Basketball is a sport that demands a lot from your feet. Whether you’re running up and down the court, jumping for a rebound, or pivoting to avoid a defender, a good pair of basketball shoes can make all the difference.
High top basketball shoes, in particular, provide extra support and protection for your ankles, which can be especially important for players who are prone to injuries.
When shopping for the best high top basketball shoes, there are a few key things to consider. First and foremost, you want to make sure that the shoes fit properly and feel comfortable on your feet. You’ll also want to look for shoes that offer good traction on the court, as well as plenty of cushioning and support.
We spent hours researching and testing ten different pairs of high top basketball shoes to identify the ones that offer the best combination of comfort, support, and performance.
Whether you’re a serious athlete or just enjoy shooting hoops with friends, our top picks are sure to help you up your game on the court.
Best High Top Basketball Shoes
We know that finding the perfect pair of basketball shoes can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to high top shoes. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best high top basketball shoes on the market.
Our team has researched and tested various options to help you find the right fit for your game. Whether you’re looking for extra ankle support, a comfortable fit, or a stylish design, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.
Nike Renew Elevate Basketball Shoes
If you’re looking for a comfortable and stylish pair of high top basketball shoes, the Nike Renew Elevate (available here) is a great option.
Pros
- The soft and lightweight upper material offers a snug and secure fit up to the ankle, while the smooth lines provide speed.
- The midsole features two types of foam cushioning for stability, reactivity, and comfort that lasts throughout the game.
- The rubber sole provides excellent traction on the court.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the shoes run small, so it may be necessary to order a half size up.
- The shoes may not be suitable for those with wider feet, as they can feel a bit narrow.
- The price point may be a bit high for some customers.
In our experience, the Nike Renew Elevate shoes offer a comfortable and secure fit, with excellent cushioning and traction on the court. The soft and lightweight upper material feels great on the foot, while the smooth lines add a touch of style to your game. The midsole foam cushioning provides a good balance of stability and reactivity, making it easy to move quickly and change direction on the court. However, some customers have reported that the shoes run small, so it may be necessary to order a half size up. Additionally, those with wider feet may find the shoes to be a bit narrow. Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality pair of basketball shoes that offer comfort, style, and performance, the Nike Renew Elevate is definitely worth considering.
Adidas Top Ten Hi Basketball Shoes
If you’re looking for a classic high-top basketball shoe that combines style and comfort, you should definitely check out the Adidas Top Ten Hi (available here).
Pros
- The perforated full-grain leather upper provides excellent breathability, keeping your feet cool and dry even during intense games.
- The rubber sole offers great traction and grip on the court, allowing you to make quick cuts and changes of direction with ease.
- The retro design is both stylish and functional, providing a timeless look that never goes out of fashion.
Cons
- The sizing can be a bit tricky, so make sure to try them on before purchasing to ensure a perfect fit.
- Some users have reported that the shoes feel a bit heavy, which may not be ideal for players who prefer a lighter shoe.
- The price point is a bit high compared to other basketball shoes on the market, which may not be ideal for budget-conscious consumers.
Overall, we highly recommend the Adidas Top Ten Hi Basketball Shoes for anyone who wants a classic, stylish, and comfortable high-top basketball shoe that can perform well on the court.
Nike KD Trey 5 VIII Basketball Shoes
We highly recommend the Nike KD Trey 5 VIII Basketball Shoes (available here). They offer great support, comfort, and traction on the court.
Pros
- The mid-top design with perforated foam pods provides excellent ankle support and lockdown.
- The dual-density midsole with Nike Renew foam provides responsive cushioning and stability.
- The rubber outsole with a wavy tread pattern offers durable and multidirectional traction.
Cons
- The sizing runs a bit small, so it’s recommended to order a half size up.
- The clear yarns in the forefoot material may wear out faster than other parts of the shoe.
- The tongue may feel a bit bulky for some players.
The Nike KD Trey 5 VIII Basketball Shoes are an excellent choice for basketball players looking for a comfortable and supportive shoe. The mid-top design with foam pods helps keep your ankle locked in, while the dual-density midsole provides responsive cushioning and stability. The rubber outsole with a wavy tread pattern offers durable and multidirectional traction, making it easy to make quick cuts and stops on the court.
The sizing runs a bit small, so it’s recommended to order a half size up. Additionally, the clear yarns in the forefoot material may wear out faster than other parts of the shoe. Some players may also find the padded tongue a bit bulky.
Overall, the Nike KD Trey 5 VIII Basketball Shoes are a great choice for basketball players looking for a supportive and comfortable shoe that offers excellent traction on the court.
PUMA Men’s Rbd Game Sneaker
If you’re looking for a stylish and comfortable high top basketball shoe, the PUMA Men’s Rbd Game Sneaker (available here) is a great choice.
Pros
- The rubber sole provides excellent grip and traction on the court.
- The SOFTFOAM+ sockliner offers superior cushioning and comfort for all-day wear.
- The retro-inspired design and PUMA branding add a stylish touch.
Cons
- The sole may feel thin and cheap to some users.
- Some reviewers have reported issues with the strap coming loose.
- Sizing may be slightly off, so it’s important to double-check before purchasing.
We’ve been using the PUMA Men’s Rbd Game Sneaker for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance on the court. The rubber sole provides excellent grip and traction, allowing us to make quick cuts and changes of direction without slipping. The SOFTFOAM+ sockliner is incredibly comfortable, providing cushioning and support for our feet during long games and practices.
The retro-inspired design of the shoe is also a nice touch, and we appreciate the use of recycled materials in the upper. The PUMA branding on the side adds a stylish touch that sets these shoes apart from other high tops on the market.
However, we do have a few minor complaints about the shoe. Some users may find the sole to be too thin and cheap-feeling, which could be a concern for those who play frequently or on rougher courts. Additionally, some reviewers have reported issues with the strap coming loose during play, which could be a problem for those who rely on the added support.
Overall, we think the PUMA Men’s Rbd Game Sneaker is a solid choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and stylish high top basketball shoe. Just be sure to double-check the sizing and keep in mind the potential issues with the sole and strap.
Nike Air Force 1 High ’07
If you’re looking for a high-quality basketball shoe that’s both comfortable and stylish, the Nike Air Force 1 High ’07 (available here) is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The rubber sole provides excellent grip and durability, making it perfect for basketball.
- The premium leather upper with a supportive mid cut strap offers both style and support.
- The polyurethane midsole with a full-length Air-Sole unit provides excellent shock absorption for a smooth ride.
Cons
- The shoe may run a bit small, so consider ordering a half-size up.
- Some users have reported that the strap can be a bit uncomfortable if it’s too tight.
- The shoe is a bit on the heavy side, so it may not be the best choice if you’re looking for something lightweight.
We recently had the chance to try out the Nike Air Force 1 High ’07, and we were definitely impressed. The shoe is extremely durable and comfortable to wear, making it perfect for both on and off the court. The rubber outsole provides excellent grip and durability, while the premium leather upper with a supportive mid cut strap offers both style and support.
One thing to keep in mind is that the shoe may run a bit small, so consider ordering a half-size up. Additionally, some users have reported that the strap can be a bit uncomfortable if it’s too tight. However, if you’re looking for a high-quality basketball shoe that’s both stylish and functional, the Nike Air Force 1 High ’07 is definitely worth considering.
Fila Stackhouse Spaghetti High Top Basketball Shoes
If you want a high-top basketball shoe that provides excellent support and comfort, Fila Stackhouse Spaghetti High Top Basketball Shoes (available here) are a great choice.
Pros
- The leather, synthetic, and mesh fabric upper provides durability, breathability, and support.
- The padded leather tongue and lace-up front closure provide a secure and comfortable fit.
- The embroidered Fila logos on the tongue, toe box, back counter, and pull tab add style and authenticity.
Cons
- The tan outsole may show dirt and scuff marks more easily than darker outsoles.
- The sizing may run a bit small, so you may need to order a half size larger than usual.
- The shoes may take a bit of time to break in, so they may feel stiff at first.
We recently tried out the Fila Stackhouse Spaghetti High Top Basketball Shoes and were impressed with their overall performance. The leather, synthetic, and mesh fabric upper provided excellent durability and breathability, while the padded leather tongue and lace-up front closure offered a secure and comfortable fit. The embroidered Fila logos on various parts of the shoe added a nice touch of style and authenticity.
One potential downside to these shoes is that the tan outsole may show dirt and scuff marks more easily than darker outsoles. Additionally, the sizing may run a bit small, so you may need to order a half size larger than usual. Finally, the shoes may take a bit of time to break in, so they may feel stiff at first.
Overall, we would recommend the Fila Stackhouse Spaghetti High Top Basketball Shoes to anyone looking for a high-top basketball shoe that provides excellent support and comfort. With their durable, breathable upper and secure, comfortable fit, these shoes are a great choice for any basketball player.
Nike Men’s Air Jordan 1 High Retro OG ‘Heirloom’ Basketball Shoes
We highly recommend purchasing the Nike Men’s Air Jordan 1 High Retro OG ‘Heirloom’ Basketball Shoes (available here) for their stylish design, comfort, and durability.
Pros
- The rubber sole provides excellent traction on the court, allowing for quick movements and cuts.
- The Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG Men’s design is sleek and fashionable, making it perfect for wearing both on and off the court.
- The University Gold/Light Bordeaux/White colorway is eye-catching and unique, making these shoes stand out from the crowd.
Cons
- The shoes may run a bit small, so it’s important to try them on before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.
- The price point may be a bit high for some buyers, but the quality and style of the shoes make them worth the investment.
- The shoes may require some break-in time to fully adjust to the wearer’s feet and provide maximum comfort.
These shoes are a must-have for any basketball player or sneaker enthusiast. The rubber sole provides excellent grip on the court, allowing for quick movements and cuts, while the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG Men’s design is both stylish and functional. Additionally, the University Gold/Light Bordeaux/White colorway is unique and eye-catching, making these shoes a great addition to any sneaker collection.
The only potential drawbacks of these shoes are that they may run a bit small, so it’s important to try them on before purchasing, and that they may require some break-in time to fully adjust to the wearer’s feet. However, the high quality and durability of these shoes make them well worth the investment.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a stylish and functional pair of high top basketball shoes, the Nike Men’s Air Jordan 1 High Retro OG ‘Heirloom’ Basketball Shoes are an excellent choice.
Jordan Max Aura Men’s Shoes
If you’re looking for a comfortable and stylish basketball shoe, we highly recommend the Jordan Max Aura Men’s Shoes (available here).
Pros
- The genuine leather and synthetic leather outer material provides a first-class wearing experience.
- The braided lacing system improves support and fit, making it easier to move around on the court.
- The rubber sole offers good traction and durability, so you can play for hours without worrying about slipping or wearing out your shoes.
Cons
- The shoes may be a bit tight on the sides, so you may need to loosen the laces to get a comfortable fit.
- The shoes may look a bit bulky, which may not be to everyone’s liking.
- The shoes may be a bit pricey, but they are worth the investment if you’re serious about basketball.
We’ve been using the Jordan Max Aura Men’s Shoes for a while now, and we’re really impressed with their performance. The genuine leather and synthetic leather outer material provides a comfortable and breathable fit, while the braided lacing system ensures a snug and secure fit. The rubber sole offers good traction and durability, so you can move around the court with confidence.
The shoes may be a bit tight on the sides, but we found that loosening the laces a bit helps to get a more comfortable fit. The shoes may look a bit bulky, but we think that adds to their stylish and classic design. The shoes may be a bit pricey, but we think they are worth the investment if you’re serious about basketball and want a high-quality shoe that will last.
Overall, we highly recommend the Jordan Max Aura Men’s Shoes to anyone looking for a comfortable and stylish basketball shoe that offers good traction and durability.
Nike Air Force 1 ’07
If you’re looking for a high-top sneaker that offers great support and comfort, the Nike Air Force 1 ’07 (available here) is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The premium-leather upper with perforations on the toebox provides breathability and durability.
- The adjustable ankle strap and high collar provide snug support around the ankle, making it perfect for basketball players.
- The iconic Nike Air midsole offers cushioned support for the foot and aids performance.
Cons
- Some users may find the sizing to be a bit off, so it’s important to try them on before purchasing.
- The white color may be difficult to keep clean and may require more maintenance compared to darker colors.
- The circular pivot pattern on the rubber sole may take some time to get used to for those who are not used to it.
We recently tried out the Nike Air Force 1 ’07 and were impressed with its overall performance. The premium-leather upper with perforations on the toebox provides breathability and durability, which is important for basketball players who need a shoe that can withstand the wear and tear of the game. The adjustable ankle strap and high collar also provide great support around the ankle, which is essential for preventing injuries.
The iconic Nike Air midsole offers cushioned support for the foot, which aids performance and makes it easier to move around on the court. The rubber sole with a circular pivot pattern also offers great traction and facilitates sharp movements, which is important for basketball players who need to be able to move quickly and change direction at a moment’s notice.
Overall, we highly recommend the Nike Air Force 1 ’07 for basketball players who are looking for a high-top sneaker that offers great support and comfort. While there are a few minor drawbacks, such as the sizing and the white color being difficult to keep clean, the pros far outweigh the cons.
Nike React Element 55 “Triple Black”
We highly recommend the Nike React Element 55 “Triple Black” (available here) basketball shoe for anyone looking for a sleek and stylish high top shoe that also provides excellent support and comfort.
Pros
- The suede sole provides excellent grip on the court and ensures quick movements.
- The all-black color scheme is perfect for those who prefer a more understated look.
- The 100% authenticity guarantee ensures that you are getting a high-quality, genuine product.
Cons
- The shoe may run slightly small, so it is recommended to order a half size up.
- The all-black color scheme may not be suitable for those who prefer a more colorful or eye-catching shoe.
- The shoe may take some time to break in and feel comfortable.
The Nike React Element 55 “Triple Black” basketball shoe is a great choice for anyone looking for a high top shoe that provides excellent support and comfort on the court. The suede sole ensures that you can make quick movements without slipping, while the all-black color scheme is perfect for those who prefer a more understated look. Additionally, the 100% authenticity guarantee ensures that you are getting a genuine, high-quality product.
However, it is important to note that the shoe may run slightly small, so it is recommended to order a half size up. Additionally, the all-black color scheme may not be suitable for those who prefer a more colorful or eye-catching shoe. Finally, the shoe may take some time to break in and feel comfortable, so it is important to wear them around the house for a bit before hitting the court.
Overall, the Nike React Element 55 “Triple Black” basketball shoe is a great choice for anyone looking for a stylish and comfortable high top shoe that also provides excellent support on the court.
Are All Basketball Shoes High Tops?
No, not all basketball shoes are high tops.
While high-top basketball shoes were once the norm, low-tops have become increasingly popular in recent years. Both types of shoes have their pros and cons, and there is no clear evidence that one type is better than the other at preventing ankle injuries.
Ultimately, the choice between high-top and low-top basketball shoes comes down to personal preference and comfort.
Are High Top Basketball Shoes Better?
The question of whether high top basketball shoes are better than low tops is a matter of personal preference. Reasons why high-top basketball shoes may be better:
- High-top basketball shoes have collars encasing the ankle, giving stability and support. The latest models are designed to decrease stress on the ankles, knees, and lower back.
- High-top basketball shoes provide good ankle support, which can help prevent injuries.
Reasons why low-top basketball shoes may be better:
- Low top shoes allow for better range of motion and are more comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
- There is no evidence that different types of basketball shoes prevent ankle injuries.
- Across all performance tests, no significant difference was found between any of the shoes (high-tops, mid-tops, low-tops).
There is no clear answer as to whether high top basketball shoes are better than low tops. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual player. While high tops may provide more ankle support, they can also restrict ankle movement. Low tops may allow for better range of motion and comfort but may not provide as much ankle support.
Do High Top Basketball Shoes Prevent Ankle Sprains?
While high-top basketball shoes may offer more support to the ankle joint and reduce the risk of ankle sprains, there is no clear evidence that they prevent ankle injuries. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual player.
Reasons why high-top basketball shoes may help prevent ankle sprains:
- Orthopedic surgeons recommend wearing high-top basketball shoes because they offer greater stability than low-top models. They cover more of your ankles, making them less likely to roll.
- High top basketball shoes can help reduce the risk of ankle sprains because they offer more support to the ankle joint.
- High top basketball shoes provide the best support for your ankles, and they can help prevent injuries.
- One of the benefits of high ankle basketball shoes is that they prevent your feet and ankles from overextending, which can cause serious injuries.
Reasons why high-top basketball shoes may not prevent ankle sprains:
- The research shows that high-top basketball shoes reduce ankle inversion (roll) when performing the basketball-specific movement. However, it did not link the wearing of this footwear and the prevention of ankle sprains.
- There is no clear evidence that different types of basketball shoes prevent ankle injuries.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best high top basketball shoes, there are several factors to consider. We have compiled a list of features to look for when selecting the perfect pair of shoes for your game.
Comfort and Fit
The most important factor to consider when buying high top basketball shoes is comfort and fit. The shoes should fit snugly but not be too tight. A good fit will provide the necessary support and stability for your feet, ankles, and knees, reducing the risk of injury.
Material and Durability
The material used to make the shoes should be durable and able to withstand the rigors of basketball. Look for shoes made from high-quality materials that can handle the wear and tear of the game. The shoes should also be breathable to keep your feet cool and dry during play.
Traction
Traction is another important factor to consider when choosing high top basketball shoes. The shoes should have a good grip on the court to prevent slipping and sliding during play. Look for shoes with a rubber outsole that provides excellent traction on different surfaces.
Support
High top basketball shoes are designed to provide extra support to your ankles. Look for shoes with a high collar that covers your ankles and provides the necessary support. The shoes should also have a cushioned midsole that absorbs shock and provides additional support.
Style
While style is not the most important factor to consider when buying high top basketball shoes, it is still worth considering. Look for shoes that match your personal style and the colors of your team. Remember, the most important factor is comfort and fit, so don’t sacrifice that for style.
In summary, when choosing the best high top basketball shoes, consider comfort and fit, material and durability, traction, support, and style. By taking these factors into consideration, you can find the perfect pair of shoes to elevate your game on the court.
