Basketball is a sport that requires a lot of quick movements, jumping, and running. It is crucial to have comfortable and supportive shoes to prevent injuries and enhance performance. Youth basketball players need shoes that are specifically designed for their needs.
Here, we will discuss the best youth basketball shoes available in the market.
When looking for youth basketball shoes, it is essential to consider factors such as fit, support, traction, and durability. The shoes should fit snugly, but not too tight, and provide ample support to the feet, ankles, and heels. Traction is crucial for preventing slips and falls on the court, while durability ensures that the shoes can withstand the rigorous demands of the game.
After researching and testing several options, we have identified the top ten best youth basketball shoes that meet these criteria. Whether your child is a beginner or an experienced player, there is a shoe on this list that will suit their needs.
Best Youth Basketball Shoes
We understand that finding the perfect pair of basketball shoes for your young athlete can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why we have compiled a list of the best youth basketball shoes on the market. Our team has researched and tested various shoes to bring you a comprehensive list that will help you make an informed decision. From comfort to support, we have considered every aspect to ensure that these shoes will help your young athlete perform their best on the court.
Under Armour Pre School Lockdown 6 Basketball Shoe
If you’re looking for a durable and comfortable basketball shoe for your kid, the Under Armour Pre School Lockdown 6 Basketball Shoe (available here) is a great option.
Pros
- The leather upper with mesh panels provides breathability and comfort.
- The plush foam sockliner adds extra cushioning for increased underfoot comfort.
- The solid rubber outsole with herringbone traction pattern offers great on-court movement and control.
Cons
- The standard tie laces may come undone during play and need to be retied.
- Some reviewers have noted that the shoes run a bit small and suggest ordering a half size up.
- The color may not be as expected – some reviewers have received shoes that appear more pink than red.
We’ve been impressed with the Under Armour Pre School Lockdown 6 Basketball Shoe. The leather upper with mesh panels provides breathability and comfort, while the plush foam sockliner adds extra cushioning for increased underfoot comfort. The solid rubber outsole with herringbone traction pattern offers great on-court movement and control, making these shoes a great option for young basketball players.
While the standard tie laces may come undone during play and need to be retied, this is a minor issue that can be easily remedied. Some reviewers have noted that the shoes run a bit small and suggest ordering a half size up, so keep this in mind when ordering. Additionally, the color may not be as expected – some reviewers have received shoes that appear more pink than red.
Overall, we highly recommend the Under Armour Pre School Lockdown 6 Basketball Shoe for young basketball players who need a durable and comfortable shoe for on-court play.
Nike Kyrie 8 Infinity Black/Multi-White
If you’re looking for a comfortable and stylish basketball shoe, the Nike Kyrie 8 Infinity Black/Multi-White (available here) is a great option.
Pros
- The synthetic rubber sole provides excellent traction on the court.
- The classic laces ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
- The shoe’s design is eye-catching and stylish.
Cons
- The shoe is not water-resistant, so it may not be suitable for outdoor play in wet conditions.
- The shoe may be a bit bulky for some players.
- The tongue of the shoe is slightly oversized, which may be uncomfortable for some players.
We recently tried out the Nike Kyrie 8 Infinity Black/Multi-White and were impressed by its performance on the court. The synthetic rubber sole provides excellent traction, allowing for quick cuts and sudden stops. The classic laces ensure a secure and comfortable fit, and the shoe’s design is eye-catching and stylish.
However, we did notice that the shoe is not water-resistant, so it may not be suitable for outdoor play in wet conditions. Additionally, the shoe may be a bit bulky for some players, which could impact their agility on the court. Finally, the tongue of the shoe is slightly oversized, which may be uncomfortable for some players.
Overall, the Nike Kyrie 8 Infinity Black/Multi-White is a great option for young basketball players who want a comfortable and stylish shoe that performs well on the court.
Under Armour Unisex-Child Grade School Jet ’21 Basketball Shoe
If you want a comfortable and stylish basketball shoe for your child, the Under Armour Unisex-Child Grade School Jet ’21 Basketball Shoe (available here) is a great option.
Pros
- The shoes are very comfortable, and fit true to size.
- The design is stylish and eye-catching.
- The shoes are made with high-quality materials, ensuring durability.
Cons
- The laces may break easily, so be careful when tightening them.
- The shoes may be too narrow for wider feet.
- The shoes may not provide enough ankle support for some players.
We recently purchased these shoes for our child, and we were impressed with the comfort and quality of the shoes. They fit true to size and provided ample cushioning for our child’s feet during basketball games. The design is also very stylish, with an eye-catching color scheme that our child loved.
However, we did notice that the laces on the shoes seemed to be a bit fragile. We had to be careful when tightening them to avoid them breaking. Additionally, the shoes may not be suitable for players who need a lot of ankle support, as they are a bit lower cut than some other basketball shoes.
Overall, we think that the Under Armour Unisex-Child Grade School Jet ’21 Basketball Shoe is a great option for parents looking for a comfortable and stylish basketball shoe for their child. Just be aware of the potential issues with the laces and ankle support.
Nike Boys’ Grade School Jordan Why Not Zer0.4
If you’re looking for a lightweight and responsive basketball shoe, the Nike Boys’ Grade School Jordan Why Not Zer0.4 (available here) is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The thin, minimal upper provides a comfortable and breathable fit that doesn’t weigh you down.
- The TPU wraparound ribbon adds stability for quick lateral movements on the court.
- The responsive cushioning helps to return energy with each step, giving you a little extra boost when you need it.
Cons
- The sizing can be a bit tricky, so make sure to try them on before purchasing.
- Some users have reported that the cushioning can be a bit too firm for their liking.
- The design may not be to everyone’s taste, as it’s a bit bold and flashy.
Overall, we think the Nike Boys’ Grade School Jordan Why Not Zer0.4 is a solid choice for young basketball players who want a shoe that can keep up with their fast-paced style of play. The lightweight design and responsive cushioning make it easy to move around the court, while the TPU wraparound ribbon provides extra stability for quick cuts and changes of direction.
In terms of fit, we recommend trying them on in person if possible, as some users have reported that the sizing can be a bit off. Additionally, while the cushioning is responsive and helps to return energy with each step, it may be a bit too firm for some players’ liking.
Overall, if you’re looking for a shoe that can help you take your game to the next level, the Nike Boys’ Grade School Jordan Why Not Zer0.4 is definitely worth checking out.
JMFCHI Basketball Shoes
If you are looking for a high-quality basketball shoe for your kids, you should definitely check out the JMFCHI Basketball Shoes (available here).
Pros
- The rubber sole is durable, non-slip, and cushiony, making it the best choice for kids.
- The breathable upper with softness fly woven keeps feet dry and provides excellent breathability.
- The high-top design of the shoe effectively protects feet and ankles to avoid injury as much as possible.
Cons
- The sizing runs a bit larger than expected, so you may need to size down.
- The shoes may not be suitable for wide feet.
- The color options are limited.
We recently purchased these shoes for our son, and he absolutely loves them. He says they are comfortable and provide excellent support for his feet and ankles while playing basketball. The rubber sole is perfect for outdoor play, and the shoes have held up well even after several weeks of use.
The breathable upper is also a great feature, as it keeps his feet cool and dry during intense games. The high-top design is a definite plus, as it helps prevent injuries and provides extra support.
Overall, we highly recommend the JMFCHI Basketball Shoes for any young basketball player. They are durable, comfortable, and provide excellent support for your child’s feet and ankles. Plus, they are budget-friendly and offer great value for the price.
AND1 Slam Kids Basketball Shoes
If you’re looking for a stylish and comfortable basketball shoe for your little one, the AND1 Slam Kids Basketball Shoes (available here) are definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The combination synthetic and knit textile upper and perforated vamp make these shoes breathable and comfortable to wear.
- The full-length rubber outsole and multi-directional herringbone tread provide superior traction on both indoor and outdoor courts.
- The heel pull loop makes it easy to put on and take off these shoes.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the high-top design makes it difficult to put on and take off the shoes.
- The shoes may wear out faster than other basketball shoes due to their lightweight design.
- The sizing may run slightly small, so it’s important to double-check the size before purchasing.
These shoes are designed with kids in mind, with a cool retro style that’s sure to stand out on the court. The combination synthetic and knit textile upper provides breathability and comfort, while the molded rear quarter adds support for quick cuts and jumps.
The full-length rubber outsole and multi-directional herringbone tread provide superior traction on both indoor and outdoor courts, making these shoes versatile enough for any game. And with the die-cut EVA foam insole and padded low cut collar, your child will stay comfortable all day long.
Overall, the AND1 Slam Kids Basketball Shoes are a great option for any young basketball player who wants a stylish and comfortable shoe that can handle any court. With their superior traction, lightweight design, and retro style, these shoes are sure to be a hit with kids and parents alike.
AND1 Showout Boys Basketball Shoes
If you are looking for a basketball shoe for your kid, AND1 Showout Boys Basketball Shoes (available here) might be the right choice.
Pros
- The synthetic upper and mesh tongue create breathability, making the shoes comfortable to wear.
- The full-length rubber outsole with multi-directional herringbone tread maximizes skid resistance and grip, providing superior traction.
- The heel pull loop makes it easy to put on and take off the shoes, which is perfect for kids.
Cons
- Some customers have reported durability issues with these shoes.
- The holes for the shoe strings are not reinforced, which can break easily.
- The sizing might not be accurate for all kids.
In our experience, these shoes are lightweight and provide high performance, which is perfect for kids who love to play basketball. The molded rear quarter adds support, making it easier for kids to dominate the game on the indoor or outdoor court. The shoes are durable for everyday wear, and the EVA midsole makes them built to last.
The cool fashion colors make these sneakers stand out in the crowd. However, some customers have reported durability issues with these shoes. The holes for the shoe strings are not reinforced, which can break easily. The sizing might not be accurate for all kids.
Overall, if you are looking for a comfortable, lightweight, and stylish basketball shoe for your kid, AND1 Showout Boys Basketball Shoes might be a good choice.
Under Armour Grade School Zone Bb Basketball Shoe
If you’re looking for a durable and stylish basketball shoe for your child, then the Under Armour Grade School Zone Bb Basketball Shoe (available here) is a great option.
Pros
- The rubber sole provides excellent traction on the court.
- The shoe is made with Under Armour’s HeatGear technology, which helps keep feet cool and dry during play.
- The shoe’s design is sleek and stylish, making it a popular choice among young basketball players.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the shoe runs small, so it may be necessary to order a size up.
- The shoe does not have a lot of arch support, so it may not be the best option for children with flat feet.
- The shoe’s laces may come untied during play, so it may be necessary to double knot them.
We recently purchased the Under Armour Grade School Zone Bb Basketball Shoe for our child, and we were impressed with its overall quality. The shoe’s rubber sole provided excellent traction on the court, which helped improve our child’s performance. Additionally, the HeatGear technology helped keep our child’s feet cool and dry during play, even during hot summer games.
One downside to the shoe is that it may run small, so it may be necessary to order a size up. Additionally, the shoe does not have a lot of arch support, so it may not be the best option for children with flat feet. Finally, the shoe’s laces may come untied during play, so it may be necessary to double knot them to prevent this from happening.
Overall, we would recommend the Under Armour Grade School Zone Bb Basketball Shoe to any parent looking for a durable and stylish basketball shoe for their child. Its excellent traction and HeatGear technology make it a great option for young basketball players.
Nike Zoom Freak 2 SE Signal Blue/Summit White
We highly recommend the Nike Zoom Freak 2 SE Signal Blue/Summit White (available here) for young basketball players who want a comfortable and stylish shoe that can keep up with their game.
Pros
- The rubber sole provides excellent traction on the court, allowing for quick cuts and changes in direction.
- The shoe is 100% authentic, ensuring that your child is getting a high-quality product.
- The Signal Blue/Summit White colorway is eye-catching and stylish, making your child stand out on the court.
Cons
- Some customers received fake shoes with torn boxes, so make sure to purchase from a reputable seller.
- The white parts of the shoe have a grayish marbling, which may not be to everyone’s taste.
- The sizing may run a bit small, so consider ordering a half size up.
The Nike Zoom Freak 2 SE Signal Blue/Summit White is a great choice for young basketball players who want a shoe that looks good and performs well on the court. The rubber sole provides excellent traction, allowing for quick movements and changes in direction. The shoe is also 100% authentic, so you can be sure that your child is getting a high-quality product.
One potential downside is that some customers received fake shoes with torn boxes, so make sure to purchase from a reputable seller. Additionally, the white parts of the shoe have a grayish marbling that may not be to everyone’s taste. Finally, the sizing may run a bit small, so consider ordering a half size up.
Overall, we think that the Nike Zoom Freak 2 SE Signal Blue/Summit White is a great choice for young basketball players who want a shoe that looks good and performs well on the court. The stylish colorway is sure to turn heads, and the rubber sole provides excellent traction for quick movements and changes in direction.
Nike Lebron 18 Basketball Shoes
We highly recommend purchasing the Nike Lebron 18 Basketball Shoes (available here) for your child’s next basketball season.
Pros
- The rubber sole provides excellent traction on the court.
- The shoes are 100% authentic, ensuring quality and durability.
- The black and gold colorway is stylish and versatile.
Cons
- The shoes are on the pricier side.
- Some customers have reported sizing issues, so make sure to double-check the size chart before purchasing.
- The shoes do not come in the original shoebox.
These shoes are a great investment for any young basketball player. The rubber sole provides excellent grip on the court, preventing slips and falls. The shoes are also 100% authentic, ensuring that they will last through multiple seasons. Plus, the black and gold colorway is stylish and versatile, making them a great choice for both games and practices.
However, it’s important to note that these shoes are on the pricier side. Make sure to double-check the size chart before purchasing, as some customers have reported sizing issues. Additionally, the shoes do not come in the original shoebox, which may be disappointing for some customers.
Overall, the Nike Lebron 18 Basketball Shoes are an excellent choice for any young basketball player. They provide great traction, durability, and style on the court.
Kids Basketball Shoes Buying Guide
When it comes to buying youth basketball shoes, there are several factors to consider. We understand that choosing the right pair of shoes can be overwhelming, so we’ve put together this buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
Fit
The most important aspect of a basketball shoe is the fit. A shoe that fits well will provide the necessary support and stability for the player’s foot. When trying on shoes, make sure there is enough room for the toes to move freely, but not so much that the foot slides around inside the shoe. The shoe should also fit snugly around the ankle to prevent injury.
Cushioning
Basketball involves a lot of jumping and running, so cushioning is important to absorb shock and reduce the risk of injury. Look for shoes with ample cushioning in the heel and forefoot. The type of cushioning can vary, with some shoes using air pockets, foam, or gel. It’s important to find a shoe with the right amount of cushioning for the player’s weight and playing style.
Traction
Good traction is essential for quick cuts and changes of direction on the court. Look for shoes with a durable outsole made of rubber or similar materials. The outsole should have a pattern that provides good grip on the court surface. It’s also important to consider the type of court the player will be playing on, as some shoes are designed specifically for indoor or outdoor use.
Support
Basketball shoes should provide support for the foot and ankle to prevent injury. Look for shoes with a sturdy upper that provides support around the ankle. Some shoes also have additional support features such as straps or a midfoot shank. It’s important to find a shoe with the right level of support for the player’s foot and playing style.
Breathability
Basketball can be a high-intensity sport, so it’s important to find shoes that allow the feet to breathe. Look for shoes with a breathable upper made of mesh or similar materials. This will help keep the feet cool and dry during play.
In summary, when choosing youth basketball shoes, it’s important to consider fit, cushioning, traction, support, and breathability. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a shoe that will provide the necessary support and comfort for the player’s foot and playing style.
What Should You Look for With Basketball Shoes For A 12 Year Old?
When looking for the best basketball shoes for a 12-year-old, consider the following factors:
- Traction: Good grip on the court is essential for quick movements and preventing slips.
- Cushioning: Proper cushioning provides comfort and shock absorption during jumps and landings.
- Comfort: The shoes should fit well and feel comfortable during play.
- Support and stability: Look for shoes that offer ankle support and stability to prevent injuries.
Popular brands for youth basketball shoes include Nike, Jordan, Adidas, and Under Armour. Some top-rated models are Adidas D.O.N. Issue #4, Air Jordan 37, Under Armour Curry Flow 10, and Nike Team. Make sure to choose a style that your child will love as well.
Are These Basketball Shoes Good For A Girl Youth?
Yes, the basketball shoes mentioned above are suitable as well as these recommendations on the best basketball shoes for youth girls. Top brands like Nike, Under Armour, Adidas, and Jordan offer quality youth basketball shoes.
Some highly-rated models include Adidas D.O.N. Issue #4, Air Jordan 37, Under Armour Curry Flow 10, and Nike Team. High-top basketball sneakers like the Dame 8 also provide ample ankle support.
When choosing basketball shoes for a girl youth, make sure to consider factors such as traction, cushioning, comfort, support, stability, and lightweight design.
Are These Basketball Shoes Good For Teenage Guys?
Yes, the basketball shoes mentioned in the search results are suitable as the best basketball shoes for teenage guys. Top brands like Nike, Under Armour, Adidas, and Jordan offer quality youth basketball shoes.
Some highly-rated models include Adidas D.O.N. Issue #4, Air Jordan 37, Under Armour Curry Flow 10, Nike Team, Air Jordan CP3.XII, Under Armour Curry 6, Nike LeBron 16, Air Jordan 34, and Adidas Crazy Explosive.
The Nike Giannis Immortality 2 and Nike LeBron 19 are also recommended for teenage guys.
