. So apart from shoe length‒which is commonly indicated by size‒you should also choose your shoe based on the width of your feet. 

2. Playing It Smart: Choosing Your Basketball Shoes Based on Playing Style and Position

Size isn’t the only consideration when buying shoes. You should also choose based on your playing style and position. The type of shoes you choose can significantly impact your performance on the court. 

Here are some tips to keep in mind when choosing basketball shoes based on your playing style and position:

Determine your playing style: Are you a quick, agile player who relies on speed and agility. Or are you a power player who relies on strength and stability? Knowing your playing style will help you select shoes that are designed to support your particular needs.

Consider your position: Different positions require different types of shoes. For example, point guards and shooting guards typically need shoes that are lightweight and offer good traction. 

On the other hand, centers and power forwards need shoes that provide more support and cushioning.

3. Surface Matters: Making Sure Your Shoes are Right for the Court 

The type of court surfaces you play on should also determine your shoe selection. Choosing the right basketball shoes for the playing surface requires consideration of several factors, including:

• Type of court
• Outsole material
• Tread pattern
• Ankle support
• Personal preference

Here are some tips to consider when selecting basketball shoes based on the playing surface:

Indoor courts: If you mostly play on indoor courts, look for basketball shoes with a non-marking sole that won’t scuff or damage the floor. Shoes with a gum rubber outsole offer excellent traction and grip on polished wooden surfaces.

You can also opt for shoes with herringbone or hexagonal patterns on the outsole. These generally provide better traction on clean indoor courts.

Outdoor courts: If you play on outdoor courts, choose basketball shoes with durable outsoles that can withstand rough surfaces and abrasive elements. Look for shoes with a thicker, more rugged sole made from durable rubber or synthetic materials.

Additionally, you can choose shoes with a deep tread pattern. These generally offer better traction and grip on uneven or rough outdoor surfaces.

Multi-surface courts: If you play on both indoor and outdoor surfaces, look for basketball shoes that are versatile enough for both types of courts. Shoes with a durable outsole and a versatile tread pattern provide excellent grip and traction on a range of surfaces.

Specific court features: The playing surface may have specific features, such as a textured or slippery surface. In such cases, look for shoes with a specific outsole pattern designed to provide good traction and grip on such surfaces.

4. Full Support: Finding Shoes With Proper Support and Cushioning

Proper support and cushioning will help you play your best and reduce the risk of injury. It is often difficult to determine these qualities when shopping online, but the following factors should help you make the right choice: 

• Construction
• Arch support
• Cushioning
• Ankle support
• Expert recommendations.

Here are some tips to help you find the right basketball shoes:

Look for shoes with a sturdy construction: Look for shoes with a supportive upper made from durable materials such as leather or synthetic mesh. The shoes should feel sturdy and hold your feet securely in place.

Check for proper arch support: Basketball shoes should have proper arch support to help distribute your weight evenly across your feet. Shoes with a firm midsole will help support your arch and prevent foot fatigue.

Consider shoes with good cushioning: Look for basketball shoes with adequate cushioning to absorb impact and prevent injuries. Shoes with thicker midsoles, such as those made with foam or gel, can provide better shock absorption and cushioning.

Consider shoes with ankle support: Shoes with ankle support can help prevent ankle injuries, especially for players who make quick cuts or changes in direction. Look for shoes with high ankle collars or extra padding around the ankles.

5. Built To Last: Choosing the Right Material and Construction

Your shoes’ material and construction affect their performance and durability, as well as your comfort. When choosing basketball shoes, consider the following factors: 

• Upper material
• Outsole material
• Midsole material
• Construction
• Weight
• Flexibility
• Breathability

Here’s what you need to know about basketball shoe materials and construction:

Upper material: The upper material of basketball shoes can be made from leather, synthetic mesh, or knit. Leather is durable, breathable, and provides good support, but it can be heavy. Synthetic materials are lighter and often more breathable, but they usually aren’t as durable as leather.

Outsole material: The outsole is the part of the shoe that comes into contact with the ground. Rubber outsoles provide good traction and grip on the court. But the material should be hard enough to be durable without hindering flexibility.

Midsole material: The midsole is the layer between the outsole and the upper. Its primary purpose is to provide cushioning and support. 

Look for shoes with a midsole made of EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) or a similar foam material. These usually provide good shock absorption and cushioning.

Construction: The construction of basketball shoes can also impact their performance and durability. Look for shoes with sturdy construction, such as reinforced stitching or overlays. Shoes with internal shanks or plates can also provide added stability and support.

6. Get a Grip: Ensuring Adequate Traction 

Basketball shoes with adequate traction can prevent slips and falls on the court. They also allow you to make quick cuts and changes in direction. 

Selecting basketball shoes with the best traction requires consideration of the following: 

• Outsole material
• Pattern
• Groove depth 
• Stickiness

Rubber outsoles provide the best traction on the court. Look for shoes with a durable and sticky rubber outsole that provides a good grip on the court surface.

The pattern of the outsole can affect the shoe’s traction. Shoes with a herringbone pattern or circular traction pattern provide good grip on the court. Conversely, shoes with a flat or wavy pattern may not provide as much traction.

The depth of the grooves on the outsole can affect the shoe’s traction. Deeper grooves can provide better grip on the court, but they may also trap dirt and debris that can affect the shoe’s performance.

Some basketball shoes come with a sticky or tacky outsole that provides extra grip on the court. These shoes are designed for players who need maximum traction.

7. Pound-For-Pound: Weight Considerations 

The weight of your shoes can affect your performance and comfort in different ways. In general, lighter shoes can help improve agility and speed on the court. Heavier shoes may provide more stability and support.

If you’re looking for a lightweight basketball shoe, you may want to consider materials like mesh or knit. These materials can help reduce the overall weight of the shoe.

8. Going in Style: Looking for the Perfect Shoe Style and Design

Let’s face it: we all want basketball shoes that fit nicely and feel comfortable. But most of us also like shoes that look good, with a design we can be proud to show off. 

When considering style and design, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, think about the color and overall look of the shoe. Do you prefer a more classic, understated look or something bold and eye-catching? Do you want a shoe that matches your team’s colors or stands out on the court?

Next, consider any specific design features that may be important to you, such as the type of lacing system or the shape of the shoe. Some players prefer high-tops for added ankle support, while others prefer low-tops for greater freedom of movement.

9. To Greater Heights: Deciding on the Right Shoe Height

Basketball shoes have traditionally been available in three height categories: high-tops, mid-tops, and low-tops. Each of these has its own benefits and drawbacks, and the best height for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

10. Custom Built: Why Customization Options are Good 

Customization can be a fun way to personalize your shoes and show off your style. When choosing basketball shoes based on customization options, keep in mind that not all shoes offer customization options. Furthermore, those that do may have limitations on what features can be customized. 

Many popular basketball shoe brands offer options to customize certain aspects of the shoe, such as: 

• Color
• Material
• Text

Some brands even offer the ability to add your own personalized logo or design.

When considering customization, think about what aspects you want to customize and how it may affect overall performance and comfort. For example, additional layers or materials may increase its weight, which can impact speed and agility on the court.

11. Word on the Street: The Importance of Product Reviews and Descriptions 

Reading product descriptions and reviews is often the next best thing to trying basketball shoes personally and testing them on the court. When buying online, carefully evaluating product descriptions and reviews can help you make an informed decision.

Here are some tips for evaluating basketball shoes based on product descriptions and reviews:

Look for detailed information about features and performance: The best product descriptions provide information about the shoe’s materials, cushioning, support, and other features that affect performance. Reviews should also provide feedback about how particular shoes perform on the court.

Be wary about overly positive or negative reviews: Positive reviews can be helpful in indicating a shoe’s strengths. But they may also be biased, or worse, fake. 

Negative reviews can be helpful in identifying potential weaknesses in a shoe. But keep in mind that they may also be based on individual preferences or biases.

Look for reviews from people with similar needs and preferences: If you are a guard who prioritizes speed and agility, look for reviews from other guards. If you have a history of ankle injuries, reviews from players who have a similar history are more useful.

Consider the source: It is best to read reviews from reputable sources, such as sports publications or verified purchasers. These are generally more trustworthy than reviews from anonymous sources or unverified purchasers.

When choosing basketball shoes based on product descriptions and reviews, take a critical approach and carefully evaluate the information you find. While product descriptions and reviews can be helpful, they may also be biased or misleading.

12. Brand Recall: Does The Basketball Shoe Brand Matter?

Different brands of basketball shoes have different reputations for quality, comfort, and performance. Among the most popular brands on the market are:

• Nike
• Adidas
• Under Armour
• Jordan
• Reebok

Each brand has its own unique style, design, and technology. It’s important to choose a brand that fits your individual needs.

Here are some of the most popular basketball shoe manufacturers and their reputations:

12b. Why Buy Shoes From Reputable Retailers? 

Buying basketball shoes from reputable retailers is important for ensuring that you get high-quality, authentic shoes that fit well, feel comfortable, and provide the support and protection that you need on the court.

Reputable retailers typically carry high-quality shoes from trusted brands. They generally sell only authentic products from the actual brands, meaning that you are less likely to end up with a counterfeit product. 

Many reputable retailers also have trained staff who can help you find the right size and fit for your feet. Additionally, reputable retailers typically have a good return policy if you find that the shoes you bought don’t fit or feel comfortable.

Reputable retailers also tend to have better customer service and are willing to help with any issues or concerns that you may have. Plus, most offer warranties on their products, which can be valuable in case the shoes you buy have any defects or issues. 

13. Bang-for-the-Buck: Hunting for Sales and Discounts

Buying basketball shoes online can be a great way to save money, as many retailers offer discounts and promotions for online purchases. Here are some common discounts that you may be able to find when buying basketball shoes online:

Coupon codes: Many online retailers offer coupon codes that can be entered at checkout to receive a discount on your purchase. These codes can often be found on the retailer’s website or through email newsletters.

Clearance sales: Online retailers may offer clearance sales on older or discontinued models of basketball shoes. This can be a great way to save money on high-quality shoes that you wouldn’t normally be able to afford.

Holiday sales: Many retailers offer discounts during holidays like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or Christmas. Keep an eye out for these sales, as they can offer huge discounts on basketball shoes.

Email sign-up offers: Some retailers offer discounts or promotions for signing up for their email list. This can be a great way to get a discount on your first purchase, as well as receive future promotions and discounts.

Loyalty programs: Some online retailers offer loyalty programs that reward customers with discounts or points that can be redeemed for discounts on future purchases.

14. Many Happy Returns: Checking the Return Policy

A good return policy can give you added flexibility and peace of mind in case the shoes don’t fit or feel comfortable. Make sure to choose a reputable retailer with a generous return policy and read the policy carefully to ensure that you understand the conditions and exceptions.

Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing basketball shoes based on the return policy:

Check the timeframe: Make sure to check the timeframe for returns. Some retailers may have a shorter return window than others. 

It’s best to choose a retailer with a longer return period. This gives you more time to try out the shoes and make sure they fit and feel comfortable.

Look for free returns: Some retailers offer free returns, while others may charge a fee. Choose a retailer with free returns as this can save you money and hassle in case the shoes don’t work out.

Read the fine print: Make sure to read the return policy carefully, as there may be certain conditions or exceptions to the policy. For example, some retailers may not accept returns on shoes that have been worn outdoors or that have been customized.

Consider the refund policy: Some retailers may offer a full refund for returns, while others may offer store credit or exchange only. Make sure to choose a retailer with a refund policy that works for you.

Check the condition of the shoes: Make sure to try on the shoes and inspect them carefully before returning them. Some retailers may not accept returns on shoes that show signs of wear or damage.

15. Asking for Basketball Shoe Recommendations

Asking for recommendations is a great way to get advice and insights from other players or experts. Here are some tips for asking for recommendations on basketball shoes:

Ask experienced players: If you have friends, teammates, or coaches who are experienced basketball players, ask them for recommendations on basketball shoes. They may have insights into what shoes work well for different types of players, positions, or playing styles.

Research online reviews and forums: Look for online reviews and forums where basketball players discuss different types of shoes. You can often find helpful information about the fit, comfort, support, and durability of different shoes, as well as recommendations from other players.

Conclusion

Buying basketball shoes online offers many advantages, including lower prices, a wider selection, more customizing options…the list goes on and on. But the inability to try out the shoes in person is a definite disadvantage. 

This is why it is so important to do plenty of research into what designs best suit your playing style and position, which features provide adequate support and cushioning, and what materials provide the best balance of durability, comfort, and performance.

Researching these features and your options thoroughly increases your chances of finding a pair of shoes that meets your needs. Relying on reviews and recommendations from other basketball players will also help you make a more informed decision. 

FAQ