Basketball is a game that requires speed, agility, and precision. To perform at their best, basketball players need the right equipment, and that includes the right shoes. Low top basketball shoes are an excellent option for players who value flexibility and mobility on the court.
These shoes are designed to provide maximum freedom of movement, allowing players to make quick cuts, change direction, and jump with ease.
When looking for the best low top basketball shoes, there are a few critical factors to consider. First and foremost, the shoes must provide excellent support and stability to prevent injury. The shoes should also be lightweight and breathable to keep feet cool and comfortable during intense games.
Additionally, the shoes should have a good grip to ensure that players can maintain traction on the court.
We spent hours researching and testing various low top basketball shoes to identify the ones that offer the best combination of support, comfort, and performance. In this article, we will share our top picks and provide a detailed review of each shoe.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting, our guide will help you find the perfect low top basketball shoes to take your game to the next level.
Best Low Top Basketball Shoes
We know that finding the perfect pair of low top basketball shoes can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available on the market. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best low top basketball shoes that will help you improve your game while providing comfort and support.
Our team of experts has done extensive research and testing to bring you the top picks that meet our high standards for quality, durability, and performance. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, these shoes will help you take your game to the next level.
Nike Lebron XIX Low Basketball Shoes
If you’re looking for a great pair of low top basketball shoes, the Nike Lebron XIX Low (available now) is definitely worth checking out.
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Excellent traction
- Comfortable fit
Cons
- Limited color options
- Expensive
- May not be suitable for wider feet
We were impressed with the Nike Lebron XIX Low’s lightweight design, which made it easy to move around the court. The shoe’s rubber sole provided excellent traction, allowing us to make quick cuts and stops without slipping. We also found the shoe to be very comfortable, with plenty of cushioning to absorb impact and prevent foot fatigue.
However, the Nike Lebron XIX Low does have a few downsides. The limited color options may not appeal to everyone, and the shoe is on the expensive side. Additionally, those with wider feet may find the shoe to be a bit snug.
Overall, we would recommend the Nike Lebron XIX Low to anyone looking for a high-quality pair of low top basketball shoes. Despite its drawbacks, the shoe’s lightweight design, excellent traction, and comfortable fit make it a great choice for serious players.
Nike Kyrie 5 Low Men’s Basketball Shoes
If you’re looking for a low top basketball shoe that provides a glove-like fit, responsive court feel, and generative traction, then the Nike Kyrie 5 Low Men’s Basketball Shoes (available now) might be a good fit for you.
Pros
- The interlocking bands in the forefoot provide a secure and comfortable fit.
- The foam midsole and top-loaded Air unit offer a soft and smooth court feel with returned energy at every step.
- The computer-generated outsole pattern allows for quick acceleration, deceleration, and direction change.
Cons
- The shoe is not water-resistant, so it’s not ideal for outdoor play in wet conditions.
- The shoe may feel tight initially, so it might take some time to break in.
- The interior of the shoe has a piece of thick fabric that juts out and may rub against the ankle, causing discomfort.
We recently tried out the Nike Kyrie 5 Low Men’s Basketball Shoes, and we were impressed with the shoe’s performance on the court. The interlocking bands in the forefoot provided a snug and secure fit, and the foam midsole and top-loaded Air unit offered a soft and responsive court feel. We also appreciated the computer-generated outsole pattern, which allowed for quick and precise movements on the court.
One thing to keep in mind is that the shoe is not water-resistant, so it’s not ideal for outdoor play in wet conditions. Additionally, the shoe may feel tight initially, so it might take some time to break in. Finally, the interior of the shoe has a piece of thick fabric that juts out and may rub against the ankle, causing discomfort.
Overall, we would recommend the Nike Kyrie 5 Low Men’s Basketball Shoes for players who value a secure and comfortable fit, responsive court feel, and generative traction.
Nike Air Force 1 ’07 Basketball Shoe
We highly recommend the Nike Air Force 1 ’07 Basketball Shoe (available now) for anyone looking for a comfortable and stylish low top basketball shoe.
Pros
- The shoe offers exceptional grip on the court, allowing for quick cuts and movements.
- The leather and fabric upper is durable and equipped with outer layers placed in strategic points for added durability.
- The perforated inserts promote breathability, keeping your feet cool and dry during play.
Cons
- The shoe may run a bit narrow for those with wider feet.
- The leather edges may require some breaking in before feeling completely comfortable.
- The shoe may be a bit heavier than some other low top basketball shoes on the market.
We were impressed with the Nike Air Force 1 ’07 Basketball Shoe’s performance on the court. The grip was exceptional, allowing for quick movements and cuts without any slippage. The leather and fabric upper felt sturdy and durable, and the perforated inserts kept our feet cool and dry during play.
The shoe does run a bit narrow, which may be uncomfortable for those with wider feet. Additionally, the leather edges may require some breaking in before feeling completely comfortable. The shoe may also be a bit heavier than some other low top basketball shoes on the market.
Overall, we highly recommend the Nike Air Force 1 ’07 Basketball Shoe for anyone looking for a comfortable and stylish low top basketball shoe.
Nike Kyrie Low 4 (Team)
If you’re looking for a low top basketball shoe that provides excellent traction and support, the Nike Kyrie Low 4 (Team) (available now) is a great choice.
Pros
- The shoe is lightweight and comfortable, making it easy to move around on the court.
- The Cushlon foam and Zoom Air technology provide a smooth, responsive ride, helping you stay quick on your feet.
- The data-informed traction keeps you low to the ground and in control, even during quick cuts and changes of direction.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the shoes run small, so you may need to order a half size larger than your usual size.
- The laces can be difficult to tie tightly enough to keep the shoes from slipping during play.
- The shoes may not be as durable as some other options on the market, so you may need to replace them more frequently.
In our experience, the Nike Kyrie Low 4 (Team) is a solid choice for anyone looking for a low top basketball shoe that provides excellent traction and support. The shoe is lightweight and comfortable, making it easy to move around on the court, and the Cushlon foam and Zoom Air technology provide a smooth, responsive ride. The data-informed traction keeps you low to the ground and in control, even during quick cuts and changes of direction.
However, some users have reported that the shoes run small, so you may need to order a half size larger than your usual size. Additionally, the laces can be difficult to tie tightly enough to keep the shoes from slipping during play. Finally, the shoes may not be as durable as some other options on the market, so you may need to replace them more frequently.
Overall, we would recommend the Nike Kyrie Low 4 (Team) to anyone looking for a comfortable, lightweight low top basketball shoe with excellent traction and support.
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 now) for women who are looking for a stylish and comfortable pair of low top basketball shoes.
Pros
- The rubber sole provides excellent grip on the court.
- The paisley pattern on the canvas Swoosh and heel adds a unique touch to the classic Air Force 1 design.
- The white leather design gives the shoe a clean and polished appearance.
Cons
- The shoe may not provide enough ankle support for some players.
- The sizing may run small, so it’s important to try on before purchasing.
- The shoe is not available in a wide width option.
The Nike Women’s Air Force 1 Low “Paisley – Worn Blue” is a great choice for players who prioritize style and comfort. The rubber sole provides excellent traction on the court, allowing for quick and agile movements. The paisley pattern on the canvas Swoosh and heel adds a unique touch to the classic Air Force 1 design, making the shoe stand out on the court. The white leather design gives the shoe a clean and polished appearance, making it versatile enough to wear both on and off the court.
One potential downside to the shoe is that it may not provide enough ankle support for some players. It’s important to assess your own needs and preferences when it comes to ankle support before making a purchase. Additionally, the sizing may run small, so it’s important to try on the shoe before purchasing to ensure a proper fit. Lastly, the shoe is not available in a wide width option, which may be a concern for players with wider feet.
Overall, the Nike Women’s Air Force 1 Low “Paisley – Worn Blue” is a stylish and comfortable option for women who are looking for low top basketball shoes. With its unique paisley pattern and classic Air Force 1 design, it’s sure to turn heads on the court.
Nike Women’s Basketball Shoes
If you’re looking for a versatile, stylish, and comfortable basketball shoe, then Nike Women’s Basketball Shoes (available now) are the perfect option for you.
Pros
- The rubber sole provides excellent traction on the court.
- The leather upper is long-lasting and easy to clean.
- The all-white design is perfect for any outfit or occasion.
Cons
- These shoes may run slightly larger than expected, so you may need to size down.
- The leather upper may take some time to break in and feel comfortable.
- The all-white design may be prone to scuffs and stains.
We recently tried out the Nike Women’s Basketball Shoes and were impressed by their performance and style. The rubber sole provided excellent grip on the court, allowing us to make quick pivots and cuts without slipping. The leather upper felt durable and supportive, and although it took some time to break in, it eventually felt comfortable and snug.
One of the best things about these shoes is their all-white design, which is both classic and modern. The tonal Swoosh detailing on either side adds a subtle touch of branding, while the embroidered “Nike Air” on the heel tab adds a touch of sophistication. We found that these shoes were perfect for summer and beyond, as they matched with any outfit and looked great both on and off the court.
However, we did notice that these shoes may run slightly larger than expected, so we recommend sizing down if you’re between sizes. Additionally, the all-white design may be prone to scuffs and stains, so you’ll need to take care of them to keep them looking fresh.
Overall, we highly recommend the Nike Women’s Basketball Shoes for anyone looking for a versatile, stylish, and comfortable basketball shoe.
Nike Air Force 1 ’07 Low-Top Sneakers
If you’re looking for a basketball shoe that combines classic style with modern details, the Nike Air Force 1 ’07 (available now) is a great option.
Pros
- The ruffled leather edges give the shoe a clean, sleek look.
- The leather and fabric upper is durable and supportive.
- The perforated inserts promote breathability to keep your feet cool and dry.
Cons
- The shoe may feel a bit heavy for some players.
- The sizing may run a bit small.
- The shoe may require a bit of break-in time.
We recently got our hands on a pair of Nike Air Force 1 ’07 Low-Top Sneakers and we were impressed with their style and performance. The ruffled leather edges give the shoe a clean, sleek look that’s perfect for both on and off the court. The leather and fabric upper is durable and supportive, providing unmatched fit and support. We also appreciated the perforated inserts, which promote breathability to keep our feet cool and dry during intense games.
While we loved the overall look and feel of the Nike Air Force 1 ’07, we did notice a few minor downsides. The shoe may feel a bit heavy for some players, which could impact their agility on the court. Additionally, the sizing may run a bit small, so it’s important to try on the shoe before purchasing. Finally, the shoe may require a bit of break-in time before it feels truly comfortable.
Overall, we would recommend the Nike Air Force 1 ’07 Low-Top Sneakers to anyone looking for a stylish and supportive basketball shoe. With its classic style and modern details, this shoe is sure to turn heads both on and off the court.
Nike Men’s Air Force 1 ’07 An20 Basketball Shoe
If you’re looking for a stylish and comfortable basketball shoe, then the Nike Men’s Air Force 1 ’07 An20 Basketball Shoe (available now) might be a good choice for you.
Pros
- The shoe features a retro style that is sure to turn heads on the court.
- The cushioning provides a comfortable fit, making it easy to wear for extended periods of time.
- The rubber sole offers excellent traction on the court, allowing you to make quick cuts and moves.
Cons
- The shoe is not as breathable as some other basketball shoes on the market.
- The price point may be a bit high for some consumers.
- Some users have reported that the sizing may be a bit off, so it’s important to try them on before purchasing.
We recently had the opportunity to try out the Nike Men’s Air Force 1 ’07 An20 Basketball Shoe, and we were impressed with the shoe’s retro style and comfortable fit. The quilted stitching on the upper gives the shoe a unique look, and the largest Air unit to date provides excellent cushioning.
One downside to the shoe is that it’s not as breathable as some other basketball shoes on the market. If you tend to sweat a lot during games, you may want to consider a different shoe. Additionally, the price point may be a bit high for some consumers, but we think the quality of the shoe justifies the cost.
Overall, we think the Nike Men’s Air Force 1 ’07 An20 Basketball Shoe is a great choice for anyone looking for a stylish and comfortable basketball shoe. The rubber sole offers excellent traction on the court, and the cushioning provides a comfortable fit. Just be sure to try them on before purchasing to ensure the proper fit.
Nike LeBron Witness V
If you’re looking for a low-top basketball shoe that offers great performance and style, the Nike LeBron Witness V (available now) is a solid option.
Pros
- The rubber sole provides excellent traction on the court, allowing you to make quick cuts and moves.
- The shoe’s design is sleek and modern, making it a great choice for players who want to look good while they play.
- The LeBron Witness V is lightweight and comfortable, allowing you to play for extended periods without feeling weighed down.
Cons
- The shoe runs narrow, so if you have wider feet, you may need to go up a size or look for a different shoe.
- The stitched-in tongue can rub against the top of your foot, which can be uncomfortable during extended play.
- Some users have reported that the shoe doesn’t provide enough ankle support, so if you have weak ankles, you may want to consider a different shoe.
We recently got our hands on the Nike LeBron Witness V and were impressed with its overall performance. The rubber sole provides excellent traction on the court, allowing us to make quick cuts and moves without slipping. The shoe’s design is also a standout feature, with a sleek and modern look that’s sure to turn heads.
One thing to keep in mind is that the shoe runs narrow, so if you have wider feet, you may want to go up a size or consider a different shoe altogether. Additionally, the stitched-in tongue can rub against the top of your foot, which can be uncomfortable during extended play. However, we found that the shoe was lightweight and comfortable overall, allowing us to play for extended periods without feeling weighed down.
Another potential downside is that some users have reported that the LeBron Witness V doesn’t provide enough ankle support. If you have weak ankles, you may want to look for a different shoe that offers more support.
Overall, we think the Nike LeBron Witness V is a solid choice for anyone looking for a low-top basketball shoe that offers great performance and style. Just be sure to keep in mind the shoe’s narrow fit and potential lack of ankle support when making your purchasing decision.
Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro Low
If you’re looking for a stylish and comfortable low-top basketball shoe, the Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro Low (available now) is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The leather sole provides excellent grip and support on the court.
- The “Bred Toe” colorway is a unique and eye-catching design that pays homage to Michael Jordan’s early career.
- The Gym Red perforated toe adds a modern twist to the classic design.
Cons
- The price point may be a bit steep for some buyers.
- The leather material may require some breaking in before it feels comfortable on your feet.
- The shoe is not as breathable as some other low-top basketball shoes.
We recently had the chance to try out the Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro Low and were impressed with its overall performance. The leather sole provided excellent grip and support on the court, allowing us to make quick cuts and changes in direction without slipping. The “Bred Toe” colorway is a unique and eye-catching design that is sure to turn heads both on and off the court. We also appreciated the Gym Red perforated toe, which adds a modern twist to the classic design.
One potential downside of the shoe is its price point. While it is definitely a high-quality product, some buyers may be hesitant to spend this much money on a pair of basketball shoes. Additionally, the leather material may require some breaking in before it feels comfortable on your feet. Finally, the shoe is not as breathable as some other low-top basketball shoes, which could be an issue for players who tend to sweat heavily during games.
Overall, we would highly recommend the Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro Low to anyone looking for a stylish and comfortable low-top basketball shoe. While it may not be the most affordable option out there, its high-quality construction and unique design make it well worth the investment.
Why Are Basketball Shoes Low Top Now?
Basketball shoes have evolved over the years, and the trend towards low-top shoes can be attributed to several factors. One of the main reasons is the increased freedom of ankle movement that low-top shoes provide, which is beneficial for players who rely on quick and sudden shifts in direction.
This is particularly important for guards who need to make rapid movements on the court. Another factor is the weight difference between high-top and low-top shoes. On average, high-top shoes are 60 grams heavier than low-top shoes.
This weight difference can impact a player’s speed and agility on the court, making low-top shoes a more attractive option for those who prioritize these attributes.
Are Low Top Basketball Shoes Safe?
Research on the safety of low-top basketball shoes has produced mixed results. Some studies have found no significant difference in ankle injury rates between high-top and low-top shoes. In fact, one study even showed that the fewest injuries occurred in players wearing low-top shoes with laced ankle stabilizers.
However, it is important to note that individual experiences may vary, and some players may still prefer the additional ankle support provided by high-top shoes. To ensure safety while wearing low-top basketball shoes, it is crucial to choose a shoe that fits properly and offers adequate support.
Some low-top shoes are designed with features that provide ankle support, such as reinforced heels or additional cushioning. Additionally, wearing ankle braces can help provide extra support and stability when playing in low-top shoes.
Are Low Top Shoes Good For Basketball?
Low top shoes can be good for basketball, but it depends on the player’s preference and playing style. Low top shoes are designed to provide support and stability to the ankle, which is important for quick movements and jumping.
They also have a lot of grip to prevent slipping, and they are generally lighter weight than high top shoes. Low tops allow for greater mobility and can help players feel quicker on their feet. However, high tops provide more support around the ankle, which can be important for preventing ankle sprains.
Research has shown that wearing low-tops can provide more freedom of ankle movement, which fits players who employ a lot of sudden shifts in direction and explosive speed.
On the other hand, high-tops can require smaller muscular effort and the body’s proprioceptive feedback during landing, which is why a lot of big-men in basketball prefer high-tops, as they have to deal with a lot of rebounding under the rim.
Low top shoes are lighter and enable players to be quicker/faster and increase the range of motion. Restricted ankle motion in a high top might lead to knee injuries. However, low tops don’t come up around your ankle, which means they don’t offer support for sudden turns and on-the-go landings. With ankle injuries topping the list of injuries, this is a significant disadvantage.
Do Low Top Basketball Shoes Have Ankle Support?
Low top basketball shoes can have ankle support, but it is important to choose the right pair. According to a study, low-top shoes can provide larger freedom of ankle movement, which benefits players whose game is built upon a lot of movement. However, there is no direct evidence that different types of basketball shoes prevent ankle injuries.
In fact, most ankle sprains happen when one player lands on another’s foot, and the resulting forces are so high that no high-top could stop a sprain. It is important to note that ankle support and overall foot security don’t solely come from the ankle collar of the shoe. Ankle support can come from other areas of the shoe to blend in all the elements that provide support and containment.
Therefore, when choosing a low top basketball shoe for good ankle support, it is important to consider factors such as cushioning, traction, and multi-directional support that come from multiple areas of the shoe.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying low top basketball shoes, there are a few factors you should consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. In this section, we’ll cover the most important features to look for when shopping for low top basketball shoes.
Fit
The first thing to consider when buying low top basketball shoes is the fit. You want shoes that fit snugly but aren’t too tight. Look for shoes that have a secure lacing system that will keep your foot in place during play. It’s also a good idea to try on shoes with the socks you plan to wear during games to ensure the best fit.
Traction
Traction is another important factor when choosing low top basketball shoes. Look for shoes with a rubber sole that provides good grip on the court. The sole should also be durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of playing basketball.
Cushioning
Cushioning is important for comfort and support during play. Look for shoes with adequate cushioning in the sole and around the ankle. This will help absorb shock and reduce the risk of injury.
Breathability
Basketball is a high-intensity sport, so it’s important to choose shoes that are breathable to keep your feet cool and dry. Look for shoes with mesh or perforated uppers that allow air to circulate.
Durability
Finally, consider the durability of the shoes. Basketball shoes take a beating on the court, so you want shoes that can withstand the wear and tear of play. Look for shoes made with durable materials and reinforced stitching.
In summary, when shopping for low top basketball shoes, consider the fit, traction, cushioning, breathability, and durability of the shoes. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find the best product for your needs and play your best on the court.
