Looking to improve your basketball game without breaking the bank? Fortunately, you don't need to spend a fortune to get a great pair of basketball shoes. In this article, we've done the research for you and come up with the best budget basketball shoes on the market.
Don't let the price tag fool you: these shoes are packed with the latest technology and features to take your game to the next level. From indoor to outdoor court play, and for guards and jumpers alike, there's something for everyone. Here are our top picks for the best budget basketball shoes in 2023:
Best budget basketball shoes:
Best indoor budget basketball shoes - Adidas Dame 8
Brand: Adidas | Model: Dame 8 | Sizes: 4 - 20 | Materials: Air Mesh / Rubber
The Adidas Dame 8 is a top pick for indoor court play. Made from lightweight Air Mesh and featuring a unique "waved" traction pattern, these shoes offer exceptional grip and precision on the court. The Bounce Pro foam in the midsole provides shock absorption and energy returns for each stride and leap, helping you save energy and outperform your opponents. Plus, 25% of the uppers are made from recycled content, making these shoes a sustainable choice.
Best outdoor budget basketball shoes - Under Armour Lockdown 6
Brand: Under Armour | Model: Lockdown 6 | Sizes: 7 - 16 | Materials: Leather / Mesh / Rubber
For outdoor play, you need shoes that can withstand the added punishment of a harder concrete surface. The Under Armour Lockdown 6 is made primarily from leather, with mesh panels to reduce weight and improve breathability. The durable rubber outsole and herringbone traction pattern give you the grip you need for quick turns of pace. The foam sock liner and EVA midsole keep the shoes lightweight and responsive.
Best Budget Basketball Shoes for Jumping: Adidas Harden Vol. 6
Brand: Adidas | Model: James Harden Vol. 6 | Sizes: 5 - 15 | Materials: Mesh / Rubber
If you want to jump higher, go for something lightweight with plenty of foam for added spring. The Adidas Harden Vol. 6 is a top pick for jumpers, with Boost foam in the midsoles for greater energy returns during each leap. The classic herringbone traction pattern provides grip, allowing you to break away from the mark with ease. Plus, 25% of the uppers are made from recycled content, making these shoes a sustainable choice.
Best Budget Basketball Shoes for Wide Feet: Li-Ning Wade All City 10 V2
Brand: Li-Ning | Model: Wade All City 10 V2 | Sizes: 7.5 - 13 | Materials: Mesh / Rubber
Finding shoes that fit comfortably on wide feet can be a challenge, but the Li-Ning Wade All City 10 V2 has you covered. The two-pull tab entry system and flexible mesh upper make these shoes a great option. The Cloud technology in the midsoles helps you propel, make turns, and break away from opposition defenses with ease. The midfoot strap keeps you locked in place, allowing for quick changes of direction without wasted steps. The multidirectional traction pattern ensures you stay in control of the court.
Best Budget Basketball Shoes for Guards: PUMA MB.02
Brand: PUMA | Model: MB.02 | Sizes: 4 - 18 | Materials: Mesh / Rubber
For guards, the PUMA MB.02 is engineered for the explosive, playmaking style of play. The NITRO foam-infused midsole improves responsiveness, allowing for quick cuts and changes of direction. The herringbone traction pattern gives you the grip you need to stay in control, and the lightweight design keeps you quick on your feet. Built for LaMelo Ball, these shoes are sure to take your guard game to the next level.
Frequently asked questions about basketball shoes:
What should you look for in basketball shoes?
One of the most important things to look for when buying basketball shoes is the level of support they offer. As a player, you're constantly moving and jumping, which can put a lot of pressure on your feet and ankles. To avoid injury, it's important to choose shoes with ample padding and foam that can absorb shock and provide support.
High collars can also be beneficial as they offer extra support around the ankle, helping to reduce the risk of sprains and strains. Additionally, it's essential to consider the grip of your shoes. Herringbone and hexagonal patterns are common in basketball shoes, as they provide a multidirectional grip on the hardwood surface of the court. A good grip ensures you can make quick turns, stops, and changes in direction without slipping.
How to Ensure You Get the Right Size?
Another critical factor to consider when buying basketball shoes is the weight of the shoes. Heavy shoes can weigh you down and make it difficult to move quickly and efficiently on the court. Make sure to choose shoes that are relatively lightweight so that you can move freely and quickly during the game.
In terms of sizing, most basketball shoes fit true to size. However, it's important to remember that each brand has its own size chart. Be sure to double-check the manufacturer's size chart to ensure you get the right fit. Nike and Adidas, for example, have different sizing standards, even though both claims to be the same UK size. So, don't assume that every brand's shoes fit the same way.
