The Best Men’s Basketball Shoes for 2024
Supportive and lightweight high-performing basketball shoes.
Whether you’re running the point or battling it out on the block, and no matter if you’re a high-flying finisher or a splashy 3-point specialist, wearing the proper footwear always benefits your game.
And when it comes to choosing the right footwear, you’ll find that a high-quality pair of basketball shoes offers several features unique to the sport that you won’t find on an average pair of athletic shoes or trainers.
In general, basketball shoes are designed to boost a player’s lateral and vertical movements, while also offering support and stability to the feet and ankles for injury prevention.
That’s a big job for a pair of shoes, so it likely comes as no surprise that certain basketball shoes perform it better than others.
Here, we’ve put together a list of the best basketball shoes for the 2023-2024 season.
These picks will keep you light, quick, and supported on the court.
What Makes Basketball Shoes Special?
No other athletic shoes draw quite the same level of interest and adoration as do basketball shoes.
Every season the top athletic brands release their latest developments, including signature shoes from the best NBA players in the league.
And it’s worth noting that basketball shoes have a unique construction compared to other athletic shoe options, offering a specific set of benefits tailored to the needs of basketball players.
So, whether if you play competitively for your school or you’re looking to run the court during pick-up games, you’re going to want a high-quality pair of basketball shoes on your feet.
Here are the main reasons why.
Think of all the action and skills performed over the course of a basketball game, from pull-up jumpers to defensive shuffles to hesitation dribbles and much more.
Basketball shoes are constructed to not only handle all the high-flying, quick-cutting, and sudden-stopping (on a dime) that the game possesses, but actually boost a player’s ability to perform these moves.
The upper portion of basketball shoes is where you can find some variety in design, as high tops, mid tops, and low tops are all popular choices that offer slightly different benefits.
High-tops extend above the ankle for an added layer of support and stability but also come with a little extra weight because of it.
Mid-tops are a versatile option that supply some additional coverage while remaining flexible and lightweight.
And low-top basketball shoes prioritize speed and agility, as they have the lightest and most streamlined design while forgoing additional ankle support.
Responsive impact cushioning is common in basketball shoes as it provides comfort to high-impact areas and keeps you light on your feet.
Grippy outsoles with high-traction patterns are another common feature found in basketball shoes, as they allow you to move and cut quickly while also preventing slipping-related injury.
Seeing as how feet and ankle injury is a primary concern in basketball, shoes that can reduce slippage, cushion jumps, and stabilize the foot will keep you in top form on the court.
Note: Featured products are independently selected and reviewed by Compression Athlete. If you purchase through our links, we may earn commission.
1. Nike G.T. Cut 2 Basketball Shoes
The Nike G.T. Cut 2 Basketball Shoes feature a Zoom Air unit in the heel for first-step responsiveness and a React insole for comfort and support. These basketball shoes sport a plush interior and a breathable lightweight upper.
Shop at Nike: Nike G.T. Cut 2 Basketball Shoes
Shop at Nike: Nike G.T. Cut 2 Basketball Shoes (Team)
Nike’s G.T. Cut 2 Basketball Shoes utilize sticky traction with a hollow herringbone pattern for sharp cutting and stopping. These basketball shoes lock your foot in with a stiff clip around the heel and the molded tongue extends to the toe for expansive comfort.
2. Nike Impact 4 Basketball Shoes
The Nike Impact 4 Basketball Shoes feature a secure and lightweight design for confident takeoffs and comfortable landings. These basketball shoes utilize Max Air cushioning in the heel for an extra soft feel and a forefoot underlay for added stability.
Shop at Nike: Nike Impact 4 Basketball Shoes
Nike’s Impact 4 Basketball Shoes sport a herringbone traction outsole for superior movement control. These basketball shoes have a sculpted foam midsole that swoops up on both side of your heel for stability and molded rubber wings to secure your forefoot.
3. Nike Elevate 3 Basketball Shoes
The Nike Elevate 3 Basketball Shoes are specifically designed for 2-way players with improved traction, arch support, and a locked-in fit for enhanced cutting and pivoting around the forefoot.
Shop at Nike: Nike Elevate 3 Basketball Shoes
Nike’s Elevate 3 Basketball Shoes utilize a contoured padded collar for added support around the ankle and a structured mesh upper for a snug and plush feel around your foot. These basketball shoes have a foam midsole and extra midfoot lace holes for secure arch support.
4. Air Jordan XXXVII Basketball Shoes
The Air Jordan XXXVII Basketball Shoes feature double-stacked Air units in the forefoot for responsive energy return and signature Formula 23 foam stacked in the heel for impact cushioning.
Shop at Nike: Air Jordan XXXVII
Shop at Nike: Air Jordan XXXVII (Low)
The Air Jordan XXXVII utilizes a durable and lightweight reinforced leno-weave fabric upper designed to mimic the support given by a taped-up ankle. These basketball shoes are also available in a low-cut design.
5. Adidas BYW Select Basketball Shoes
The Adidas BYW Select Basketball Shoes give you a soft and springy feel with Lightstrike cushioning that provides comfort without weighing you down. These basketball shoes gave a BOOST midsole for responsive energy return with every step.
Shop at Adidas: Adidas BYW Select Basketball Shoes
Adidas’ BYW Select Basketball Shoes utilize a classic lace closure, durable rubber outsole, and are available in multiple color and design options.
6. Adidas ADIZERO Select Basketball Shoes
The Adidas ADIZERO Select Basketball Shoes feature a Lightstrike midsole for extra lightweight impact cushioning that won’t slow you down and an elastic midfoot strap for a locked in fit.
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Adidas’ ADIZERO Select Basketball Shoes utilize a classic lace closure with a soft textile upper that’s stretchy and comfortable, as well as a rubber outsole with extra grippy directional herringbone traction.
7. Adidas OWNTHEGAME Basketball Shoes
The Adidas OWNTHEGAME Basketball Shoes feature a lightweight Lightmotion underfoot cushioning for superior impact absorption and a molded TPU lockdown heel for a secure fit.
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Adidas’ OWNTHEGAME Basketball Shoes sport a classic lace closure with a dual-material mesh upper that keeps your feet feeling fresh, as well as a durable Adiwear outsole designed to handle all your movements on the court.
8. Under Armour Flow FUTR X 3 Basketball Shoes
The Under Armour Flow FUTR X 3 Basketball Shoes feature an adaptive and breathable IntelliKnit upper for enhanced comfort with stretch and support where it’s needed. These basketball shoes sport a bootie design for a smooth and secure fit.
Shop at Under Armour: UA Flow FUTR X 3 Basketball Shoes
Under Armour’s Flow FUTR X 3 Basketball Shoes features bouncy and lightweight UA Flow cushioning technology paired with a durable outsole for incredible court grip. These basketball shoes have dynamic compression Gore straps for a lockdown fit.
9. Under Armour Lockdown 6 Basketball Shoes
The Under Armour Lockdown 6 Basketball Shoes feature a comfortable, lightweight, and durable court design with a responsive EVA midsole. These basketball shoes sport a leather upper with mesh panels for added comfort and breathability.
Shop at Under Armour: UA Lockdown 6 Basketball Shoes
Under Armour’s Lockdown 6 Basketball Shoes utilize a solid rubber outsole with a herringbone traction pattern that’s ideal for quick court movements and control. These basketball shoes have a plush foam sockliner for increased underfoot comfort.
10. APL Concept X Basketball Shoes
The APL Concept X Basketball Shoes feature a full-length Load ‘N Launch carbon fiber plate and ten large coil springs to propel you forward and increase vertical leap. These basketball shoes sport a lightweight FutureFoam midsole for responsive cushioning.
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APL’s Concept X Basketball Shoes utilize a TechLoom bootie for a comfortable sock-like fit supported by Exolock overlays for enhanced lockdown support. These basketball shoes have a clear rubber outsole with a high traction pattern for court movements.
11. APL SUPERFUTURE Basketball Shoes
The APL SUPERFUTURE Basketball Shoes features Eight Spring Load ‘N Launch technology with a centralized plate for underfoot cushioning and maximum energy return. These basketball shoes utilize a padded ankle collar with a Velcro strap for a supportive lockdown fit.
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APL’s SUPERFUTURE Basketball Shoes sport a sleek and seamless upper that’s supported by overlays and elastic straps for secure liftoff. These basketball shoes have a clear rubber outsole with a durable multi-directional traction pattern.
12. New Balance TWO WXY v4 Basketball Shoes
The New Balance TWO WXY v4 Basketball Shoes feature a dual technology midsole that pairs Fresh Foam X with energy returning FuelCell to support takeoffs, landings, and quick lateral movements.
Shop at New Balance: NB TWO WXY v4 Basketball Shoes
New Balance’s TWO WXY v4 Basketball Shoes utilize ABZORB cushioning and compression resistance at the heel and forefoot to absorb impact. These basketball shoes have a molded heel counter and a lightweight mesh upper for a secure foot-hugging feel.
A great pair of basketball shoes isn’t the only basketball essential that you’ll need. Be sure to check out our top compression sleeve picks for basketball players.
