What To Look For
There are numerous factors to consider when you're looking for basketball shoes. However, the most important aspect should be how they fit your feet, and how much ankle support you get from the shoe. You need a shoe that is very light and durable that will allow you to cut and move quickly around the court; but also be able to grab the court surface allowing you to cut quicker. The easiest way to tell if the shoe is right for you is simply if it is comfortable when you play in it.
Common Pitfalls
The most common pitfall in choosing a pair of basketball shoes is buying the most popular shoe even if it is not "right" for your body. You need to get a balance of support and comfort. What may work for some players might not work for you.
The most common basketball injuries, according to physical therapist Brett Clark, are ankle sprains at a resounding 40 percent of the injuries. Your basketball shoe must be high enough to give your ankle support for all the cutting, change of direction and jumping that basketball involves.
Where To Buy
The most common and cost effective way to shop for basketball shoes is to go to a store to try on at least three or four shoes, then shop online and compare prices. According to Nextag and eBay, the most common and cost effective places to purchase shoes have been Finish Line, Foot Locker, East Bay, Nike (online or factory store) and Dicks Sporting Goods.
If you cannot find the shoe you want cheaper online counting the shipping cost, go back to the store and purchase it there.
Cost
Basketball shoes vary dramatically in price determining on where you purchase them. Certain websites sell specific brands much cheaper than other sites. For example East Bay may have a sale on Nike shoes, whereas Finish Line may have a sale on Reebok or Adidas. In 2010, top selling shoes cost anywhere from $50 all the way up to $250.
Insider Tips
The top 10 most selling basketball shoes on eBay and Eastbay for 2010 are the Nike Jordan XXI and Retro 5, Nike Hyperdunk, Adidas 1.1B, Adidas Crazy 8 Limited Edition, Nike Men's Air Max 360, Nike Zoom Kobe, Reebok Answer IX Pump CE, Nike Air Max Lebron and Nike Zoom Hyperfuse.
Since 1985, the Air Jordans have been one of the top selling shoes even after 21 redesigns and modifications, so according to LovetoKnow, it has been one of the most highly recommended by many coaches and advisors for years.
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