In an era where basketball and commercialism have become inexorably linked, a player's footwear is seemingly as important as his skill-set. Many big-name NBA players have their own shoe, following the standard set by Michael Jordan and his eponymous Nike-made high-tops. Whatever your preference when it comes to selecting a shoe, there is no shortage of options.
Types
There are three basic types of basketball shoes: high-tops, low-tops and medium-tops. You probably choose mainly on comfort, but you also might want to consider your ankle strength and the position you play. Players with weak or troublesome ankles often choose high-tops, as do power forwards and centers, because high-tops provide more ankle support for their physical play. Low-tops are lighter and allow more ankle flexibility for quick turns, so these shoes might work better for active and speedy players. Medium-tops are a compromise.
Brands
Although most major shoe companies offer some form of basketball shoe, the big three producers are Nike, adidas, and Reebok. Nike offers its signature Air Jordan line, and boasts such stars as Kobe Bryant and LeBron James among its endorsers. Adidas made a name for itself as the premier soccer merchandiser before entering the basketball realm, and Reebok's typically wider designs make the brand popular among post players seeking optimal balance.
Cost
In many practical way, most basketball shoes are created equal. But there can be a huge price difference, based on the popularity of the brand. For example, the Eastbay website has a pair of Jordans for $185 and a pair of Reeboks for $68, as of August 2010.
Significance
Because most basketball shoes are similar in design and construction, your selection should come down to comfort and how well a particular shoe fits your style of play. Don't buy a shoe just because your favorite player wears or endorses it. Chances are his feet--and his game--are different than yours.
Considerations
Most basketball shoes are designed for indoor play, although there are some shoes that either are designed specifically for outdoor play or are heavier and can take the wear of outside play.If you play mostly outdoors, look for a shoe with a strong sole and exceptional grip.
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