One of the most important elements of a basketball player’s uniform is their shoes. Basketball sneakers can make or break your game, and it’s critical to find a pair of shoes that fit well and best suit your position on the court. In order to make sure you’re performing to the best of your ability on the court, take a look at these tips for choosing the right basketball shoes

Look 

You shouldn’t be prioritizing the look of your sneakers, but playing in something you feel good in will make the shoes all that more valuable to you. A shoe that is functional is definitely important, but don’t be afraid to show off your personal style by opting for a shoe that’s your favorite color or pattern 

Fit

Most experts recommend you have ¼ to ½ inch between your big toe and the front of your basketball shoe. The shoe should have a snug fit without sliding around in the shoe 

Feel

A common injury in basketball is a rolled or sprained ankle. To combat this, find a basketball shoe that’s made of a stiffer, more durable material and has a reasonable amount of cushioning to maintain comfort while still providing a secure fit. 

Longevity

You don’t want to be picking out a new pair of sneakers after only a few months, finding a pair of basketball shoes that can make it through a season or two should be a high priority. Basketball shoes stop providing proper support when seams and fabric start to stretch out. Its usually in best practice to select a heavier, thicker shoe to ensure durability. 

Consider how often you’ll be playing basketball. Someone who plays once a week probably doesn’t need the same level of durability from a shoe that a college athlete might.

Build.

Your size plays a role in the kind of support you’ll need from your sneakers. Typically taller, larger people need a little more support from their sneakers. 

Cost

The cost of your basketball shoe doesn’t have any correlation with how good of a player you’ll become. Find a basketball shoe within your budget and check off how many of your specific needs they fulfill. 

Conclusion

When you’re picking out a pair of basketball shoes, don’t get hung up on the style too much or overspend. It’s very possible to find a durable, comfortable sneaker that will aid your training without breaking the bank.