Finding a pair of the best basketball shoes for your own ball game can be tricky at times, especially if you don't quite know where to begin. Fortunately, our list of top picks is here to help.
Rather than focusing on style as we have in the past with our list of the best sneakers, we're prioritizing function over fashion here. Technology, traction, comfort, and overall quality are what we've looked for in our search for shoes that can take your game to the next level.
The result, along with factoring in price and reviews, is a list of amazing basketball shoes from some of the best sneaker brands currently available. From standout signatures, including amazing Air Jordans and the LeBron XXI from The King himself, to stand-alone footwear, we've got everything you need to kick off your search right here. Let's get into it...
Best basketball sneakers
- Air Jordan XXXIX - best for indoor games
- Under Armour Lockdown 6 - a durable pair for outdoor courts
- Nike LeBron XXI - top pick for wide feet
- Jordan Luka 3 - an excellent option for flat feet
- adidas Dame 8 - the best budget choice
- Nike Hyperdunk X - a great option to help you jump
- Under Armour Curry 11 - a superb contender for guards
- Nike Giannis Freak 4 - best for forwards
- Nike G.T. Jump 2 - top pick for centers
- Nike Cosmic Unity 3 - best sustainably-made basketball sneakers
1. Air Jordan XXXIX
Best indoor basketball shoes
- Nike - $200.00 / £184.95
- StockX - As low as $224.00 / £170.00
- Kicks On Fire - As low as $348.00
* prices are accurate at the time of the last update
Why we chose the Air Jordan XXX
Michael Jordan's signature sneakers have long been at the top of the basketball game, even back in the day when the Air Jordan 1 debuted. However, that was back in 1985, and times have changed since then. The Air Jordan XXXIX is here now, and it's leading the way for the next generation of performance footwear.
This highly advanced sneaker comes with full-length ZoomX foam and full-length Air Zoom bubbles for maximum comfort underfoot. It also features a crash pad on the instep that's designed to hold your foot in place to reduce the risk of injuring your toes against the toe box. As you move up, you'll find a built-in sidewall cupsole. This has been included to provide stability during lateral movements while also allowing for full engagement of the underfoot cushioning.
Every inch of this shoe has been thought out and carefully considered to ensure the wearer can deliver their peak performance on the court. It's a triumph for Nike, and a must-feature sneaker for this list.
Reasons to buy:
- Comes with ZoomX foam and Air Zoom cushioning
- Has an instep crash pad to hold your foot in place
- It features a sidewall cupsole to ensure maximum stability
Read More: Best sportswear deals
2. Under Armour Lockdown 6
Best outdoor basketball shoes
- Amazon - As low as $52.06 / £45.97
- Pro:Direct Basketball - £55.80
- Kicks Crew - As low as $68.00 / £58.00
* prices are accurate at the time of the last update
Why we chose the Under Armour Lockdown 6
For extra support and protection when playing outside, the Under Armour Lockdown 6 looks like a great pick as it features a durable rubber outsole with a herringbone traction pattern for ultimate on-court movement and control.
On top of that, the shoe features a mesh tongue to improve breathability and comfort alongside mesh side paneling beneath the synthetic overlays, which add a little rigidity during lateral movements.
Interestingly, the Lockdown 6 also comes with anti-odor technology which has been added to discourage bacteria and odor-causing microbes from developing, much like some of the best shoe deodorizers on the market, thus forgoing the need to ever buy them.
The plush foam sockliner is also worth mentioning as you'll find it improves comfort, making the Lockdown 6 an exceptional sneaker to play in.
Reasons to buy:
- It's incredibly rugged and durable for outdoor games
- It has a plush foam sockliner
- Features anti-odor technology to reduce post-game smells
Read More: Best sneaker deals
3. Nike LeBron XXI
Best basketball shoes for wide feet
- Nike - $154.97 / £199.99
- StockX - As low as $123.00 / £93.00
- Kicks Crew - As low as $243.00 / £207.00
* prices are accurate at the time of the last update
Why we chose the Nike LeBron XXI
LeBron James is one of the greatest basketball players to have ever stepped onto a court, so it may come as no surprise that Nike has applied the same level of greatest to his signature sneaker line.
The LeBron XXI, is a great example of this. What we like about this shoe, especially for wide feet, is that it's made from a lightweight mesh that has been reinforced by a 360-degree zonal cabling system for optimal containment. Not only will you feel locked-in but its upper will also conform to the shape of your foot to accommodate a wider shape.
Adding to Nike's commitment to comfort, the sneaker features Zoom Air units in the heel and forefoot to give greater energy returns for more propulsion every stride, and to also provide support and absorb shock during your landings.
The LeBron XXI also includes a carbon fiber midfoot plate to keep you steady and sturdy, plus they feature a low-cut collar to minimize restriction around the ankle - if these details don't scream performance on the court, we don't know what will.
Reasons to buy:
- It's built for one of the greatest players of all time
- It features a 360-degree zonal cabling system
- Comes with Zoom Air units in the heel and forefoot
Read More: Best Nike shoes
4. Jordan Luka 3
Best basketball shoes for flat feet
- Nike - $130.00 / £119.99
- StockX - As low as $126.00 / £96.00
- Kicks Crew - As low as $113.00 / £97.00
* prices are accurate at the time of the last update
Why we chose the Jordan Luka 2
The Jordan Luka 3 is a bit of a game-changer for flat-footed players, blending speed, support, and style to help make it a top pick for players who need that extra edge on the court.
The Luka 3's design revolves around racing-inspired details, which aren't just for show—they're all about performance. With a lightweight plate that provides locked-in support and a seamless molded upper, the shoe gives you the stability you need without weighing you down. This is crucial for flat-footed players who often require additional support to avoid discomfort and injury.
But what really sets the Luka 3 apart is its cushioning. The full-length Cushlon 3.0 foam is like having a spring in your step, offering the perfect balance of comfort and responsiveness. For flat-footed athletes, this cushioning ensures that every movement is smooth and controlled, helping you transition from heel to toe with ease. Plus, the lightweight comfort of the shoe means you won't feel restricted as you move, allowing you to play faster and with more confidence as you battle for wins each and every game.
Reasons to buy:
- It features a flexible plate that runs up the sidewall for a secure lock-in
- Cushioning 3.0 foam adds an extra layer of comfort on top of the spring
- The shoe is very light
Read More: Best Jordan 1 Lows
5. adidas Dame 8
Best budget basketball shoes
* prices are accurate at the time of the last update
Why we chose the adidas Dame 8
As Damian Lillard's 8th signature shoe, the adidas Dame 8 has been tailored towards providing speed and precision on the court.
To start, the Dual-density Bounce Pro cushioning from adidas offers a great balance of energy return, cushioning, and support. On the bottom, a unique 'waved' pattern on the rubber outsole offers superior traction when playing on a hardwood court.
It's also worth noting that these sneakers are created sustainably as well as 25% of the components used to make the upper contain a minimum of 50% recycled content.
Ultimately, Lillard's latest signature sneaker looks as though it has a lot to offer in terms of performance, all for a relatively inexpensive price that makes it one of the best budget basketball shoes we've come across.
Reasons to buy:
- Dual-density Bounce Pro cushioning maintains comfort
- Sustainably-made
- It's a bit cheaper compared to rival basketball shoes
Read More: Best adidas shoes
6. Nike Hyperdunk X
Best basketball shoes for jumping
- StockX - As low as $144.00 / £110.00
- Kicks Crew - As low as $100.00 / £86.00
* prices are accurate at the time of the last update
Why we chose the Nike Hyperdunk
These Nike Hyperdunk Xs come with all the necessary tools to give you a little extra lift on your vertical jump as well as provide a soft landing once your feet return to the ground.
This is because the sneakers come with a huge amount of foam in the insoles and a wavy traction pattern across the outsoles that are designed to improve grip and enable a better take-off as you start your leap. On top of that, the uppers are made from a lightweight, textile material with a 3/4 finish for a secure fit around your ankles.
On the whole, these sneakers look to be a great option to consider to help you score the perfect dunk in your best basketball hoop.
Reasons to buy:
- Packed with tons of foam to improve takeoff and landing comfort
- The outsole's wavy traction pattern maximizes grip
- The higher cut provides ankle support
Read More: Best high-top shoes
7. Under Armour Curry 11
Best basketball shoes for guards
- Amazon - As low as $121.12 / £198.12
- StockX - As low as $143.00 / £109.00
- Kicks Crew - As low as $120.00 / £103.00
* prices are accurate at the time of the last update
Why we chose the Under Armour Curry 11
It comes as no surprise that Curry's signature shoe was developed with speed, agility, and dribbling in mind given Steph's position on the court. For instance, the shoe features Under Armour's Warp upper technology for enhanced comfort and control as you dribble your way up the court, while the IntelliKnit material maintains breathability and keeps things stretchy yet supportive where you need it the most.
In addition, the Curry 11 boasts a Forefoot Pebax plate that's designed to give an additional flex to aid in agility and provide lateral support; two areas that are key to a guard's game.
Underneath, the shoe is equipped with Under Armour's own Flow outsole to give grip and a better court feel, and its internal midfoot shank adds stability to every move, thus making the Curry 11 an all-around excellent sneaker for any guard.
Reasons to buy:
- Made for one of the best guards around
- The Forefoot Pebax plate helps to improve agility
- The shoe's made from a breathable IntelliKnit material
Read More: Best low-top shoes
8. Nike Giannis Freak 4
Best basketball shoes for forwards
- StockX - As low as $86.00 / £65.00
- Kicks Crew - As low as $123.00 / £105.00
* prices are accurate at the time of the last update
Why we chose the Nike Giannis Freak 4
The Zoom Freak 4, now named Giannis Freak 4, is designed to suit the skillset of one of the best power forwards in the game right now - Giannis Antetokounmpo.
They feature hollowed-out midsoles around the forefoot area where two Zoom Air units are positioned to compress under the weight and then expand to deliver an improved energy return. They're also slightly tilted as if they were worn by a 100-meter sprinter emerging for the starting blocks to help increase forward motion and, in turn, allow you to attack the rim at speed.
All in all, we feel these low-top sneakers are up there as one of the best basketball for power forwards around right now.
Reasons to buy:
- Durable, strong, and ideal for a forward's game
- The Zoom Air units are strategically designed to maximize energy returns
- The units are slightly titled to improve forward momentum
Read More: Best Jordan 1 Highs
9. Nike G.T. Jump 2
Best basketball shoes for centers
- Nike - $180.00 / £199.99
- Kicks Crew - As low as $204.00 / £174.00
- Pro:Direct Sport - £160.00
* prices are accurate at the time of the last update
Why we chose the Nike G.T. Jump 2
Worn by one of the best centers around right now in Nikola Jokić, the Nike G.T. Jump 2 is a sneaker designed to help you defy gravity and help you hold your own in the air thanks to innovative technology and an extremely lightweight build.
You get three rounds of Zoom Air in the midsole to give you a better bounce off the floor, and the comfort needed to break ankles all game long. These air pockets are combined with a jump plate wrapped in rubber for added support and durability alongside spring. The shoe also features Nike React foam in the heel for additional cushioning, while the data-informed herringbone traction pattern underneath ensures optimal grip on the court.
You'd be hard-pressed to find many faults with the G.T. Jump 2. It's an excellent basketball shoe that is tailor-made for a center's game.
Reasons to buy:
- Three amazing Zoom Air units in the midsole
- Feature a jump plate wrapped in rubber for support and better lift-off
- Comes with Nike React foam in the heel for even more cushioning
Read More: Best sneakers for men
10. Nike Cosmic Unity 3
Best sustainably-made basketball shoes
- StockX - As low as $117.00 / £89.00
- Kicks Crew - As low as $64.00 / £55.00
* prices are accurate at the time of the last update
Why we chose the Nike Cosmic Unity 3
When it comes to sustainability, there is arguably no better basketball shoe out there right now than the Nike Cosmic Unity 3 as it's been designed to utilize recycled materials from post-consumer and/or post-manufactured waste in a bid to Move to Zero.
In terms of performance, the shoe features a slender and robust outsole, with Nike using rubber to facilitate the necessary on-court grip. This ensures that you can move swiftly to create space and evade defenders. Next, they feature Midfoot Flymesh, which has been designed to snugly wrap around the midfoot to improve the fit. The shoe also includes a Flyknit collar for a more comfortable and supportive feel, while also reducing the overall weight of the shoe to enhance agility.
Finally, the midsole has been fitted with foam to provide a well-balanced combination of cushioning and stability, allowing for comfortable play at speed. All in all, an excellent basketball shoe for the court.
Reasons to buy:
- Cleverly made to minimize waste
- Midfoot Flymesh secures your foot in place
- The Flyknit collar is both comfortable and supportive
Read More: Best sneakers for women
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
With so many different styles of basketball shoes on the market, you may have several questions about what makes each of them stand out. But don't worry, because we're here to clear up a few of the most common queries.
What should you look for in basketball shoes?
There are a number of key features to consider when deciding on which basketball shoes will suit your needs.
One of the most important elements to look for though is what kind of support the shoes offer to improve comfort. Uncomfortable sneakers can seriously detriment your performance on the court by distracting your focus which, in turn, may lead to injury.
You'll also want to ensure the sneakers come with a ton of padding to absorb impact to protect your knees and joints and, once again, reduce the risk of injury.
Another feature to consider is the shoe's ankle support. You've probably heard of the term ankle-breaker before, used to describe when a defender falls over from a crossover dribble.
Therefore we believe it's important to give yourself the best support possible to minimize the risk of injury if and when then happens.
The grip is important, too, according to Dicks Sporting Goods, as you don't want to find yourself slipping at crucial moments in a game. Herringbone or hexagonal traction patterns tend to be best for basketball.
Finally, keep an eye on how heavy the basketball shoes you're interested in are. We'd recommend something lightweight to prevent any feelings of being restricted on the court.
However, make sure the shoes come with adequate protection as well to avoid any injuries occurring from people landing on your feet.
Are high-top shoes better for basketball?
The preference for high-top or low-top basketball shoes largely depends on personal preference and playing style. Both types of shoes have their own advantages and considerations.
High-top basketball shoes provide additional ankle support due to their extended collar that covers the ankle. This can be beneficial if you have a history of ankle injuries or you want to prioritize extra stability. High-tops can help prevent excessive ankle rolling and offer a sense of security on the court.
However, it's important to note that ankle injuries in basketball often occur due to factors beyond shoe height, such as improper landing technique, contact with other players, or playing on an uneven surface. High-top shoes may offer some protection, but they do not eliminate the risk of ankle injuries entirely.
On the other hand, low-top basketball shoes are lighter and generally allow for greater freedom of movement, particularly in terms of ankle mobility. They can offer a more natural range of motion and flexibility, which can be advantageous if you rely on quick cuts, agility, and speed.
Ultimately, the choice between high-top and low-top basketball shoes depends on individual preferences, playing style, and specific needs. It's important to prioritize factors such as comfort, fit, traction, cushioning, and overall support when selecting basketball shoes, regardless of their height. Additionally, ensuring proper warm-up, conditioning exercises, and practicing correct landing techniques can also contribute to injury prevention on the basketball court.
Do basketball shoes fit true to size?
Generally speaking, basketball shoes fit true to size.
Ideally, basketball shoes fit tightly around your feet for security and control, with enough space on either side to keep you comfortable whilst also protected from other players and impact.
Clarks recommends you leave about one finger's width of space between your longest toe and the end of your everyday shoe, something which we feel can be used to determine what size basketball sneakers to go after.
Most manufacturers come with a handy size chart to compare to if you're really unsure. Check out our guide to measuring your shoe size right here to get you started.
Do you need to break in basketball shoes?
While it may be tempting to step right onto the court in your new basketball shoes, they may not necessarily be ready for action, especially if they've been sitting in a factory for weeks beforehand.
Fortunately, breaking in new basketball shoes can be relatively easy once you know how. Simply wear your new shoes for around 10 to 15 minutes a day doing some kind of light activity and your shoes should be ready to wear on the court.
Make sure you wear the same high-top basketball socks that you'd wear during a game to help your feet become accustomed to your new sneakers.
When should you replace basketball shoes?
There's no set time frame on when exactly you should consider replacing your basketball shoes as the answer will vary depending on their build quality and how often you wear them.
That said, there are several recommendations as to when might be a good time to start looking. For instance, Dr. Michael Lowe, team podiatrist of the Utah Jazz, has previously said that shoes should be changed monthly during the season to greatly reduce the risk of injury.
However, this relates to the game at a professional level where players are constantly training or competing. As an amateur, you're unlikely going to need to switch out your shoes that often.
A general rule we'd recommend is if you begin to notice any significant damage or drop off in performance from your sneakers, then you might want to start searching for a set to replace them.
Can basketball shoes be used for everyday use?
Yes, basketball shoes can be used for everyday use, but it depends on the style and design of the shoe. Many basketball shoes today feature stylish designs and colors that make them fashionable for casual wear.
However, basketball shoes are designed with specific features to help players perform on the court, such as extra cushioning and support for jumping, cutting, and quick lateral movements.
This means that some basketball shoes may not be as comfortable for everyday use as regular sneakers, especially if you plan to wear them for extended periods or for activities that don't involve playing basketball. That said, the additional cushioning can help you stay comfortable at the same time.
So, we'd say basketball shoes are more than appropriate to wear every day. Just make sure you find a pair that suits your style.
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