Did you know that over 26 million Americans play basketball? With such a high number of players, for you to soar, you need to have the right shoes. And just like there are numerous players, there are plenty of basketball shoes out there. All of us love quality and great visuals. So, which sneakers suit your style the most?
That’s what we are going to figure out in this article – the best looking basketball shoes for top performance and what you need to consider when buying them.
Ready?
Comparison Table
| Image | Name | Rating 1-10 | Benefits | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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LI-NING All City Wade Men Cushioning Basketball Shoes | 9.7 | Lightweight, great support, exceptional feel on the boards | Check Price |
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Under Armour Men’s Jet 2019 Basketball Shoe | 9.6 | Durable, ankle protection, flexible | Check Price |
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Under Armour Kids’ Pre School 2019 Basketball Shoe | 9.5 | Durable, flexibility & breathability, bouncy cushion | Check Price |
13 Best Looking Basketball Shoes Reviews
1. LI-NING All City Wade Men Cushioning Basketball Shoes
Its midsole makes it lightweight, making you have that soft and comfortable feeling. No more skidding with the unique grooves of the rubber outsole. Additionally, the rubber outsole makes it wear-resistant.
Did you know that the shoe also uses new cushioning technology known as the lining cloud? This technology will help you improve your performance in the stadium by effectively absorbing landing impact force, which is, in turn, converted into rebound energy.
The ankle support it provides will make you feel like you’re wearing high top shoes. Expect to receive all the attention because these shoes are also stylish.
Also, the ventilation is excellent.
However, it might not be true to size since it’s meant for wide feet. It will, therefore, help if you get a half size down. It also has an average weight and offers excellent traction. Overall, it is a good basketball shoe which is worth your money.
2. Under Armour Men’s Jet 2019 Basketball Shoe
Get a lightweight and responsive ride with the compression-molded EVA midsole feature in this shoe. Breathability and support should not even be among your worries with the molded leather and textile upper. This shoe will always be in great shape since it has a durable TPU overlay, which is abrasion-resistant.
The internal bootie construction also offers a secure and comfortable fit. The internal heel counter, on the other hand, provides locked-in support and fit.
You will also not roll over while running around the court or trying to attack your opponent since the internal midfoot shank feature adds enough support. The rubber sole has been designed with a unique traction pattern to allow you to initiate lateral movements and provide you with maximum grip. It might, however, run slightly small and also narrow and so it would be great for players with narrow feet. But for flat feet, they are great and also worth the price.
3. Under Armour Kids’ Pre School 2019 Basketball Shoe
These shoes are suitable for little kids between ages four and eight. They are perforated to add adequate ventilation to offer extra protection and durability. They also feature a TPU film on the toe cap, which holds up active kids. Their die-cut sock liner and rubber sole have a unique traction pattern. These provide cushioning support and lateral movement for maximum grip.
Their compression-molded midsole gives a lightweight and responsive ride and can make your kid run faster than he could ever imagine. The mesh and textile upper super combination provide support and breathability.
They could wear out a lot faster if overused – very common with very young kids, but they come in cute colors and are worth the price.
4. Nike Men’s Gymnastics Shoes
The legend is here to stay, and this time, combining classic styles and modern details, Nike Air Force 1 ’07 makes a comeback as the modern version of the iconic AF1. Its low design gives it a classic look and also offers optimum soil adhesion.
The leather and fabric upper consists of some external layers that have been strategically positioned to offer durability and great support. Your feet will always be kept fresh and dry with the perforated inserts that allow for breathability.
They are however narrow and uncomfortable for wide feet. They are also beautiful but a little expensive. One customer complained that it came with a cheap box. But, they are of good quality since they are leather.
5. Nike Men’s Basketball Shoe
With its smooth leather construction, which provides excellent traction, these shoes are made well and look very exclusive. They feature a triple element mixture with elephant print mudguards giving them a true classic design.
A customer was glad that they looked just as they were in the picture. However, the box was a little messed up, though this is not a big issue because the shoe fits perfectly. With all its legendary colors and good quality, it matches the price.
6. Under Armour Kids’ Pre School Jet 2017 Basketball Shoe
The leather upper of this shoe features molded panels that provide structured support and locks in the foot comfortably. This feature also makes it breathable as your feet get sufficient ventilation with the engineered and mesh tongue. It won’t be impossible for you to get a lightweight, comfortable ride on the court with its full-length EVA midsole.
With the one-piece solid rubber outsole having herringbone traction pattern, you get complete control on the court and exceptional grip.
The only problem is that shoes aren’t very padded, though they are beautiful and can last for months with no signs of wear. Their sizing could also run too small if your kid is growing too fast, but they are light and are definitely worth the money.
7. Nike Womens Free TR 8 Athletic Trainer Running Shoes
These Nike Womens Free TR 8 shoes will keep you at the top of your game with their innovative fabrics and styles. They can suit any of your activities and are 100% authentic. With them, you can feel the floor better – great for balance and posture. They are also a good fit for wide feet and are so light that when you run, you’ll feel like there’s nothing on your feet.
The sole is, however, of poor quality. The width of the shoes is also a bit tight, but the length is okay. One buyer thought the black and gold shoelaces don’t match the shoes. But it depends on your taste.
8. Nike Men’s BasketBall Shoes
Be prepared to win the game with Kevin Durant’s seventh model of the basketball line. With a rubber outsole, this shoe is highly durable. Its engineered mesh upper also provides flexibility and breathability. If you’ve always wanted to achieve a plush feel and a bouncy cushion in the court, Kevin Durant’s seventh model got you. Its foam insole does an excellent job of offering you a luxurious feel and a bouncy cushion.
The ventilation is breathable and is also not too tight and too loose. The high traction also performs very well outdoors. For its price, it’s worth it because it’s both cute and of high quality.
9. Nike Air Force 1 High ’07 LV8 (Chenille Swoosh)
Steal the show with this Nike Airforce 1 model that has been for a long time, a staple in the sneaker community since 1972. This “Chenille Swoosh” has a premium leather upper that gives it a classic look and feel. This classic silhouette basketball shoe has got you covered whether you prefer high, mid, or low top version.
It has perforations at the toe, which gives you excellent ventilation and also offers traction and durability with the rubber outsole that features a pivot point. It also provides superior cushioning with the full-length PU midsole and full-length air sole unit. Its lightweight fabrics help to regulate body temperature.
Unfortunately, some customers have complained that they crease easily from heavy use. They, however, fit perfectly and provide excellent ankle stability.
10. Adidas Performance Top Ten Hi J (Big Kid)
Young kids look hot in these classic Adidas Performance Top Ten Hi J Basketball Shoes, which have been on the top since 1979. These B-Ball shoes are durable for all-court play and have non-marking all surface outsole.
Their full-grain leather upper provides a soft feel and comfort. The fact that these shoes are built with a thinly padded collar makes provide comfort and support. Get that retro look on the court with these shoes’ contrast details. Also, they are highly comfortable because of their smooth leather lining and padded footbed. Their quality is excellent, making them a classic today, just as they were then.
The toe-cap portion is, however, a bit stiff and will have to take some time to loosen so that they can allow you to bend easily during jumping. The shoes also don’t have enough width or toe height, and this means you will have to be sure about the size you are ordering. Overall, they are supportive and comfortable and will last until the soles are worn out with the upper leather remaining intact, be it indoors or outdoors.
11. Nike Mens Zoom KD 11
Expect fireworks with Nike Mens Zoom KD 11 – the latest in Kevin Durant’s signature sneaker series. This lightweight shoe is highly stylish, sturdy enough, and provides exceptional feel on the boards. The creatively designed upper provides a secure fit. On the other hand, the underfoot comfort it provides spans heel to toe.
The upper mesh is, however, pretty snug, so to get the shoes on and off, you have to tie and loosen the laces. One buyer said that it was hard to get on at first, but with time it became easier. Overall, they are supportive and provide exceptional comfort.
12. Under Armour Men’s Drive 4 Low Basketball Shoe
Keep performing like a pro on the court with this advanced basketball sneaker designed to excel on the hardwood. Their durable and synthetic rubber sole is engineered to propel you forward and even root you in place when you need it most, especially when you stop suddenly to change direction or charging down the court.
The range motion you need is also guaranteed, and so you don’t need to worry while shifting and jerking because the mid-top height is there to protect your ankle.
The lightweight mesh upper with TPU coating will enable the shoes to last longer. It also provides breathability and flexibility.
13. Nike Kids’ Team Hustle D 9 (Gs) Sneaker
Boys’ NIKE team hustle D9 sneakers are specifically for the big kids (8-12 years). They are built with the lightweight midsole, which offers flexible toe-to-heel cushioning. It has a thin rubber outsole that provides traction while its leather upper offers durable support. Additionally, the midfoot hook-and-loop does a great job of locking your foot down.
The Nike symbol, however, comes off the shoe in a few days, leaving it with a circle on the front. If you are not wearing them frequently, they can make a good buy. They are also way comfortable and are easy to wear.
Your buying guide to the best Looking basketball shoes: What to keep in mind
- Ankle Protection: Don’t Get on the Crutches
Most people get ankle sprains while playing basketball and so ankle protection is one vital aspect you should check before buying any basketball shoe. You don’t want to spend your money on basketball shoes that will make you end up on crutches.
Review what other customers are saying before making a purchase. If they had ankle sprains, look for other shoes that will protect your ankle.
- Ensure You Have the Right Size
Most people get this wrong and end up hurting their feet. If they are too small, they will be uncomfortable and constricting. If they are too big, your ankle could twist, or you may end up with other serious injuries.
How do you know they will fit to size? The customer reviews section will still be your go-to guide. Most probably, you’ll come across comments saying either a shoe runs small or large. If it runs small, you’ll want to get shoes which are half size larger while if it runs large, you’ll want to get shoes which are half size smaller.
- Traction And Sole
Traction and sole are a crucial quality of good basketball shoes. If they are of low traction, they will not have a tight grip, and you will slip all over the place. That’s not how you want your game to end.
- Comfort and Cushioning
Don’t get basketball shoes with low-quality materials. They might end up being too stiff or too uncomfortable. That kind of feeling is not pleasant while you’re playing. It’s either you won’t give the game all your attention, or you will miss a pass at some point. Even worse, you might end up with pains that might not allow you to play for a week or so.
So what then? Prioritize the high-quality cushioning system of the shoes you want to buy.
A little tip; check for B-Ball shoes with polyurethane, compressed EVA midsoles, EVA midsole, or a combination of all these three.
- Quality: Cheap or Expensive? Let’s Find Out
You might be fooled into thinking that the most expensive shoes are an automatic high quality. The cheapest could also turn out to be more expensive since you might have to replace them sooner than you think because they may wear out quite fast.
Take your time to spot a good pair and buy them. Don’t rush into buying something you will regret.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which shoes do I need if I am a versatile player?
A: The mids will be good for you. They provide you with ankle support and are also light. You will, therefore, be able to drive, move with speed, shoot, and even play with strength.
Q: I’m a point guard and only rely on speed. Which Basketball shoes should I get?
A: Low tops will meet your goals. They are lightweight, and so you need to know that they won’t provide much ankle support. Avoid these if you’re used to getting ankle injuries.
Tips on How You Can Extend the Life of Your Basketball Shoes
Here are a few things to extend the life of your basketball shoes;
- Purchase a stick pad. These will help you maintain grip. Here’s how they work; while cleaning the dust from the bottom of your sole, they leave some grease residue behind.
- Having more than a pair of shoes can be a good deal. You can always use one for practice and the other only during games. You can also alternate them so that one doesn’t wear out fast. And also, the pair that you use outdoors shouldn’t be the same pair you use outdoors on cement. That is if you have two pairs.
- If your shoe is getting low on traction, take a piece of sandpaper and swipe the bottom of your shoe 3 to 4 times. If you swipe too much, parts of your sole that had lost grip will wear down even further.
- Every time the sole of your shoe collects dust, the traction reduces. Ensure you have a damp cloth so that whenever you take breaks, take a few minutes to clean the bottom of your shoes. Ensure the cloth you are using isn’t soaking wet. You don’t want to slip all over the place.
Wrapping it up
Choosing the correct pair of shoes is an important decision a basketballer can make. The best looking basketball shoes can define whether you win or lose the game. You don’t have to mind about the brand so much, but how they can make you perform in the game. Once you’ve got the best shoes, within no time, your body and feet will thank you because they’ll be feeling great on the court. That may just be the beginning of you, making strides towards becoming the best athlete.
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