

“This could be multi-zoned materials for targeted support and breathability,” says Gately. And although they are often a point of style for a shoe, they’re functional, too.

Many basketball sneakers use a mix of materials, like mesh, leather and suede combinations.

Gately recommends paying close attention to material here. If you’ll be playing on an outdoor surface, look for a shoe with a thicker, more durable sole. Meanwhile, the outsoles should offer dependable grip. The midsole should feature lightweight, responsive cushioning to fight foot fatigue over the course of a game. Once you’ve chosen the level of ankle support that’s right for you, consider the shoe’s midsole and outsole - two of the most essential components of a shoe’s performance. What to Look for in the Best Women’s Basketball Shoes It’s about what makes you feel comfortable most of the actual stability and support your shoe is giving comes from the heel counter, anyway. Mid-tops provide a happy medium for multi-position players.īut mostly, choosing the right sneaker height is about user preference, says Gately. While low-tops are built for premium speed and agility, making them better for guards, mid and high-top styles lend more ankle support and stability, which is ideal for forwards as the position doesn’t require a lot of quick movements. First up: decide whether you want a high, mid, or low-cut shoe. When shopping for a good style, there are some key features to look for. The Different Types of Basketball Sneakers A thin tread will wear down more quickly outside, as will too-soft outer fabrics.
NIKE BASKETBALL SHOES FULL
“Basketball shoes should typically last at least one full season, could vary depending on playing surface and durability of the shoe,” says Jeff Gately, Puma’s product line manager. Most basketball shoes are designed to wear indoors, and this is important to keep in mind for both how much traction your shoe needs and how long it will last. Plus, you might be playing on an indoor court, which means you’ll need extra grip on your shoes. That means staying stable is not just nice but is necessary in preventing injury. Think about the movement patterns in a basketball game. There is so much engineering, design and testing that goes into creating a sneaker, and that increases tenfold when the sneaker is made for a specific game or sport. Not all athletic sneakers are created equal, after all. If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Footwear News may receive an affiliate commission.Ī good hoops game needs good hoops sneakers. Having a quality pair of basketball shoes is essential.
