Basketball is the combination of running, jumping, quick stops, and abrupt direction changes. An ankle sprain or collapse arches is one of the most common injuries a basketball player can experience. These injuries can wreak havoc on your feet and can be difficult to recover from. Ankle injuries often happen due to the wrong selection of shoe pairs. To help prevent these types of injuries, it’s crucial to wear the right basketball shoes with proper ankle support.
In this article, we have gathered some of the best basketball shoes with ankle support, including options for players with wide feet.
Ankle Sprains: Not Just a Passing Event for Athletes
Ankles is a tough joints and ankle sprains are the type of injuries that we can typically walk off relatively easily. However, ankle sprains are quite insidious. They seem to go quickly but afterward, they come up so often with other injuries like foot pain, knee pain, or hip pain.
As an athlete, particularly a basketball player, it’s important not to ignore ankle sprains. They are not benign passing events, unlike cold or other self-limiting conditions.
Benefits of high collar Basketball shoes
In 2017, a study was published in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine. The study investigated the relationship between shoe collar height and ankle joint mechanics during a sagittal plane maneuver. The study found that higher shoe collar heights can effectively reduce ankle joint range of motion, potentially helping to prevent ankle injuries.
Best Basketball shoes for centered players with ankle support
When it comes to choosing basketball shoes, players have different needs based on their position and playing style. For centered players, ankle support is crucial, and that’s where better shoes excel.
One thing to note is that these shoes tend to be a bit heavier and bulkier than other basketball shoes. This is because they have higher ankle support, which is necessary for bigger players who require more stability, especially around the ankle.
Air Jordan 4 Retro (best for centers)
Initially, we had intended to select the Air Jordan 37 for our list. However, due to its scarcity in the market, we opted to search for a suitable alternative. Upon extensive testing and gathering customer reviews, we discovered that the alternative we found not only met our expectations but also outperformed the Air Jordan 37.
Here is an honest review of this shoe:
Design and Comfort
The Air Jordan 4 Retro shoes have a sleek and classic design that will appeal to any basketball player. The shoes are available in different colors, so you can choose the one that best suits your style. These shoes are incredibly comfortable and provide a lot of cushioning in the bottom, which helps absorb the impact of the player’s movements during an extended period of play.
Ankle Support
The ankle support provided by the Air Jordan 4 Retro shoes is top-notch. The shoes come with heel and forefoot strips that help stabilize the foot. This prevents any unwanted movement that could lead to an ankle injury. The high ankle design also adds an extra layer of support, which is essential for players who are constantly making quick movements on the court.
Boost Cushioning Technology
The Air Jordan 4 Retro shoes feature boost cushioning technology, which provides maximum and continuous energy return to the athlete. This means that the more energy you put into your movements, the more energy you’ll get back. This technology is incredible and will make you feel like you have a spring in your step throughout your game.
Outsole Grip
The multidirectional grip of the outsole is exceptional, providing excellent traction and preventing any slipping during the game. This feature ensures that you can make quick movements with confidence, knowing that the athlete can perform at their best without worrying about any shocks or jolts coming up their body.
Best Suitable For
Best suitable for sneakerheads and players seeking iconic style and exceptional performance.
Cons
- Slightly heavy shoes but manageable
- Difficult to find
- Can be expensive
- Not good shoes for walking on concrete
Best basketball shoes for wide feet
When looking for basketball shoes for wide feet, it’s essential to consider ankle support and foot position. As traditional running shoes often have a higher heel height than the forefoot. This can put the foot in a plantar flexion position, making it more susceptible to ankle sprains. To minimize the risk of injury, shoes that allow for a more neutral foot position and proper ankle dorsiflexion are crucial.
One shoe that meets these criteria is the Nike Men’s Shoes Kyrie 7 EP Roswell Raygun. It has a versatile design that offers excellent support for different foot shapes, including wide feet.
Nike Men’s Shoes Kyrie 7 EP Roswell Raygun
The Nike Men’s Shoes Kyrie 7 EP Roswell is an exceptional choice for those looking for all-around shoes that cater to a variety of playing styles. Here’s why:
Excellent Traction and Stability
The Kyrie 7 EP Roswell features cleats on the back, uniform treads, and rubberized non-skid soles. This provides superior grip and traction, allowing you to make quick cuts and change direction with ease. The shoes’ midsole is specifically designed to support players with flat feet or arch problems, making this a great option for all players.
Moreover, the shoe’s design puts your foot in a more neutral position that prevents ankle dorsiflexion loss, making it more stable and reducing the risk of injury.
Soft Cushioning and Impact Protection
The Kyrie 7 EP Roswell has some of the softest cushioning units, offering excellent impact protection while still maintaining a good court feel. This balance of cushioning and court feel is critical for basketball players. They need to absorb shock while still maintaining their balance and agility.
Secure Lockdown and Comfortable Fit
Once laced up and strapped, the Kyrie 7 EP Roswell offers excellent lockdown, thanks to its wide and firm strap. You won’t need to worry about tightening or adjusting the fit as the shoes stay securely in place, allowing you to focus on the game. The shoes are also designed with comfort in mind. They have a roomy toe box and a breathable mesh upper that ensures your feet stay cool and dry.
Best Suitable For
Best suitable for those seeking extra protection on the court or recovering from ankle sprains.
Cons
- Can be quite expensive, which may not be affordable for everyone.
- Modern design may not be the choice for traditional shoe lovers.
Best Overall basketball shoes for ankle support
If any basketball shoes can be included in the most affordable list without compromising on functionality and features when compared to other top shoes, it would have to be the Under Armour Men’s Embiid 1. Keep scrolling to read our comprehensive review of the best basketball shoes for ankle support that we recommend.
Under Armour Men’s Embiid 1 (recommended shoes for ankle support)
You may be far from reaching the superb level of basketball player Joel Embiid, but by picking his signature shoe, you could literally step into his shoes. Joel Embiid’s first signature shoe is completely professional and iconic with a style and modern attitude. It even maintains embroidered logos, while keeping the brand’s authentic stamp with its bright color.
Comfort and Cushioning
The unique hexagonal cushioning of the Under Armour Men’s Embiid 1 Basketball Shoe provides maximum comfort, making it perfect for all-day wear. This feature is especially important for basketball players who spend a significant amount of time on their feet. The shoe’s cushioning allows for a comfortable fit that reduces the stress on your feet and joints.
One of the most notable features of these shoes is the pro bar lock and heel lock technology that provides exceptional stability and support. This is a significant advantage for basketball players who need to make quick cuts and movements while avoiding ankle injuries. The design of the shoe minimizes the risk of foot sprains, allowing you to focus on your game without worrying about your safety.
Best Suitable For
Great for any position or player looking for a responsive shoe with extra support.
Cons
Not found any significant cons.
Best shoes for women with ankle support
When it comes to choosing the best shoes for women athletes, it’s important to consider the fit and functionality of the shoe. Most of the shoes from top brands that are specifically designed for basketball offer the same kind of sole on the wide side. However, in general, most women athletes have slightly narrower feet. This presents a challenge as many women end up buying men’s shoes as there are not enough quality pairs of shoes available specifically for women.
With all that said, we’ve taken the liberty of selecting what we believe to be one of the best shoe options currently available for your convenience.
Nike Women’s Basketball
The Nike Women’s Basketball shoe has been specifically designed to cater to the needs of female athletes. The shoe has been engineered with a slimmer heel and a more flexible forefoot to ensure that it suits the female frame perfectly. This attention to detail ensures that the wearer feels quick and agile while on the court.
One of the standout features of this shoe is the entire zoom pad around the entire forefoot. This provides excellent impact protection while allowing the wearer to feel quick and light on their feet.
Cushioning
The injected phylon heel of the shoe is minimal. It provides just enough cushioning to ensure that the wearer feels comfortable while still being able to move quickly. The round sole of the shoe allows the athlete to react fast and make quick, shifty moves without any hindrance.
Cons
May not be suitable for people with flat feet.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Basketball Shoes for Ankle Support
Q: How important is ankle support in basketball shoes?
Ankle support is crucial in basketball shoes because the sport involves a lot of lateral movements, quick changes of direction, and high jumps, all of which can put stress on your ankles. Proper ankle support helps prevent sprains and other ankle-related injuries and reduces the risk of long-term damage.
Q: Why do basketball players wipe their shoes?
A: Basketball players often wipe their shoes to remove dust, dirt, and moisture from the court surface to prevent slipping. This practice is especially crucial for players seeking the best basketball shoes for ankle support, as a secure grip can minimize the risk of ankle injuries during quick movements.
Q: Can you wear basketball shoes for volleyball? What are the differences between the two?
A: While basketball shoes and volleyball shoes may appear similar, they are designed with specific features for their respective sports. Basketball shoes are typically designed for more lateral movements and ankle support, while volleyball shoes prioritize lightweight construction and superior traction on indoor courts. While you can wear basketball shoes for volleyball, it’s generally recommended to use sport-specific shoes for optimal performance.
Q: How long do basketball shoes last?
A: The lifespan of basketball shoes varies depending on factors like usage, playing style, and shoe quality. On average, good basketball shoes can last anywhere from 1 to 2 years for regular players. However, if you play more frequently or aggressively, you may need to replace them more often to maintain optimal performance and minimize the risk of injury.
Q: How to make basketball shoes more grippy?
A: If you feel that your basketball shoes lack grip, there are methods you can try, Wipe the outsoles with a damp cloth before playing to remove dust or debris. Use grip-enhancing sprays or grip pads to improve traction. Enhancing the grip of your basketball shoes can significantly improve your performance and reduce the risk of ankle injuries.
Q: What basketball shoes have the best grip?
A: Several basketball shoe models are known for their exceptional grip. The top contenders in terms of grip and knee support often include popular brands such as Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour. Some notable models known for their excellent traction include the Air Jordan 4 Retro, Nike Men’s Shoes Kyrie 7 EP Roswell Raygun, and Under Armour Men’s Embiid 1.
What are the best basketball shoes for ankle support?
A: For individuals prioritizing ankle support, several basketball shoe models excel in this aspect. Air Jordan 4 Retro, Nike Men’s Shoes Kyrie 7 EP Roswell Raygun, and Under Armour Men’s Embiid 1 are all notable options. These shoes incorporate features like high ankle collars, reinforced supports, and cushioning systems that effectively reduce the risk of ankle injuries while providing optimal comfort and stability.
Q: Are basketball shoes good for running?
A: While basketball shoes are designed to accommodate quick lateral movements and offer ankle support, they may not be the best choice for running long distances. Running shoes are specifically engineered to provide the necessary cushioning, flexibility, and support for forward motion. If running is a significant part of your training regimen, it’s advisable to invest in a pair of dedicated running shoes for maximum comfort and performance.
Q: How to clean basketball shoes?
A: Proper shoe maintenance is essential for preserving the longevity and functionality of basketball shoes, especially those selected for their ankle support. Here’s a general guide to clean basketball shoes:
- Remove any loose dirt or debris with a soft brush or cloth.
- Prepare a mixture of mild detergent and warm water.
- Dip a soft brush or cloth into the soapy water and gently scrub the upper part of the shoe.
- Use a separate cloth dampened with clean water to remove the soap residue.
- Wipe the shoes with a dry cloth and let them air dry naturally. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources that could damage the materials.
- Once dry, you can apply a shoe cleaner or conditioner specifically designed for basketball shoes to enhance their appearance and protect the materials if desired.
