7 Best Nike Basketball Shoes in 2024
![7 Best Nike Basketball Shoes in 2024](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/buying_guide_primary/10/10-best-nike-basketball-shoes-19468881-main.jpg)
When it comes to sports footwear, Nike leads. This holds true even in performance basketball where the brand and its subsidiary Jordan hold more than 80% of the market. This makes quite an extensive range to choose from.
Some models come with extra cushioning, some have outstanding grip, and some provide the most secure lockdown around your ankle. On top of that, you can also find those all-around performers that successfully blend all of the above. We are aware that this is a tedious process of choosing.
To help you find the right option, we have tested these basketball shoes in our lab, where we measured their outsole durability, flexibility,.heel counter stiffness, and we tested them on the courts. We don't stop there because we also selected the cream of the crop for various categories.
How we test basketball shoes
Coming up with unrivaled Nike basketball shoes in their own respective categories is not an easy task. We say this because we actually do the whole procedure for every shoe we tested. If you like to know what happens behind our comprehensive reviews and recommendations, read below:
- We acquire the basketball shoes from Nike that we want to test. We value objectivity more than anything so we are very stern about this.
- We play basketball in these shoes, both indoors and outdoors. The main features we observe and examine are grip, spring, lateral support, and lockdown, among others.
- We conduct different tests in our lab that measure different aspects of the shoes. We also tear the shoes apart and look into all its components.
Best Nike basketball shoes overall
![Nike LeBron 21](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_primary/40222/nike-le-bron-21-21615379-main.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_primary/40222/nike-le-bron-21-21615379-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_002](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-002-21615428-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_cutintopieces](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-cutintopieces-21618926-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_cutting](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-cutting-21615415-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Breathability_3](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-breathability-3-21615382-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Breathability_2](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-breathability-2-21615381-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Breathability_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-breathability-1-21615380-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Breathability_4](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-breathability-4-21615383-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Toebox durability_2](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-toebox-durability-2-21615386-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Toebox durability_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-toebox-durability-1-21615384-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Toebox durability_3](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-toebox-durability-3-21615385-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Heel padding durability_3](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-heel-padding-durability-3-21615389-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Heel padding durability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-heel-padding-durability-21615387-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_upper](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-upper-21615426-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Heel padding durability_2](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-heel-padding-durability-2-21615388-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Outsole hardness_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-outsole-hardness-1-21615393-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_03](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-03-21615418-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Outsole durability_2](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-outsole-durability-2-21615391-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Outsole durability_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-outsole-durability-1-21615390-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_0017](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-0017-21615443-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Outsole thickness_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-outsole-thickness-1-21615392-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_0010](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-0010-21615436-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Weight_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-weight-1-21615413-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_0012](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-0012-21615438-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_06](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-06-21615421-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Heel stack_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-heel-stack-1-21615395-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_0016](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-0016-21615442-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Forefoot stack_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-forefoot-stack-1-21615394-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_0020](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-0020-21615446-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_04](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-04-21615419-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Drop_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-drop-1-21615396-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_009](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-009-21615435-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Midsole softness_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-midsole-softness-1-21615397-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_01](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-01-21615417-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_010](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-010-21615425-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Insole thickness_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-insole-thickness-1-21615399-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_08](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-08-21615423-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_0018](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-0018-21615444-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Lateral stability test_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-lateral-stability-test-1-21615400-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_02](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-02-21615416-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_007](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-007-21615433-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Torsional rigidity_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-torsional-rigidity-1-21615401-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_008](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-008-21615434-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_006](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-006-21615432-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Heel counter stiffness_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-heel-counter-stiffness-1-21615403-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_07](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-07-21615422-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Midsole width in the forefoot_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-midsole-width-in-the-forefoot-1-21615402-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21-0021](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-0021-21615447-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Midsole width in the heel_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-midsole-width-in-the-heel-1-21615404-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_0011](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-0011-21615437-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Stiffness_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-stiffness-1-21615398-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_004](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-004-21615430-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Lug depth_2](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-lug-depth-2-21615409-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_05](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-05-21615420-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Toebox width at the widest part_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-toebox-width-at-the-widest-part-1-21615405-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_0013](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-0013-21615439-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_0022](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-0022-21615448-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Toebox width at the big toe_2](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-toebox-width-at-the-big-toe-2-21615406-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_0014](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-0014-21615440-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Tongue: gusset type_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-tongue-gusset-type-1-21615407-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_0015](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-0015-21615441-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Tongue padding_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-tongue-padding-1-21615411-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_0019](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-0019-21615445-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Heel tab_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-heel-tab-1-21615412-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_001](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-001-21615427-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Removable insole_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-removable-insole-1-21615414-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21_removableinsole_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-removableinsole-1-21618925-120.jpg)
![Nike LeBron 21 Reflective elements_1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40222/nike-le-bron-21-reflective-elements-1-21615410-120.jpg)
What makes it the best?
Choosing the best model overall is not an easy task, yet the LeBron 21 and its wonderful performance made it easy for us to give it the gold medal in this category. This shoe’s balanced features and fantastic playability work in harmony to make it a wonderful all-rounder.
We could feel its amazing durability not only during our rough games (in and outdoors) but also in our lab tests. We grabbed our Dremel and it could barely scratch the toebox (earning a 5/5 in durability) and the outsole (which ended up with a minimal dent of 0.5 mm according to our tread gauge). This is thanks to its high-quality materials, which make a very supportive structure. This translated into confidence and surefootedness in our wear tests, two key features for basketball.
The LB 21 also includes a Zoom Turbo unit in the forefoot and a Zoom Air unit in the heel of its Cushlon midsole. These technologies offer a mix of shock absorption, powerful toe-offs, and bounciness. Added to its low stack (at 26.6/22.4 mm according to our caliper), which offers a close-to-the-ground contact, this created a fantastic balance between shock absorption, response, and move control.
This model’s premium design offers an efficiently balanced cushioning system. But that can be easily seen in its skyrocketed price, which might be a drawback for budget-conscious hoopers.
Pros
- Wonderful performance overall
- Amazing cushioning technologies
- Nice bounce and shock absorption
- High-quality materials
- Great stability and supportive design
- Good twist resistance
- Effective grip
- Eye-catching style
Cons
- Not breathable
- Rough and long break-in period
- Pricey
Nike basketball shoes with the best traction
![Nike KD 15](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_primary/38667/nike-kd-15-21237183-main.jpg)
![Nike KD 15](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_primary/38667/nike-kd-15-21237183-120.jpg)
![nike-kd-15-review.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-review-18274207-120.jpg)
![Nike Kd 15 Cutting In Half](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-cutting-in-half-19796524-120.jpg)
![nike-kd-15-lab-test.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-lab-test-18274208-120.jpg)
![nike-kd-15-outsole-traction.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-outsole-traction-18274210-120.jpg)
![Nike Kd 15 Grip](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-grip-19796525-120.jpg)
![nike-kd-15-rubber-thckness.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-rubber-thckness-18274211-120.jpg)
![nike-kd-15-rubber-stiffness.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-rubber-stiffness-18274212-120.jpg)
![nike-kd-15-no-break-in-needed.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-no-break-in-needed-18274238-120.jpg)
![Nike Kd 15 Breathability Test](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-breathability-test-19796526-120.jpg)
![Nike Kd 15 Light Transparency Test](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-light-transparency-test-19796527-120.jpg)
![nike-kd-15-heel-stack.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-heel-stack-18274213-120.jpg)
![nike-kd-15-insole.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-insole-18274214-120.jpg)
![Nike Kd 15 Bounce](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-bounce-19796528-120.jpg)
![Nike Kd 15 Cushioning](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-cushioning-19796529-120.jpg)
![nike-kd-15-cushioning-softness-durometer.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-cushioning-softness-durometer-18274236-120.jpg)
![Nike Kd 15 Flexibility](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-flexibility-19796530-120.jpg)
![Nike Kd 15 Flexibility Measurement](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-flexibility-measurement-19796531-120.jpg)
![Nike Kd 15 Support](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-support-19796532-120.jpg)
![nike-kd-15-heel-counter.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-heel-counter-18274237-120.jpg)
![Nike Kd 15 Heel Stiffness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-heel-stiffness-19796533-120.jpg)
![nike-kd-15-toebox.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-toebox-18274239-120.jpg)
![Nike Kd 15 Weight](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38667/nike-kd-15-weight-19796534-120.jpg)
What makes it the best?
Among all the shoes in Nike’s arsenal, it’s the Nike KD 15 that brings the most promise when it comes to traction, which we experienced as consistent on both indoor and outdoor courts. We also appreciated this KD shoe’s close-to-the-ground construction and excellent torsional rigidity.
The bite of the KD 15 was really amazing; shoemakers should take note of how this shoe does it! Stopping on a dime was such a breeze. Quick changes in direction were never an issue. The whole grip experience was just a pure chef’s kiss.
Through our caliper measurements in the lab, we learned that the midsole is 3.3 mm thinner at the heel and 1.1 mm thinner at the forefoot. This configuration allowed us to feel the court more, enhancing our control over our movements.
The shoe’s base also did a good job keeping our rides stable and protecting us from twists. After manually twisting it in the lab, we thought that this shoe deserved a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for torsional rigidity.
The shoe’s breathability was definitely a weak point. After conducting our standard breathability smoke and light tests, the KD 15 only got a disappointing 2 out of 5. Those players with sweaty feet should stay away from this KD shoe.
Pros
- Consistent grip on different surfaces
- Dust-resistant outsole
- Plush and protective foam
- Bouncy midsole
- Secure heel counter
- Feels light
- OK for outdoors
Cons
- Not for wide-footers
- Lacks flexiblity
Nike basketball shoes with the best cushioning
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 lab test and review](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_primary/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-lab-test-and-review-21549093-main.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 lab test and review](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_primary/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-lab-test-and-review-21549093-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 review](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-review-21541632-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 lab test](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-lab-test-21541636-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 cut in half](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-cut-in-half-21541629-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 microscope test](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-microscope-test-21541631-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Breathability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-breathability-21541544-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Breathability transparency test](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-breathability-transparency-test-21541564-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Toebox durability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-toebox-durability-21541545-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Toebox durability comparison](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-toebox-durability-comparison-21541548-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Heel padding durability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-heel-padding-durability-21541546-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Heel padding durability comparison](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-heel-padding-durability-comparison-21541550-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Outsole hardness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-outsole-hardness-21541576-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Outsole durability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-outsole-durability-21541549-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Outsole durability test](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-outsole-durability-test-21541555-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Outsole thickness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-outsole-thickness-21541561-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Weight](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-weight-21541601-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 shoe weight](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-shoe-weight-21545243-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Heel stack](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-heel-stack-21541574-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 heel cushioning](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-heel-cushioning-21541602-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 impact protection](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-impact-protection-21541627-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Forefoot stack](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-forefoot-stack-21541575-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 forefoot cushioning](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-forefoot-cushioning-21541603-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 zoom unit](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-zoom-unit-21541641-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Drop](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-drop-21541577-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Midsole softness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-midsole-softness-21541587-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 cushioning](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-cushioning-21541600-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 nike react cushioning](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-nike-react-cushioning-21541639-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Secondary foam softness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-secondary-foam-softness-21541591-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Insole thickness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-insole-thickness-21541592-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 lateral support](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-lateral-support-21541642-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Lateral stability test](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-lateral-stability-test-21541557-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 ankle pillows](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-ankle-pillows-21541637-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Torsional rigidity](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-torsional-rigidity-21541559-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Heel counter stiffness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-heel-counter-stiffness-21541560-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Midsole width in the forefoot](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-midsole-width-in-the-forefoot-21541593-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 support](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-support-21541604-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Midsole width in the heel](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-midsole-width-in-the-heel-21541594-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 profile](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-profile-21541630-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Stiffness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-stiffness-21541556-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 outsole](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-outsole-21541635-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 grip](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-grip-21541605-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 fit](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-fit-21541643-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Toebox width at the widest part](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-toebox-width-at-the-widest-part-21541595-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Toebox width at the big toe](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-toebox-width-at-the-big-toe-21541596-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 upper under microscope test](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-upper-under-microscope-test-21541633-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 upper](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-upper-21541628-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Tongue: gusset type](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-tongue-gusset-type-21541597-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Tongue padding](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-tongue-padding-21541598-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Heel tab](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-heel-tab-21541567-120.jpg)
![Nike G.T. Jump 2 Removable insole](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/40096/nike-g-t-jump-2-removable-insole-21541599-120.jpg)
What makes it the best?
The Nike G.T. Jump 2 made sure we learnt about its heavenly cushioning not only during our wear tests, but also in our lab. This hooper focuses on impact protection, soft landings, and even energy return. That's why it's got the crown among our Nike basketball shoes with the best cushioning.
At 35.6/29.2 mm, its heel and forefoot stacks are impressively high. Whenever we jumped, be it going for a rebound or even fadeaways, our landings felt effortless and stable. These Nikes took all the impact harshness thanks to their dynamic cushioning and dual-density foam, and we kept our balance thanks to the stability features we found once we cut the shoe in half.
Even before we took the G.T. Jump 2 to our lab, we already knew its midsole was the main character. We felt it was soft, stable, and responsive, which is an amazing yet uncommon combination. It features a generous amount of Nike React foam in the heel, which is 60% plusher than average (at 16.0 HA according to our durometer), accompanied by a firmer EVA foam (at 36.6 HA). The first one protected your joints from tough landings, and the second one made sure we didn't lose balance. The finishing touch is a full-length Zoom Air strobel, which makes its ride responsive.
We felt this model was made for centres, as it sacrifices court feel and weight to add shock absorption. We believe quick guards should go for a more agile pair.
Pros
- Extra powerful energy return
- Outstanding impact protection
- Dependable grip on clean courts
- Solid support and stability
- Very secure foothold
- Highly breathable upper
- Fits to a T
Cons
- Zero court feel
- Not for outdoor courts
- Heavier than average
Best lightweight Nike basketball shoes
![Nike Zoom Freak 4](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_primary/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-21237195-main.jpg)
![Nike Zoom Freak 4](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_primary/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-21237195-120.jpg)
![nike-zoom-freak-4-review.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-review-18283490-120.jpg)
![Nike Zoom Freak 4 Cut In Half](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-cut-in-half-19798791-120.jpg)
![nike-zoom-freak-4-lab-test.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-lab-test-18283491-120.jpg)
![Nike Zoom Freak 4 Updates](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-updates-19798792-120.jpg)
![Nike Zoom Freak 4 Cushioning](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-cushioning-19798807-120.jpg)
![Nike Zoom Freak 4 Traction](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-traction-19798808-120.jpg)
![nike-zoom-freak-4-outsole-grip.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-outsole-grip-18283493-120.jpg)
![nike-zoom-freak-4-outsole-rubber.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-outsole-rubber-18283494-120.jpg)
![Nike Zoom Freak 4 Breathability Test](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-breathability-test-19798809-120.jpg)
![Nike Zoom Freak 4 Light Transparency Test](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-light-transparency-test-19798812-120.jpg)
![Nike Zoom Freak 4 Heel To Toe Transition](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-heel-to-toe-transition-19798815-120.jpg)
![Nike Zoom Freak 4 Flexibility Test](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-flexibility-test-19798824-120.jpg)
![Nike Zoom Freak 4 Flexibility](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-flexibility-19798825-120.jpg)
![nike-zoom-feak-4-cushioning-softness-durometer.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-feak-4-cushioning-softness-durometer-18283495-120.jpg)
![nike-zoom-freak-4-insole.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-insole-18283496-120.jpg)
![nike-zoom-freak-4-forefoot-stack.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-forefoot-stack-18283497-120.jpg)
![Nike Zoom Freak 4 Energy Return](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-energy-return-19798826-120.jpg)
![nike-zoom-freak-4-materials.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-materials-18283498-120.jpg)
![nike-zoom-freak-4-quality.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-quality-18283499-120.jpg)
![nike-zoom-freak-4-fit.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-fit-18283500-120.jpg)
![Nike Zoom Freak 4 Foot Containment](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-foot-containment-19798827-120.jpg)
![Nike Zoom Freak 4 Heel Counter](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-heel-counter-19798886-120.jpg)
![nike-zoom-freak-4-tongue.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-tongue-18283501-120.jpg)
![nike-zoom-freak-4-wide-platform.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-wide-platform-18283502-120.jpg)
![Nike Zoom Freak 4 Lightweight](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-lightweight-19798887-120.jpg)
![nike-zoom-freak-4.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39135/nike-zoom-freak-4-18283503-120.jpg)
What makes it the best?
A stand-out aspect of the Nike Zoom Freak 4 is its stability, which it provides without needing a higher collar. Besides the anti-wobble structure, this shoe also boasts pronounced court feel at the forefoot. And the Freak 4 delivered all this without adding so much to its weight. Because of all these benefits, we consider this shoe the most valuable lightweight shoe out of all Nike basketball releases.
In the lab, our caliper showed that the platform is 115.7 mm wide at the forefoot. This adds 3.1 mm more width to the average, giving the shoe a lot of extra room to stably hold the foot.
Our caliper measurements also showed that the forefoot is 8.3 mm lower than the heel. Because of this setup, our heel strikes were a lot easier to execute. We also got to feel the court more through the forefoot, which in turn made us quicker on our feet.
The weight of the Nike Zoom Freak 4 is 12.3 oz or 348g. This is 1.4 ounces lighter than the average, which currently stands at 13.7 oz or 387g. Because of its lightness, we became even more agile as we drove toward the basket.
In spite of all the goodness, we still cannot recommend this shoe to ballers who want to feel a lot of plushness underfoot. As per our HA durometer, the softness (27.0) of the midsole does not fall far from the average (27.9). This means that the impact protection that this shoe can give is decent at best.
Pros
- Noticeable upgrades
- Amazing grip on indoor courts
- Dust-resistant outsole
- Smooth steps
- Pretty good court feel
- Dependable impact protection
- Jump-improving bounce
- Reliably supportive structure
- True-to-size fit
Cons
- Not ideal for outdoors (but OK)
- Not for bigger players and wide footers
- Cheap-feeling materials
Nike basketball shoes with the best comfort
![Nike Lebron Witness 7](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_primary/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-21212254-main.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_primary/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-21212254-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 review](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-review-20237344-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 lab test](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-lab-test-20237343-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 cut in half](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-cut-in-half-20237332-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 microscope](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-microscope-20237342-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Breathability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-breathability-20237312-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 toebox durability comparison](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-toebox-durability-comparison-20237346-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Toebox durability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-toebox-durability-20237313-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 heel padding](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-heel-padding-20237358-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Heel padding durability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-heel-padding-durability-20237314-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Outsole hardness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-outsole-hardness-20237317-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 durability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-durability-20237359-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Outsole thickness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-outsole-thickness-20237316-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 laces](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-laces-20237350-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Heel stack](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-heel-stack-20237322-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 landing](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-landing-20237333-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Forefoot stack](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-forefoot-stack-20237321-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 design](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-design-20237349-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Drop](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-drop-20237324-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Midsole softness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-midsole-softness-20237325-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 cushioning](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-cushioning-20237338-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Secondary foam softness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-secondary-foam-softness-20237326-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Insole thickness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-insole-thickness-20237327-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Lateral stability test](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-lateral-stability-test-20237319-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 supportive](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-supportive-20237376-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Torsional rigidity](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-torsional-rigidity-20237320-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Heel counter stiffness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-heel-counter-stiffness-20237323-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Midsole width in the forefoot](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-midsole-width-in-the-forefoot-20237328-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Midsole width in the heel](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-midsole-width-in-the-heel-20237330-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Stiffness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-stiffness-20237318-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 outsole](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-outsole-20237345-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 fit](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-fit-20237351-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Toebox width at the widest part](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-toebox-width-at-the-widest-part-20237334-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Toebox width at the big toe](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-toebox-width-at-the-big-toe-20237335-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Tongue: gusset type](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-tongue-gusset-type-20237337-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Tongue padding](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-tongue-padding-20237339-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Heel tab](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-heel-tab-20237329-120.jpg)
![Nike Lebron Witness 7 Removable insole](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39313/nike-lebron-witness-7-removable-insole-20237341-120.jpg)
What makes it the best?
The breathability of the Nike LeBron Witness 7 was truly noteworthy. It made our steps a lot lighter, easier, and comfortable. Besides providing a lot of ventilation, this basketball shoe also offered a lot of impact protection, keeping us pain-free all throughout the games. The durability of its outsole made it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. It is for these reasons that we hail this shoe as the most comfortable in Nike’s arsenal.
Upon wearing this shoe, we already felt its breathability. When we did the smoke test on it, we were not anymore surprised when the smoke easily escaped through the upper. We were so impressed that this shoe garnered a 4 out of 5 from us.
Based on our caliper measurements, the Witness 7’s heel is the tallest that we have ever seen. It is 4.1 mm thicker than average! On court, we felt the generous cushioning absorbing the impact of our harsh landings and aggressive steps.
To the touch, the rubber outsole of this shoe indeed felt quite resistant to abrasion. Readings from our HC durometer confirmed our initial observation. While the average sole hardness score is only 81.5, the Nike Giannis Immortality 2’s outsole got as high as 85.8.
The height of the heel gave the Nike LeBron Witness 7 a lot of impact protection, but it also brought it too high off the ground. Those players who love court feel may find this shoe seriously lacking in that regard.
Pros
- Highly effective traction
- Impressive impact protection
- Optimum comfort
- Breathable upper
- Reliable heel lockdown
- Good lateral stability
- Great outdoor option
- Fashionable design
Cons
- Lacks court feel
- Poor upper durability
- No outriggers on the sole
Best Nike basketball shoes for outdoor courts
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_primary/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-21212246-main.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_primary/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-21212246-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 review](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-review-20020530-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 lab test](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-lab-test-20020531-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Cut in half](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-cut-in-half-20020521-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Breathability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-breathability-20020495-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Transparency](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-transparency-20020522-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Toebox durability comparison](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-toebox-durability-comparison-20020499-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Toebox durability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-toebox-durability-20020497-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 microscope 1](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-microscope-1-20020528-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 microscope 2](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-microscope-2-20020529-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Heel padding durability result](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-heel-padding-durability-result-20020500-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Heel padding durability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-heel-padding-durability-20020498-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Outsole hardness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-outsole-hardness-20020502-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 outsole](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-outsole-20032301-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Outsole thickness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-outsole-thickness-20020501-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 support](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-support-20020525-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Heel stack](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-heel-stack-20020504-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Forefoot stack](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-forefoot-stack-20020503-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Drop](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-drop-20020505-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Midsole softness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-midsole-softness-20020506-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 cushioning](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-cushioning-20020526-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Insole thickness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-insole-thickness-20020510-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Lateral stability test](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-lateral-stability-test-20020508-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 upper](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-upper-20020527-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Shank](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-shank-20020535-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Torsional rigidity](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-torsional-rigidity-20020509-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Heel cup](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-heel-cup-20032302-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Heel counter stiffness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-heel-counter-stiffness-20020511-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Midsole width in the forefoot](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-midsole-width-in-the-forefoot-20020512-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Midsole width in the heel](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-midsole-width-in-the-heel-20020513-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Stiffness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-stiffness-20020507-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Heel to toe](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-heel-to-toe-20020524-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Lug depth](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-lug-depth-20020514-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Toebox width at the widest part](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-toebox-width-at-the-widest-part-20020516-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Toebox width at the big toe](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-toebox-width-at-the-big-toe-20020517-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 fit](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-fit-20020533-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Tongue: gusset type](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-tongue-gusset-type-20020518-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Tongue padding](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-tongue-padding-20020520-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Heel tab](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-heel-tab-20020519-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 Removable insole](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-removable-insole-20020523-120.jpg)
![Nike Cosmic Unity 3 laces](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39814/nike-cosmic-unity-3-laces-20020532-120.jpg)
What makes it the best?
The Nike Cosmic Unity 3 is undoubtedly an outdoor-worthy shoe, so it easily takes the crown as the best for outdoors among Nike’s basketball shoes. The enhanced court feel and stability that the midsole afforded made our experience with it even better.
The outsole rubber registers a good 86.5 on the HC durometer when the average is only 81.5. This means that the rubber is hard and is able to withstand abrasion. True enough, the shoe easily endured the harshness of outdoor play during our actual game tests.
Many of us play as guards, and the court feel that this shoe delivered during our test games allowed us to be quicker on our feet. In the lab, our caliper showed that the stack height of this shoe is only 27.9 mm at the heel and 20.7 mm at the forefoot. These figures are 2.1 mm and 0.9 mm thinner than average. As a result, we felt much closer to the court surface while wearing this basketball shoe.
What made the experience better was the firmness of the tooling. Using our HA durometer, we learned that it is on the firmer side with a rating of 33.3 when the average is only 26.6. Aside from enhancing ground feel, the firm midsole also ensured stability.
The Cosmic Unity 3 is not a good pick for those who want a lot of tongue cushioning. The padding in this part of the shoe is only 4.9 mm thick, which makes it 4.5 mm thinner than average.
Pros
- Perfect for outdoor courts
- Outstandingly durable
- One of the most stable shoes
- Wide platform
- Very secure lockdown
- Reliable traction on all courts
- Breathable enough
- Sustainable materials
Cons
- Firm sole with poor impact protection
- Heavier than average
- Break-in needed
Best budget Nike basketball shoes
![Nike Air Max Impact 4](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_primary/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-21212244-main.jpg)
![Nike Air Max Impact 4](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_primary/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-21212244-120.jpg)
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![Nike Air Max Impact 4 Cut In Half](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-cut-in-half-19800182-120.jpg)
![nike-air-max-impact-4-lab-test.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-lab-test-19747136-120.jpg)
![Nike Air Max Impact 4 Dremel Durability Test](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-dremel-durability-test-19800183-120.jpg)
![nike-air-max-impact-4-dremel-durability-test.jpg](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-dremel-durability-test-19747160-120.jpg)
![nike-air-max-impact-4-microscope.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-microscope-19747161-120.jpg)
![Nike Air Max Impact 4 Upper](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-upper-19800186-120.jpg)
![Nike Air Max Impact 4 Breathability Transparency](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-breathability-transparency-19800213-120.jpg)
![Nike Air Max Impact 4 Breathability Smoke Test](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-breathability-smoke-test-19800284-120.jpg)
![nike-air-max-impact-4-tongue-thickness.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-tongue-thickness-19747168-120.jpg)
![Nike Air Max Impact 4 Stability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-stability-19800305-120.jpg)
![Nike Air Max Impact 4 Lateral Stability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-lateral-stability-19800306-120.jpg)
![Nike Air Max Impact 4 Heel Counter Stiffness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-heel-counter-stiffness-19800319-120.jpg)
![nike-air-max-impact-4-support.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-support-19747155-120.jpg)
![nike-air-max-impact-4-forefoot-width.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-forefoot-width-19747156-120.jpg)
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![nike-air-max-impact-4-air-max-unit.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-air-max-unit-19747150-120.jpg)
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![nike-air-max-impact-4-forefoot-stack.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-forefoot-stack-19747154-120.jpg)
![nike-air-max-impact-4-outsole-thickness.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-outsole-thickness-19747157-120.jpg)
![nike-air-max-impact-4-outsole-hardness-durometer.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-outsole-hardness-durometer-19747158-120.jpg)
![Nike Air Max Impact 4 Flexibility Test](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-flexibility-test-19800340-120.jpg)
![Nike Air Max Impact 4 Flexibility](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-flexibility-19800341-120.jpg)
![nike-air-max-impact-4-quality.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-quality-19747159-120.jpg)
![nike-air-max-impact-4-fit.JPG](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-fit-19747167-120.jpg)
![nike-air-max-impact-4-toebox-width.jpg](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/39314/nike-air-max-impact-4-toebox-width-19747166-120.jpg)
What makes it the best?
The Air Max Impact 4 is simply an amazing shoe. At $90 per pair, this model is way cheaper than average, which is priced as high as $135. Performance-wise, this basketball shoe delivers impressive lightness and flexibility. Yet, it doesn’t fall short when it comes to providing twist protection. Hence, it’s easy for us to declare this shoe as the best budget pick in Nike’s lineup.
At only 12.06 ounces or 342 grams, this cheap basketball shoe is definitely a lot lighter than the typical hoop footwear (14.22 ounces or 403 grams). When used on the court, these light kicks didn’t get in the way of our movements and strikes.
When it comes to flexibility, this shoe is not to be overlooked, either. Our digital force gauge in the lab showed that this shoe needs only 34.7N of force to be bent at 90 degrees. This number is significantly lower than the 40.9N required by a typical hoop shoe.
In spite of its lightness and flexibility, the Air Max Impact 4’s base never ran out of the needed rigidity to resist torsional twists. This shoe, instead, got a pretty high score of 4 out of 5 for torsional rigidity after we gave it a pretty good squeeze and twist in the lab.
The shoe’s stability, however, made us a little worried. Its platform, particularly the heel area, is way too narrow. The heel is only 82.5 mm wide when the average opens as much as 91.1 mm.
Pros
- Traction is consistently good
- Responsive cushioning
- Decent impact protection
- Comfortable and well-ventilated upper
- Dependable foot containment
- Great for outdoor use
- Value for money
Cons
- Needs to be broken in
- Not for wide-footers
What sets the best Nike basketball shoes apart
Nike dominates the basketball market definitely not by chance. It offers a good deal of innovations that help with performance on the hard court.
Many of the proprietary technologies featured in Nike basketball shoes debuted in running shoes.
Technology |
Description |
|
Cushion |
Air |
Polyurethane pouch filled with dense gases, achieves that feeling of comfortably ‘walking on air’ |
Zoom Air |
Air unit with tightly stretched tensile fibers knit inside it for a more perfect balance of responsiveness and impact protection |
|
Lunarlon |
Special foam, bouncier and 30% lighter than phylon |
|
Vapormax |
Air packets that are put directly beneath known pressure points for a more targeted and efficient cushioning |
|
React |
Special lab-produced foam that is both soft and responsive |
|
Upper |
Flywire |
Suspension-cables-like wires on both sides, cradling the foot and holding it securely in place especially during motion |
Flyknit |
Digitally engineered knit that is light, form-fitting, and seamless |
|
Battleknit |
Flyknit innovation for LeBron James that becomes increasingly stiff at the midfoot where stability is most needed |
|
Knitposite |
First used on LeBrons shoes, this is basically Flyknit infused with heat-molded yarn that makes it more durable and supportive |
Beyond technologies: Other factors to consider
Apart from technologies, other factors play important roles in ensuring your enjoyment of Nike basketball shoes
Playing style
Expectedly, many of the top Nike basketball shoes are from signature lines dedicated to some of NBA’s most prolific players like guard Paul George and power forward Kevin Durant. This should make choosing the right shoe easier. Shoes from signature lines are sensitive not only to the star player’s personal preferences but also their playing positions.
According to Basketball Reference, Giannis Antetokounmpo and LeBron James are versatile players who can handle almost all playing positions. We can expect their shoes to be as flexible as they are.
Style and aesthetics
Nike basketball shoes are as pretty as they are high-performing. They will be of use even when you are off the court.
Low or high, know what you want. High-top basketball sneakers are espoused by players like LeBron James. Low-top basketball shoes are worn by many of Nike’s NBA stars, the most prominent of which being Kobe Bryant. Wanting one collar length over the other is just a matter of preference.
Know your color. Nike basketball shoes are available in thousands of colorways. Many of them commemorate important events or holidays such as Black History, Christmas, Easter, and the NBA Championships. There are also colorways that reference the lives and careers of their signature athletes.
To know more about the general steps to consider when buying basketball shoes, read our detailed buying guide.
Indoor or outdoor? The sturdiness test
The basketball shoe industry in general is largely driven by the NBA. With this, Nike releases basketball shoes that are deliberately for indoor hooping on a well-kept hard court.
You need to know how to assess a shoe’s outdoor playability before you use it on asphalt or any other type of outdoor court. Here’s how you can assess the shoe:
Get the best Nike basketball shoes for less
The top Nike basketball shoes are going to be even greater if they are NOT expensive.
Non-signature models are not expensive simply because no big names are attached to them.
The price of older models are deliberately brought down in clearance sales. Remember, the presence of a newer option does not automatically make older models less effective. They still have the technologies that make them desirable.
Even within signature lines, Nike develops takedown models to appeal to a wider audience. These basketball shoes are cheaper because they use non-premium materials. LeBron’s Witness line and Kyrie Irving’s Flytrap series are examples of takedown signature releases from Nike.