What Basketball Shoes Should I Get? Buying Guide For 2023
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Are you interested in buying a new pair of basketball shoes but thinking about what basketball shoes should I get?
You’ve come to the right place!
Here we go over some of the finest points of…
- basketball shoes
- basketball sneakers
- basketball trainers
…or whatever you want to call them. If they are meant to be worn on the feet while playing basketball…that’s what this article is about!
Making Sense Of The Jumble Of Information
Now you might be thinking that there should be loads of information about basketball shoes out there. After all, considering the thousands upon thousands of different models available on the market, more than a few sites should cater to this huge market niche.
But surprisingly enough, accurate and up-to-the-minute information about basketball shoes can be extremely difficult to come by. Many sites provide details that are either
- out of date
- inaccurate
- irrelevant
So for anyone looking to know more about the various options in basketball shoes and how to find the right basketball shoe, a little more effort might be warranted.
Only The Facts!
But take heart! As we said, we aim to cover the most pertinent aspects of basketball shoes to make it easier for you to make a purchase decision.
In this article, we go over such aspects as
- materials
- designs
- features
- support
- durability
- comfort
- cost
….you name it!
These are some of the most important aspects of basketball shoes, and they have a lot do with the performance and satisfaction you derive from them. So if you are looking for a pair that delivers on all counts, these are the characteristics you should be looking into.
Who Is This Article For?
This article is for everyone in the market for basketball shoes but is a bit confused as to what goes into an excellent pair. It is for everyone who is overwhelmed by all the options and is just a bit bewildered about how to go about shopping for a pair of basketball shoes.
It is for:
basketball players of all ages and skill levels
- coaches
- parents
- hobbyists
…and anyone else who may be interested in exploring the vast and wonderful world of basketball shoes! So if you fit into any of the above categories of basketball shoe shopper…read on!
The Infohoops.com Rating System
At this point, it might be helpful to discuss the Infohoops.com rating system, and how we use it to gauge the relative merits of the different shoes we feature.
We base our reviews on the following criteria:
- Traction
- Cushion
- Material
- Support
- Fit and lock
- Outdoor and durability
- Comfort
- User reviews
- Expert reviews
Traction
“Traction” refers to the ability of the basketball shoe to grip the playing surface. Because every basketball court is different, we judge the general traction of each basketball shoe over different playing surfaces, from indoor courts to outdoor surfaces.
Of course, some shoes perform better on certain surfaces than others. But those that earn high marks in this category generally deliver excellent performance on a variety of playing surfaces.
Cushion
“Cushion” is how much padding the shoe has, which is integral to the comfort that you get from using them for long hours. You don’t necessarily want an overly-cushioned shoe that hinders your movement, but you definitely want enough to absorb impact.
Material
“Material” is the quality of the rubber, leather, and fabric used in the shoe’s construction. Some of the highest scorers in this category are made of state-of-the-art materials traditionally used in basketball shoe manufacturing. Others utilize unique and innovative blends and compounds, some of which may be new to the consumer market.
Support
“Support” refers to the ability of the basketball shoe to keep the feet in an optimal position to enhance preference and prevent injury. Support is especially important in the heel and the arch of the foot. But good basketball shoes should provide excellent overall support.
Fit and lock
This is the ability of the basketball shoe to provide a snug fit and lock securely into position. This is important for improving maneuverability and enhancing performance on the court. A securely fitting shoe also enhances the player’s confidence in their abilities.
Outdoor and durability
Good basketball shoes perform well in different playing environments. But the best designs are durable enough to withstand rugged outdoor use. We give the highest rankings in this category to shoes that maintain their shape and optimal condition even when used frequently.
Comfort
The best basketball shoes enable athletes to train and play for long hours without discomfort. It reduces the risk of injury and allows players to go beyond their limits and exceed their playing abilities.
User reviews
We also consider user reviews when ranking the best basketball shoes. In some cases, end users can provide valuable, real-world insights on factors and characteristics that professionals may miss.
Expert reviews
Of course, we also consider expert reviews when judging the relative merits of the shoes we review. In many cases, experts have industry knowledge of specific features and components, some of which could have a significant effect on the shoes’ performance and capabilities.
The Best Basketball Shoes In The Market Today
Here’s where we get to the heart of the matter! If you’ve ever asked yourself the question, “what basketball shoes should I get?”, this should give you a few ideas!
Here we rundown some of the biggest, baddest, and all-around finest basketball sneakers on the market, any of which could be what you need to stand out in the court.
From familiar offerings from some of the most recognizable names in athletic equipment to relative unknowns and even a dark horse or two, this is an impressive list that should please even the most discriminating basketball player!
Top 10 Best Outdoor Basketball Shoes in 2022
Nike KD 15
The Nike KD 15 is a revamped version of a hugely popular model that made Nike a household name among ball players everywhere. It delivers the same outstanding performance, with the same technological advancements that are a Nike trademark.
But the Nike KD 15 is more than just a rebadge of the older model. It also includes some improvements that may seem a bit insignificant, but actually add to their performance capabilities in a big way.
A good example is the foam midsole, which is made of Cushlon. It makes the interior remarkably soft and plush, allowing for longer periods of comfortable use.
The Nike KD 15 also comes with a full-length layer of Nike Zoom Air Strobel, which is ideally positioned on top of the foam. Combined with the Cushlon midsole, the feel is amazingly springy.
Even with the slight change in material, the Nike KD 15 retains the comfort, breathability, and flexibility of its predecessor. With these features, the KD 15 is a solid performer that truly represents the pinnacle of basketball shoe technology.
Puma TRC Blaze Court
The TRC Blaze Court represents Puma’s latest foray into high-performance basketball footwear. It has an impressive-looking outsole that delivers incredible performance with its multi-directional and herringbone pattern. The shoe’s outsole enhances traction considerably, which is crucial for demanding playing situations.
The Puma TRC Blaze Court also features a foam-based trinomic cushion and a comfortable ProFoam+ midsole. If you haven’t worn a pair of Puma basketball shoes recently, the extra cushioning should be a pleasant surprise. A great all-around performer with more stability than other new shoes in its class.
Jordan 36
The Jordan 36 is Jordan’s flagship basketball shoe for 2021 to 2022 and it is definitely well-deserving of its status. The favored pair of Celtics phenomenon, Jayson Tatum, it packs a wealth of high performance features such as a Zoom Air stroble, Phylon midsole, and Jordan’s own Eclipse Plate. It even has a forefoot Zoom unit and a durable Leno Jacquard-weave upper for outstanding performance and durability especially for explosive play styles. A solid performer that is perfect if you often play outdoors or in dusty courts.
Nike Kyrie 8 (Infinity)
The Nike Kyrie 8 (Infinity) is by far the best basketball shoe in the Kyrie signature line. Like the Kyrie 6, it offers a superb combination of low-profile performance and pro-level cushioning.
Other features include a large-volume Zoom stroble unit, which is matched by another unit in the heel. The Kyrie 8 also has impressive lockdown and topnotch materials in the upper.
Amazingly, the Kyrie 8 is a lot less clunky than the Jordan 13, with which it shares many characteristics. It does need a bit of time to break in the traction, but that’s a small price to pay for such an excellent pair of basketball shoes. A great choice for dusty courts and other playing surfaces.
Important Factors To Consider When Shopping For Basketball Shoes
Choosing basketball shoes is often a personal decision. Qualities that are crucial to some may not be that important to others.
Even so, there are some aspects and characteristics that generally determine the suitability of basketball shoes for this particular sport. Here are some of the most important things to consider if you are in the market for the perfect shoe:
- Size and fit
- Basketball shoe design
- Playing style and position
- Physical characteristics
- Aesthetics
Also Check: Top 10 Best basketball shoes for guards 2022
Size And Fit
Shoes that fit properly are crucial for basketball. The fast-paced nature of the sport plus the need to perform quick and precise maneuvers requires footwear that can keep up with the player. Without the right shoes, players may find it difficult to run, jump, and pivot as needed during the course of a game.
What is considered a good fit for basketball shoes?
Preferences vary according to the player, but in general, it would be best to have some space between the end of the toes and the inner edge of the shoe. This provides a good balance between a secure hold and sufficient room for the foot to move.
Basketball Shoe Design
Shoe design is another crucial factor. Nearly all basketball shoes consist of the following sections:
- Uppers
- Midsoles
- Outsoles
Each of these contributes to the shoes’ overall performance.
Top 10 Best Basketball Shoes For Flat Feet 2022
Uppers
Uppers may come in one of three designs:
- High-tops
- Mid-tops
- Low-tops
One of the most important factors in determining the comfort of a particular pair is the design of the upper. This could have a significant effect depending on the player’s position, playing style, and propensity for injuries such as sprains.
Here’s a quick look at some of the most significant qualities of each design:
High-tops. High top basketball shoes generally provide the most ankle support because of the way it wraps around the player’s ankle. However, they tend to add more weight to the shoe than the other designs.
Consequently, high top basketball shoes are usually heavier than mid- or low-top designs. Even so, they are usually preferred by forwards and centers due to their better support.
Mid-tops. Mid top basketball shoes also offer some degree of ankle support, but they aren’t quite as effective as high-top shoes. They usually reach around ankle height, and are more flexible than high-top designs.
Mid top basketball shoes are usually favored by players that perform multiple roles or positions in a game. They are generally considered a more versatile shoe than the other designs.
Low-tops. Low top basketball shoes offer almost no ankle support. However, they allow for quicker and more agile maneuvers than other designs. Low top basketball shoes are favored by players that value speed and agility, especially those in defensive positions.
Midsoles
The midsole is where most of the cushioning in an athletic shoe is located. Essential to the performance of basketball shoes, midsoles may include features such as pressurized-air chambers, EVA, foam, or polyurethane. These materials contribute to the comfort and flexibility of basketball shoes while providing the necessary ankle support and cushioning that absorbs impact and minimize foot stress.
Outsoles
Outsoles are primarily responsible for providing traction. They are commonly made of rubber or some other type of material that provides great traction. This quality allows players to pivot, jump, and change direction quickly.
Great traction also helps shooters keep balance and maintain the property form when taking shots. It also helps post players maintain their rebound positions.
Playing Style And Position
Believe it or not, the user’s playing style and position in the team has a lot to do with the perceived performance of the shoe. Depending on the player’s position, habits, and injury history, some pairs of shoes may be better suited to their needs than others. Read on to find out what we mean:
Shooting guards. Shooting guards usually serve as the primary ball-handlers of a basketball team. They often have to push the ball or take it to the hoop, which means that they have to be quick and light on their feet. This requires low-top shoes are ideal that allow for fast and explosive movements.
Centers and power forwards. Centers and power forwards typically do a lot of scoring from the low post. They are also usually responsible for getting the rebounds, so they typically spend the most time near the ring. These players usually require high-top shoes that provide plenty of ankle support.
Small forwards and all-arounders. These players are expected to perform many different roles and play fluidly throughout a game. They should be able to launch deep throws and cut to the basket quickly. For these players, mid-tops are the perfect choices for dynamic playing styles.
Physical Characteristics
The best basketball shoes combine cutting edge features with solid design aspects that enhance performance and improve playing ability. We’ve already covered some of the most important categories in our ranking guide, but the following are especially crucial when shopping for the right basketball shoes:
Traction. This refers to the ability of the shoes to adhere to the playing surface. Good traction is an essential quality for players of all positions and playing styles.
Support. Basketball shoes should be built solidly enough to support the player’s weight while allowing the feet to perform as needed. Adequate ankle support allows the player to focus on the most important aspects of the game instead of avoiding ankle injury.
Comfort. Basketball shoes should be comfortable enough to wear for extended periods without causing pain or discomfort. Factors that affect comfort include width, fit, and amount of padding.
Aesthetics
The shoes’ appearance may seem an insignificant factor but it does matter all the same. All other factors being equal, shoes that look good are more likely to be worn by the player. They will be broken in much sooner and contribute to enhancing the player’s confidence.
The shoes’ appearance also helps express a player’s personality and style. For those looking to make a mark in the sport, careful consideration of the color, materials, and design of the basketball shoes is crucial.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many factors to consider when shopping for basketball shoes. It is ultimately very much down to personal preference, and factors that may matter greatly to some may not matter to you at all.
Even so, there are many factors that generally contribute to a high level of performance and reliability of a good basketball shoe no matter what your needs and preferences are. Aspects such as good traction, comfort, and extra ankle support are non-negotiable, and essential for getting the most out of your shoes.
Perhaps the most important thing you should take away from all this is: to consider your playing style and team position when choosing your basketball shoes. Weigh all the factors carefully and think of your future needs and requirements. Doing so will help you find basketball shoes that are right for you every time.
