What Are The Most Comfortable Basketball Shoes?

Choosing the most comfortable basketball shoe often depends on a player's type: a power player, all-around player or a fast player. The most comfortable basketball shoe will provide stability, support, and durability for the position you play. The shoes have to stand up to the rigors of sudden stops, high jumps, constant side to side movement, and quick starts.

Player Types

The power player needs a shoe that allows more movement on the court. This shoe should be heavier and focus on cushioning and stability. The all-around player--the most common type--needs a shoe with moderate ankle support and cushioning, while a fast player needs a lightweight shoe for speed. The fast player's shoe must provide moderate support and optimal flexibility.

Shoe Cuts

Basketball shoes come in three different cuts--high tops, mid tops, and low tops. High tops offer a greater stability and better ankle support. They are best suited for power players and all around players. The mid tops are ankle level and offer more comfort than a high top. Mid tops are recommended for power players and all around players. High tops and mid tops offer the greatest amount of comfort due to extra cushioning in the midsole. Low tops are lightweight and allow for better speed. This shoe is best for a fast player.

Nike Air Max Lebron VII

The Nike Air Max Lebron VII is currently one of Nike's most popular basketball shoes. This shoe is best for a fast player. The Lebron VII is a low top shoe made of full-grain leather and features a synthetic leather upper, a Phylon midsole, a large-volume Air-Sole unit in the heel, and a Herringbone outsole with articulated flex grooves for better traction and speed.

Kobe IV

The Kobe IV is best suited for an all-around player. It features a lightweight super-responsive midsole for ultimate cushioning, a Flywire upper for support, and LunarLite Foam in the forefoot for added cushioning.

Nike Jordan 60

The Nike Jordan 60 Plus is a three quarter high basketball shoe that is best suited for a power player or an all around player. Shoes feature a natural and synthetic leather upper with a perforated toe for extra breathability, a Phylon midsole accompanied by an Air-Sole unit in the heel for ultimate cushioning, and a rubber outsole for added traction and durability.