The best basketball shoes for every type of player

Basketball isn't just a game of points — it's a choreography of hard stops, vertical takeoffs, and pivots so sharp they could slice through parquet. And if your shoes can't keep up? You're not just compromising your game — you're gambling with your knees, ankles, and maybe even your dignity. Sure, you could wear your running shoes on the court. You could also wear loafers to a track meet. Doesn't mean you should.
So, what should you be lacing up? We asked actual basketball players and trainers who know the difference between performance and puffery. Below, they break down exactly what to look for in a pair of basketball shoes — and share the styles they swear by.
How we selected the best basketball sneakers
To find the best basketball shoes, we asked experts what key criteria you should prioritize when shopping. Here's what they said:
Ankle support: 'This is a big deal because you're constantly landing, cutting, and changing direction,' says Adam Kemp, a former professional basketball player who played in Europe and a certified personal trainer. 'If your shoes don't lock in your ankles properly, you risk sprains or worse.' The shoes on our list all have padded collars to provide ankle support.
Traction: 'Slipping around on the court can wreak havoc on ankles and decreases the amount of control you have navigating around other players,' says Mike Julom, a certified personal trainer and founder of This Is Why I'm Fit, a fitness resource guide. Rubber soles with traction grooves are important to keep you from slipping on the court.
Cushioning: There is a lot of jumping in basketball and you'll want a soft place to land to avoid joint pain. Both of our experts strongly recommend looking for shoes with adequately cushioned soles.
'I know a lot of guards love to hoop in Kobe's because they are low profile and lightweight,' says Kemp. These sneakers also have a breathable mesh upper and additional traction on the soles at the forefront and heel. Nike uses their proprietary React foam in the midsole for comfort and great responsiveness so you can move quickly when needed, according to the brand.
The outsoles of these shoes feature a circular pattern that provides grip and traction on the court, allowing you to stop quickly without sliding, according to the brand. The shoes also have lightweight cushioning in the soles and a padded collar around the ankle for stability. Also fun: They come in three bright color combos that will grab attention on the court.
'I know a lot of people who prefer KDs for their mix of mobility and cushioning,' says Kemp. There's an Air Zoom cushioning unit at the forefoot to boost responsiveness and Nike Air cushioning at the heel for comfort, according to the brand. The outsole has contours that go in different directions to provide traction and extra padding at the ankle for support.
You need a super-responsive shoe if you make quick stops and sudden pivots. This sneaker has extra support cushioning at the midfoot for lightweight energy return as you move, according to the brand. The rubber outsole has grooves for traction and the upper hugs the ankle for support.
Comfort and support are most important, but that doesn't mean looks don't matter. These black, sleek shoes feature holographic details, including a velcro strap that runs across your midfoot for extra security and stability. These court shoes are also lightweight and have an internal midfoot shank plate for stability.
Can you wear any pair of sneakers to play basketball?
Regarding basketball, it's best to stick to sneakers made explicitly for the sport. 'You definitely can't just throw on any pair of sneakers and expect to play well — or safely,' says Kemp. 'Basketball shoes are engineered for a very specific type of movement: jumping, sprinting, landing, and lateral cutting.'
If you don't wear a shoe that provides stability and support, it is much easier to injure yourself. 'I tried running shoes once, and they wore out real fast and slipped around way too easily,' explains Julom. 'Real basketball shoes keep your foot locked in and absorb way more impact.'
Meet our experts
At NBC Select, we work with experts with specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and experience. We also ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
Why trust NBC Select?
Bethany Heitman is a contributor at NBC Select and a journalist who regularly covers topics like beauty, home and lifestyle.

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