What to Look Out for When Buying Basketball Shoes

Rajiv Gupta

Did you know that basketball players originally wore Chuck Taylor to play?

Today that is unheard of because of all the innovation in shoes. You want a shoe that will help you perform at your best and give you the traction and stability to take on any challenge. But there are so many options out there – which one is right for you?

Our guide to buying basketball shoes will help you choose the best option. So keep reading to find your perfect pair!

Low-Top Basketball Shoes

This style is one of the most common basketball shoes online. They offer a lightweight feel and a wide range of motion, which means that it’s easier to change direction quickly without the weight of an overly bulky shoe.

Despite being lightweight, low-top shoes have a cushioning system that can absorb some force from the impact. This will save your feet and legs from taking unnecessary damage during gameplay.

They are also breathable, which helps to prevent foot odor and moisture build-up – however, this isn’t to say that they don’t get sweaty!

Low-top shoes tend to cost less than other types, and you can buy them easily in stores and online. Most brands offer a wide range of colors, so you’ll undoubtedly find something that suits your style.

Mid-Top Basketball Shoes

Mid-top shoes are more supportive than low tops and provide a more stable base for you to move around.

They offer extra ankle support because the raised midsole is more protective and durable than a standard sole. They’re perfect if you suffer from weak ankles and need more help during gameplay.

They are more comfortable than low-top shoes because they have a different cushioning system, which reduces impact during gameplay. They are also breathable so that they won’t hold moisture – so there will be no sweaty feet!

Mid-top shoes offer less ankle support or stability than high tops do, though. This is because they have a peak slightly more elevated than high tops but don’t have the same high ankle support.

Also, mid-top shoes are more expensive, so they are an investment if you need extra ankle or arch support.

High Top Basketball Shoes

If ankle support is what you’re looking for, you’ll want to purchase high-top basketball shoes!

They offer plenty of stability by wrapping around your ankles to keep them friendly and secure while playing. This also means they are great for preventing ankle injuries because they will hold the ankle in place. A perfect example is the Air Jordan 13s.

High-top shoes offer more ankle support than mid or low-tops because of their design. They are thicker and much sturdier, so they don’t let you down when you need them most.

Some high tops also have an extra strap at the top for even more ankle stability – it’s like getting two shoes in one!

Their design makes them more challenging to put on, which can be a downside if you need to slip your shoes on quickly. Some players may also find that high tops limit their movement and feel bulky, particularly when changing direction.

Which Shoe Is Right for Me?

All types of basketball shoes have pros and cons, so finding the shoe that will work best for you is essential. Ask yourself these questions to find the best basketball shoes for you:

Do I Need More Ankle Support? 

High-top shoes are best for you if you need extra stability and protection.

However, if they aren’t your style or you want something a little more comfortable, go for mid-tops instead. Low tops can be perfect if you don’t like the bulk of high-top shoes and want something stylish, but they offer less support than either high or mid-tops.

1. Is Breathability Important?

Low-top shoes are lightweight, which makes them easy to move around in, but this also means they don’t have the cushioning system that high or mid-tops have.

Mid tops have a little more protection with their midsole, but they aren’t as breathable as low-top shoes because of this extra layer. High-top shoes offer plenty of ventilation because there is no tongue on them – so choose high tops if you want something that breathes well!

2. How Much Am I Willing to Spend?

Mid-top shoes are usually the most expensive because they have more features than low and high tops – so choose these if you are okay with shelling out extra cash.

High-top shoes are less expensive than mid-tops but don’t have the same features. Low-top shoes will be your cheapest option because they’re usually less supportive and lightweight – so go for these if you’re on a budget.

3. How Important Is Style?

It only matters how comfortable or supportive your shoe is if it isn’t your style!

Low tops will be your most stylish option because they have a sleek design, but high tops and mid-top shoes can also look great, depending on their features.

4. What Type of Court Will I Mostly Play On?

This is another critical question – if the court is rough or dusty, low-top shoes will protect you less because the material will get beat up more.

For this reason, it’s best to go for low tops on an indoor court or indoors. High-top shoes are great if you frequently play outdoors because they offer extra protection from the elements, such as water and dust!

5. What Type of Movements Am I Going to Be Making?

If you are jostling for position or moving into tough spots, then high-top shoes are the ones to choose from because they offer better ankle support than other options.

6. What Type of Player Am I?

Are you an aggressive player who makes sudden stops and changes in direction often? Go for low tops – they are lightweight and offer the most flexibility.

If you are more casual, then mid-tops are good because they provide good support but are lighter than high-top shoes.

Use These Tips When You’re Buying Basketball Shoes Today

Using this guide, you’ll be able to make the right decision about buying basketball shoes. Whether you like low or high tops, you must find the most comfortable shoe for you – and now you know what to look out for!

And if you’re looking for more fashion and sporting gear tips, check out the rest of our blog!

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