Are you looking to buy a new pair of basketball shoes? Do you know what to look for? Or are you simply buying one because you love how they look? Contrary to popular belief, buying basketball shoes isn’t as straightforward as purchasing any other type of shoes. This is because there are several factors to consider before settling on the type of basketball shoes that fit you well.
It is a no-brainer that genuine basketball shoes for men are built for performance, comfort, and fashion. Knowing the right features to look for will help you avoid the hassle of having inferior or “bad” shoes. Here’s all that you need to know before getting your new pair:
Understanding a basketball shoe’s anatomy
Before purchasing your new pair of sneakers, it would be prudent to understand the different parts of basketball shoes and their role. As you look at the shoe, your playing style and position should come to mind.
The upper
When looking at the upper part of the shoe, you should determine the height you’re looking for. Basketball shoes are available in high, mid, and low heights, each appealing to different types of players.
- High: With such shoes, the upper part wraps around your ankle, providing an extra layer of support and stability. These shoes are mostly preferred by forwards and centers (often the largest players on the court). This is because they assist in easing the potential strain on their ankles and feet.
- Mid: Mid-top basketball shoes are ideal for flexibility. They provide ample ankle support as the upper material sits right at the ankle. It still provides some coverage without the all-enclosing design. These are a great choice for players that play multiple positions across the court.
- Low: These shoes have little ankle support because of their low profile. They are majorly built for speed and agility. Guards and defensive stoppers benefit the most from these types of basketball
The midsole
The midsole is another part to consider before purchasing your next pair of basketball shoes. In essence, this is where the footwear’s cushioning is found. You can find midsoles made from different foams. Your preference determines the ones that you’ll go for.
EVA and compressed EVA foam is the lighter option, while polyurethane materials are denser and more durable. There are also certain brand-specific cushioning technologies found in some shoes. Again, your playing style and position will determine the type of midsole that you get.
The outsole
The outsole is the shoe’s point of traction for your footwear. As you decide on the best type of outsole, you should also consider where you will mostly play – is it indoors or outdoors?
Ideally, you need to get a shoe that has a relatively flat and wide outsole, as this provides better balance. You may have to consider a thicker, more durable outsole if playing outdoors.
Other factors to consider
- Look: Although you should go for the performance first, you shouldn’t overlook the shoe’s aesthetics. A better-looking shoe may boost your confidence, and you end up playing even better.
- Fit: Leave a little room. Don’t wear a shoe that’s either too tight or too loose.
- Durability: A shoe that can’t make it through a season is not worth it. Don’t overlook durability. After all, even the richest have no time to go shoe-shopping every day.
Finally, don’t forget about pricing. Pick a budget and get a pair that resonates well with your needs. You don’t have to break the bank when getting good basketball shoes. There are platforms where you can get a variety of durable basketball shoes for men and women at reasonable pricing.
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