As a guard, your team relies on you for a number of things. You need to be able to pass to your teammates, dribble away from opponents, and even make a basket or two when the clock is running out. The guard is easily one of the most important parts of the team, and when the competition is high, you can’t let something like a bad pair of shoes get in your way.
Shoes are the foundation of your basketball uniform, literally. A good pair will help you to turn sharp, cut back, and support yourself when you hit the ground after a big jump. There are thousands of basketball shoes on the market, meaning finding the right one isn’t the easiest task. Luckily, we’re here to help. Let’s jump in and check out our picks for the best basketball shoes for guards.
Top Basketball Shoes For Guards Comparison Chart
Product | Cut Type | Material | Price | Where to Buy? |
---|---|---|---|---|
1. Adidas Men’s Harden Vol 2 | Mid top | Mesh | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
2. Under Armour Curry 3 | High top | Mesh | $$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
3. Adidas Crazylight Boost | Low top | Mesh | $$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
Under Armour Curry 4 Low | Low top | Synthetic | $$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
5. Nike Lebron 16 | Mid top | Synthetic & Leather | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
6. Nike Hypershift | Low top | Rubber | $$ | Check Price On Amazon |
7. Nike Kyrie 3 | Low top | Synthetic | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
8. Adidas Dame 5 | Mid top | Textile & Synthetic | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
9. Nike Kyrie 4 | Mid top | Synthetic | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
10. Under Armour Clutchfit Drive 3 | High top | Synthetic | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
11. Nike Lebron Soldier XII | High top | Mesh | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
12. Nike Air Jordan XXXI | High top | Synthetic | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
13. Adidas Pro Bounce | High top | Textile | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
14. Nike Kyrie 5 | Mid top | Suede | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
Basketball Shoes For Guards Buying Guide
Traction
One of the most important things to consider when buying a pair of high-quality basketball shoes for guards is traction. Remember, basketball is a fast-moving game. You need to be able to pivot with ease and have full control while on the court. If you have shoes with a low-quality traction pattern and no grip, you can kiss the court goodbye.
Most of the time, basketball shoes will come with a durable rubber material on the outsoles that are made primarily for indoor courts. The type of traction pattern on the bottom will have a major influence on how you are able to play, so make sure to test them out if you can. Even more important than the type of pattern is the groove, essentially “how far apart the groves are from one another”.
If the traction pattern is too close together, it will pick up dust and dirt much quicker. This means you’ll have to continuously wipe off your outsoles, especially if you are playing on a court that isn’t maintained very well. It’s the bane of basketball players to have to constantly wipe their shoes, so if you can get a wide traction pattern without sacrificing support or comfort, definitely do so.
One of our favorite pattern types that we often see is known as the Herringbone traction pattern. This multi-directional traction pattern offers some of the best support in the game. Circular patterns are solid as well, helping players to keep their footing in intense situations.
Comfort
Comfort is kind of a tricky consideration, as you want to find shoes that will protect you from impact, but you don’t want to get the kind of cushioning that you would get in running shoes, as you won’t be able to feel the court beneath your feet. Too much cushioning and your shoes won’t have a great response, meaning you won’t have the stability you need when you land. If the cushioning is far too soft, it can really cut down on your speed and your overall performance, especially when you are trying to maneuver quickly.
With that said, you don’t want to go too small to the point where you don’t feel protected from impact. The most important thing is to look for ample cushioning in the heel area, as this is the part of the foot that gets fatigued the fastest. Having proper cushioning in the heel will provide you with the necessary energy return that aggressive players need.
A lot of newer basketball shoes provide thicker cushioning in the heel with thinner forefoots, allowing the player to feel the court beneath them. Essentially, your goal is to find a shoe with a mix of protection and performance. Never go with a shoe that has really spongy cushion, as you won’t be able to move full-force.
Support
Another extremely important consideration when it comes to basketball shoes is the amount of support that they provide. Support can come from many parts of the shoe, though the materials found in the upper seem to play the biggest support role, beyond the overall shoe construction.
Having optimal support in the heel is VERY important. The heel of the shoe is the one part that is going to keep you up on your feet with every start, stop, and landing, so make sure that your shoe has a solid “hug” on your heel. Heel counters are a great feature to look for in basketball shoes, as they help to reduce extraneous movement. You’ll also want to look for a high-quality lacing system that provides you with tons of lockdown so that you feel total security on the court. You don’t want to have to continually adjust your lacing.
Support is also necessary to have in the midsole. Regardless of if you go with a lightweight, mesh upper or something a bit bulkier, it’s good to make sure that you have some added support in place. These types of support include TPU material, knit material, Flywire, etc. They help to keep your feet supported no matter how you land.
Lastly, you’ll want to make sure that your shoe fits you well so that you don’t feel your foot moving around in it. Obviously, you don’t want your shoe so tight that your toes feel like they’re going to snap, so aim for a good mix of security and mobility. It is common knowledge that your feet swell after heavy exercise, so do take that into account when you are looking at footwear.
Durability
Of course, you don’t want to have to purchase a new pair of basketball shoes every season. This is why durability is such an important factor if you want your shoe to last you a while. The first thing you can do is make sure that you are buying from a reputable company. A seasoned designer knows how to design a shoe that will hold up against all of the possible incidents that happen in a basketball game. Let’s look at some of the most important durability factors:
Overlays
Overlays aren’t often discussed even though they are the most important part of the shoe. A shoe that doesn’t come with overlays will likely be thinner and flimsier. To get the ample durability, you want overlays. It just shows that a company put care into their construction.
Stitching
Bad stitching can completely ruin a shoe design. Shoes can break down if there isn’t enough stitching, or even if the stitching is very shallow. Look into the depth and the stitching placement. Is the stitching on necessary pressure points? Is the stitching protected by layers of shoe? Look for keywords like “tight stitching”. These are typically pretty strong, providing players with quality fit and durable performance.
Material
The material of a basketball shoe can completely alter the overall comfort and durability of the shoe. With so many different types of material on the market, and with so many companies crafting their own specialty materials, it can be difficult to know what to look for.
Whatever type of shoe you get, we recommend getting one that uses a bit of leather. Even if you get a shoe with small leather overlays, you’ll have far more durability in the long run. Leather is the longest lasting material and it also provides enough comfort to feel confident throughout a game. We also recommend looking for mesh shoes. Mesh is one of the newer materials that is very popular in basketball shoes nowadays, as it provides players with support, flexibility, and breathability. Mesh lessens bacterial problems for those who suffer from sweaty feet.
If you find yourself playing in shoes that are all-synthetic or canvas-made, you probably have an issue and should definitely find some different basketball shoes.
Cut Type
The cut is a very important thing to look out for when searching for the best overall design. The cut type of a basketball shoe can alter the entire way that it performs. Understanding the different cut types is the best way to understand which type of shoe fits best.
First, we’ll start with the most popular type of basketball shoe: the high-top. High-top basketball shoes have higher ankle collars to support the heel better. Then we have low-top basketball shoes. These have lower ankle collars without as much support in the heel. Lastly, we have mid-top shoes, which help provide the best of both worlds.
Out of all three, we recommend mid-top shoes. They protect the ankle and provide enough support to prevent injury, though don’t feel as restrictive as standard high-top shoes. This makes them both comfortable and safe to wear. Some guards also prefer low-top shoes, though we don’t find too many out there who prefer high-tops.
For those basketball players who have weaker ankles, or for those who are maybe still trying to recover from an injury, ankle braces are always a great option. They pair well with low and mid-top shoes so that you can still have the proper flexibility and range of motion that you need.
Cost Vs. Use
You’ll always want to compare the cost of the shoe to what you are actually getting. Compare prices and see what one shoe offers vs. another, especially if they are the same price. Ask yourself a few questions to see how the value of the shoe holds up against the cost of the shoe.
See what kind of features the particular shoe offers, what sets it apart from other shoes, how long it will last, etc. Essentially, you want a shoe that is either a high value at a high price or an average value at a lower price.
Best Basketball Shoes For Guards Reviews
Adidas Men’s Harden Vol 2
The first iteration of the Harden from Adidas was an immensely popular shoe. Adidas knew that if they were going to put out a new version, it needed to be great. After more than a year of development, they came out with an incredible shoe that is at the top of our list. The Harden Vol 2 is made to work with fast players, helping them to pivot with ease and transfer energy on the fly. This is why James Harden himself has a pair of these.
The cushioning on these shoes is absolutely supreme, providing more than enough comfort for large players who need it most. With that said, you still get enough court contact for a responsive feel thanks to the thinned-out forefoot. They come complete with one of Adidas’ top-of-the-line features: Boost technology. Boost technology is an extra layer of dense cushioning that provides users with better protection upon impact.
The exterior of the shoe is made with ForgeFiber on the upper for extreme durability, so you won’t have to worry about the shoe wearing out anytime soon after you buy it. With prime stability, a flexible fit, and a customizable lacing system, it’s the perfect basketball shoe for the pro guard.
Pros
- High-quality traction pattern
- Boost technology
- Responsive Feel
- Customized Lacing
Cons
- Only good for indoor courts
- Ankle cuffs can be a bit irritating
Under Armour Curry 3
There is no doubt that Stephen Curry is one of the biggest names in the game of basketball at the moment. He’s been working with Under Armour for quite some time, creating a great line of signature shoes. The Curry 3 is the third-generation shoe and it is made with serious support and control. This lightweight shoe allows users to cut back quickly, pivot sharply, and feel stable all the while.
One of the best things about the Under Armour Curry 3 is the shock absorption. Guards have to jump high, meaning they deal with high-impact landings. This is where the shock absorption comes in handy, effectively reducing stress and fatigue on your legs no matter how aggressive of a player you are. The Curry 3 has upgraded even further, using Charged Cushioning technology for more shock absorption than we’ve seen before.
The traction is just as solid as the shock absorption and it is very necessary for those times that you fear you’ll lose your balance. It’s a multidirectional pattern that is made to protect you from possible injury.
Pros
- Multi-directional traction pattern for added stability
- Charged cushioning tech
- Tons of colors to choose from
- Carbon fiber shank for strength
Cons
- Sizing is a bit off
Adidas Crazylight Boost
The Adidas Crazylight has been one of Adidas most popular shoes since its introduction over a full decade ago. This low top version of the shoe comes complete with high-quality boost cushioning that provides you with supreme energy and responsiveness. It’s made with a mesh upper for a lightweight feel and extra breathability, though still provides you with an incredibly stable feel so that you can feel confident when on the court.
Because of the low-top design, you don’t necessarily get the best support out there, though you do get much better flexibility. The TPU wrap adds to the overall performance with a locked-in forefoot, very similar to the Harden model on our list. In terms of cushioning, you can find it throughout the entire foot. This shoe is comparable to many running shoes that you would find on the market thanks to their comfort. Overall, if you are a fan of low-top shoes, this might be a great model for you!
Pros
- Very stable design
- Boost technology cushioning
- Tons of stability thanks to the additional TPU wrap
- Tough rubber outsole
Cons
- Heel traction is not the best
- Low-top design is not as supportive
Under Armour Curry 4 Low
Like we said before, Curry is one of the best players in the game right now. There are few players around who can shoot like him. If you are looking to reach that same level of accuracy, you are going to need a pair of shoes that can give you a solid foundation. What better shoes to wear than a pair give you a similar foundation to the man himself?
The Curry 4s come from the mind of Stephen Curry and are far lower and lighter so that you have more range in flexibility. The cool thing is, even with the low design, you’ll never feel like you’re unprotected. This is thanks to the internal knit sleeve that helps to provide a bit of added support. There is a microfiber quarter panel that optimize security as well. Because it is microfiber material, it doesn’t add any unnecessary weight or bulkiness to the shoe.
As for durability, it’s a serious contender for top-notch, long-lasting design. The seam taping takes this shoe to a whole other level, helping to connect and bridge the two parts of the shoe, creating one durable unit. The midsole comes complete with EVA foam to help optimize the responsiveness, meaning you’ll be able to move with ease as well.
Pros
- Low-top design for flexibility
- EVA midsole is comfortable and responsive
- Seam taping for supreme durability
- Lightweight feel
Cons
- Lacks the same support as high-tops
Nike Lebron 16
The Nike Lebron 16s come from the legend himself. Of course, after 15 seasons of professional basketball, you have to imagine that Lebron James knows exactly what makes a great basketball shoe. The Lebron 16 provides everything from protection, to responsiveness, to support, to dynamics, and beyond. The traction is articulated really well. It is made with thick rubber and provides both comfort and flexibility, allowing you to play on almost any court. This is mostly because they are made with a high-quality Herringbone structure.
The cushioning is based on what Nike refers to as “Max Air”, and they have been around since the original Lebron shoe, as it is a feature that he loves so much. Like many Nike shoes, the cushioning is strongest in the ankle area, providing players with ample support and responsiveness. One thing to note is that they are a bit on the heavy end. This might make them more suitable for larger and heavier point guards instead of lighter, quicker point guards.
Pros
- Stable and comfortable design
- Flexible and responsive construction
- Incredible design
- Solid Herringbone traction pattern
Cons
- Can be difficult to relace
- A bit heavy for lighter point guards
Nike Hypershift
The Nike Hypershift is an amazing basketball shoe with a prime look and a great overall feel. The modern design puts many other shoes on the market to shame when it comes to aesthetic. The question is, “is it made for guards?” The answer is yes, 100%! The best part is, it is a wonderful budget shoe for those who can’t afford to throw down the big bucks on a top-of-the-line shoe. The contain Nike’s high-quality Flywire technology that provides players with a nice, lockdown fit, perfect for optimal security.
The rubber side walls on the shoe are very strong, giving players the support they need when moving and pivoting fast. It’s important to have ample control in the game, and these rubber walls help to give you everything you need. They also come complete with a cushioned tongue that helps to reduce overall pressure on the top of the foot. Pair this with the unique lacing system and you get a tight fit without it feeling too constricting.
The forefoot is made with Zoom Air technology, very popular in the Nike line. This means that the cushioning is protective, though doesn’t lack in responsiveness in the least bit. Lastly, you have TPU grip rubber on the bottom, providing you with an incredible amount of traction overall.
Pros
- Rubber side walls provide excellent control
- Cushioned tongue for lessened pressure
- Zoom Air technology for a mix of comfort and responsiveness
- TPU rubber traction
Cons
- Not the most durable basketball shoe
Nike Kyrie 3
Kyrie Irving is one of the most insane basketball players around. He plays like an absolute beast, so it only makes sense that his shoes are beastly too. The Kyrie 3s are some of the best sneakers out there with serious flare and a ridiculous competitive edge thanks to the high-quality construction. One awesome thing about these shoes is that they come in a wide variety of colors and designs, meaning you can find the shoe that best fits your overall aesthetic.
There is a Nike zoom unit built into the structure of the forefoot that helps to optimize overall comfort and support. Even the traction is really solid, giving players the ability to run up the court with ease while juking and pivoting away from their opponents. The beauty of these shoes is that they run cheaper than all of the other newly made Kyrie models, though they share a lot of similar features. Essentially, you get a high-quality shoe for the price of a low-quality shoe, as this model came out a few years ago.
Pros
- Sleek and modern design
- Intricate traction pattern
- Tons of support in the forefoot
- Mid-cut design for versatility
Cons
- The sole is not the most comfortable
Adidas Dame 5
The Adidas Dame 5 is one of the most affordable shoes on our list, though it’s also a high-quality contender for one of the best. These bad boys were developed by the legendary Damian Lillard if that says anything about the build. It’s no secret that point guards need a solid amount of traction. Not only does the Dame 5 provide supreme traction, but it also has a breathable upper that will keep your feet from feeling sweaty, perfect for those hot summer games.
The Dame 5 has a very similar outsole to the Dame 4, which is very strong and durable, perfect for any kind of court. The traction pattern is very wide too, so you won’t have to stress about picking up any dust or rocks. We know how annoying it is having to continuously wipe of your shoe, so this is a nice feature.
If you are a big fan of Adidas, there is no doubt that you are going to love Dame 5. Just like many of the other Adidas shoes on our list, the Dame 5 features high-quality Boost cushioning, giving you tons of responsiveness and the cushioning you need to jump high with comfort.
Pros
- Mesh upper with open-cell technology
- Boost technology cushioning
- Solid traction
- Proper lockdown
Cons
- Sizing is a little big
- Weak lace loop design
Nike Kyrie 4
Kyrie Irving is one of the biggest basketball players in the industry, who just so happened to come up with some of the best basketball shoes on the Nike line. Nike has been producing Kyrie kicks for quite some time, and they also just so happen to be some of the best shoes out there for guards. This is because they are designed with support and responsiveness in mind.
The multi-direction traction pattern works well on both indoor and outdoor courts, making these shoes incredibly versatile. The coverage is solid too, allowing players to play in almost any conditions. Thanks to the wide design, you won’t have to continually bend down to clean off your shoes if the court isn’t well maintained.
Like many Nike shoes, these do take a while to break in. This is because of the durable sole that is present on the shoe. You’ll find that there is residue technology on the bottom that continues to shorten as you play. Essentially, the grip becomes better the more you wear the shoe, which is pretty unique. The Kyrie 4s come complete with the popular Zoom Air cushioning, providing players with soft and comfortable support. Beyond that, it is still responsive enough to feel the court beneath your feet, which is extremely important. The Kyrie 4 is also far lighter than previous iterations.
Pros
- Works well on all basketball courts
- Flexible construction
- Solid traction pattern
- Very comfortable and breathable
Cons
- Takes a while to break in
Under Armour Clutchfit Drive 3
The Under Armour Clutchfit Drive 3 provides some of the best energy return out of all of the shoes on our list. The Clutchfit Drive is one of the most popular Under Armour shoes and this particular third-generation shoe has even more sweet upgrades. The Clutchfit upper provides users with both total flexibility and energy return.
The shock absorption is one of the top features on the Clutchfit Drive 3, helping to completely absorb pressure from the highest-impact falls. This pressure can then be converted into energy so that you can transition with ease. Point guards need to have that bounce and comfort in their shoes, so this is very important.
Lovers of flexibility and freedom will especially love the Clutchfit Drive 3, as it is made with a non-rigid design that makes you feel like you’re floating on air. You’ll be able to move up and down the court with total ease. The added flexibility also adds to the overall comfort of the shoe too. Overall, it is one of the best shoes on our list for energetic players.
Pros
- Supreme energy return
- Top-tier clutchfit technology
- Flexible upper
- Lightweight feel
Cons
- Not great for wide-footed players
Nike Lebron Soldier XII
The Soldier XII is the other high-quality Lebron shoe from Nike that everyone seems to talk about. It is easily one of the best shoes around for guards who are quicker. They are made with a top-notch midsole and Nike’s popular Zoom Air technology. The Lebron Soldier XII is both comfortable and flexible. This is mostly thanks to the upper with knit material, providing players with solid range of motion.
In terms of traction, the Soldier XII is pretty wild. You’ll probably notice the bubblegum-like colors on the bottom that is made out of high-quality rubber. It’s extremely colorful, great for the player that lives and breathes aesthetic. With that said, it provides an excellent amount of traction thanks to the well thought out, multi-directional pattern. It gives players just enough grip to play on just about any court, while also retaining responsiveness for quick maneuvering.
The cushioning is top-notch with the legendary Zoom Air technology. It provides players with an incredible amount of energy, helping to optimize overall performance. Lastly, the midsole has a bit of a curve to help players with more prominent arches feels comfortable. If you’re looking to avoid injury or playing into the flat-footed realm, this shoe is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Some of the coolest colors and designs
- High energy return
- Excellent repression of the foot
- Lightweight and flexible
Cons
- Some players might not like the strong midsole design
- Not the best for wide-footed players
Nike Air Jordan XXXI
There are few shoes out there that are as legendary as the Nike Air Jordans. They have been around since the early ‘80s, when Nike first decided to put out a basketball shoe. These bad boys have come quite a way since then, as the overall design and performance is now made to compete with top-notch, modern basketball shoes.
The coolest thing about the Air Jordan XXXIs are that they come complete with high-quality, flight speed engineering. This technology is made to help distribute the weight across your foot evenly so that you feel closer attachment with the court. The added court “feel” can help optimize your performance overall. These shoes also come complete with the standard Nike Herringbone traction, providing you with more than enough grip on the court.
We’re so glad that Nike decided to stick with their roots on the overall design, as it still has a retro look that brings us back to good times. The Air Jordan XXXIs definitely live up to their name.
Pros
- Come in an array of colors and designs
- Even weight distribution
- Solid traction
- Good court “feel”
Cons
- May be a bit heavy for some
Adidas Pro Bounce
Guards need to have an ample amount of lockdown in their shoes for the best possible support and the ability to move quickly and efficiently. This way, your feet won’t be shifting around throughout the interior as you move. The Adidas Pro Bounce is a high-quality performance shoe that is made with Forgefiber mesh on the upper for both flexibility and durability. The mesh also helps to provide you with a secure fit.
There is no question that basketball is a fast-paced game with lots of sharp turns and pivoting. To move at your optimal speed, having a supportive shoe is important, as it will help you to turn and stop at high speeds. The Pro Bounce is renowned for its added ankle support, allowing players to stop at a second’s notice without fear of injury.
The secure lacing system on the Pro Bounce is another reason why the Pro Bounce’s fit so securely. The cable lacing system not only gets rid of the worry that the shoes will come undone mid-game, but also provides players with a one-of-a-kind fit that is anatomically correct. Wrap all of this up in the Adidas Geofit construction and you have some of the best shoes in the Adidas line.
Pros
- Forgefiber mesh upper for strength and flexibility
- Tons of ankle support
- Ample cushioning for comfort
- Durable Geofit construction
Cons
- Sizing runs a bit large
Nike Kyrie 5
Nike is no stranger of using new and innovative technology in their shoes. The Nike Kyrie five brings support and stability to the court like no other shoe on the market. It is one of the very first Nike shoes to make use of Air Zoom Turbo technology. Air Zoom Turbo is a high-quality cushioning made to better protect the forefoot while also providing an insane amount of support.
Flywire is also a big piece of Nike’s shoe technology. They created this technology by finding the places on the foot that need the most support, essentially the places that move the most. They then reinforced these necessary areas with long, Vectran stitching for added support. If you’re looking for the strongest support system possible without having to worry about any added weight, the Kyrie 5 is one of the best out there.
When compared to technology like the Air Zoom, which has been available in many Nikes for quite some time now, the Turbo is far more flexible. This is because it is comprised of two separate parts, one on the forefoot and one on the outsole, providing you with the ultimate traction. You’ll be able to move and run quickly without ever feeling the absence of stability.
Pros
- Flexible Turbo Technology
- Added support thanks to Flywire system
- Ample support in the ankles
- Tons of colors to pick from
Cons
- Take a while to break in
Conclusion And Final Basketball Shoes For Guards Recommendations
So there you have it, a list of the best basketball shoes on the market for guards. It’s time to get out there and optimize your performance as a guard. Get a pair of these kicks that you feel most comfortable performing in. Find a pair that suits you best in terms of fit. Do your research and take into consideration all of the things on our list so that you can find the most optimal, long-lasting pair of basketball shoes out there.
Though there are a variety of top-notch choices on our list, we would have to recommend the Adidas Men’s Harden Vol 2. While they may not be the most technologically advanced shoes on the market or the most expensive shoes out there, they provide the best features specific to guards, which is the whole point of this article. The traction is excellent, the cushioning is solid, and the support is incredible, providing players with everything they need to fight, run, and assist their way across the court. Keep your stress low by keeping your feet strong and ball on.
Frequently Asked Questions About Basketball Shoes For Guards
Is This Article Only Referring To Point Guards?
Absolutely not! We reference point guards a lot in this article because those players are typically the heart of the team. They understand how to handle the ball with ease, assist their teammates, and performance with high-endurance and aggressiveness. However, we are also referring to shooting guards.
Shooting guards are meant to be the best at shooting the ball, hence the name. They can play far back on the court or near the basket, though the one thing that remains constant is their knowledge of how to perform under a variety of shooting conditions. This means that solid ball-handling is a necessity. They need guard-style shoes just as much as point guards do to help provide them with optimal flexibility up and down the court.
How Should My Basketball Shoes Fit?
Basketball shoes fit one way depending on what position you play. Point guards in particular need shoes that will give them the ability to run down the court at high speeds while still giving them the flexibility and support they need for comfort and range. This differs from other players who need the most possible support for jumping high and landing hard. Regardless, you are going to want to get a shoe that is strong so that you can move from practice to the game with ease. Our best recommendation is to look for a shoe that is snug on the foot and breathable in the game.
Should I Purchase Low-Tops or High-Tops?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as it really depends on the player and his or her personal preference. High-tops provide players with far more stability in the ankle, meaning far more security and comfort. Low-top shoes, on the other hand, provide players with far more range-of-motion, meaning more flexibility, which many players need. We recommend that you get a shoe with knit ankle support. These types of shoes are very supportive, yet don’t compromise overall mobility so that you can continue flexing with ease.
When Should I Replace My Basketball Shoes?
You never want to wear old footwear that is worn-out on the court. This is especially true if you are playing all the time. Bad footwear can lead to injuries down the line, even if you don’t feel it now. Older footwear tends to have worn-out cushioning, meaning far less support. Old shoes also have less traction, meaning you are more likely to slip and fall while on the court. Experts recommend replacing your shoes every single month as best practice.
Can I Run In My Basketball Shoes?
Of course, you can run in your basketball shoes. Would we recommend it? Definitely not. This is because basketball shoes aren’t tailored for regular running or activities that are similar. Basketball shoes differ from running shoes in terms of cushioning and overall control, meaning they won’t provide you with the necessary cushioning and support for long endurance runs.
Should My Shoe Choice Depend On My Body Type?
If you consider yourself a player that is both tall and heavy, there is no reason that you shouldn’t wear a heavier shoe to match. If you are a point guard (and of course we are generalizing here) then you are probably a bitter shorter and a bit lighter in weight. This is because point guards are meant to be quicker, meaning they need more versatile shoes. If you are a point guard, we highly recommend a shoe that is lightweight and responsive more than anything.