7 Best High Top Basketball Shoes For Men, 60+ Shoes Tested in 2023
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Based on a survey conducted by the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine, 68% of active NBA players use high-top basketball shoes that provide optimum ankle support. Depending on playing styles, mid-top and low-top trainers are also good options if you want shoes that don’t restrict movement as much.
With plenty of choices out there, picking the right one can be time-consuming. We can help you choose the right pair that gives a boost to your court performance, depending on your brand preference and colorway design.
From Nike Lebrons to Adidas Pro Bounce and Converse All Star Pro, we’ve reviewed and tested 70+ of the best men’s high top basketball shoes currently available out there. Get a look at our excellent selections in different categories.
Table of contents How we test basketball shoesBest overallBest outdoorBest ankle supportBest strapBest retroBest valueMost popularComparison
Overview
How we test basketball shoes
To make our recommendations, we gather necessary data from our wear-testers and shoe lab technicians. We put all the models in the database for an in-depth testing process at the RunRepeat lab and on the hardcourt. Our approach includes:
- Buying all the high top basketball shoes for men from our own pockets.
- Cutting the shoes open and analyzing over 30 parameters of each model from the support, stability, and upper durability, to outsole grip, cushioning and flexibility, and many others.
- Played numerous games of basketball both indoor and outdoor courts. They then report back to us with their on-court impressions and overall feedback on each pair of shoes.
- We collect additional data from other experts and regular users.
To conclude the test, we calculate the overall score of each model using our proprietary CoreScore system. After computing all aggregated data above, a final rating is given on each pair of shoes on the list ranging from 0 to 100. Our best picks are highlighted on this page.
Best men's high top basketball shoes overall
Pros
- Good lockdown and support
- Amazing traction
- Durable materials
- Superb comfort
- Simple look
- Secure fit
- Breathable
Cons
- Narrower fit overall
- Lacks cushioning
What makes it the best overall?
With its excellent support and lockdown paired with a perfect mix of court feel, responsiveness, bounce, and impact protection, it's no wonder that the New Balance OMN1S is loved by many. When it comes to performance, basketball players mentioned that this pair is a great first signature model that can go head-to-head with other signature shoes such as UA Curry 7 and Adidas Harden Vol. 4.
Best high top outdoor basketball shoes for men
Pros
- Responsive
- No break-in
- Durable on rough outdoor courts
- Secure fit
- Great traction
- Excellent lockdown
- Good for running & hiking
- Not a dust collector
- Fits true to size
Cons
- Lacks ventilation
- Stiff footbed
What makes it the best outdoor?
The Reebok Shaqnosis is a basketball shoe that is loved by athletes and shoe collectors. The pair is still sought after by many wearers decades after its first release. The responsiveness, support, and comfort that the shoe provides are for players who (1) do a lot of low-post moves and (2) meet the demands of a center. Grab this favorite pair of Shaquille O’Neal kicks and let them bring you memories from the 90s.
Best high top ankle support basketball shoes for men
Corescore
Pros
- Looks more amazing on hand
- Excellent court grip
- Bouncy cushioning
- Comfortable upper
- Offers a secure lockdown
Cons
- Lacks ventilation
- Tough to put on
What makes it the best ankle support?
Despite not having the essence and feel of the typical modern basketball shoes, numerous Allen Iverson fans love these Legacy shoes from Reebok. This hybrid sneaker attracts buyers with its quality materials, responsiveness, comfort, court performance, and classic design. However, there are some issues with its ventilation and ease of wear. But if these don’t matter much, then the Reebok Allen Iverson Legacy is a must-have.
Best high top strap basketball shoes for men
Pros
- Excellent performance
- Durable traction
- Light and minimal
- Reliable outsole grip
- Well-cushioned midsole
- Great support and lockdown
- Comfortable footbed
Cons
- Not for the outdoors
- Traction attracts dust
- Expensive
What makes it the best strap?
The Nike Kobe AD NXT FF has aggressive traction, balanced cushioning, and excellent lockdown. However, hoopers can get almost the same performance from cheaper shoes such as the Jordan Why Not Zer0.2. Overall, the Nike Kobe AD NXT FastFit is an excellent performer with a premium price tag. If you want the latest Kobe model and have a couple of hundred bucks to spare, then you should pick up a pair.
Best high top retro basketball shoes for men
Adidas Adizero Rose 1 Retro
Amazon
Free shipping
$135
Finish Line
Free shipping & returns
$150
Zappos
Running Warehouse
Pros
- Fantastic performer
- Amazing traction
- Feels fast on the court
- Comfortable upper
- Appealing style
- Supportive
- Great quality
Cons
- Outsole attracts dust
- Minimal cushioning
What makes it the best retro?
The Adidas Adizero Rose 1 Retro feels fast on the floor, and owners love the low-to-the-ground and responsive feel of the cushioned midsole. Its grippy outsole also allows them to explode like Derrick Rose. It is a great retro sneaker that delivers classic style and reliable performance. However, the UA Curry 7 and Adidas Harden Vol. 4 provide a better playing experience at almost the same price.
Best value high top basketball shoes for men
Pros
- Great on-court performer
- Great traction
- Quite comfortable
- Very durable
- Excellent lockdown and support
Cons
- Easily gets dusty
- Foam cushion feels a little dense and stiff
- Don't fully break-in
What makes it the best value?
The PUMA Legacy has everything you need in a basketball sneaker. These high-tops provide solid support with their engineered knit mesh upper and ankle webbing. The combination of IGNITE and NRGY foams offers adequate cushioning while the high-abrasion outsole delivers durable traction. Overall, the PUMA Legacy delivers no-nonsense performance at a budget-friendly price.
Most popular high top basketball shoes for men
Reebok Shaq Attaq
Champs Sports
Free shipping & returns
$170
Footshop
Free shipping
$190
Stadium Goods
$195
Zappos
Corescore
Pros
- Great cushioning
- Durable shoe
- Ideal for center players
- Impressive ankle support
Cons
- Not for wide feet
- Toe box easily creases
- Better for casual use
What makes it the most popular?
The Reebok Shaq Attaq is worth the purchase at $160. The shoe may be in the higher price range classification but there is no denying that it is one of the most collectible sneakers ever created. Since this shoe is designed for a big man like Shaquille O’Neal, this shoe model is suitable for players playing the center position.
