Unlike other athletic shoes, basketball shoes are configured to do different things. Some are meant for speed while others are created to help wearers execute certain movements with more ease and power. The best basketball shoes for jumping is one of these and is highly coveted by many.
With how tricky having a good and powerful lift can be, players will welcome anything that can boost their vertical movements.
If you’re looking for ways to help improve your dunk techniques and skills, the best basketball shoes high tops higher will certainly be great options for you. Learn how you can find the right pair with the help of our guide below.
Best Basketball Shoes for Jumping
1. Nike Men’s Hyperdunk X Team- Best Basketball Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
To start this list, let’s take a look at the 10th iteration of the Nike team shoe, the Nike Men’s Hyperdunk X Team Basketball Shoe. Many consider it to be one of the best versions of this shoe line, offering ample versatility for all kinds of players.
Quick Summary
- Synthetic and textile upper
- 3/4-bootie construction
- Dynamic lacing system
- Oversized laces
- Wavy traction pattern
- Flywire support
- Leather heel cup
- Nylon midfoot saddle
- Memory foam padded collar
- High-cut style
The biggest strengths of the Hyperdunk X is how accommodating it is in terms of fit and functionality. Since it is made for different kinds of ballers, it shouldn’t be surprising that it’s also designed in a way that will provide ankle support to various foot shapes and constitutions.
What makes it one of the best basketball shoes for flat feet, you ask? The answer to this would be its cushioning. Equipped with thick Air cushioning technology, it’s both very comfortable and responsive.
1. responsive cushioning
In these shoes, Nike took the Zoom Air feature up a notch by making it thicker than older basketball shoe models. As a result, it came out with a very solid compression and rebound. These make it useful for those who want to jump better.
2. Great support
The way the Hyperdunk X is created is also meant to provide excellent overall support to the wearer. It applies some compression on the arch which adds support to the shoe. Its memory foam-padded collar and heel cup also prevent heel slips and keep the foot in place.
- Wide lacing system design allows flexibility and easy fit for a wide range of wearers
- Attractive modern design
- Plush feel
- Fits like a glove
- Outstanding cushioning
- Suitable for all kinds of players
- Excellent ankle support and stability
- Versatile
- Not very grippy on dusty courts
- Not recommended for outdoor use
- Stiff heel and collar can cause blisters
2. Nike Kyrie 3 Basketball Shoes – Ideal Basketball Shoes for Vertical Jump
Some might argue that the Nike Kyrie 3 Basketball Shoes Kyrie Irving Mens is more of a speed pair than a jumping pair but we beg to differ. These shoes can also be great for those who want to work on their vertical jumps due to its excellent traction and cushioning.
Quick Summary
- Textile upper
- Zoom Air heel features
- Outsole curvature
- Independent forefoot pods
- Integrated forefoot band
- Hyperfuse construction
- TPU “spike” pattern
- Injected Phylon foam in the forefoot
- Mid-cut style
As the third signature performance shoe by Kyrie Irving, it’s not too surprising that these kicks are noteworthy. Wearers can attest how fantastic they are for hard cuts and how responsive they can be for explosive motions. So with these, you can also count on it to be a reliable shoe for improving your jumps.
1. Excellent traction
The strongest suit of the Kyrie 3s is possibly its outsole design. The underfoot of these shoes are meant to give the wearer top-notch grip on the hardcourt, no matter which angle or whichever way they may want to go. The forefoot pods and the curved outsole that extends the traction threads to the sides of the shoe help ensure that your feet won’t slip and that you’ll always have steady footing.
2. Great cushioning
With its Zoom Air heel cushioning, you can also expect to get a great response from these kicks. This technology makes it a great pick for those who want to boost their jumps and be able to perfect their dunks.
- Amazing traction
- Attractive design
- Several colorways available
- Outstanding cushioning and responsiveness
- Very comfortable fit and wear
- Lightweight
- Quite narrow
- Tricky sizing
3. Under Armour UA HOVR Havoc 2- Best Basketball Shoes for Jumper’s Knee
For a high-performance pair from UA, check out the Under Armour UA HOVR Havoc 2-3022050-002. This second iteration of the HOVR Havoc is without a doubt a step up from the first version, so if you liked that one, this might be a better pick for you.
Quick Summary
- Textile and synthetic upper
- Rubber sole
- Webbed lacing system
- Half bootie lining construction
- Die-cut EVA sockliner
- HOVR™ technology features
- Midfoot TPU shank
- Energy Web
Equipped with a full-length HOVR cushioning, it promises some bounce and good energy return to your step and movements. This makes it a great pair for powerful jumps as it can give you back the energy you put into your steps.
1. Good for outdoor use
There aren’t lots of basketball shoes today that are suitable for outdoor use. This is where the HOVR Havoc 2 tends to stand apart from the crowd. Because its outsole is made of thicker and tougher rubber, it won’t easily get worn out when used on concrete and other materials used for outward courts.
Note, however, that many wearers said that the outsole needs some breaking in. So if you did not find it grippy enough on your first use, fret not, your shoes will get around.
2. Excellent cushioning
While the HOVR support of the HOVR Havoc 2 is not as bouncy as the HOVR running shoes from the same brand, they’re still worth a shot due to their effective responsiveness. It combines a low profile ride with good impact protection and ample responsiveness so it can certainly give you the push you need for a good lift.
- Amazing fit
- Suits wide feet
- Won’t wear out easily on outward courts
- Nice impact-distributing feature
- Various colorways available
- Highly responsive
- Needs some breaking in
4. Nike Men’s Air Versitile III- Best Nike Basketball Shoes for Jumping
Offering timeless features from Nike is the Nike Men’s Air Versitile III Basketball Shoe. This pair may not have cutting edge technology or may not be a signature performance shoe but it’s still a great option for those who want to make powerful leaps for their dunks.
Quick Summary
- Synthetic and textile upper
- Rubber sole
- Air-Sole heel unit
- Midfoot saddle
- circular traction outsole
- High-top style
Its key feature is the classic Air-Sole support unit in its heel. This may not be the newest tech from the brand but it continues to do the job. It’s still very comfortable and responsive, so those who need to ensure the precision and power of their footwork will find this a great pick.
1. Good stability
The way that the Versitile III is constructed, alongside its midfoot panels, guarantees that it can keep your feet in place. These are very useful in making it a reliable pair for powerful leaps.
2. Ample Support
The Air-Sole technology is not at all new since it has been used by Nike since the late 1970s but since it works well, it continues to work well decades later. This is good proof that the technology is very useful in providing ankle support to Nike’s products since the technology is not deemed outdated just yet.
In any case, the Air-Sole heel unit in the Versitile III makes it another option for the best nike shoes for plantar fasciitis. It promises great responsiveness and energy return. It also guarantees that the shoes are flexible enough to allow your range of dynamic movements.
- Comfortable underfoot support and cushioning
- Keeps your feet in place
- Attractive design
- Several colorways to choose from
- Versatile
- Can be a bit tight for wide feet
5. Nike Men’s Hyperdunk 2015 PRM – Best Basketball Shoes for Jump Shooters
For an eye-catching pair, check out the Nike Men’s Hyperdunk 2015 PM. These shoes are fashioned after the Nike Mags, giving it a super-sleek, futuristic silhouette that still manages to look like a fun pair of game shoes. It can be said that it’s the sporty version of the Nike Mag.
Quick Summary
- Textile upper
- Internal bootie construction
- Hyperfuse construction
- Extended collar height
- Flexible collar foam
- Flywire technology
- Zoom Air technology feature
- Phylon midsole
- Pivot point on the outsole
- High-top style
These shoes are not just about the looks, though. They’re also great in terms of performance. With the Zoom Air cushioning technology, they can certainly be helpful in giving you a good lift. Its traction is also very notable, making it perfect for those who like to pound on the hardcourt. Topped with an excellent fit and ankle support, these best shoes in the Hyperdunk series can keep your feet safe and in great shape even after an intense game.
1. Top-notch traction
While the herringbone traction pattern of the Hyperdunk 2015 isn’t groundbreaking, it’s very nicely done. For starters, the different directions give it a nice grip and are very effective in powerful stops. It also has a huge pivot point in the forefoot, so your twists are greatly supported and won’t strain your ankles too much.
Another great thing about this pair is that its outsole is made of thicker material that’s not too pliable. As a result, it won’t easily wear out even when used on outward courts.
2. Great fit
Due to its sleek silhouette, it should be expected that these shoes are made to fit your feet like a glove. It has a bootie construction so it has a close fit. Its lockdown is really good, too, so it will hug your feet effectively so the shoe will cling to your feet without too much fuss.
- Freedom of movement similar to a low-top
- Great lockdown
- Excellent hold up wear
- Reliable and responsive cushioning
- Nice impact-distributing feature
- Amazing traction
- Can be used outdoors
- Lightweight
- Some users needed to get used to the collar height
6. Under Armour Men’s UA ClutchFit Drive 3 – Best Under Armour Basketball Shoes
Looking for a low-cut pair that will allow you to move freely? The Under Armour Men’s UA Clutchfit Drive 3 Low Basketball Shoes might fit the bill for you. These shoes are made for freedom of movement and are very versatile. They can certainly be useful for different kinds of basketball players and may even suit other purposes.
Quick Summary
- Synthetic and textile upper
- ClutchFit® technology
- External heel counter
- Internal shank
- Innovative bear-trap lacing system
- Achilles pillow for the collar
- Antimicrobial die-cut Ortholite sockliner
- Full-length Micro G® foam cushioning
- Charged Cushioning®
- Diamond and herringbone outsole traction
- Low-top style
With the range of movements it allow and its excellent impact absorption, these shoes can also work as the best affordable basketball shoes for some. Some might not be too satisfied with its support and responsiveness but if you’re already a good jumper and you feel like you just need to treat your joints better, this can be a solid pick.
1. Great impact Support
A lot of wearers of the Clutchfit Drive 3 Low can attest to how well these shoes can absorb impact. This is always a great thing to have, especially for those who love to dunk as such movements are the most notorious causes of ankle injuries. They’re also very nasty on the knees, so anything that can protect you from the full force of impact of your movements should be welcomed with open arms.
2. Great value for money
Another reason to give this product a shot is its durability and great price. In addition to its great list of features, these shoes are pretty much a steal.
- Very comfortable wear
- Allows a wide range of movements
- Good quality build and materials
- Stylish look
- Versatile
- Relatively lightweight
- True to size
- Great value for money
- Some find the support to be lacking
7. Adidas Originals Men’s Pro Bounce 2018- Best Basketball Shoes for High Jump
With its name, it shouldn’t be hard to see why the Adidas Originals Men’s Pro Bounce 2018 Basketball Shoe deserves a spot on this list. These shoes are built to perform, making it a hit among serious ballers and casual enthusiasts alike.
Quick Summary
- Textile upper
- Bounce cushioning
- ForgeFiber upper construction
- TPU shank
- Midfoot propulsion plate
- Geofit construction
- Padded collar
- Cable lace closure
- Rubber outsole
- High-top style
There’s a lot of hype surrounding the Pro Bounce 2018, and let us tell you that it’s all worth it. These shoes offer all-around support, so it can certainly help in boosting your performance in the hardcourt. With its traction and cushioning, it can also be the most reliable kicks for those who aim to jump higher and better.
1. Excellent hold up wear
There are several areas that Adidas made sure to add support in these shoes. However, its Flexible Bounce midsole cushioning deserves the spotlight since it offers the responsiveness wearers need for a great performance. It ensures flexibility and the return of energy you need to make quick movements with ease.
In addition to this, it also provides good underfoot, heel, and ankle support. These shoes will nicely lock your feet in place, guaranteeing a steady footing. Since this is crucial if you want to perform solid leaps, these shoes can certainly be the best basketball shoes for high arches.
2. Amazing traction
To further ensure that you’ll move with great ease and precision, the Pro Bounce 2018 is also equipped with a high-performing outsole. The traction tread pattern is beautifully and effectively designed that many consider it to be one of the best from Adidas. It’s also not too soft or pliable, so you can easily wear it on outdoor courts without any worries.
- Attractive modern design with various colorways
- Suitable for outdoor use
- Great lockdown
- Best fit and wear
- Made for high-performance players
- Promises great stability
- Lightweight Max Air
- Some experienced lace issues
8. Nike Men’s Lebron 17 Basketball Shoes- Best Shoes of Lebron’s Signature
Lots of people expect a lot from signature shoe since they are designed and made for (sometimes, even with) the athletes they’re named after. Some disappoint while others soar high like the Nike Men’s lebron soldier 17 Basketball Shoes. These shoes are deemed to be some of the finest pairs not just in the Lebron line and are exactly what many would expect a basketball superstar to wear.
Quick Summary
- KnitPosite upper construction
- Stabilizing plastic clip as heel stabilizers
- Max Air and soft foam pod heel cushioning
- Zoom Air forefoot features
- Rubber outsole
With its excellent ankle support, lightweight construction, stop-on-a-dime traction, and durability, these shoes are really built to perform. They can also be great for those who love to dunk as it’s equipped for the said task. Its unique look is also a plus so people will know that you’re wearing a pair of lebron soldier 17s.
1. Well-designed cushioning
One of the standout features of the lebron soldier 17 is its well-cushioned heel and forefoot. The heel is equipped with Max Air with a soft foam pod while the forefoot is cushioned with a Zoom Air unit. As a result, they’re very responsive, plush, and nicely padded for impact protection and energy return.
2. Top-notch traction
The diamond traction combined with the overall design of the outsole also makes it very flexible and grippy. It’s perfect for quick movements and equally quick stops. It’s also solid enough for outdoor courts.
- Lightweight
- Very supportive
- Durable construction and materials
- Excellent fit
- Unique design
- Amazing cushioning
- Excellent lockdown
- Suitable for outward courts
- Tricky lacing
- Quite pricey
9. Nike Zoom KD 12 – Best Basketball Shoes for Dunking
Made for someone best known for his explosive hardcourt performance, the Nike Zoom KD 12 Basketball Shoes can certainly be a great pick for jumping.
Quick Summary
- Textile upper
- Quad Axial Flywire cables
- Padded ¾-high collar
- Perforated midsole
- Internal sockliner
- Mid-to-high-top style
1. Comfortable fit and wear
With how much beating your feet get during intense basketball games, it wouldn’t be too bad to make sure that they’re quite cozy and comfortable while at it. The KD 12 offers this in various ways. For starters, its upper material is the definition of cozy since it’s inspired by Kevin Durant’s love for vintage tees. Its choice of material has a broken-in feel so you don’t have to suffer for a few wears to wait for the shoe to come around.
Then, there’s the cushioning. The Zoom Air unit guarantees comfortable and supportive wear, allowing you to make big movements with ease. Its lockdown and containment also contribute to its comfort as the wearer’s feet are nicely kept in place even while they move intensely.
2. Unique height
The KD 12 also stands out because it’s a mid-to-high-top pair which promises the freedom of movement mid-tops offer and the support and security that high-tops bring. These can guarantee that you’ll be able to move the way you want to without too much fuss.
- Excellent traction
- Great support
- Modern silhouette
- Unique height
- True to size
- Flexible
- Very comfortable
- Outsole tends to attract quite a bit of dust
- Some find the design too simple
10. Adidas Men’s D.O.N. Issue #1- Best Basketball Kicks for Jumping
Completing our best basketball jumping shoe list is the Adidas Men’s D.O.N. Issue #1 Basketball Shoe. This bold pair is a signature performance shoe for Donovan Mitchell and celebrates the journey of an up and coming basketball star. It got its name after Mitchell’s self-motto, ‘Determination Over Negativity.’
Quick Summary
- Textile and artificial upper
- Spider web-inspired details
- Propulsion clip
- Flexible Bounce™ midsole cushioning
- Herringbone traction pattern
- Low-cut style
Stylish and equipped for performance, it’s also interesting that these shoes have Spiderman-themed details. Its tongue brandishes a spider-like logo and has other spider-related details all over.
1. Great value for money
With how well-made and nicely designed these shoes are, it’s surprising that it comes with a very friendly price tag. This is why you’re really bound to get a steal by opting for these shoes.
2. Great balance
These shoes are also praised for how balanced its feel is. It has a nice cushioning for impact protection and responsiveness but it doesn’t compromise its court feel. As a result, wearers can really do the most in them.
- Stylish design
- Best performance
- Very affordable
- Very responsive
- Suitable for outward courts
- Needs some breaking in
Buyer’s Guide: Here are the Basics in Finding the Best Jumping Shoes for Basketball
Powerful leaps can be achieved with training and skill but with how tricky it can be to do, it wouldn’t hurt if you get additional help in the process. They also won’t just boost your performance but can also help you protect your knees and ankles as well. So, yes, the best basketball shoes for high arches can really be beneficial to get.
If even after seeing all of the product recos given above still left you confused and not sure which one to get, here are additional topics that might help point you in the right direction.
Introduction to “Flying” Shoes: Things to Consider
‘Flying’ shoes are what some call the best basketball kicks for jumping because they are meant to make the wearer feel like they’re soaring. While many will argue that your lift is better determined by your skill, it still wouldn’t hurt to wear a pair of kicks that are designed to jump higher. Why? They will have science-backed features that will provide the support your body needs to take a huge leap. So in a sense, they can still help you achieve your goals.
What Features to Focus On
What makes a pair of basketball shoes suitable for jumping, you might be wondering? Well, here are a few features that most of the finest basketball shoes for this purpose tend to have:
1. Energy-returning cushioning
As you may have noticed in our list above, most of the items are equipped with heel and midsole cushioning that is designed to return the energy you put into it when you ready yourself for a huge movement. They use this energy to push you further up, boosting your lift somewhat without you having to do more.
2. Lightweight build
A lightweight pair of shoes will not weigh you down when you try to jump higher so keeping your eyes peeled for this feature is also recommended.
3. Strong traction
You can jump more confidently and with all of your capability if you have solid footing. A pair of kicks with great traction can offer these as it will help you grip the hardcourt effectively. With its help, your feet will be nicely planted on the ground so you can focus on pushing yourself up without worrying about losing your footing in the process.
What Basketball Shoes Make You Jump Higher?
Wondering which basketball shoes will make you jump higher? To be very honest, there’s no scientific or practical proof that certain shoes can make you jump higher. Despite the claims of many brands, no pair of kicks will magically make you jump higher. They will, however, help make the movement easier and kinder on your joints, so they’re still recommended to be sought out specifically for the purpose you have in mind.
If you really want to jump higher, you need to train and master the skill. If you can’t jump high right now, it doesn’t mean that it’s impossible for you to dunk. You’ll just need to learn how to make your leaps more powerful and train your body for such a movement.
As for your shoes, you should check out the items we’ve listed above. They’re all guaranteed to be helpful for those who want to improve their lift.
What are the Top Basketball Shoes That Make You Jump Higher?
Again, as you can see from our list above, there are several great choices for the top basketball shoes for jumping. The items we’ve mentioned above are quite a few good examples of them.
Do Jumpsoles Really Work?
Since we’ve recommended that you train yourself to improve your jumps instead of just relying on shoes that will improve your vertical movements, you might find yourself interested in how to get started on such a process. One of the things that you’ll come across when it comes to improving your lift are Jumpsoles.
What are Jumpsoles, you ask? These are foot contraptions that are shaped like a platform and made of rubber. They’re designed to be attached to the forefoot of your shoes, preventing your heels from touching the ground.
They’re said to help people improve their vertical jump height because using them strengthens the calf muscles. The fact that they will force your forefoot to carry your body weight is said to help boost your lower leg strength which can make your leaps more powerful. As they also come with an 8-week workout program, they’re touted as jump training accessories.
Do they work? While they might be able to help strengthen your calf muscles, they are not recommended by many experts for a few reasons. For starters, only 33% of jumping power comes from the calf muscles, so you will also need to work on the other areas if you want the best results.
Secondly, they might be dangerous as landing in them can be very tricky. They put your feet in an awkward position, so moving intensely in them can be a bit risky. Thirdly, they can also be tough on your joints. They will prevent the proper distribution of weight on your feet and concentrate the impact on a certain area, so they can hurt you as well when you jump.
What is the Lightest Basketball Shoe?
To make your leap easier, wearing lightweight shoes is recommended. There are lots of great lightweight shoes available today, so you don’t really have to worry about your options. However, if you want to know which one is the ultimate lightest out there, you might want to take a look at the Adidas AdiZero Crazy Light line. These shoes are less than 10 ounces per shoe so their name really fits.
Why You Should Wear Basketball Shoes
Another important question that might come to mind when searching for the right pair of kicks for vertical jumps is whether you should wear basketball shoes or not. These kinds of athletic shoes are known for their clunkiness and can get quite heavy, so why not just go for a different kind of athletic footwear instead? There are some that will surely weigh a lot less, so why not go for them?
The answer here is because they won’t provide the protection, support, and functionality that a basketball player will need. Basketball shoes are designed to support the dynamic movements required in the game. They’re meant to be grippy so wearers won’t slip around. They’re meant to be supportive and nicely cushioned so wearers can move with more ease and comfort in them.
So if you’re going to play basketball, it would be best to stick with the best basketball shoes to ensure your safety and good performance.
Why Do You Need to Use the Right Pair of Basketball Shoes?
It should also be quantified that you shouldn’t just go for any pair of basketball shoes if you want to perform well and stay safe during a game. The right pair is necessary as well to help you ensure that you’ll perform your best.
As mentioned above, basketball shoes are further specialized to meet the needs of different players. Some are for speed while others are for jumping high. There are also specific kinds of shoes that are more suitable for guards than centers or any other position. Since different ballers have different styles in playing, there’s certainly a need for you to find your perfect match when it comes to basketball shoes.
So if you’re planning on working on your vertical jump or practicing your dunks, it’s best if you get the best jumping basketball shoes. This way, you can be sure that your feet are nicely equipped for the tasks ahead.
Picking the Best Jumping Shoes for Basketball for You
With how tricky jumps can be, it’s understandable if you still haven’t decided which shoes to get even after everything we’ve discussed in this guide. There are lots of great options available, though, so you don’t have to worry about your choices.
If you want to know which one we’ll totally go for, though, it would be the Lebron 17. These shoes are made to perform and we’re sure it suited the legend’s game. And if it’s good enough for a superstar like LeBron James, we’re pretty sure the shoes will also suit the needs of many other basketball players.
Your choice is ultimately up to you, of course, so don’t feel pressured by our recommendations. Be very thorough and discerning in making a call, so you can be sure to end up with your perfect match.