If you are looking for a high-quality performance basketball shoe, Nike has got you covered. With its extensive range of basketball shoes, the Swoosh Brand offers top-notch technology and design to enhance your game on the court. From the iconic Air Jordan line to the innovative LeBron and Kyrie models, the iconic athletic footwear company consistently delivers shoes that provide optimal comfort, support, and traction for ultimate performance. But with so many different shoes to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect pair. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of some of the best basketball shoes Nike offers. Without further ado, here are our top picks:
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1. Air Jordan 36
Michael Jordan and Nike have created some of the best basketball shoes in history. In fact, the Air Jordan line has become iconic in the world of basketball footwear. The Air Jordan 36 continues this legacy with its innovative design and superior performance features.
The sneaker boasts a full-length Zoom Air Strobel unit for responsive cushioning and a lightweight feel on the court. In contrast, an energy-returning Zoom Air unit under the forefoot provides explosive propulsion during quick movements. The Air Jordan 36 also features a multi-directional traction pattern on the outsole, enhancing grip and allowing quick cuts and pivots.
All in all, the Air Jordan 36 is a versatile and reliable option for anyone looking to enhance their basketball game or simply enjoy stylish and comfortable footwear. These high-top basketball shoes are especially great for big, heavy players needing extra stability and ankle support. They are also suitable for people with flat feet, as the shoes provide excellent arch support and help to distribute weight evenly.
2. Air Jordan 37 Low
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Jordan Brand has been producing basketball sneakers for decades, improving their performance with each new release. The Air Jordan 37 Low is no exception. These shoes are all about takeoffs and landings, offering a sleek and modern design.
Anyone who has worn these sneakers will attest to their exceptional cushioning and responsiveness, thanks to the Air units and Formula 23 foam technology. Thus, the AJ 37 is perfect for explosive movements on the court and provides the necessary support for quick cuts and jumps. Thanks to its innovative rubber outsole pattern, the shoe also offers excellent traction on clean courts. So you can be sure you’ll make sharp and precise movements without worrying about slipping.
These low-top basketball shoes have been worn by many professional NBA players, including Jayson Tatum and Zion Williamson, so you know they are trusted and reliable. Whether you’re a professional athlete or enjoy playing basketball for fun, you can’t go wrong with a pair of Jordans.
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3. Jordan Luka 1
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The Jordan Luka 1 is one of the best basketball shoes for a point guard needing speed, agility, and support on the court. Designed in collaboration with NBA player Luka Dončić, these sneakers offer a modern, sleek design that reflects his unique playing style.
With its great traction, ample support and a secure fit, the Jordan Luka 1 allows point guards to make quick cuts, change direction effortlessly, and maintain stability during intense gameplay. Whether making sharp passes or driving to the basket, these shoes will help elevate your performance to the next level. The use of Formula 23 foam inside a Phylon carrier, coupled with the unique shank system, offers plenty of explosiveness for players.
Overall, these basketball shoes are a great option for players who value excellent traction, support and a good fit.
4. Jordan Tatum 1
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These hoop shoes are touted as the lightest performance shoes in Jordan Brand’s basketball lineup. Designed with Jayson Taytum’s versatile playing style in mind, the Jordan Tatum 1 offers a combination of bouncy cushioning and reliable traction.
The shoe features a lightweight frame wrapped in foam and a forefoot Zoom Air unit, offering both comfort and responsiveness without sacrificing court feel. Its low-top design allows maximum ankle mobility while the breathable materials keep your feet cool and comfortable throughout the game. The basketball shoe also boasts a collapsible heel system that makes it easier to slip on and off.
If a lightweight feel and agile performance are what you prioritize in a basketball shoe, then the Jordan Tatum 1 is one of your best options.
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5. Jordan Why Not Zer0.6
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The Jordan Why Not Zer0.6 is all about speed. Designed in collaboration with Los Angeles Clippers player Russell Westbrook, this shoe is built for explosive movements on the court. Its sleek and streamlined design reduces drag, allowing you to move quickly and effortlessly.
The Zoom Air cushioning in the forefoot provides responsive energy return, giving you that extra boost during fast breaks and quick cuts. The shoe also offers exceptional support thanks to the interior bootie that keeps your foot locked in place. This ensures stability and prevents any unwanted sliding or slipping during intense gameplay.
Whether you’re a fan of Westbrook or simply looking for a high-performance basketball shoe that delivers on support, the Jordan Why Not Zer0.6 is worth considering.
6. Jordan Zion 2
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Next to the Nike KD pairs on this list, the Jordan Zion 2 is one of Nike’s best basketball shoes for small forwards. With its responsive cushioning (a forefoot Zoom Air and Nike Air Strobel unit in the heel) and secure fit, the Jordan Zion 2 allows small forwards to make quick cuts and explosive moves on the court. However, the best feature of the shoe is its ankle support.
The large heel cup on the Zion 2 offers excellent stability and prevents ankle rolls, making it a reliable choice for small forwards who need extra support during intense games. The lacing system and strap also work to provide a lockdown fit, ensuring that the foot stays securely in place while making aggressive movements.
If you are looking for a basketball shoe that offers great traction, cushioning and support then the Jordan Zion 2 is a good shoe to consider.
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7. Nike Air Zoom GT Jump
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Nike’s GT series is known for its responsive performance, and the Nike Air Zoom GT Jump is no exception. While this Nike basketball shoe offers excellent overall performance, the Nike Air Zoom GT Jump truly shines in its cushioning.
The double-stacked Zoom Air works in unison with its external jump frame to provide maximum impact protection and energy return. This combination allows players to confidently explode off the ground for powerful jumps and quick cuts on the court. But it doesn’t stop there. The herringbone pattern on the outsole of the Nike Air Zoom GT Jump ensures excellent multi-directional traction on any surface, even on dusty courts. These Nike Air Zoom GT Jump may be heavy shoes for basketball, but the added weight is a trade-off for their superior support and performance.
Overall, this basketball shoe is a great option for players looking for a shoe with excellent cushioning that still delivers on all the other fronts.
8. Nike Giannis Immortality 3
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The NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo collaborated with Nike to create the Giannis Immortality basketball shoe. While the basketball shoe is a budget-friendly signature model, make no mistake; it still offers good performance.
The shoes offer everything you need in a basketball shoe: comfort, stability, and traction, while their durable construction and responsive cushioning make them suitable for both indoor and outdoor play.
If you’re looking for a great shoe that won’t break the bank, the Nike Giannis Immortality 3 is a solid choice. With their sleek design and Giannis’ personal touch, these shoes are a standout budget option.
9. Nike GT Jump 2
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These comfortable shoes are the best basketball shoes for players who prioritize cushioning and support.
A Phylon midsole encapsulates a full-length Zoom Strobel, while two Zoom Air units in the forefoot provide responsive cushioning and impact protection. The traction pattern underfoot offers excellent grip on the court; it is even suitable for use on dusty courts. The basketball shoe also offers a ton of bounce without compromising on stability, so players can confidently make quick cuts and explosive jumps without worrying about losing balance.
While the Nike GT Jump shoes were a great option for bigger and heavier basketball players, the GT Jump 2 is a more well-rounded basketball shoe that is great for anyone who wants maximum cushioning.
10. Nike KD 15
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The Nike KD 15 was one of the best basketball shoes on the market last year, and it’s still a great option. Designed for players who value versatility and agility on the court, the KD 15 offers a lightweight and responsive feel.
With their full-length Zoom Air cushioning system, these shoes provide excellent impact protection and responsiveness, allowing players to make quick cuts and explosive movements with ease. The basketball shoe also offers great traction on the basketball court and is one of the best basketball shoes for making that jump shot.
Overall, the Nike KD 15 is a top choice for players looking to maximize their performance and comfort on the court. Its sleek design and advanced technology make it a reliable option for any player who wants a basketball shoe that covers all the bases.
11. Nike KD 16
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Kevin Durant’s latest signature shoe is one of the best low-top basketball shoes on the market, offering players a combination of comfort and support.
The Nike KD 16 combines a Cushlon midsole, a Zoom unit in the forefoot, and an Air Stroble unit on the midfoot and heel for maximum cushioning and responsiveness. This shoe is designed to enhance agility and quick movements, making it ideal for players who rely on their speed and agility to outmanoeuvre opponents on the court. The Nike KD 16 also features a durable rubber outsole that provides excellent traction, ensuring players can confidently make sharp cuts and explosive jumps during gameplay. While the traction on this sneaker may not be great at first, they provide an excellent grip on the court once you break them in. However, the traction may not be as good when playing on dusty courts or outdoor surfaces with loose debris.
Overall, the Nike KD 16 is a well-balanced basketball shoe that offers a comfortable fit and responsive cushioning. The shoe may be on the heavier side, but it is still a top choice for basketball players looking for a good performance shoe.
12. Nike Kobe 5 Protro
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Kobe Bryant was known for his relentless work ethic and dedication to the game of basketball. The Nike Kobe 5 Protro pays homage to his legacy by combining sleek design with top-notch performance features.
With its responsive cushioning and excellent traction, this shoe is a great option for players who value agility and quickness on the court. The rubber outsole provides durability and grip, making these basketball shoes suitable for outdoor use. Additionally, the lightweight construction of the Kobe 5 Protro allows for effortless movement, making it a popular choice among basketball players of all levels.
Not only does the Kobe 5 Protro offer exceptional performance, but it also showcases Kobe Bryant’s iconic style with its sleek and modern design. The shoe’s low-top silhouette and bold colourways make a statement on and off the court, allowing players to express their individuality while paying tribute to one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
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13. Nike Kobe 6 Protro
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The Nike Kobe 6 Protro is probably one of the best basketball shoes in the Nike and Kobe lineup. It offers a perfect balance of comfort, support, and performance.
The shoe features a lightweight design that allows for quick movements on the court while still providing ample cushioning for impact protection. Additionally, the traction on the Kobe 6 Protro is exceptional, allowing players to make sharp cuts and quick stops with confidence.
The shoe also boasts a sleek and stylish design, making it a favourite among sneaker enthusiasts. Overall, the Nike Kobe 6 Protro is a top-tier basketball shoe that delivers on both style and performance. The “Reverse Grinch” colourway will be dropping this December, with more Kobe models to follow. Check it out:
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14. Nike Kyrie Infinity
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Kyrie Irving’s signature shoe is the best basketball shoe for anyone looking for a cheap option that still offers excellent performance.
The Nike Kyrie Infinity features a lightweight design and a responsive cushioning system that enhances agility and quickness on the court. Its multi-directional traction pattern provides exceptional grip on a clean court and is able to handle dust as well. Additionally, the shoe’s breathable upper ensures maximum comfort during intense gameplay. Overall, the Nike Kyrie Infinity is a budget-friendly choice with no fundamental weaknesses, making it a top contender for basketball players looking for a reliable and versatile shoe that offers good ankle support.
With Nike cutting ties with the Dallas Mavericks player following antisemitic comments, this will likely be the final release of Irving’s signature shoes. So, basketball players who are fans of Kyrie Irving may want to consider grabbing a pair of Nike Kyrie Infinity while they still can. They are currently selling for a steal.
15. Nike Lebron XX
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The Nike Lebron 20 is one of the best basketball shoes on the market. It delivers on every aspect of performance, from responsive cushioning to exceptional traction. The shoe is designed to provide maximum support and stability, making it ideal for explosive movements on the court.
The Nike Lebron 20 boasts a large forefoot Zoom Air unit and a bottom-loaded Zoom Air unit in the heel, providing exceptional impact protection and responsiveness. However, the forefoot unit is curved to ensure it can bend in multiple directions. The shoe also offers a carbon-fibre midfoot plate for added stability and torsional rigidity, allowing quick and precise court movements. Additionally, the shoe features a durable rubber outsole with multi-directional traction patterns, ensuring excellent grip and traction on any surface. Previous Nike Lebrons may have been inconsistent with their traction, but this shoe’s grip has been significantly improved to provide reliable and secure footing. But the Lebron 20 isn’t all performance.
The basketball shoe also boasts a sleek and stylish design with a variety of colourways to choose from. The shoe’s upper is made of premium materials, giving it a luxurious look and feel. Overall, if you’re searching for a reliable and versatile shoe that will elevate your game, the Nike Lebron 20 is a top choice.
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16. Nike LeBron NXXT Gen
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Lebron James signature sneakers are second only to Michael Jordan’s iconic Air Jordans in popularity and influence in the basketball shoe market. The Nike LeBron NXXT Gen continues to push the boundaries of performance and style, incorporating cutting-edge technology and design elements that cater to the needs of modern players.
If you want a shoe that offers unparalleled comfort, support, and responsiveness on the court, the Nike LeBron NXXT Gen is a must-have. Its Zoom Air units in the forefoot and heel provide exceptional cushioning and energy return, while its lightweight and breathable construction ensures maximum agility and airflow during intense gameplay. You don’t have to worry about the traction, as the shoe’s durable rubber outsole with a multi-directional traction pattern offers excellent grip on any surface.
With its sleek and futuristic design, the Nike LeBron NXXT Gen is a performance powerhouse and a stylish statement on and off the court.
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17. Nike PG 6
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Designed in collaboration with NBA player Paul George, the Nike PG 6 offers a perfect balance of comfort and support.
Its responsive, fully foam-based cushioning system provides excellent impact protection, allowing players to feel confident during high-intensity games. The shoe’s innovative lockdown system ensures a secure fit, enhancing stability and preventing injuries. There is little to complain about when it comes to the PG 6, but if we were to pick something, some users might find the shoe’s materials offer a less premium feel. However, this is a minor drawback compared to the overall performance and functionality of the shoe.
For its price point, the PG 6 offers exceptional value with its top-notch features and durability. It is definitely a top choice for athletes looking for reliable and stylish basketball shoes or players with wider feet.
What are the best basketball shoes you’ve owned from the Nike brand?
Sources: The Hoops Geek, Wear Testers
