Today, basketball shoes for men are more of a fashion statement than a utility product. Having the latest model is a way to stay chic and in touch with the latest fashion trends, and many “basketball shoes” aren’t actually all that great when worn on the court.
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However, if you’re looking for basketball shoes for men that are designed for play rather than for show, there are numerous considerations that you’ll have to keep in mind. That said, with a bit of consideration and time, you’ll soon find yourself choosing the perfect pair of men’s basketball shoes with ease.
1. Consider the Fit
When shopping for basketball shoes for men, the most important thing – no matter your age or skill level – is to ensure your shoes fit right. Good basketball shoes for men should have anywhere from about a fourth of an inch to about half an inch of space between the player’s toes and the front of the shoe.
If the shoe is tighter, it will be too restrictive to move in comfortably, defeating the purpose of the shoe. However, if there is too much space, it increases the risk of slipping while playing.
Additionally, when you’re buying your shoes, keep in mind that you also need to account for the addition of basketball socks and ankle braces. If possible, bring these along to the shop so you can try on your shoes while wearing them. If you’re shopping for a child, you should also keep in mind that your child will likely outgrow the shoes in the future and buy shoes accordingly.
2. Know Your Position
Your shoe needs will vary according to your position. Consider whether you’re a guard, forward, or center before buying your shoes.
If you’re only just getting into the game and aren’t sure what your position is, look for shoes designed for all-around players. These are shoes that reach a middle ground between the needs of all specialized players and will serve as a good starter pair until you’re more confident about your position.
3. Consider the Upper
Uppers are available in three heights – high-top, mid-top, and low-top.
When choosing the uppers for your shoes, there are a few things you should consider:
- What position you play
- Your style of play
- How susceptible you are to ankle injuries
High-tops are the heaviest of the three but also offer the most support for your ankle. They are great for forwards and centers as they reduce the potential strain on their ankles.
Mid-tops sit right at the ankle level and offer a moderate amount of ankle support. They are more flexible than high-tops and are the option of choice for all-around players who play multiple positions.
Low-tops offer the least ankle support – often none altogether. However, they make up for this lack of ankle support in their lightweight nature, which helps provide speed to players. They are good for guards and defensive stoppers, as well as other players who make speed a critical element of their game.
4. Check the Midsole
The midsole is the portion of the shoe that provides cushioning and comfort advantages. If you want to stay comfortable throughout a game, you need to look at the midsole more closely than anything else.
Midsoles are generally made of a range of foams, such as EVA and compressed EVA. They are also where brands position proprietary cushioning technologies. While your midsole doesn’t have to be top-of-the-line, it’s recommended that you look for a comfortable midsole if you’re just getting started or are older and more prone to ankle injuries.
5. Know Your Outsole
Made of rubber or synthetic material, the outsole is the part of your shoes that provide the traction you need when playing. When considering basketball shoes for men, you should look for an outsole that is flat, wide, and designed to provide you with as much balance as possible.
You should also consider where you’ll be playing when looking at your shoes’ outsoles. Outdoor courts are more challenging on your shoes than indoor ones, so if you’re planning on playing primarily on outdoor courts, you should look for a pair of basketball shoes for men which thicker, more durable outsoles.
6. Know the Weight
The weight of your shoes is an important consideration in most sports, and basketball is no different. Heavier shoes can weigh players down – but at the same time, they also provide additional support and comfort.
This is because shoes that are heavier are generally those with thicker outsoles and higher uppers. On the other hand, shoes with thinner elements and lower uppers are more lightweight. Lighter shoes allow for greater freedom of movement and are generally preferred by players in professional leagues. However, if you’re just getting started, the additional support provided by heavier shoes can be key in helping you get accustomed to the pace of the game.
That said, it’s ultimately a question of what you prefer and what you’re playing style is. While heavier shoes can make an impact on the court, it’s usually a relatively limited one and one that skilled players can generally overcome.
7. Consider Traction and Support
Aside from the shoe’s weight, the two essential considerations to keep in mind are traction and support.
As discussed above, heavier shoes generally offer greater foot support. Higher uppers offer more protection for your ankles, while thicker outsoles make it more comfortable for you to play, ensuring you’re focused less on the condition of your feet and more on the game on the court.
Traction is the ability of your shoes’ soles to grip onto the court properly. Traction is essential if you want to keep your balance and last the game without tripping or falling. No matter your skill level or age, it’s an essential consideration to keep in mind when shopping for basketball shoes for men.
When considering shoes for their traction, keep the surface on which you’ll be playing in mind. Shoes that offer good traction on indoor hardwood courts may not do the same on outdoor courts, and vice versa.
8. Aesthetics
Once you’ve chosen the right basketball shoes for men according to your skill level, age, and style of play, you can concentrate on the aesthetics of your shoes. The large variety of basketball shoes available on the market means that you’ll have a wide choice to choose from, even after narrowing down your options.
When it comes to aesthetics, choosing the right pair of shoes depends on your preferences and tastes. You’ve already done the hard work of looking for court-effective shoes – now it’s time for you to have a little fun with your choice!
The right basketball shoes can not only make it easier to play, they can also improve your game by leaps and bounds. With this guide, you’ll be able to find the right shoes for you in no time flat – so get shopping!