This guide features the best basketball shoes of 2024, selected based on what each type of player needs, whether they’re fast guards or big forwards. From elite traction and responsive cushioning to innovative designs, you’ll find a shoe that’s right for you.
Here at GearBravos, we’re all about providing you with the most thorough and trustworthy reviews of basketball shoes available. Our team of expert testers tests every pair for weeks under on-court play to evaluate their performance, durability, comfort, and style.
We continuously update this list to showcase the latest and highest-performing basketball footwear. Stay ahead of the competition and check back regularly for new updates and reviews. Ready to elevate your performance? Let’s dive into our top picks for the best basketball shoes of 2024.
If you’re interested in exploring top-performing footwear for other sports, check out our volleyball shoes and pickleball shoes categories.
Best for Consistent Performance – Nike LeBron 21
The Nike LeBron 21 Basketball Shoe is the successor of the LeBron 20 that offers enhanced traction, cushioning support, and fit. While it doesn’t introduce groundbreaking updates, this shoe remains a top choice for basketball players who prioritize consistent performance, making it one of the best basketball shoes of 2024.
Key Features of the Nike LeBron 21 Basketball Shoe
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Outsole Material | Translucent rubber with unique traction pattern |
| Cushioning | Cushlon midsole, Zoom Turbo unit in forefoot, and Zoom Air unit in heel |
| Upper Material | Textile, Flywire, and leather shroud |
| Fit | True-to-size, snug 1-to-1 fit |
Performance
The LeBron 21’s translucent rubber outsole provides great grip on clean indoor courts, while its cushioning system—featuring a Cushlon midsole and Zoom Air units—delivers both impact protection and responsiveness. The layered upper blends textile, flywire, and leather for flexibility and containment, ensuring stability during quick lateral moves.
Support & Fit
TPU shank and wide base along with a secure fit make LeBron 21 good at providing stability during quick movements such as cuts. The true-to-size fit ensures that players have a snug, secure feel, making it perfect for quick movements on the court.
Overall
The Nike LeBron 21 is a good sneaker for basketball players who require reliable stability and comfort during the game. It doesn’t break a lot of new ground but serves basketball athletes well in terms of traction, cushioning, and support in 2024.
The Nike LeBron 21 is one of the standout shoes in 2024. For an in-depth look, please read our complete review here.
Best for Rebound Efficiency – Nike GT Jump 2
The Nike GT Jump 2 takes the legacy of its predecessor and adds some innovative features to make it stand out from other 2024 basketball shoes. This shoe is designed for big players who control the paint, and offers great rebound efficiency, energy return, and comfort — it’s one of the best basketball shoes for players looking for performance and durability
Key Features of the Nike GT Jump 2 Basketball Shoe
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Upper Material | Leno weave with TPU reinforcement, offering enhanced breathability |
| Cushioning | Full-length Zoom Strobel, React foam in the heel, and tandem Zoom Air in the forefoot |
| Traction | All-weather tread pattern optimized for indoor courts |
| Fit | True-to-size for narrow/medium feet; forgiving for wide feet |
| Best For | Rebounders, power players, and athletes needing exceptional energy return |
Performance
The GT Jump 2 is one of the best performance basketball shoes for big players. Its standout feature is the PeBax jump frame, a full-length launching pad that boosts vertical jumps and enhances energy efficiency. This shoe offers superior cushioning with React foam in the heel and tandem Zoom Air units in the forefoot, making it a top pick for players who need maximum support in high-impact play.
Support & Fit
These shoes for basketball players offer excellent lockdown through a reinforced lace line and dual lace eyelets, allowing players to customize their fit. The Leno weave upper makes the shoe breathable for those long games while the air chambers on the ankle collar provide cushioning during rebounding and other rough movements on the court.
Durability & Traction
The GT Jump 2 is built with durable XDR rubber on the outsole, making it a reliable choice for indoor hardwood courts. However, the shoe’s tread could become worn out on rough terrains because of its slim and flat base. This shoe delivers consistent grip and durability for players focused on rebound efficiency and playability on well-maintained indoor courts.
Overall
Nike GT Jump 2 is one of the most innovative and durable basketball shoes of 2024. With its incredible energy return and soft support, it’s an ideal shoe for power players and rebound athletes. While it may not be the most agile option for shifty guards, it’s forgiving underfoot cushioning and rebound-friendly design solidify its place among the best basketball shoes of 2024.
Best for Stability and Comfort – Puma All Pro Nitro Elite
Advanced material, stability, and comfort are all wrapped up in a sleek package with the Puma All Pro Nitro Elite. Though priced at $250, it delivers a smooth playing experience, making it a strong contender among the best basketball shoes of 2024.
Key Features of the Puma All Pro Nitro Elite Basketball Shoe
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Upper Material | Ultra Weave TPU textile for flexibility and lockdown |
| Cushioning | Drop-in Nitro foam midsole with carbon composite plate |
| Traction | Multi-pattern outsole combining ladder, linear, and quasi-herringbone treads |
| Fit | True-to-size for narrow to medium feet, with a slightly roomy toe box |
Performance
The Nitro foam midsole delivers a stable, responsive underfoot feel, enhanced by a carbon composite plate for smooth transitions. The shoe’s traction works well on clean indoor courts but can falter on dusty or uneven surfaces. Its containment-focused design supports quick, precise movements.
Support & Fit
With the triple padded tongue, reinforced lace system, and ergonomic fit, there is excellent lockdown and comfort. Its slightly roomy toe box allows the shoe to fit most foot shapes and provides secure support during intense gameplay.
Overall
The Puma All Pro Nitro Elite is stable, comfortable, and agile, perfect for players who need ground-based performance. While its $250 price tag may not suit everyone, it’s a solid choice for those seeking durability and secure lockdown in their basketball footwear.
Best for Explosive Movements – Air Jordan 38 Basketball Shoe
Like many other highly functional basketball shoes, the Air Jordan continues the legacy of one of the most iconic basketball shoes with a focus on superior support, responsiveness, and stability on the court. The shoe is ideal for both comfort, and durability when you’re playing intently at practice, or an intense game.
Key Features of the Air Jordan 38 Basketball Shoe
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Outsole Material | Quasi-Delta traction pattern with shallow tread depth for grip on indoor courts |
| Cushioning | Full-length Zoom Strobel with Cushlon 3.0 foam for responsive cushioning |
| Upper Material | Textile and mesh with exposed foam for lightweight durability and breathability |
| Fit | Narrow to medium fit for a secure, locked-in feel |
Performance
Designed for the basketball player who needs responsive and predictable cushioning and traction. The energy return and impact protection that full-length Zoom Strobel, paired with Cushlon 3.0 foam, gives you is perfect for players who rely on explosive movements. Quasi Delta traction pattern serves best for indoor basketball courts with smooth surfaces for good grip and stability at quick cuts, pivots, and fast breaks. But, while the outsole will also hold up great in outdoor endeavors, it may well wear out a little faster on the outside.
Support & Fit
For basketball players, this shoe has a wide base and great support. This provides a narrow to medium fit so the shoe stays snug on your foot (no inward foot movement), yet comfortable. Without compromising containment, the foam on the upper exposed in the upper adds flexibility, keeping your foot locked in during sharp turns and lateral movements on the court.
Overall
If you are a basketball player in need of a comfort, durability, and performance-oriented basketball shoe, The Air Jordan 38 is a top-tier basketball shoe. The cushioning is responsive and the grip is excellent while it’s mostly made to be used indoors, it can also best serve as a solid boost for someone wishing to level up on the hardwood in 2024.
Best for Durability and Impact Protection – Puma MB.03 Basketball Shoe
The Puma MB.03, LaMelo Ball’s third signature shoe, combines durability, traction, and impact protection, making it a standout among the best basketball shoes of 2024 for stability and comfort.
Key Features of the Puma MB.03 Basketball Shoe
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Upper Material | Multi-layered engineered mesh with fuse overlays for durability |
| Cushioning | Nitro foam pucks embedded in a dense EVA midsole |
| Traction | Aggressive multi-directional pattern for versatile grip |
| Fit | True-to-size with a slightly narrow, one-to-one construction |
Performance
The MB.03 offers elite traction with its multi-directional outsole, excelling on indoor courts. Its impact protection and stability are provided by Nitro foam cushioning, although players looking for low-to-the-ground responsiveness will find it to be too firm.
Support & Comfort
The engineered mesh upper and flexible lacing system provides excellent lockdown, while a padded heel collar and TPU midfoot shank enhance stability. Its one-to-one fit eliminates dead space, offering both comfort and support.
Overall
The Puma MB.03 is ideal for players who value durability and impact protection over court feel. Whether you’re a fan of LaMelo Ball’s line or need performance basketball shoes, this model delivers top-notch stability and comfort.
Best for Versatile Comfort and Playability – Nike KD 16 Basketball Shoe
The Nike KD 16 combines comfort, flexibility, and innovative design that is perfect for versatile players. With excellent cushioning and creative playability, it stands out as one of the best basketball shoes of 2024.
Key Features of the Nike KD 16 Basketball Shoe
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Upper Material | Synthetic leather and woven mesh with broad plastic panels for containment |
| Cushioning | Cushlon foam midsole, forefoot Zoom Air unit, and rearfoot Air Strobel |
| Traction | Mixed tread pattern with circular, wave, and gear-like elements |
| Fit | True-to-size for narrow/medium feet; forgiving for wide feet |
Performance
The KD 16 delivers a plush, cushioned basketball shoe experience with its dual-layer cushioning. Zoom Air in the forefoot provides energy return, while Air Strobel in the heel absorbs impact, making it a top choice for performance basketball shoes.
Support & Durability
It’s one of the more durable basketball shoes for indoor use, thanks to the synthetic leather upper. The containment is enhanced by broad plastic panels, and comfort is improved by a gusseted tongue.
Overall
Ideal for shifty guards and nimble forwards, the Nike KD 16 offers comfort, versatility, and traction. Whether you’re seeking lightweight basketball shoes or basketball footwear for creative play, this shoe excels on the court.
Best for Energy Return and Stability – Adidas Harden Vol. 8 Basketball Shoe
The Adidas Harden Vol. 8 is a game-changer in performance basketball shoes, offering advanced cushioning technology, durable materials, and excellent support. As one of the top contenders for best basketball shoes of 2024, it’s ideal for players prioritizing stability, energy return, and confidence on the court
Key Features of the Adidas Harden Vol. 8 Basketball Shoe
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Upper Material | Durable knit upper with EVA side panels for lockdown and stability |
| Cushioning | Full-length Jet Boost midsole with a carbon fiber shank for superior bounce and shock absorption |
| Traction | Multi-patterned outsole optimized for indoor basketball courts and rubberized surfaces |
| Fit | True-to-size design with a wide midfoot and tapered forefoot for enhanced containment |
Performance & Traction
Adidas Harden Vol. 8 is one of the responsive Jet Boost high-performance basketball shoes. This midsole technology absorbs impact and gives you energy return for a smooth and powerful ride. Outsole traction, as seen on indoor basketball shoes, provides great grip after a short warm-up period. It does well on clean hardwood courts, but the thinner tread will probably wear quickly on rough outdoor surfaces.
Fit & Comfort
As one of the most comfortable basketball shoes, the Harden Vol. 8 features a padded heel counter and wide midfoot for a secure fit. The tapered forefoot provides containment without sacrificing comfort. Depending on the arch and the foot, these shoes will suit those with narrow or medium feet, and will even serve as a great orthotic insert if one needs it.
Overall
The Adidas Harden Vol. 8 combines durability, energy efficiency, and elite performance, making it a standout among the best basketball shoes for 2024. Its innovative design with advanced cushioning technology and great containment gives its players who dominate the ground game stability and confidence. While slightly heavy in the heel, its overall construction makes it a top pick for serious athletes seeking high-performance basketball footwear.
Best for Stability and Traction – Way of Wade 10 Basketball Shoe
The Way of Wade 10 delivers cutting-edge innovation and explosive playability, making it one of the best basketball shoes of 2024. It has superior cushioning, stability, and traction, making it a top pick for high-performance players.
Key Features of the Way of Wade 10 Basketball Shoe
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Upper Material | Dragonfly-inspired breathable mesh with reinforced lace eyelets |
| Cushioning | Full-length carbon fiber plate, PeBax foam midsole, and TPU casing |
| Traction | Radial heel tread with rippling quasi-herringbone forefoot pattern |
| Fit | Ergonomic forefoot design accommodating wide and splayed feet |
Performance
The full-length carbon fiber plate and PeBax foam deliver excellent propulsion, energy return, and impact absorption. The versatile traction grips well on hardwood and painted courts, making this shoe ideal for performance basketball.
Support & Fit
Reinforced lace eyelets and a TPU heel counter provide lockdown, whilst the ergonomic forefoot design provides comfort for all foot shapes. It fits like a one-to-one, eliminating dead space and giving you confidence during fast-paced play.
Overall
The Way of Wade 10 is a stable, cushioned, and tractioned sneaker that inspires confidence and support on indoor courts. While better suited for indoor use due to its thin tread, its innovation and performance make it a standout in basketball footwear for 2024.
Best for Multi-Sport Versatility – Puma Stewie 2 Basketball Shoe
The Puma Stewie 2, Brianna Stewart’s second signature shoe, excels as a versatile model for basketball, tennis, and pickleball. Its innovative design and balance make it standout among the best basketball shoes of 2024 for multi-sport athletes.
Key Features of the Puma Stewie 2 Basketball Shoe
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Upper Material | Dual-layer TPU lattice with padded inner lining for comfort and containment |
| Cushioning | Nitro foam heel insert, dense EVA midsole, and bottom-loaded plastic shank |
| Traction | Leaflet-inspired forefoot tread with circular and linear patterns in the heel |
| Fit | True-to-size, forgiving for narrow to slightly wide feet |
Performance
The Stewie 2 focuses on ground-based stability, excelling in precise footwork and balance. Its versatile traction performs well indoors and on painted outdoor courts, while its cushioning absorbs impact during extended play.
Fit & Durability
The ergonomic fit, high gusseted tongue, and reinforced lace lines ensure lockdown for a wide range of foot shapes. While durable for indoor play, the outsole’s softer rubber may wear faster on gritty outdoor courts.
Overall
The Puma Stewie 2 is a cross-sport performer that combines comfort, stability, and multi-surface traction. Perfect for players seeking balanced basketball footwear with versatility for tennis or pickleball, this shoe stands out for its indoor performance and innovative design.
Best Basketball Shoes for Court Feel – Puma Scoot Zero
The Puma Scoot Zero emphasizes court feel and stability, excelling in precise footwork and creative play. Its ProFoam+ EVA midsole offers elastic responsiveness, while the bottom-loaded shank ensures ground-based stability. Although not designed for explosive plays, the shoe shines in providing a confident grip and control on clean indoor courts.
Key Features of the Puma Scoot Zero Basketball Shoe
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Upper Material | Multi-layer mesh with padded inner lining and lateral foxing |
| Cushioning | ProFoam+ EVA midsole with a bottom-loaded stability shank |
| Traction | Quasi-herringbone and hexagonal tread for versatile grip |
| Fit | True-to-size; accommodates narrow to slightly wide feet |
| Best For | Players prioritizing court feel, nimble footwork, and value |
Performance
The Puma Scoot Zero emphasizes court feel and stability, excelling in precise footwork and creative play. Its ProFoam+ EVA midsole offers elastic responsiveness, while the bottom-loaded shank ensures ground-based stability. Although not designed for explosive plays, the shoe shines in providing a confident grip and control on clean indoor courts.
Fit & Comfort
The Puma Scoot Zero is about court feel and stability and is great for precise footwork and creative play. The ProFoam+ EVA midsole is elastic and responsive, and the bottom-loaded shank is ground-based stable. Not designed for explosive plays, the shoe is a winner in terms of delivering a confident grip and control on clean indoor courts.
Traction & Durability
Quasi-herringbone and hexagonal treads combine for a traction pattern that provides a grip that you can count on for clean hardwood courts. But it’s softer rubber compound means it wears out faster on outdoor surfaces and is better for indoor play or occasional outdoor use.
Overall
The Puma Scoot Zero sits in the middle of the affordability and performance spectrum, so if you’re looking for dependable basketball shoes that won’t empty your wallet, this is an option to consider. It’s not as explosive as some of the higher-end models, but it stands out in its category as a standout court feel, containment, and comfort.
