Basketball is a high-intensity sport that requires players to be quick on their feet and have excellent control over the ball. For guards, who are responsible for handling the ball and driving to the basket, having the right pair of basketball shoes is crucial.
The right pair of shoes can provide the necessary support, traction, and comfort to help guards perform at their best.
When looking for the best basketball shoes for guards, there are several critical factors to consider. Firstly, guards need shoes that provide excellent traction on the court. This will help them make quick cuts and changes in direction without slipping.
Secondly, guards need shoes that offer adequate support to prevent injuries, especially to the ankles. Finally, guards need shoes that are lightweight and comfortable, as they will be running and jumping for extended periods.
After researching and testing several basketball shoes, we have identified the top ten shoes that are perfect for guards. These shoes provide excellent traction, support, and comfort, making them ideal for guards who need to perform at their best on the court.
Best Basketball Shoes for Guards
We understand that finding the right basketball shoes can be a daunting task, especially when you are a guard. As a guard, you need shoes that provide the right amount of support, traction, and flexibility to help you move quickly and change direction effortlessly on the court.
| Shoes | Support Level | Comfort Level | How They Help Your Game | Value for the Money |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nike Lebron 19 Low | High | High | Excellent traction, lightweight for speed | High |
| Nike Kyrie 5 Low | High | High | Secure fit, responsive court feel, control over movement | Medium |
| Nike Air Force 1 ’07 | High | Medium | Breathability, optimal grip | Medium |
| Nike Women’s Air Force 1 Low “Paisley – Worn Blue” | Medium | High | Unique style, excellent traction | High |
| Nike Women’s Basketball Shoes | High | High | Excellent traction, ankle-high shaft for support | Medium |
| Nike Men’s Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Patent Bred” | High | High | Excellent traction, stylish design | High |
| Under Armour UA Curry 8 NM Team | High | High | Great grip and cushioning, superior fit and breathability | High |
| Jordan 1 Mid White/White-White | High | High | Excellent traction, exceptional cushioning | Medium |
| Nike Men’s Air Force 1 ’07 An20 | High | High | Good cushioning, stylish design | Medium |
That’s why we have compiled a list of the best basketball shoes for guards to help you make an informed decision. Our list includes shoes from top brands that are designed to meet the specific needs of guards. So, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned player, we have got you covered.
Nike Lebron 19 Low Basketball Shoes
If you’re looking for a pair of basketball shoes that are both stylish and functional, the Nike Lebron 19 Low Basketball Shoes (available here) might be just what you need.
Pros
- The rubber sole provides excellent traction on the court, giving you the grip you need to make quick cuts and change direction with ease.
- The shoes are lightweight, which can help you move faster and jump higher.
- The design is eye-catching and sure to turn heads, making you feel confident on the court.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the shoes run small, so you may need to order a half size up to ensure a comfortable fit.
- The shoes are on the pricier side, so they may not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget.
- The shoes may not be suitable for players with wider feet, as they can be a bit narrow.
We’ve had the chance to try out the Nike Lebron 19 Low Basketball Shoes, and we’re impressed with what we’ve seen so far. The rubber sole provides excellent traction on the court, allowing you to make quick cuts and change direction with ease. The shoes are also lightweight, which can help you move faster and jump higher.
In terms of design, the Nike Lebron 19 Low Basketball Shoes are eye-catching and sure to turn heads. The blue chill, black, and light crimson colorway is bold and stylish, making you feel confident on the court.
However, some users have reported that the shoes run small, so you may need to order a half size up to ensure a comfortable fit. Additionally, the shoes are on the pricier side, so they may not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget. Finally, the shoes may not be suitable for players with wider feet, as they can be a bit narrow.
Overall, we would recommend the Nike Lebron 19 Low Basketball Shoes to any guard looking for a stylish and functional pair of basketball shoes. Just be sure to keep the sizing and width in mind when making your purchase.
Nike Kyrie 5 Low Men’s Basketball Shoes
If you’re looking for basketball shoes that offer a combination of speed, control, and comfort, the Nike Kyrie 5 Low Men’s Basketball Shoes (available here) are a great option.
Pros
- The interlocking bands in the forefoot provide a secure and comfortable fit.
- The foam midsole and top-loaded Air unit offer a responsive court feel.
- The computer-generated outsole pattern enhances your control over your movement.
Cons
- These shoes are not water-resistant.
- Some users have reported that the interior is put together in a way that can be uncomfortable for the ankle.
- The shoes may feel a bit tight, so it’s recommended to order a half size up.
In our experience, the Nike Kyrie 5 Low Men’s Basketball Shoes offer a great combination of comfort and control. The interlocking bands in the forefoot provide a glove-like fit that keeps your foot securely in place, while the foam midsole and top-loaded Air unit offer a responsive court feel that enhances your sensation of control. Additionally, the computer-generated outsole pattern lets you quickly accelerate, slow down, and change direction, giving you even more control over your movement.
While these shoes are not water-resistant, they are still a great option for indoor basketball. However, some users have reported that the interior is put together in a way that can be uncomfortable for the ankle, so it’s important to keep that in mind. Additionally, the shoes may feel a bit tight, so it’s recommended to order a half size up.
Overall, if you’re looking for basketball shoes that offer a combination of speed, control, and comfort, the Nike Kyrie 5 Low Men’s Basketball Shoes are definitely worth considering.
Nike Air Force 1 ’07
We highly recommend the Nike Air Force 1 ’07 (available here) for guards looking for a classic style and unmatched fit and support.
Pros
- The ruffled leather edges give the shoe a cleaner, snappy line and more refined details.
- The perforated inserts promote breathability to keep your foot cool and dry.
- The low design offers optimal grip to the ground and a classic look.
Cons
- The shoes may require a break-in period before they feel comfortable.
- Some customers have reported heel slippage problems.
- They may not be suitable for players who prefer a lighter shoe.
The Nike Air Force 1 ’07 is a modern version of the iconic AF1 that mixes classic style and modern details. The leather and fabric upper is equipped with outer layers placed in strategic points for durability. The perforated inserts promote breathability to keep your foot cool and dry. The shoe is designed with ruffled leather edges for a cleaner, snappy line and more refined details. The low design offers optimal grip to the ground and a classic look.
The shoe provides unmatched fit and support, making it a great choice for guards. However, some customers have reported heel slippage problems, and the shoes may require a break-in period before they feel comfortable. Additionally, they may not be suitable for players who prefer a lighter shoe.
Overall, if you’re looking for a classic style and unmatched fit and support, we highly recommend the Nike Air Force 1 ’07.
Nike Air Force 1 ’07
If you’re a guard looking for a shoe that offers both classic style and modern details, the Nike Air Force 1 ’07 (available here) is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The low design offers great grip and a classic look.
- Ruffled leather edges give the shoe a cleaner, more refined look.
- Perforated inserts promote breathability to keep your feet cool and dry.
Cons
- The shoe may feel a bit heavy for some users.
- The sizing may run a little small.
- The shoe may take some time to break in.
As someone who has used these shoes, I can confidently say that they offer excellent support and unmatched fit. The leather and fabric upper is equipped with outer layers placed in strategic points for durability, making it perfect for the wear and tear of basketball games.
One of the standout features of the Nike Air Force 1 ’07 is its retro style. The ruffled leather edges give the shoe a cleaner, snappy line, and the perforated inserts promote breathability to keep your foot cool and dry. Additionally, the rubber sole provides great grip and traction on the court.
However, the shoe may feel a bit heavy for some users, and the sizing may run a little small. It may also take some time to break in the shoe, so it’s important to give it some time before making a final decision.
Overall, if you’re a guard looking for a shoe that offers both classic style and modern details, the Nike Air Force 1 ’07 is definitely worth considering. Its unmatched fit and support, combined with its retro style, make it a solid choice for any basketball player.
Nike Women’s Air Force 1 Low “Paisley – Worn Blue”
We highly recommend the Nike Women’s Air Force 1 Low “Paisley – Worn Blue” (available here) for guards who want a stylish and comfortable basketball shoe.
Pros
- The paisley pattern on the canvas Swoosh and heel with “Nike Air” branding adds a unique touch to the classic Air Force 1 style.
- The mostly monochromatic white leather design with perforated toe, mid-panel, collar, and heel gives the shoe a clean and modern appearance.
- The rubber sole provides excellent traction on the court.
Cons
- The shoe may not be suitable for players with wider feet as there is no wider option available.
- The shoe may be too expensive for some players.
- The shoe may not provide enough ankle support for players who require it.
The Nike Women’s Air Force 1 Low “Paisley – Worn Blue” is a versatile shoe that can be worn both on and off the court. The paisley pattern on the canvas Swoosh and heel with “Nike Air” branding adds a unique touch to the classic Air Force 1 style. The mostly monochromatic white leather design with perforated toe, mid-panel, collar, and heel gives the shoe a clean and modern appearance. The rubber sole provides excellent traction on the court, making it an ideal choice for guards who need to make quick cuts and changes of direction.
However, the shoe may not be suitable for players with wider feet as there is no wider option available. The shoe may also be too expensive for some players. Additionally, the shoe may not provide enough ankle support for players who require it. Overall, the Nike Women’s Air Force 1 Low “Paisley – Worn Blue” is a stylish and comfortable basketball shoe that is perfect for guards who want to stand out on the court.
Nike Women’s Basketball Shoes
If you’re looking for a stylish and versatile basketball shoe, the Nike Women’s Basketball Shoes (available here) are a great option.
Pros
- The rubber sole provides excellent traction on the court.
- The ankle-high shaft offers extra support and stability.
- The all-white design is a classic look that never goes out of style.
Cons
- These shoes may run a bit small, so be sure to order a half-size up.
- The leather upper may be difficult to clean and maintain.
- These shoes may not be suitable for players with wider feet.
We’ve been using these shoes for a few weeks now and we’re impressed with their performance. The rubber sole provides excellent grip on the court, allowing us to make quick cuts and changes in direction without slipping. The ankle-high shaft also offers extra support and stability, which is especially important for guards who need to move quickly and change direction frequently.
The all-white design is a classic look that never goes out of style, making these shoes a versatile option for any outfit. They’re perfect for summer and beyond, and the “White on White” makeup displays an all-white leather upper with tonal Swoosh detailing on either side. White embroidered “Nike Air” branding is stitched into the heel tab, adding a touch of elegance to the overall design.
However, these shoes may run a bit small, so be sure to order a half-size up. The leather upper may also be difficult to clean and maintain, which may be a concern for some players. Additionally, these shoes may not be suitable for players with wider feet, as they may feel a bit snug.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the Nike Women’s Basketball Shoes for guards looking for a stylish and versatile shoe that offers excellent traction and support on the court.
Nike Men’s Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Patent Bred” Basketball Shoes
We highly recommend the Nike Men’s Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Patent Bred” Basketball Shoes (available here) for guards who want to look stylish on the court while also having the support and comfort needed for optimal performance.
Pros
- The rubber sole provides excellent traction on the court, allowing for quick cuts and movements.
- The Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG Men’s design is sleek and stylish, making it a great choice for those who want to look good on and off the court.
- The University Gold/Light Bordeaux/White colorway is unique and eye-catching, making these shoes stand out from the crowd.
Cons
- The shoes may take some time to break in, causing slight discomfort during the first few wears.
- The price point is higher than some other basketball shoes on the market.
- The shoes may not be suitable for those with wider feet, as they can feel a bit narrow.
These shoes are made with high-quality materials and provide excellent support and comfort for guards on the court. The rubber sole ensures that you have great traction, allowing you to make quick cuts and movements without slipping. The Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG Men’s design is sleek and stylish, making it a great choice for those who want to look good on and off the court. The University Gold/Light Bordeaux/White colorway is unique and eye-catching, making these shoes stand out from the crowd.
While the shoes may take some time to break in, causing slight discomfort during the first few wears, they are well worth the investment. The price point may be higher than some other basketball shoes on the market, but the quality and style make up for it. However, those with wider feet may find these shoes to be a bit narrow.
Overall, the Nike Men’s Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Patent Bred” Basketball Shoes are a great choice for guards who want to look good and perform well on the court.
Under Armour UA Curry 8 NM Team Basketball Shoes
If you’re looking for a basketball shoe that provides great grip and cushioning, the Under Armour UA Curry 8 NM Team Basketball Shoes (available here) might be the perfect fit for you.
Pros
- The rubberless sole makes the shoe lighter and provides a great bounce.
- The UA Flow technology provides excellent grip and prevents skidding.
- The Dynamic knit upper and internal lacing support provide a superior fit and breathability.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the shoe’s traction is not as good as expected.
- The shoe may not be suitable for outdoor use.
- The price point may be too high for some buyers.
We recently tried out the Under Armour UA Curry 8 NM Team Basketball Shoes and were impressed with their performance on the court. The rubberless sole made the shoe feel lighter and provided a great bounce, allowing for quick movements and explosive jumps. The UA Flow technology worked wonders in terms of grip and prevented skidding, which helped us feel more confident and in control on the court.
The Dynamic knit upper and internal lacing support provided a superior fit and breathability, which kept our feet cool and comfortable during intense gameplay. The external heel counter with a dual-density TPU also reinforced the heel fit, which helped prevent any slippage or discomfort.
However, some users have reported that the shoe’s traction is not as good as expected, especially on outdoor courts. Additionally, the price point may be too high for some buyers, but we believe that the shoe’s performance and durability make it worth the investment.
Overall, we highly recommend the Under Armour UA Curry 8 NM Team Basketball Shoes for guards who are looking for a shoe that provides excellent grip and cushioning.
Jordan 1 Mid White/White-White
If you are looking for a stylish and comfortable basketball shoe, then the Jordan 1 Mid White/White-White (available here) is a great option.
Pros
- The rubber sole provides excellent traction on the court.
- The Nike Air technology in the shoe provides exceptional cushioning and comfort.
- The cement grey/white-true blue colorway looks great on and off the court.
Cons
- The shoes may need to be stretched prior to wearing to avoid any discomfort.
- Some customers have reported that one side of the shoe can be slightly tight.
- The shoe may not be as durable as some other basketball shoes on the market.
We recently tested out the Jordan 1 Mid White/White-White and were impressed with its performance on the court. The rubber sole provided excellent grip and allowed us to make quick cuts and changes of direction without slipping. The Nike Air technology in the shoe also provided exceptional cushioning and comfort, allowing us to play for hours without any discomfort.
While the cement grey/white-true blue colorway may not be for everyone, we found it to be stylish and versatile, making it a great option for both on and off the court. However, we did notice that the shoes may need to be stretched prior to wearing to avoid any discomfort, and some customers have reported that one side of the shoe can be slightly tight.
Overall, if you are looking for a comfortable and stylish basketball shoe that performs well on the court, then the Jordan 1 Mid White/White-White is definitely worth considering.
Nike Men’s Air Force 1 ’07 An20 Basketball Shoe
If you’re looking for a stylish and comfortable basketball shoe, the Nike Men’s Air Force 1 ’07 An20 Basketball Shoe (available here) is a great option.
Pros
- The retro style of the shoe is very eye-catching and will make you stand out on the court.
- The cushioning provided by the shoe is excellent and will keep your feet comfortable during long games.
- The mesh upper of the shoe allows for good breathability, keeping your feet cool and dry.
Cons
- The shoe may not be suitable for players with wider feet as it can feel a bit narrow.
- The shoe may not provide enough ankle support for some players.
- The shoe is a bit on the heavy side, which may not be ideal for players who prioritize speed.
We’ve used these shoes on the court and found them to be comfortable and stylish. The cushioning provided by the shoe is excellent, making it easy to run and jump without feeling any discomfort. The retro style of the shoe is also very eye-catching and is sure to turn heads on the court.
However, we did find that the shoe can feel a bit narrow, which may not be suitable for players with wider feet. Additionally, the shoe may not provide enough ankle support for some players, which could be an issue for those who are prone to ankle injuries. Lastly, the shoe is a bit on the heavy side, which may not be ideal for players who prioritize speed.
Overall, the Nike Men’s Air Force 1 ’07 An20 Basketball Shoe is a great option for players looking for a stylish and comfortable shoe that provides good cushioning. However, it may not be suitable for players with wider feet or those who prioritize ankle support and speed.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying basketball shoes for guards, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you get the best product. We’ve put together a guide to help you make an informed decision.
Fit
The most important factor when choosing basketball shoes is the fit. Shoes that are too big or too small can cause discomfort and affect your performance on the court. Make sure the shoes fit snugly but not too tight, and allow for some wiggle room in the toe area. It’s also important to consider the width of the shoe, as some brands may run narrow or wide.
Traction
Good traction is essential for guards, who need to make quick cuts and changes of direction on the court. Look for shoes with a durable rubber outsole that provides excellent grip on the court surface. The pattern of the outsole is also important, as it can affect the shoe’s ability to grip the court.
Cushioning
Basketball shoes with good cushioning can help reduce the impact of jumping and running on your feet and legs. Look for shoes with ample cushioning in the midsole, which can help absorb shock and provide a comfortable ride.
Support
Guards need shoes that provide support for their ankles, as they are at a higher risk of ankle injuries due to the nature of their position. Look for shoes with a high-top design that provides ample ankle support, or consider shoes with ankle straps or other features that help keep your foot secure.
Breathability
Basketball shoes can get hot and sweaty, especially during intense games or practices. Look for shoes with breathable uppers that allow air to circulate around your feet, helping to keep them cool and dry.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best basketball shoes for guards that will help you perform your best on the court.
