5 Best Basketball Sneakers in 2023
Basketball sneakers are primarily worn for their sporty style, versatility, and performance. Premier companies like Nike, Adidas, and Converse are constantly innovating and introducing new technologies to stay ahead in the highly competitive footwear industry.
Men and women of all ages want the latest or funkiest lifestyle basketball shoes to enliven up their sneaker game. That’s why big-name sportswear brands are striving and competing each year to offer excellent quality performance-ready sneakers in the market, which has greatly benefited consumers.
With tonnes of options available, we are aware that picking the right pair that genuinely satisfies your needs can be overwhelming. To help you with that, we got our hands on 200+ of the best basketball sneakers out there and we tested them hard! After that, we selected the finest ones depending on the category. Take a quick look at our top picks!
Best basketball sneakers overall
What makes it the best?
Adidas Superstar is indeed the brightest star among other basketball sneakers because of the undying connection of its classic silhouette to hooping. Setting aside its incredible basketball-rooted style, we also found that the durability of its construction is without equal. When it comes to support and traction, Adidas Superstar absolutely delivered more than what we demanded from a basketball kick!
We can glide through the streets for hours in sheer comfort because of the smashing underfoot feel offered by the Adidas Superstar. We love how it provided us with ample arch support, letting us enjoy pain-free tours. Also, we discovered that there is sufficient toe wiggle room, eradicating any trace of hotspots around the toe.
What also floored us is the stellar quality of the Adidas Superstar. We didn’t see any damage or abrasion on the sneaker even after braving the hustle and bustle outdoors. However, we discovered that it entails a wearing-in period as it felt stiff at the beginning. Unless you’re okay with it, we suggest searching for basketball sneakers that are comfy right from the onset.
Pros
- Iconic style
- Great for all-day use
- Generously padded and comfy
- Nice and flexible
- Sufficient arch support
- Very durable toebox
- Accommodating toebox
- Lots of colorway options
- Affordable
Cons
- Needs breaking in
- Average breathability at best
- Not for rainy days
Best low-top basketball sneakers
What makes it the best?
With great basketball-embedded origins and prodigious versatility, Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Low Top stands out as the low-top champion of basketball sneakers. This sneaker has brilliantly represented streetwear fashion and basketball culture, which is why it is unchallenged as the best.
The timelessness of this sneaker is genuinely extraordinary but what really captured us in choosing it as the number one out there is its immense sturdiness. While we didn’t actually play in this pair on the court, we sure did abuse it in our regular outdoor engagements. Even so, the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Low Top exhibited superb resistance to wear and tear.
Also, we adored the comfort that this kick provided. Thanks to its canvas upper and low-top construction, our feet never soaked in sweat. If there is one thing we wish to enhance in this basketball sneaker, it would be arch support. We felt underwhelmed with the underfoot bolstering ability of the cushioning so we don’t recommend this sneaker to sneakerheads with foot concerns or arch support needs.
Pros
- Durable
- Easy to clean
- Easy to slip on and off
- Breathable
- Perfect for summer months
- Doesn't require much maintenance
- Timeless classic
Cons
- Lacks arch support
- Not good for a long period
Best retro basketball sneakers
What makes it the best?
Our wear tests of basketball sneakers pointed to the New Balance 550 as the best choice for retro. We found that it has an incomparable blend of retro charm, profound basketball legacy, and exceptional quality. And the finishing touch: It is phenomenal on foot!
Even though the New Balance 550 has a vintage basketball look, we are more than impressed with its performance which aligns with present-day standards. In terms of matching with our daily casual and upscaled styles, we found that the sneaker does a very good job. We also appreciated how it took care of our feet even during full-day outings.
The quality of the New Balance 550 is also faultless. We are delighted by the impeccable construction of the sneaker as we didn’t discover any flaw. As a matter of fact, even if we used it pretty roughly, the New Balance 550 stood strong without looking battered.
However, due to its loose fit around the toebox, a toe-hugging fit is something not to be expected from New Balance 550. If you prefer a snug feel around your toes, we suggest sizing down or getting other sneakers that are tapered in the front.
Pros
- Attention-grabbing throwback look
- Well-cushioned insole
- Incredibly clean details
- Suitable for various outfits
- No visible wear after several uses
- Easy to clean
- Striking shades
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Insufficient lockdown feel
- Fits wider than expected
- Released in a limited quantity
Basketball sneakers with the best comfort
What makes it the best?
After thoroughly reviewing and subjecting basketball sneakers to wear testing, we determined that the PUMA Slipstream is at the summit of all the pairs in terms of comfort. With its indulgently plush cushioning, we are enchanted by the extraordinary on-foot experience this basketball kick offers. Plus, the design of this kick is so fire to be dismissed.
We discovered that PUMA Slipstream has a rich amount of padding all over, delivering a consistent degree of pleasure from day to night. Due to this, we also found that our ankles and toes are safe from shoe bites and cuts. The insole is also packed with softness that allows us to stand and stroll without a care in the world.
Complementing the praiseworthy comfort is the basketball-forward aesthetic of the PUMA Slipstream which also made us love roaming around with this pair on our feet. We found its versatility top-notch and we faced no hurdles in putting outfits together with this kick.
However, as apparent in the chunky build of the PUMA Slipstream, we confirmed that it weighs heavy. If you would rather go for a sneaker with a feathery-like load, we recommend choosing other lighter alternatives.
Pros
- Awesome for daily use
- Plushy interior
- Admirably comfortable
- Competitive quality
- Rocker of casual outfits
- Versatile design
- Cool retro vibe
- Lots of colorways to choose from
- Ideal for the thrifty sneakerheads
Cons
- Tight on the toe box
- Needs a break-in period
- On the heavy side
Best suede basketball sneakers
What makes it the best?
Portraying excellence in suede quality, basketball history, and overall foot relief, PUMA Suede Classic is the frontrunner in the suede department of basketball sneakers. We found that its fine suede upper emanates sophistication although the sneaker only costs £80, a price that is 40.4% lower than our usual expense for sneakers.
Apart from the attention we got because of this sneaker’s crowd-stopping looks, we thoroughly enjoyed sporting the PUMA Suede Classic for extended periods due to its cloud-like foam and outstanding comfort. We also loved the abundantly padded collar that treated our ankles in plushness.
The bonus is that this sneaker comes in different colored suede material, which we all found to be captivating. The bad news is, we discovered that the material bleeds when it comes in contact with water. If you want to avoid this, we discourage prolonged exposure to sweat, moisture, and other damp environments. If water is inevitable in your day outs, we suggest picking up other basketball sneakers with non-bleeding uppers.
Pros
- Classy
- Budget-friendly
- Supple all over
- Tonnes of colorways
- Talk of the town
- Honours the former model
- Meets expectations build-wise
- Great-fitting for her
Cons
- Restrictive (men's variant)
- Bright colour bleeds
Comparison of the 5 best basketball sneakers
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Choosing the best basketball sneakers from the so many options available can seem like an overwhelming task at first but the benefits are clear. Finding the right pair of basketball sneakers is crucial, particularly for a sport known for its dynamic and face-paced nature which relies upon exact foot speed, explosive jumps, and quick directional changes. The best basketball sneakers will serve you well - not only will such an investment improve your game, but it will also enable you to stay comfortable for longer.
Since the Michael (‘Air’) Jordan revolution, the basketball sneakers niche has become somewhat of a darling of the sports shoe industry. In 2022 the global basketball sneakers market size was a whopping $5.31 billion and it is forecasted to reach $6.76 billion by 2029, with an expected compound annual growth rate will be an impressive 3.65% from 2023 to 2030
Midsole
On the back of this science the world’s best players have responded, and now they wear what feels right. For example, NBA players James Harden, Damian Lillard and Kevin Durant all choose to wear minimalist low-top basketball sneakers to help them glide up and down the court.
Similarly the trend for mid-top basketball sneakers has really taken off in recent years and that charge appears to be inspired by Lebron James. And if you like his style you might benefit from our guide to the best Nike Lebron basketball sneakers.
So are high-tops best? Or should you consider mid-tops and low-tops too? Our advice remains consistent: Wear what feels the most comfortable for you.
Basketball sneakers for ankle support and injury prevention
Top-quality basketball sneakers prioritise injury risk reduction over ordinary sneakers by incorporating specialised design and construction features. These shoes are engineered to provide superior protection and minimise the risk of injuries during gameplay. Here's how they achieve this:
Enhanced sole thickness: The best basketball shoes feature thicker soles, offering increased cushioning and shock absorption. This helps reduce the impact on your feet and joints, providing a comfortable and protective barrier against hard landings and sudden movements.
Superior traction: Basketball involves quick cuts, lateral movements, and explosive jumps, requiring reliable traction on the court. These shoes are designed with outsoles that provide a strong grip, ensuring stability and preventing slipping during intense gameplay. This is especially important when playing on slippery indoor court surfaces, where traction-focused shoes can significantly enhance safety.
Specialised traction patterns: Speaking of which, different court surfaces demand specific traction patterns. The best basketball shoes incorporate unique tread patterns tailored to different playing conditions. Shoes with multidirectional or herringbone patterns excel in providing optimal grip and preventing slippage, whether you're making sharp cuts or dribbling on a smooth surface. We’ve found the Nike Kobe 6, for example, are best worn on indoor courts only while the Air Jordan 1 Retro High sneakers are suited to outdoor playing experiences.
Supportive construction: Basketball shoes are built with supportive features that stabilise your feet and ankles, reducing the risk of twists and sprains. Reinforced uppers, padded collars, and secure lacing systems ensure a snug and secure fit, providing additional stability and support during lateral movements and jumps.
Sole-mates: The anatomy of basketball sneaker soles
Thinking about what makes a good basketballer, one thing that springs to mind is size; basketballers aren’t small. And with that in mind sneaker manufacturers have had to come up with ways for their creations to cope with such heavy impacts, the benefits of which can also be enjoyed by the average Joe and Jane. So what makes the sole of good basketball sneakers unique? To understand better let’s take a look at the anatomy of the sole:
Insole: Serving as a cosy resting place for your feet, the insole delivers both comfort and support. Certain models offer the convenience of removable insoles, allowing you to customise your footwear experience.
Midsole: Nestled between the insole and outsole, the midsole exhibits a thinner profile in the forefoot region and thicker padding in the heel area.
Heel cushioning: To counteract impact and offer shock absorption, many basketball sneakers incorporate various forms of heel cushioning, including technologies like Nike Air, gel cushioning, and more.
Outsole: Constituting the rubbery foundation of basketball shoes, the outsole excels in durability while providing exceptional traction, especially on smooth indoor courts.
Tread: Employing herringbone patterns that lie flat without protrusions, the tread on basketball shoes aims to maximise contact with the ground. Additionally, some designs feature flex grooves to enhance flexibility while maintaining optimal grip on indoor surfaces.
Consider your playing type/on-field position
If the right pair of basketball sneakers can make your game, then it goes without saying that the wrong pair can break it. And not in the good point-break kind of way. Speaking of which, considering your on-court position or playing style isn’t something that springs to mind when in the market for a new pair of kicks, but such a mistake can be futile. Although not necessarily marketed this way, different sneakers are made to accommodate different playing styles. Consider these playing types and positions:
- A point guard plays with more speed and agility than other players. These players will seek sneakers that are lightweight and flexible to allow for mobility and maximum speed.
- On the other hand, a tall centre will enjoy the benefits of maximum cushioning and absorption to accommodate their heavy but strong leaping ability.
- If you find yourself playing as a forward or if you don’t have a specific position or playing style, you can go for any basketball sneakers that you find comfortable and offer adequate ankle support for repeated movements back and forth to accommodate your on-court versatility.
So is there room for position-specific basketball shoe models to exist in the modern era? Interestingly, the findings from this study published in the Footwear Science publication seem to think so, and reveal the potential for two: (1) a low- to mid-cut agility shoe model for guards and small forwards that has high traction and is supportive during acceleration and cutting movements, and (2) a mid- to high-cut stability shoe for power forwards and centres with the focus on ankle stability and jumping performance [3].
Performance over aesthetics
Flashy designs, trendy colorways and something like the Air Jordan logo sure are nice but if you truly want to excel on the court a pair of high performance basketball sneakers should be your primary consideration. Consider all of the key performance indicators we’ve listed above before thinking about the shoes’ aesthetics. And only with all of that information will you be ready to make your decision about what truly are the best basketball sneakers for you.
What shoes does LeBron James wear?
Considered one of the best players in the world it comes as little surprise to know that LeBron James wears his own series of Nike basketball sneakers. ‘The King’ helps Nike release the latest LeBron shoes simply by wearing them on court, and naturally we have our guide to the best LeBron sneakers available here.
References
- Cognitive Market Research: Basketball Shoes Market Report 2023 (Global Edition) - https://www.cognitivemarketresearch.com/basketball-shoes-market-report
- Barrett JR, Tanji JL, Drake C, Fuller D, Kawasaki RI, Fenton RM. High- versus low-top shoes for the prevention of ankle sprains in basketball players: A prospective randomised study. The American Journal of Sports Medicine. 1993;21(4):582-585. doi:10.1177/036354659302100416
- Brauner, Torsten & Zwinzscher, Marc & Sterzing, Thorsten. (2012). Basketball footwear requirements are dependent on playing position: Footwear Science. Footwear Science. 4. 191-198. 10.1080/19424280.2012.674980.
- KixStats Basketball Shoes Ratings https://kixstats.com/ratings?from=2023-06-10&to=2023-07-09&type=choice&league=NBA&by=kicks#results
How we test sneakers
We value our data-driven approach at RunRepeat. We make sure that each sneaker in the database goes through our meticulous performance tests and micro-level scrutiny. That means performing a battery of wear tests and analysing the materials and technologies used in a particular model.
Here are the steps that we specifically adhere to:
- We, as in-house sneakerheads, personally buy basketball sneakers with our own money. We then wear-test each model thoroughly.
- We put in days’ worth of wearing each sneaker to give us a comprehensive grasp of its comfort, flexibility, durability, and more.
- Before making our final verdict, we make sure that our top-rated selections are backed up by in-depth reviews from our team of dedicated wear-testers.
- We also enrich our data by cutting the shoes into pieces and testing them inside our lab.
