Can you exercise barefoot? Some types of exercises are performed without footwear, such as water sports 
(swimming, diving), some type of dances, pilates, and yoga. However, other types of sports and exercises do require a proper footwear. For example, sports such as basketball. This particular sport requires the players to run, stop at a moment’s notice, pivot, and change directions readily and swiftly. Without proper footwear, these movements can be dangerous to perform. We have also written a complete guide about the best basketball hoops.
What could happen to a basketball player if they do not use proper shoes while playing on the court? Let’s discuss that below.
Why Should I Wear Proper Basketball Shoes?
Improper shoes has been named as one of the major cause of exercise injuries. Some of the most common injuries in basketball that could be prevented by using proper footwear are sprains, strains, along with ankle and knee injuries. All of these are made possible due to the impact suffered during exercise, which is something that cannot be avoided in sports. However, the support and cushioning provided heavily by the proper footwear may protect you from such injuries by reducing the amount of impact on your joints and therefore, reducing the risk of injury you may be getting. Read our latest guide about the best basketball shoes.
An exercise physiologist, Janet Hamilton, C.S.C.S., who works with R
unning Strong in Atlanta sums it best: “Your shoe has to be able to transition from being a shock absorber as you land on the heel to becoming a stable source as you drive through your forefoot into the next stride. If you don’t have that shock absorption at the heel, you can increase your risk of stress-related overuse injuries,” she told SELF.com.
The more you move, the more abrupt you make your moves, and the more forceful your movements—such as you inevitably do when playing basketball—all of these will generate more force and therefore, more impact to your joints.
Here are some other risks you are exposed to when you exercise or play sports without the proper footwear, especially in connection to basketball.
Osteoarthritis
Nicknamed the wear and tear arthritis, this condition can occur due to high impact exercise such as basketball as it involves a lot of running and jumping. Studies shows that people who participate in high impact and weight bearing exercise have a higher risk of developing knee damage that may eventually lead to osteoarthritis. Therefore, if you are doing a high impact sports such as basketball, it is wise to wear basketball shoes when playing to minimize this risk.
Exposure to Environmental Hazard
The reason why you should wear shoes when you go outside is quite obvious—there could be broken 
glass or a rusted nail sticking out from the ground that you don’t know about. You may then think, how could such items be found in a basketball court? Indeed, basketball courts are made to perfection—smooth, unblemished floor. But remember, the one thing that will almost always be present during sports is sweat. Sweat can drip to the floor and make it slippery. Without the traction that comes from a proper footwear, you are exposing yourself to a slip and fall injury.
Correct Gait and Improve Posture
Wearing basketball shoes may help you align your feet, ankles, knees, hips, and back as you are doing all the movements. This results in a correct posture during exercise and improved posture when you are done playing ball. Those suffering from conditions like bunions, Charcot foot, and corns can also be alleviated—or prevented, even—by wearing a proper basketball shoes.
How Can I Choose The Right Basketball Shoes?
As mentioned above, basketball is the type of sports that requires you to run, stop at a moment’s notice, pivot, and change directions readily and swiftly. We have also understood what kinds of protections a proper footwear can 
offer. However, a good footwear—or rather, a good basketball shoes—should not only offer protection, but also comfort to the user. Here are some of the things you might want to do when choosing the right basketball shoes.
Consider The Fitness
Shoes is a fickle thing. Though there is a thing called measurements, not every manufacturer has the same size guide. The best thing you can do to know if a shoes fit your feet or not is to try it out. Some shoes runs long, some runs wide. The shape of your own feet will dictate which shoes is the one for you. A little tip: try one size up and one size down from your normal size also. This way, you can compare the fitness, and who knows? You may find one size or the other fit you better than your normal one.
Consider Your Position in The Team
The type of players you are in your basketball team could determine what kind of basketball shoes will fit you best. Power players, such as the center or power forward, tend to choose shoes with extra cushions. This need could be accommodated in several ways, one of which is by choosing a high top shoes or shoes with padded collar. However, speed players such as the point guard prefers light shoes to increase their agility. Typically, shoes with a low medium cut can give them what they need.
Can I Get a Pair of High Quality Basketball Shoes for Under $100?
The answer is: Yes, you can! There are six points of specifications that you need to take notice of: 
traction, cushion, material, fit, ventilation, and support. All of these aspects are crucial in finding the best possible basketball shoes for you with less than 100 dollars.
Traction
A shoe’s traction is its grip capability against the floor. The shoes must be able to generate enough friction to stop your movements instantly and protect you from slipping.
Cushion
As previously mentioned, you need shoes that can protect you from injury as well as comfortable. Cushion is one of the aspects that is responsible for this. There is a term in wearing shoes called “break in.” When you first wear a new shoes, it will feel tight on your feet. But after a while, the shoes will adapt and become molded into the shape of your feet. This is called “breaking in.” You can best judge the cushioning performance of a shoe after you break into it.
Material
Manufacturers often use specialized materials that they have specially designed to increase comfort and function.
Fit
As mentioned previously, a perfect fit is a must. Lockdown, or the capability of the shoes staying on your feet, is what we will assess here. It can be influenced by the lacing, the dead space at the forefoot and the heel, and many more other factors.
Ventilation
Your body temperature will rise when you exercise, and you don’t want your feet feeling too hot that it becomes distracting or worse, develops a condition. The materials used plays a big part in determining whether a shoe has a good ventilation or not.
Support
If the fit and lockdown are great, usually the support is also great. However, there are other parts of a basketball shoes that can affect its support and stability.
TOP 15 BEST BASKETBALL SHOES UNDER 100 IN 2022
1. NIKE Men’s KD Trey 5 V Basketball Shoe
NIKE is a brand that needs no introduction. It is one of the top manufacturer of sports equipment that has been
around for a very long time. If you are wondering what the KD stands for in this shoes’ name, it is an acronym of Kevin Durant, the basketball superstar and one of the game’s best players today. This shoes is built to the his specs, ideal for versatile players on the hardwood court.
Traction
NIKE embedded a wavy herringbone design to increase traction in this model, and it may just have worked very well. A lot of reviewers feel that the KD Trey 5 V has a great court grip. If you are a player that deals with a lot of speed change, like a point guard, this model might be a great fit for you.
Cushion
This model features a thick padding on the collar of the shoe and therefore, providing ample amount of comfort for the user. It also uses Forefoot Zoom Air unit to enhance the responsiveness of the cushioning system.
Material
NIKE uses a combination of Phylon foam and minimal Zoom tech in the midsole. According to many reviewers, these materials are great for guard positions. The durable, articulated rubber on the outsole also enhance reliability during movements.
Fit
A lot of reviewers think this model is true to size. There are also people who feel that this shoe runs long, so please do try it on yourself as people has different preferences. Reviewers may also make a comment under different conditions. For example, they could be trying the shoe with or without socks. This is something that may make a difference. The lockdown on this shoes is no question as there are thick laces on the lateral part of the shoe to make sure it stays on your feet throughout the exercise. However, a small number of buyers claim that the shoe takes quite a long time to break in.
Ventilation
NIKE Men’s KD Trey 5 V Basketball Shoe has a mesh upper that provides breathability and comfort. Some reviewers claim that their feet don’t feel hot after a game using this shoes. This lightweight mesh upper is also reinforced with foam to enhance stability.
Support
There is an outrigger on the midsole that helps prevent ankle injuries. There is also an internal heel counter to prevent foot slippage.
2. Jordan Nike Men’s B. Fly Basketball Shoe
The Jordan B. Fly is one of the newest signature lines of basketball shoes from Jordan. It is the brand’s take on a
budget model. Having said that, this shoes has received many positive reviews and is highly sought out by players.
Traction
This model offers a unique traction pattern on the outsole in the form of raised bumps. Reviewers say that this design protects them from slippage on clean courts, and it offers coverage and great stopping power. However, in order to perform the same on a dusty court you must clean the shoes thoroughly as the traction pattern is dense and may trap dust.
Cushion
The B. Fly uses Zoom Air technology in the forefoot and Phylon in the midsole. This may be a basic cushioning in Nike and Jordan shoes but nine times out of ten it gives a solid performance: impact protection and great responsiveness. Reviewers feel that the Phylon in this model is somewhat superior as it feels squishy and soft at the heel but responsive and grounded in the forefoot.
Material
Reviewers are very pleased with the materials used on this shoe as it doesn’t feel cheap. The Jordan B. Fly features performance Wolven, something that you could find on the higher end XX9 model. It is very soft and light which enhance the shoe’s flexibility. The material on the heel area is synthetic leather with embossed Jordan’s number. Many users feel this design adds a premium feel to the shoe.
Fit
The Jordan B. Fly truly shines in the fitness aspect thanks to the Wolven upper. The asymmetrical lacing system and the dynamic fit cables create a really nice snug feeling when you are wearing it. The heel is blessed with tons of internal padding, yet this shoe is still one of the lightest in its category. Due to its wide structure and stretchable upper, this shoe is quite true to size. However, if you have a narrower foot you might want to try going a half size down.
Ventilation
Its mesh design prevents the feet from overheating even when used for a long period of time.
Support
With a tight heel lockdown, great midfoot containment thanks to the lacing, and amazing stability, this shoe offers the greatest support you can encounter.
3. NIKE Hyperdunk 2016 Low Men’s Basketball Shoes
As the name might have suggested, this shoe is the low top version of the NIKE Hyperdunk 2016. This basketball 
shoes will only set you back less than $100, and it is one of the most highly rated shoes among reviewers.
Traction
NIKE has faced some issues on their translucent outsoles, but not in this model. The rubber performed at the same level and without hinderance as their solid rubber models. The multidirectional herringbone pattern offers a stellar grip of the floor, and the deep grooves will keep you protected even on a dusty court. For that reason, this shoes is perfect for players who love to play outside.
Cushion
As with other NIKE shoes, the Hyperdunk 2016 Low uses Zoom Air units and soft Phylon midsole as its cushioning system. This type of cushioning is very versatile and can be useful for players in any position. The Zoom Air offers a quick response and solid impact protection whereas the Phylon foam gives the user a nice bounce without diminishing court feel.
Material
The medial side of this shoes is covered with textile mesh whereas the overlay is screen mesh and thick fuse. This setup gives user a supportive upper rather than a flexible one. The screen mesh gives sufficient support in the toe, midfoot, and heel area. The textile mesh is very comfortable and flexible.
Fit
Some reviewers feel that this shoe runs a bit long, so those with narrow or regular feet should try them on before buying. Trying a half size down may do the trick. Otherwise, this shoe fit very nicely on the feet. The Flywire cables combined with the upper create a snug and supportive feet. NIKE also feature a huge internal padding on the heel area to eliminate dead space.
Ventilation
This shoe uses mesh construction to increase breathability.
Support
The Hyperdunk 2016 has a wide base to ensure solid stability. The tight lockdown, the lack of dead space on the heel, and the midsole materials will protect your foot from rolling over when stopping and changing directions.
4. Adidas Performance Men’s Crazy Explosive Basketball Shoe
As one of the world’s most famous sports equipment brand, Adidas has come out with a Crazy Explosive shoe line.
This particular sneaker we are about to review has become one of the most loved items by users since its release.
Traction
The unique maze-like traction pattern in the Performance Crazy Explosive grips the court tightly even when it is dusty, thanks to its deep and thick grooves. To add traction and stability during cuts, the outsoles wrap around the midsoles on the medial side. Users can stop fast and hard during the play. However, this shoe is not recommended to be used on outdoor courts as the rubber soles wear pretty easily.
Cushion
Adidas embedded a full length boost midsole, caged on the sides to increase stability. The cushioning system feels soft and boosted, especially around the heel area and a little bit around the forefoot. The Crazy Explosive has a good responsiveness and court feel as well as a good heel-to-toe transitions.
Material
Adidas has developed the Primeknit technology with Geofit bootie and imbued it on the upper part of this shoe. Many reviewers love this material as it feels fairly stretchy and soft, and the Geofit bootie wrap around the entire foot nicely.
Fit
Although this shoe has a wide base, some reviewers have commented that the fit is a bit narrow. As always, it is better to try it on before making the purchase. The lockdown feature in this Adidas series is very good. The unique, crazy lacing system called “anatomical lacing system” will do a really nice job of securing your foot in the shoe.
Ventilation
The Primeknit material offers both softness and breathability.
Support
As previously mentioned, the Primeknit can feel a bit stretchy. However, the support this shoe offer is quite good. The wide base and the tightly woven materials on the lateral side can sufficiently support the midfoot and forefoot. This shoe is a high top shoe, but some reviewers say that it does not provide great ankle protection. Wearing ankle brace with the shoe will add more support and safety.
5. NIKE Men’s Hypershift Basketball Shoes
This shoe is one of the newer budget friendly models for hoopers from NIKE. It has received positive reviews from
users, and this is a basketball shoe under $100 that you must check out.
Traction
There tiny nubs pattern on the outsoles gives a decent traction, though there are some flaws. Playing on a dusty floor will require you to wipe the shoes periodically as it will reduce the grip. However, on a clean court, the nubs will flex, stretch, and bite onto the floor strongly. Therefore, this shoe is great for players that are always in motion such as a point guard.
Cushion
This shoe is very low profile the cushioning comes from NIKE’s Zoom Air Unit located on the forefoot. The tooling is contoured like the foot, giving users a very natural feel when wearing it. This shoe offers minimal cushion yet effective as it will give you a great court feel and smoother transition.
Material
This shoe uses a softer material that many reviewers like. The upper is constructed of a mesh mixed with neoprene with extremely thin Fuse in high wear areas. The Phylon midsole is soft and not dense, and so allowing everything to work in concert harmoniously. Reviewers claim this sho require little to no break in time.
Fit
The Nike Hypershift is true to size and can accommodate those with wide foot thanks to the supple mesh upper. The lockdown feature is solid and the heel area is especially secure. The Flywire cable located on the rear is a part of the lacing system. If you include this part in your lacing, the heel will be locked down at all times.
Ventilation
As previously mentioned, this shoe is constructed with mesh and skin-like Fuse, and so breathability will not be an issue.
Support
As this shoe lies on the softer side, its support depends largely on the fit. Therefore, wearing the correct size and lacing it up tightly can minimize potential injury. There is a small internal heel counter at the rear and a small internal torsional plate at the midfoot but again, most of the support and security comes from the lacing and Flywire cables.
6. Under Armour Men’s Curry 3Zero Basketball Shoes
Based on the infamous basketball player Stephen Curry, the of Under Armour Curry 3Zero is an upgraded version of
the older models. This shoe gives a good performance and is highly rated by many customers and reviewers alike. This is truly a basketball shoe under $100 that you should check out.
Traction
The Curry 3Zero features the Herringbone traction pattern which is known for performing amazingly on clean courts yet a bit lacking on dusty courts. To continue receiving the same level of performance, you need to wipe the outsoles regularly after playing at a dusty court. However, the rubber outsole does feel firm and so this shoe is great for those who love to play outdoors.
Cushion
As a part of the Stephen Curry signature line, this shoe introduces the MicroG tech. The Curry 3Zero has a dual-density MicroG on the midsole and a Charged crash pad on the heel. These combinations make for a bouncy shoe and enhance the impact protection.
Material
The Curry 3Zero has a completely different material setup compared to its predecessors. This version uses a mesh and fuse backing in order to produce more durability, as opposed to the Threadborne and AnaFoam setup in the previous shoe that feel very nice on the foot. However, reviewers note that this budget material does not feel cheap or uncomfortable. The upper looks premium and feels firm yet soft and comfortable.
Fit
The foot containment given by this shoe is stellar. The lockdown is tight thanks to the lacing system. Some reviewers have mentioned that the presence of fuse overlay at the front that covers nearly half the toe area have reduced a little bit of the shoe’s flexibility. However, the same reviewers have also said that this is not a deal breaker.
Ventilation
Despite mostly constructed of textile mesh, the upper is made of screen mesh, providing a good amount of breathability.
Support
There is an ankle strap that is connected to the lace system and therefore, increasing the heel lockdown. This, in turn, will increase support.
7. NIKE Men’s Zoom Clear Out TB Basketball Shoes
The Zoom Clear Out TB is another budget model shoe from Nike. This shoe is endorsed by Draymond Green who has
been seen wearing this particular shoe many times, including at an Olympic games with the USA team. Needless to say, this shoe is definitely worth checking out.
Traction
The traction pattern on this shoe performs beyond average. It has a solid grip on hardwoods, great stopping power, and good move coverage. Reviewers have said that they don’t feel any major slippage should they play on a dusty court. Many have suggested that this shoe is fit to use outdoors.
Cushion
The cushioning system in the Zoom Clear Out TB is the basic NIKE budget cushion setup: a Zoom Air unit at the forefoot and Phylon in the midsole. This setup will give you a great responsiveness and moderate impact protection. Reviewers have said that they can feel little bounce with this shoe and it offers plenty of court feel.
Material
The mesh upper is knitted with fuse overlays in high wear areas. The Zoom Clear Out TB also features a foam ankle collar, which is something you usually expect to see in premium lines basketball shoes.
Fit
The NIKE Zoom Clear Out TB runs a bit long. Those with wide foot are wise to try them on before making the purchase. For best possible performance, people with narrow foot should try a half size down. This shoe have a good one-to-one fit thanks to the knitted mesh upper. The nylon straps also offer a better containment and lockdown.
Ventilation
The mesh upper is light and solidly breathable and comfortable.
Support
One of the highlights of the NIKE Zoom Clear Out TB is surely the ankle extension with huge inside padding that offers a good amount of support and a premium feel to the whole getup. An internal heel counter, a molded external heel counter, and the Phylon wings on the sides prevent rolling motions. The asymmetric tongue, outriggers, and the arch support underneath complete the performance.
8. Under Armour ClutchFit Drive II Basketball Shoes
Another budget model by Under Armour, the ClutchFit Drive II is one of the favorites among users and reviewers
alike.
Traction
The multi directional herringbone pattern on the outsole may not be fancy but it straight up gives you stellar performance. The outsole is also durable enough to be used outdoor. The traction also wraps up on the midsole to offer more coverage during hard cuts and quick cutbacks. Overall, the traction on the ClutchFit Drive II covers nearly all movements.
Cushion
The previous ClutchFit Drive uses a MicroG cushion system but on the ClutchFit Drive II, Under Armour decides to use the Charged foam tech. It is a bit more firm compared to MicroG, trading plushness for responsiveness. Players such as point guards will find this setup to be more accommodating.
Material
Living up to its name, this shoe uses the relatively new tech called ClutchFit as an underlay, from the midfoot to the ankle collar. The previous version of this shoe was equipped with this tech all throughout the upper, but reviewers feel this doesn’t make that big of a difference. The fuse overlay is quite pliable and flexible. Overall, the material of this shoe is comfortable and not restricting.
Fit
Under Armour advertised ClutchFit to feel like a second skin. That feeling is definitely there especially in the midfoot and collar area. However, the forefoot area does not feel as fit due to the underlay mesh that is similar to the tongue. If you enjoy a snug fit with little space in the front, going half size down may just do the trick.
Ventilation
The lightweight second skin design provides sufficient breathability for users.
Support
The fuse overlay gives a supportive feel needed by all on the court, including the bigger players. The heel cup is upgraded and now has the lateral stability to prevent rolling motions. The support offered by the ClutchFit Drive II is great for players in any positions, but especially the forwards and centers.
9. NIKE Men’s Air Max Audacity 2016 Basketball Shoes
Released in 2016, the Air Max Audacity is still one of NIKE’s best budget shoes until today. It is endorsed by Ben
Simmons, the NBA’s #1 draft pick.
Traction
The traction is gained from a pliable rubber compound throughout the outsole. Some reviewers felt this kind of rubber is somewhat inconsistent and is prone to slipping, especially on a dirty court. The rubber compound is also not very durable so playing outdoors will reduce its longevity.
Cushion
The heel is cushioned by the 180-degree Air Max bag, giving it a proper impact protection. The Phylon midsole is soft, and may help with compression and friction during landing. For those who prefer being lower to the ground, this kind of cushioning may not be the one for you.
Material
NIKE imbued a soft mesh upper into the Air Max Audacity 2016. It is backed with foam panels where necessary. There is also fuse in high wear areas, such as the toe box, around the lacing strands, and the heel. The neoprene backing is stretchy and feels nice on the foot.
Fit
The lockdown in this shoe is great as long as you lace it tight. It is true to size. The dense ankle collar and the neoprene heel gives an easy stretch and fit, even when you are wearing thick socks and an ankle brace. Reviewers have commented that this shoe is great for those with wide feet.
Ventilation
This shoe uses mesh materials throughout its body, ensuring good breathability.
Support
As with many other budget models, the support in this shoe correlates directly with the fit. This is especially true in the NIKE Air Max Audacity 2016 because of the flimsy TPU heel counter and the underwhelming outsole traction.
10. NIKE Men’s 2016 Hyperdunk
This 2016 Hyperdunk is unlike the Hyperdunk previously reviewed in this guide. This one is its high top version, and
it is highly suggested that you read on the specifications before deciding to make a purchase as this particular shoe is one of the top 10 basketball shoes of 2016.
Traction
Again, NIKE features its signature herringbone traction pattern in the Hyperdunk 2016. This is a design loved by many NIKE users as it performs amazingly. Regardless of the court condition, the traction is aggressive and bite the floor with an exceptional power. It also gives user an instant stopping power and reliable coverage.
Cushion
There is a segmented Zoom Air cushioning at the midsole, heel, and forefoot. There is also a soft Phylon layer to add the impact protection and bounce. The combination of these two cushioning system will give a bouncy feel and quick responsiveness.
Material
The Hyperdunk 2016 uses the basic NIKE setup for this line: a mesh combined with Fuse backing. The screen mesh offers solid support and stellar durability. It also requires a short break in time. The lateral portion of the midfoot features textile instead of screen mesh, giving users an enjoyable transition as they move without restriction.
Fit
The fit on this shoe is on point. The textile mesh on the medial side hugs your feet nicely and the Flywire cables give a snug and supportive fit. The huge padding on the ankle collar adds another point to the comfort department. The Hyperdunk 2016 runs a bit long so it is advisable for those with narrow feet to try a half size down. For those with wide feet, this shoe is true to size.
Ventilation
The forefoot, midfoot, and heel portion of this shoe is covered with screen mesh, offering decent breathability.
Support
The highlight of the Hyperdunk 2016 is the support. The combination of tight lockdown, the solid foot and ankle containment, and the overall construction offer a really great support. There are six eyelets, excluding two extra eyelets on the ankle collar, with attached Flywire cables for you to lock your foot into the shoe. The wide construction and the outsole also gives you stability.
11. Adidas Men’s Dame 3 Basketball Shoes
The Dame 3 is the third Damian Lillard signature shoe model from Adidas. This particular model has garnered a
favorable reviews from users as one of the best basketball shoes under $100.
Traction
Adidas has a Blade traction tech that they install to this particular shoe. It looks very aggressive and performs very aggressively, as well. The traction pattern is multidirectional and so is able to react to any kind of move you make on the court. The Dame 3 performs exceptionally well on dusty courts. You only need to wipe it down periodically.
Cushion
As with the previous models, the Dame 3 carries a Bounce cushion inside which has a similar feel to Boost cushion. The Bounce tech offers a great balance and responsiveness. As a result, you will get a stellar impact protection without sacrificing the court feel. Reviewers have recommended this shoe not only to point guards, but also to bigger player in other positions.
Material
The Dame 3 is constructed mainly with fuse mesh and TPU which offer great stability, durability, and support. They are also flexible and comfortable to wear.
Fit
Wide footers can rejoice as this shoe runs true to size. Everyone else, though, is recommended to go half a size down. The napkin in this shoe will hold your foot in place very well. The lockdown on this shoe is great thanks to the lacing and the internal heel counter.
Ventilation
Thanks to the mesh covering nearly all of the shoe’s surface, the Dame 3 is very breathable.
Support
Adidas imbued the Dame 3 with a lot of technology to protect its users from injuries and slippage. There are rubber cages on the lateral portions, a mid-foot shank, a small outrigger, and an internal heel counter.
12. Under Armour Men’s Get B Zee Basketball Shoes
Under Armour was founded by Kevin Plank, a former football player of University of Maryland, in 1996. Since then,
this brand has developed technologies in their apparel and gear to keep the athletes cool, dry, and light throughout a game, exercise, or practice. The Get B Zee is one of Under Armour’s highest rated basketball shoes under $100.
Traction
Under Armour uses a herringbone pattern on the outsoles. Combined with strategically placed diamond shaped insets, this shoe will give you superior traction and control.
Cushion
The Get B Zee features a dual density midsole combined with Micro G foam and Charged Cushioning on the heel area. This technology gives users a stellar blend of comfort and flexibility.
Material
The upper is constructed of lightweight textile with leather quarter panels. The sole is made of synthetic rubber.
Fit
Most reviewers love the fit of this shoe. They claim that the Get B Zee is easy to put on and requires little to no break in time. It features he die cut and anti microbes OrthoLite sockliner that makes this shoe molds into the shape of the foot. That, combined with the webbed loop speed lacing system will give you a great lockdown.
Ventilation
The Get B Zee is very breathable and able to keep players’ feet dry even under the heaviest of workout sets, all thanks to the textile material and perforated design throughout the upper.
Support
This shoe comes with an adjustable ankle strap to add support as well as style with debossed Under Armour logo. A reviewer commented that this ankle collar makes the Get B Zee look smaller than it really is.
13. Adidas Originals Men’s CloudFoam Refresh Mid Basketball Shoes
Another budget model from Adidas, the CloudFoam Refresh Mid Basketball Shoes is great for daily use and practice
sessions in court. This shoe is one of the cheapest basketball shoe under $100 on this review.
Traction
The CloudFoam Refresh has a distinct traction pattern all throughout the outsoles. This pattern enables the shoe to grip the court tightly due to its deep and thick grooves. If you play on a dusty court, it is recommended to wipe the outsoles as the grooves may retain dust and dirt. This shoe is also not recommended to be used on outdoor courts as the rubber soles wear pretty easily.
Cushion
As the name might have suggested, Adidas uses the CloudFoam technology as the cushioning system on this shoe. Many reviewers have reported that it makes the shoe feels soft and bouncy though you can still get a decent court feel and responsiveness.
Material
The soles are made of rubber, which unfortunately is not that durable. However, the textile mesh that is installed almost all throughout the shoe gives the flexibility, durability, and comfort that this shoe needs.
Fit
The lockdown on this shoe comes almost exclusively from the lacing. There is an extra eyelet on the ankle cuff to make sure that your foot won’t go anywhere. Reviewers say this shoe is lightweight, like walking on a cloud, and really soft inside. Many claims this shoe is true to size and requires almost no break in time.
Ventilation
The textile mesh material used throughout the shoe offers both softness and breathability.
Support
The CloudFoam Refresh has a decent support system. Aside from the Cloud Foam cushion, it is a mid top shoe and therefore, offers more protection against ankle injury. It has a wide base to enhance stability, as well.
14. NIKE Men’s Air Overplay IX Basketball Shoe
As a moderately priced basketball shoe from NIKE, many users and reviewers give positive ratings for this particular
shoe thanks to its stellar performance for both everyday needs and court requirements.
Traction
NIKE uses a unique zig zag pattern on some parts of this shoe’s outsole. With that, you will be fully covered on a clean court. However, be vigilant on a more dusty court as you will need to adjust your play to the traction level. The gap between each groove is pretty narrow, requiring you to wipe the outsoles after playing on a dusty court or at the outdoors.
Cushion
The cushioning on the Overplay IX comes from the Zoom Air unit, able to enhance the responsiveness and impact protection of the shoe during play. The half length bootie is also snug and offers further protection.
Material
As it is a budget model, NIKE installed the basic setup similar to other budget model lines. It is a mesh and foam combo with synthetic backing to act as an additional support, structure, and durability. It is lightweight and soft. The outer part of the sole is made of suede which enhances its aesthetic.
Fit
Many reviewers say that this shoe requires little to no break in time. The lockdown is great thanks to the lacing system. There are two extra eyelets on the ankle cuff to gain more security and lockdown. This shoe runs a bit long so those with wide feet may want to try half a size down.
Ventilation
This shoe uses a combination of synthetic screen mesh and textile mesh. However, reviewers claim that breathability is not an issue.
Support
The heavily padded ankle cuff definitely offer more protection and support. There is an outrigger on the midsole area though no Flywire can be found. If you do your lacing tightly and correctly, this shoe can offer a decent support overall.
15. Adidas Performance Men’s D Rose 5 Boost Basketball Shoe
Adidas D Rose 5 Boost is based on Derrick Rose, a basketball player known for consistently coming through in the
clutch. This model may be one of Adidas’ budget model but it is also one of their highly rated sneakers, loved by consumers and reviewers alike.
Traction
Reviewers rave about the traction in the D Rose 5 Boost. The traction pattern will grip the court strongly, letting out a squeak that is a sign of a great traction. If you are playing on a dusty court, don’t forget to periodically clean the outsoles. This shoes can be used outdoors even though the rubber on the outsoles is on the softer side.
Cushion
The full length Boost heel gives this shoes a great cushion. For the Boost tech to react, you have to be moving and applying pressure to the shoe so keep that in mind when you are testing out the shoe. The Boost tech on this shoes feel somewhat firmer and therefore, offers more stability. The forefoot is also encapsulated for the same reason. The impact protection offered by the D Rose 5 Boost is quite decent.
Material
Though there are several different colors on this shoe, most of them are constructed from synthetics. Reviewers have said that because of this, the D Rose 5 Boost requires little break in time. It is a solid and durable material, though some reviewers also feel that the material decreases the visual appeal after the first wear.
Fit
This shoe is true to size with some toe volume. However, some reviewers have claimed that they need a half size up or down from their original size. Therefore, it is best that you try it in store before making a purchase. The midfoot lockdown is solid, as well as the heel lockdown as the shoe comes with an insole.
Ventilation
There is a SprintWeb design installed under the perforated upper that will let your foot breathe a bit. The EVA foam Fit-Frame on the D Rose 5 Boost have caused some issue for some reviewers as they felt a bit stifled and so could not wait to take the shoe off at the end of the game.
Support
The support offered by the D Rose 5 Boost is fantastic. There is a TPU X-Bar for torsional support and a TPU heel counter to further contain your foot in the shoe. The Fit-Frame and the Boost also improve the lockdown and stability.
