10 Best Basketball Shoes for Kids: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents
When it comes to choosing the best basketball shoes for kids, it’s essential to consider factors like comfort, support, durability, value, and design.
As a parent, you want to ensure that your young athlete has the right footwear to perform their best on the court.
In this guide, we’ve researched and selected the 10 best basketball shoes for kids aged 6-14, keeping in mind the needs of both beginners and experienced players.
10 best basketball shoes for kids
| Rank | Shoe Name | Key Features | Pros | Cons | Purchase Link |
| 1 | Nike LeBron 18 | Full-length Air Max cushioning, Knitposite 2.0 upper, Flexible and supportive design, Durable rubber outsole | Comfortable, Supportive, Excellent traction, Stylish design | Can be expensive, Limited color options | Purchase Nike LeBron 18 for Kids |
| 2 | Adidas Harden Vol. 5 | Boost and Lightstrike cushioning, Durable textile upper, Flexible, supportive design, Multi-directional traction pattern | Responsive cushioning, Excellent traction, Comfortable, Durable | Can be pricey, May run narrow | Shop Adidas Harden Vol. 5 Kids |
| 3 | Under Armour Curry 8 | UA Flow cushioning, Lightweight knit upper, Supportive design with an external heel counter, Durable rubber outsole | Lightweight, Responsive cushioning, Excellent traction, Comfortable | Limited ankle support, Can be expensive | Find Under Armour Curry 8 Kids |
| 4 | Jordan Why Not Zer0.4 | Zoom Air cushioning, Durable and breathable upper, Supportive design with midfoot strap, Multi-directional traction pattern | Stylish design, Comfortable, Supportive, Excellent traction | Can be heavy, May run narrow | Shop Jordan Why Not Zer0.4 Kids |
| 5 | Reebok Shaqnosis | Synthetic leather upper, Cushioned midsole, High-top design for ankle support, Non-marking rubber outsole | Unique design, Comfortable, Good ankle support | May not be suitable for wide feet, Can be heavy | Find Reebok Shaqnosis Kids |
| 6 | PUMA Clyde All-Pro Kids | Lightweight knit upper, ProFoam midsole, High-abrasion rubber outsole, Supportive lacing system | Lightweight, Responsive cushioning, Excellent traction, Stylish design | Limited ankle support, May run small | Find PUMA Clyde All-Pro Kids |
| 7 | New Balance Kawhi Leonard 1 Kids | FuelCell foam cushioning, Synthetic leather upper, Multi-directional traction pattern, Mid-cut design for ankle support | Supportive, Comfortable, Responsive cushioning, Durable | Can be pricey, Limited color options | Shop New Balance Kawhi Leonard 1 Kids |
| 8 | Asics Gel-Burst Kids | GEL cushioning system, Synthetic leather and mesh upper, Durable rubber outsole, Supportive midsole | Lightweight, Comfortable, Good traction, Breathable design | Limited ankle support, May run narrow | Find Asics Gel-Burst Kids |
| 9 | AND1 Attack Mid Kids | Synthetic leather upper, Reinforced heel and toe, Padded collar and tongue, Non-marking rubber outsole | Affordable, Comfortable, Good ankle support, Durable design | Limited color options, Can be heavy | Shop AND1 Attack Mid Kids |
| 10 | Converse All Star Pro BB Kids | Textile and synthetic upper, Nike React foam cushioning, High-top design for ankle support, Diamond-patterned rubber outsole | Stylish design, Comfortable, Responsive cushioning, Good ankle support | Can be pricey, Limited color options | Find Converse All Star Pro BB Kids |
1. Nike LeBron 18
The Nike LeBron 18 is designed to provide excellent support and cushioning for young basketball players, inspired by LeBron James’ signature style.
Key features:
- Full-length Air Max cushioning
- Knitposite 2.0 upper
- Flexible and supportive design
- Durable rubber outsole
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Supportive
- Excellent traction
- Stylish design
Cons:
- Can be expensive
- Limited color options
Purchase the Nike LeBron 18 for Kids
2. Adidas Pro Vision Kids
The Adidas Pro Vision is a versatile basketball shoe that delivers comfort, support, and excellent traction for young athletes.
Key features:
- Lightweight textile upper
- Padded collar and tongue
- Durable rubber outsole
- Supportive midfoot cage
Pros:
- Affordable
- Comfortable
- Good ankle support
- Available in various colors
Cons:
- May run narrow for some kids
Shop Adidas Pro Vision Kids Basketball Shoes
3. Under Armour Jet 2019
The Under Armour Jet 2019 is designed for young players who prioritize comfort and support on the court. We picked this oldie but a goldie for the budget-oriented parents – buying previous seasons’ shoes often gets you a great deal.
But, by no means these shoes are inferior. In fact, it is one of the best in our pick for all criteria.
Key features:
- Synthetic and textile upper
- EVA midsole
- Enhanced cushioning
- Durable rubber outsole
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Supportive
- Affordable
Cons:
- Limited color options
Buy Under Armour Jet 2019 for Kids
4. Jordan Why Not Zer0.4
The Jordan Why Not Zer0.4, inspired by Russell Westbrook’s signature shoe, offers excellent performance and style for young basketball players.
Key features:
- Textile upper
- Zoom Air cushioning
- Midfoot strap for added support
- Durable rubber outsole
Pros:
- Stylish design
- Great traction
- Supportive
- Comfortable
Cons:
- Can be pricey
- May run small
Discover the Jordan Why Not Zer0.4 for Kids
5. Reebok Shaqnosis
The Reebok Shaqnosis is a retro-inspired basketball shoe that combines style, comfort, and performance for young athletes.
Key features:
- Synthetic leather upper
- Cushioned midsole
- High-top design for ankle support
- Non-marking rubber outsole
Pros:
- Unique design
- Comfortable
- Good ankle support
Cons:
- May not be suitable for wide feet
- Can be heavy
Find Reebok Shaqnosis Kids Basketball Shoes
6. PUMA Clyde All-Pro Kids
The PUMA Clyde All-Pro offers a lightweight and responsive basketball shoe for young athletes who need quickness and agility on the court.
Key features:
- Lightweight knit upper
- ProFoam midsole
- High-abrasion rubber outsole
- Supportive lacing system
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Responsive cushioning
- Excellent traction
- Stylish design
Cons:
- Limited ankle support
- May run small
Find PUMA Clyde All-Pro Kids Basketball Shoes
7. New Balance Kawhi Leonard 1 Kids
The New Balance Kawhi Leonard 1 is a versatile basketball shoe designed to offer excellent stability, support, and responsiveness for young players.
Key features:
- FuelCell foam cushioning
- Synthetic leather upper
- Multi-directional traction pattern
- Mid-cut design for ankle support
Pros:
- Supportive
- Comfortable
- Responsive cushioning
- Durable
Cons:
- Can be pricey
- Limited color options
Shop New Balance Kawhi Leonard 1 Kids Basketball Shoes
8. Asics Gel-Burst Kids
The Asics Gel-Burst is a lightweight basketball shoe designed for young players who need speed and agility on the court.
Key features:
- GEL cushioning system
- Synthetic leather and mesh upper
- Durable rubber outsole
- Supportive midsole
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Good traction
- Breathable design
Cons:
- Limited ankle support
- May run narrow
Find Asics Gel-Burst Kids Basketball Shoes
9. AND1 Attack Mid Kids
The AND1 Attack Mid is an affordable and comfortable basketball shoe designed for young players who prioritize support and stability.
Key features:
- Synthetic leather upper
- Reinforced heel and toe
- Padded collar and tongue
- Non-marking rubber outsole
Pros:
- Affordable
- Comfortable
- Good ankle support
- Durable design
Cons:
- Limited color options
- Can be heavy
Shop AND1 Attack Mid Kids Basketball Shoes
10. Converse All Star Pro BB Kids
The Converse All Star Pro BB offers a unique blend of classic Converse style and modern performance features for young basketball players.
Key features:
- Textile and synthetic upper
- Nike React foam cushioning
- High-top design for ankle support
- Diamond-patterned rubber outsole
Pros:
- Stylish design
- Comfortable
- Responsive cushioning
- Good ankle support
Cons:
- Can be pricey
- Limited color options
Find Converse All Star Pro BB Kids Basketball Shoes
How to choose the best basketball shoes for kids?
Picking the best basketball shoes for kids isn’t hard as it makes out to be. Follow these principles to analyze your pick and you’ll be done in no time.
Comfort
The best basketball shoes for kids should ensure a cozy fit and feel for your child as they play, maximizing their enjoyment on the court.
Importance of proper cushioning and fit:
Comfortable basketball shoes help prevent injuries and allow your child to focus on their game. Proper cushioning and fit are crucial to ensure that your child’s feet are well-supported throughout the game.
Tips for finding comfortable shoes:
Look for shoes with adequate padding around the collar and tongue, cushioned midsoles, and breathable materials. Always have your child try on shoes with the same socks they’ll wear while playing to ensure the best fit.
Support
Providing adequate stability and protection to your child’s feet and ankles during intense gameplay.
Role of ankle support and stability in preventing injuries:
Supportive shoes help protect your child’s ankles from sprains and other injuries during rapid changes in direction and jumping.
Features to look for in supportive shoes:
High-top or mid-top designs provide additional ankle support, while features like midfoot straps and reinforced heel counters improve overall stability.
Durability
Built to withstand the wear and tear of regular use, offering a long-lasting and reliable option for young athletes.
Factors affecting the lifespan of basketball shoes:
The frequency of play, court surface, and shoe materials all impact the durability of basketball shoes.
Materials and construction that contribute to durability:
Look for shoes made from high-quality materials, like synthetic leather or mesh, with reinforced stitching and durable outsoles.
Value
Offering a balance of quality, performance, and affordability, ensuring you get the best bang for your buck.
Balancing quality and affordability:
While it’s essential to invest in high-quality basketball shoes for kids, it’s also crucial to consider your budget.
Considerations for budget-conscious parents:
Look for sales or discounts on reputable brands, consider purchasing previous season models, and prioritize essential features like comfort and support over aesthetics. You could also visit outlets, Facebook marketplace, and thrift stores for bargains on shoes.
Availability
Readily accessible and easy to find in various sizes and styles, ensuring your child gets the perfect pair without any hassle.
Sizing and availability challenges:
Finding the perfect size and style can sometimes be difficult due to limited stock or frequent model updates.
Tips for finding the right size and style:
Start your search early, be flexible with color options, and consider purchasing online from retailers with a good return policy.
Design
You’d be surprised to see how happy and more motivated they are with a pair they picked and loved.
Role of aesthetics in children’s footwear choices:
While performance is key, the design of the shoes can also influence a child’s enjoyment and confidence on the court.
Encouraging self-expression through shoe design:
Allow your child to participate in the decision-making process by choosing a shoe design that reflects their style and preferences.
How to maintain basketball shoes for kids?
These tips could mean the difference between lasting 5 matches and a year. If you’re on a budget or environmentally conscious, don’t miss these tips.
Breaking in new shoes
New basketball shoes may feel stiff and uncomfortable initially. Encourage your child to wear them around the house or during practice sessions to break them in before using them in a game.
Regular cleaning
Clean the shoes regularly to remove dirt and maintain traction. Use a soft brush and mild soap to clean the outsole and a damp cloth to wipe the upper. Allow the shoes to air dry and avoid exposing them to direct heat.
Rotation
If your child plays basketball frequently, consider having two pairs of shoes to rotate between. This can help extend the lifespan of each pair and give the cushioning time to recover between games.
Proper storage
Store the shoes in a cool, dry place when not in use. Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or damp environments, as this can cause the materials to break down more quickly.
Regular inspection
Check the shoes for signs of wear and tear regularly, such as worn-out cushioning or damaged outsoles. Replace the shoes if necessary to ensure your child has the proper support and protection on the court. It’s better to buy them a new pair than to risk injuries that might cost more time and money to treat.
What’s the difference between high-top, mid-top, and low-top basketball shoes?
Depending on your kid’s playstyle and injury-proneness, your pick might change.
High-top basketball shoes
High-top basketball shoes offer the most ankle support and are best suited for players who require extra stability, such as post players or those with a history of ankle injuries.
Mid-top basketball shoes
Mid-top basketball shoes provide a balance between support and flexibility, making them suitable for all-around players who need to move quickly on the court.
Low-top basketball shoes
Low-top basketball shoes prioritize speed and agility, offering the least amount of ankle support. These shoes are ideal for guards and players who rely on quick cuts and lateral movements.
Conclusion
Selecting the best basketball shoes for kids can be daunting, but with the right information and guidance, it becomes easier.
By prioritizing comfort, support, durability, value, availability, and design, you can make an informed decision and help your young athlete excel on the court.
Explore the options we’ve presented in this guide and find the perfect pair of basketball shoes for kids today.
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