Last Updated on: 19th September 2023, 12:45 am
Basketball is a popular sport that requires specific equipment, including shoes that provide support, comfort, and traction. Choosing the right shoes for 12-year-olds serious about basketball is crucial for their performance and safety on the court.
We spent hours researching and testing various basketball shoes to identify the best options for 12-year-olds.
When shopping for basketball shoes for 12-year-olds, there are several things to consider. Firstly, the shoes should fit properly, providing enough support and cushioning to prevent injuries.
Secondly, they should have good traction to prevent slipping on the court. Lastly, the shoes should be durable and able to withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
After testing various basketball shoes for 12-year-olds, we have identified the top options that meet these criteria. Our goal is to help parents and young athletes make an informed decision when purchasing basketball shoes.
Best Basketball Shoes for 12-Year-Olds
As avid basketball players, we know the importance of having the right gear. And when it comes to basketball shoes, it’s crucial to have a pair that offers comfort and support. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best basketball shoes for 12-year-olds.
Whether your young athlete is a beginner or a seasoned player, these shoes will help them elevate their game and stay comfortable on the court. So, without further ado, here are our top picks.
Under Armour Grade School Jet ’21 Basketball Shoe
If you’re looking for a basketball shoe that offers great comfort and support, the Under Armour Grade School Jet ’21 Basketball Shoe (available here) is a great option for your 12-year-old.
Pros
- The shoes are very comfortable and fit true to size.
- The synthetic sole provides great traction and support on the court.
- The shoes are made with Under Armour’s innovative technology, ensuring high-quality performance.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the laces are not very durable and may break easily.
- The shoes may be too narrow for wider feet.
- The design may not be as stylish as some other basketball shoes.
These shoes are perfect for young basketball players who need comfortable and supportive shoes for the court. The synthetic sole provides great traction, while the innovative technology ensures high-quality performance.
The shoes fit true to size and are very comfortable, which is important for young players who need to move quickly and easily on the court. However, some users have reported that the laces are not very durable and may break easily, so it’s important to remember this when purchasing.
Additionally, the shoes may be too narrow for wider feet, so it’s important to ensure they fit properly before purchasing. Finally, while the design is functional, it may not be as stylish as other basketball shoes.
Overall, if you’re looking for a comfortable and supportive basketball shoe for your 12-year-old, the Under Armour Grade School Jet ’21 Basketball Shoe is a great option.
Nike Kyrie 8 Infinity Black/Multi-White
We highly recommend the Nike Kyrie 8 Infinity Black/Multi-White (available here) for any 12-year-old basketball player looking for a stylish, comfortable shoe.
Pros
- The synthetic rubber sole provides excellent traction on the court.
- The classic laces allow for a secure and customizable fit.
- The shoe’s design is eye-catching and unique.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the tongue of the shoe is too long and can be uncomfortable.
- The shoe may be a bit narrow for those with wider feet.
- The price point may be a bit high for some families.
The Nike Kyrie 8 Infinity Black/Multi-White is a great shoe for any young basketball player. The synthetic rubber sole provides excellent traction on the court, allowing quick and agile movements. The classic laces also allow for a secure and customizable fit, ensuring the shoe stays in place during even the most intense games.
In addition to its performance benefits, the shoe’s design is also eye-catching and unique. The black and white color scheme and the colorful accents make for a shoe that stands out on the court.
While the shoe is overall very comfortable, some users have reported that the tongue of the shoe is too long and can be uncomfortable. Additionally, the shoe may be a bit narrow for those with wider feet. Finally, the price point may be a bit high for some families, but the quality and performance of the shoe make it worth the investment.
Overall, we highly recommend the Nike Kyrie 8 Infinity Black/Multi-White for any 12-year-old basketball player looking for a comfortable, stylish shoe that performs well on the court.
Under Armour Pre School Lockdown 6 Basketball Shoe
We highly recommend purchasing the Under Armour Pre School Lockdown 6 Basketball Shoe (available here) for your 12 year old basketball player.
Pros
- The durable synthetic upper with mesh panels provides added breathability and comfort during gameplay.
- The plush foam sockliner increases underfoot comfort, making it easier for your child to focus on the game.
- The EVA midsole delivers a lightweight and responsive ride, perfect for quick court movements.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the shoes run small, so check the sizing chart before purchasing.
- The shoes are only available in one color (white/black/black), which may not be to everyone’s liking.
- The laces have been known to fray after extended use, but this can be easily fixed with replacement laces.
We were impressed with the quality of the Under Armour Pre-School Lockdown 6 Basketball Shoes. The shoes are lightweight and comfortable, providing young basketball players with the perfect support and flexibility. The rubber outsole provides excellent traction and durability, essential for preventing slips and falls on the court.
Overall, we believe the Under Armour Pre School Lockdown 6 Basketball Shoes is a great investment for parents of 12-year-old basketball players. The shoes are made with high-quality materials, and they are designed to provide maximum comfort and support during gameplay. Plus, with the Under Armour brand name, you can trust that you are getting a product built to last.
adidas Ownthegame 2.0 Basketball Shoe Big Kid
We highly recommend the adidas Ownthegame 2.0 Basketball Shoe Big Kid (available here) for any young basketball player in need of a reliable and comfortable shoe.
Pros
- The dual-material mesh upper offers breathable comfort, keeping your child’s feet cool and dry during long games or practices.
- The LIGHTMOTION cushioning provides enhanced dynamic movements, giving your child the support and comfort they need to perform at their best.
- The Adiwear outsole offers the ultimate high-wear durability, ensuring these shoes last through many games and practices.
Cons
- Some customers have reported sizing issues, so carefully measure your child’s foot before purchasing.
- The color may be slightly different in person than in the online photos.
- These shoes may not be suitable for outdoor play, as the soles may wear quickly on rough surfaces.
These Adidas basketball shoes are a great choice for any young player. The breathable upper and dynamic cushioning make them comfortable for extended periods, while the Adiwear outsole ensures they will last through many games and practices. While some customers have reported sizing issues, if you measure your child’s foot carefully before purchasing, this should not be a problem. Overall, we highly recommend the Adidas Ownthegame 2.0 Basketball Shoe Big Kid for any young basketball player needing a reliable and comfortable shoe.
adidas Cross Em Up 5 Basketball Shoe
If you want a durable and comfortable basketball shoe for your 12-year-old, the adidas Cross Em Up 5 Basketball Shoe (available here) is a great option.
Pros
- The cushioned midsole provides superior comfort and support for all-day wear.
- The durable upper is made from lightweight textile material that can withstand wear and tear.
- The rubber outsole delivers excellent traction for quick movements on the court.
Cons
- The wide fit may not be suitable for children with narrow feet.
- The shoes may run slightly larger than expected, so checking the size chart before purchasing is important.
- Some users have reported that the shoes do not have enough ankle support.
We recently tested the Adidas Cross Em Up 5 Basketball Shoe and were impressed with its performance. The cloud foam midsole provided ample cushioning for our feet, even after several hours of play. The lightweight textile upper was breathable and durable, and we appreciated the extra room in the wider last. The rubber outsole provided excellent grip on the court, allowing us to make quick cuts and turns easily.
However, we did notice that the shoes ran slightly larger than expected, so it’s important to check the size chart before purchasing. Additionally, some users have reported that the shoes lack ankle support, which may concern children prone to ankle injuries. Overall, we recommend the Adidas Cross Em Up 5 Basketball Shoe for its comfort, durability, and traction on the court.
brooman Kids Basketball Shoes Boys Girls Low Top Sports Shoes Non Slip School Sneakers 6 Big Kid Green/Orange
We highly recommend the brooman Kids Basketball Shoes (available here) for 12-year-olds looking for a comfortable and durable pair of shoes for their basketball games.
Pros
- The Thermoplastic Elastomers sole provides excellent grip on indoor and outdoor surfaces, making it perfect for basketball games.
- The roomy round toe box allows for a healthy growth and stretching environment for kids’ toes, especially during exercise.
- The hook-and-loop closure and rear pull tab make it easy to put on and remove shoes without the hassle of tying shoelaces.
Cons
- The shoes may run larger than expected, so checking the size chart before purchasing is important.
- The shoes may not be as breathable as some basketball shoes, which may cause sweaty feet during long games.
- Some customers have reported that the shoes may not be as durable as expected and may show signs of wear and tear after a few months of use.
The Brooman Kids Basketball Shoes are designed with comfort and performance in mind. The skin-friendly lining and soft padded tongue and collar offer great comfort, while the midsole provides better arch support and has better-shock-absorbing performance. The layers of rubber outsole are slip-resistant, and the toe cap and heel cap offer extra protection from getting injured during exercise.
These sports shoes are suited for multiple indoor and outdoor activities, such as basketball playing, walking, running, jogging, school practice, cycling, traveling, etc. Overall, the brooman Kids Basketball Shoes are a great investment for 12-year-olds serious about their basketball games.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying youth basketball shoes for 12-year-olds (the same applies if you are looking for basketball shoes for youth girls), there are several factors that you should consider. We have assembled a buying guide to help you choose the best product for your child.
Fit
The most important factor to consider when buying basketball shoes for 12-year-olds is the fit. The shoes should fit comfortably and securely on your child’s feet. The shoes should not be too tight or loose, as this can affect their performance on the court. Make sure to measure your child’s feet before buying the shoes and choose the size that fits them perfectly.
Support
Basketball involves a lot of jumping and running, so choosing shoes that provide good support is important. Look for shoes with good ankle support, as this can help prevent injuries. Shoes with a higher cut provide more ankle support but can also be heavier. Shoes with a lower cut are lighter but provide less ankle support.
Traction
Traction is important for basketball shoes as it helps with movement on the court. Look for shoes with a rubber outsole that provides good traction on the court. The outsole should have a pattern that allows for quick cuts and changes in direction.
Cushioning
Basketball has a lot of impact on the feet, so choosing shoes with good cushioning is important. Look for shoes with a good midsole that provides cushioning and support. Shoes with a thicker midsole provide more cushioning but can also be heavier.
Durability
Basketball shoes can take a lot of wear and tear, so it is important to choose durable shoes. Look for shoes with a sturdy construction and good materials. Shoes made with synthetic materials are often more durable than those made with natural materials.
In summary, when buying basketball shoes for 12-year-olds, it is important to consider fit, support, traction, cushioning, and durability. Your child can perform their best on the court and stay safe from injuries by choosing shoes with these features.
