7 Best High Top Basketball Shoes, 60+ Shoes Tested in 2023
High-top basketball shoes is the first thing that comes to mind when conversations go into hooping. After all, the iconic Chuck Taylors, which are among the first shoes produced for basketball, were glorious high tops. Also, players like Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Stephen Curry love their shoes high or mid.
It must be noted here, however, that high-tops don't provide more support than low-tops as previously thought. Getting one over the other is not just a matter of preference.
Still, dozens of high-tops flood the market, and choosing the right pair can be a chore. To make things easier for you, we present here the best high-top basketball shoes that we can find.
Table of contents How we test basketball shoesBest overallBest outdoorBest ankle supportBest strapBest retroBest valueMost popularComparison
Overview
How we test basketball shoes
We've all seen sponsored content, and creators tend to be kinder to those who sponsor them. This is a clear bias and one that we want to avoid. Hence, we see to it that the high-tops that we review aren't freebies from anyone. We always purchase them using our own money.
We also do the following to reduce bias as much as possible:
- Use these high-tops in actual games to really see how they perform
- Consider other testers' reviews to verify or further inform our own
The result is a Corescore from 0 to 100 which helps us to rank and compare all of the tested high-top basketball shoes.
Best high top basketball shoes overall
CoreScore
- Top 6% in basketball shoes
- Top 20% in New Balance basketball shoes
- Top 24% most popular basketball shoes
Pros
- Good lockdown and support
- Amazing traction
- Durable materials
- Superb comfort
- Simple look
- Secure fit
- Breathable
Cons
- Narrower fit overall
- Lacks cushioning
Verdict
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
CoreScore
- Top 30% in high top basketball shoes
- Top 15% most popular basketball shoes
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
Verdict
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
CoreScore
- Top 8% in basketball shoes
- Top 8% in Reebok basketball shoes
Pros
- Looks more amazing on hand
- Excellent court grip
- Bouncy cushioning
- Comfortable upper
- Offers a secure lockdown
Cons
- Lacks ventilation
- Tough to put on
Verdict
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
CoreScore
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
Verdict
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
CoreScore
Pros
- Fantastic performer
- Amazing traction
- Feels fast on the court
- Comfortable upper
- Appealing style
- Supportive
- Great quality
Cons
- Outsole attracts dust
- Minimal cushioning
Verdict
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
CoreScore
- Top 27% in basketball shoes
- Top 18% in high top basketball shoes
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
Verdict
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
Reebok Shaq Attaq
Champs Sports
Free shipping & returns
$170
Footshop
Free shipping
$190
Stadium Goods
$219
Zappos
CoreScore
- Top 7% most popular basketball shoes
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
Verdict
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.
