Best Basketball Shoes for 2022

The pair of basketball shoes that you have can either make or break your game. 

After all, your shoes are the foundation of the game, so making sure that you have the shoes that are best suited for you will make a big difference in the game you play. 

There is a wide variety of basketball shoes to choose from, which may be overwhelming when finding the perfect pair. 

Luckily we have included everything you need to know about choosing the right pair of basketball shoes for you. Including which factors to consider when looking for new basketball shoes to the best ones. Here is everything you need to know about the best basketball shoes for 2022.

What to Look for in Basketball shoes

Buying a pair of basketball shoes can be as easy as selecting the first one you see and wearing them, but this does not mean that these will be the shoes that will keep you optimal at your game. 

Here are the four key factors that you need to consider before buying a new pair of basketball shoes:

1. The position you play

The position you play in basketball will help determine the height of the basketball shoe that you should buy. Basketball shoes come in three different heights, all best suited to other positions. 

The first type is high tops, which are best for center and forward players because of the shoe’s ankle support. Low tops are better suited for shooting guards and players who need to be quick on their feet. 

Then there are mid-tops, which are the best type of basketball shoe to get if you are unsure about your position. 

2. Traction

The transaction of the basketball shoe will make a big difference in how well you will move on the court. The bottom of the basketball shoe needs to grip and adjust while remaining agile. 

3. Cushioning and Fit

The cushioning in the shoe needs to be comfortable and provide sufficient support for the player. The cushioning of the basketball shoe will also impact the shoe’s bounce, so it is crucial to make sure that the shoe cushioning will not wear out quickly.

4. Durability

Basketball shoes need to be durable because of the nature of the sport. Usually, lightweight basketball shoes will not last as long. 

To find out the shoe’s durability, you will have to look at the type of materials that the shoe is made from. It has been estimated that after 350 miles, you should replace your basketball shoes.

Top 5 Basketball Shoes for 2022

1. Nike KD 14

• Multilayer mesh upper keeps feet dry and comfortable.
• A broken-in feel helps reduce friction within the shoe.
• Midfoot straps provide a snug fit.
• Added thickness in strategic areas reduces small movements and offers a secure fit.
• A tuned traction sole provides optimal grip on the hardwood.

The Nike KD 14 is a mid-top basketball shoe featuring tuned traction and multilayer mesh. This shoe has a strap in design that goes above the laces to ensure that shoelaces will not get in the way during the game. The Nike KD 12 has a zoom air cushioning and cushion foam for extra padding in the shoe.

Advantages:

• The mesh design of the shoe provides a good source of ventilation, keeping your feet cool during the game.
• The targeted padding offers excellent comfort and support.
• Lightweight design
• High durability

Disadvantages:

• It may be a bit bulky for some players who prefer a sleeker shoe
• It may be a bit expensive

2. Under Armour Embiid 1

• Lightweight textile upper with open-hole mesh for ultimate breathability
• TPU wing provides superior midfoot lockdown & enhanced lateral stability
• 5/8 construction for added ankle support
• Die-cut EVA sockliner provides underfoot cushioning & support
• Rubber outsole with unique traction pattern for lateral movements & maximum grip

The Under Armour Embiid 1 has a lightweight design due to the textile material of the shoe. The textile material also provides ventilation in the shoe. This basketball shoe has rubber soles and a TPU wing for traction and support. They feature Under Armour’s Micro G foam in the shoe’s midsoles for support and cushioning. 

Advantages:

• The textile design provides good ventilation in the shoe
• The shoes have good cushioning from the Micro G foam midsoles
• Lightweight design
• The rubber outsole provides good traction

Disadvantages:

• The heel curve design of the shoe may prevent easy stabilization when playing.
• It may be pretty expensive.

3. Nike PG 5

The Nike PG 5 is an improved version of the Nike PG 4 with a complete air unit stitched in the upper of the shoe to ensure maximum comfort. The shoelace design gives the shoe a snug grip as it wraps over the foot, providing features that the shoe is fitted and stable.

Advantages:

• The design of the shoes is flexible
• The rubber sole provides good traction
• Lightweight design
• Multi-Directional tread on the outsole for good traction and control.

Disadvantages:

• The cushioning may wear out due to the air cushioning feature
• This is not a uniquely designed shoe while there are a variety of colors to choose from

4. Adidas Exhibit A

• Rubber outsole
• Structured heel clip
• Lightstrike cushioning
• Textile upper with supportive overlays
• This product is made with recycled content as part of our ambition to end plastic waste. 20% of pieces used to make the upper are made with minimum 50% recycled content.

The Adidas Exhibit A is an excellent pick if you are looking for an indoor basketball shoe and are on a budget. The shoe features light strike cushioning, ensuring comfort and agility during the game. The textile feature of the shoe allows for ventilation, and the rubber outsoles allow for good traction on this lightweight shoe.

Advantages:

• The heel clips allow for easier access when putting the shoe on
• Lightweight design
• The rubber sole provides good traction
• Quite affordable

Disadvantages:

• The impact protection could be better
• This shoe may not be suitable for an outdoor basketball court

5. Puma RS Dreamer

The Puma RS Dreamer features a textile mesh design with a polyurethane midsole and a rubber outsole. This shoe has Puma’s Running System (RS) cushioning technology, and the lace design on the shoe ensures comfort and a good fit when wearing the shoe. 

Advantages:

• Suitable for indoor and outdoor courts
• The rubber sole provides good traction
• The shoes have good cushioning from the RS foam cushioning design
• Quite a durable design

Disadvantages:

• It may be heavy for some players
• It may be pretty expensive

Final Thoughts on the Best Basketball Shoes

In conclusion, when it comes to finding the best basketball shoe, your personal preference will matter the most. There is not one shoe that is perfect for all basketball players. 

Whether you prefer mid-rise, high rise, or low rise will matter, and other key factors like cushioning, durability, and traction. Your preference will all matter when it comes to picking the best basketball shoes for you. 

Once you know what you prefer when it comes to these critical factors, it will help you pick one of the shoe’s ankle support mid-tops bounce shoe basketball shoes that we have listed.