Picking your next pair of basketball shoes can be difficult. Finding out about the latest releases, reading reviews, checking prices and getting the right size – it often takes me days or even weeks to settle on a new pair.
Now, maybe I am just really picky when it comes to basketball sneakers, but there is a reason why!
Good basketball shoes are important because:
- They grip the floor and allow quick cuts and crossovers
- They provide impact protection and reduce the stress on your knees and feet
- They fit comfortably and lock down your feet tightly
- They provide support and protect your ankles from rolling
In short: Good basketball shoes will help you to get the most out of your game!
In this article, I am going to show you the top 5 basketball shoes which are currently on the market and help you to find the model that is perfect for you!
Alright, let’s get to it! These are the 5 best basketball shoes ranked by average review rating (as of Aug 15, 2018) that got tested by at least four different sneaker reviewers:
1. Nike Kyrie 4
The Kyrie 4 is the best overall performer of the Kyrie signature line and works well across all categories. The cushioning is much more comfortable than in previous models and provides great impact protection while still offering responsive court feel. The engineered mesh upper and suede feel comfortable and supportive and provide a great 1:1 fit – there is no heel slippage or lateral movement. The traction doesn’t quite live up to the levels of the Kyrie 3 or 2 but is still decent and requires minimal wiping. At $120 retail, this is a great pick for everybody that is looking for a well-rounded basketball shoe.
RATING: 5 Stars
2. Adidas Harden Vol. 2
The Harden Vol. 2 is a nice improvement over James Harden’ first signature sneaker. The thicker Boost cushioning provides a ton of impact protection while remaining responsive enough for guards. The traction is great on clean courts but requires you to wipe a lot on dusty courts. Materials are not premium but perform very well and give you all the support you need. Overall, this is a shoe that works especially well for bigger guards and heavier players who look for a lot of cushioning and support.
RATING: 5 Stars
3. Nike KDX
The KDX is a good overall performer with very comfortable, but slightly firmer cushioning. Reviewers recommend the shoe to players who value impact protection and do not rely on hard cuts. Durability is questionable as some reviewers noticed fraying of the outsole, and one reviewer suffered a torn lacing loop. Not recommended for wide-footers.
RATING: 4.5 Stars
4. Anta KT3
The Anta KT3 is the third signature sneaker of Klay Thompson and delivers significant improvements over the already very well-received KT2. The multi-directional traction pattern works exceptionally well on all surfaces, the cushioning is a little firmer in the forefoot but provides excellent impact protection in the heel, and the knitted upper is comfortable and feels very premium. The only downside is the specific fit which might not work for everybody. Other than that, at a retail price of only $120, this is one of the best performance sneakers on the market!
RATING: 4.5 Stars
5. Adidas Crazy Explosive
Succeeding the very successful and much beloved 2016 model is a difficult task, but the Crazy Explosive 2017 pulls it off! Reviewers love everything from the excellent (but slightly firmer) cushioning, to the premium materials, great fit and excellent support. The only slight negative is the stiffer upper that takes a while to break in but then becomes really comfortable. One of the best-reviewed shoes in 2018 so far!
RATING: 4 Stars
JM REVIEW LIST 