The 7 Best Basketball Referee Shoes for Comfort and Support
As a player, I’ve had my fair share of civil discourse with referees. I can’t even imagine the amount of back-and-forth conversations, not all of them civil, between referees, coaches, and players.
With all of these “discussions” happening, wouldn’t it be better to have a pair of shoes on your feet that don’t irritate you?
For those who know how to referee basketball, your job is to make sure that the game is played fairly while maintaining the safety of all players.
Your choice of shoes can significantly impact your performance on the court.
The right pair of shoes ensures that you can move easily on the court in any direction and maintain balance and stability while making split-second decisions.
So let’s go over the best basketball referee shoes that offer both comfort and support.
What Are The Best Basketball Referee Shoes?
Here are our picks for the best basketball referee shoes this year!
ASICS Gel-Blast 7
Overview
The ASICS Gel-Blast 7 is the ultimate performance shoe for indoor sports and the best referee shoes on the market. Its key features include the innovative Gel cushioning system for maximum comfort and shock absorption, a lightweight and breathable upper for enhanced airflow, and a durable outsole for superior traction on any court surface. With these shoes, you’ll be on your way to become a NBA referee in no time!
Key Benefits
The gel cushioning system provides exceptional comfort and absorbs shock for a smooth ride
Lightweight and breathable upper allows for maximum airflow to keep feet cool and dry during intense play
Durable outsole offers excellent traction on various court surfaces, ensuring stability and quick movements
Impact Guidance System enhances the foot’s natural gait, promoting a more efficient stride
Trusstic System technology reduces the weight of the sole unit while maintaining structural integrity for added support
Price
My Take
The ASICS Gel-Blast 7 is a high-performance indoor court shoe known for its stability and impact protection with GEL cushioning, but some users have found the fit around the midfoot to be less than ideal.
Best for Wide Feet: ASICS GT-1000 11
Overview
The ASICS GT-1000 11 is a reliable running shoe designed for stability and support. Its key features include a breathable mesh upper, rearfoot GEL cushioning for shock absorption and a durable outsole for traction. With enhanced arch support and a comfortable fit, it’s the perfect choice for runners seeking a smooth and efficient stride.
Key Benefits
Breathable mesh upper provides optimal airflow to keep feet cool and dry
Rearfoot GEL cushioning system attenuates shock during impact for a smooth and comfortable ride
DuoMax Support System enhances stability and support, reducing the risk of overpronation
Guidance Trusstic System improves gait efficiency and promotes a more natural stride
AHAR (ASICS High Abrasion Rubber) outsole offers exceptional durability and traction on various surfaces
Price
My Take
The ASICS GT-1000 11 is a versatile running shoe designed for an active lifestyle, offering functional performance for both running and gym workouts. The shoe’s FLYTEFOAM cushioning provides comfort and support, but some users have found that there are better options available for sprinting.
Smitty Basketball Referee Shoes
Overview
The Smitty Basketball Shoes are designed for comfort and performance on the court. Made with durable leather, these shoes provide long-lasting quality. The non-marking rubber outsole delivers superior traction, while the lightweight construction reduces fatigue. With breathable mesh panels and cushioned ankle support, these shoes keep you comfortable during intense games. Available in various sizes, they offer a perfect fit for every referee.
Key Benefits
Designed specifically for basketball referees, the Smitty Basketball Referee Shoes offer exceptional comfort and support on the court.
Made with high-quality leather for durability and a professional look.
Non-marking rubber outsole provides excellent traction and grip, allowing referees to move confidently on the hardwood.
Lightweight construction reduces fatigue during long games, ensuring comfort throughout.
EVA midsole absorbs impact and provides cushioning for enhanced comfort during running and quick movements.
Price
My Take
The Smitty Basketball Referee Shoes offer advanced technology and a professional look at an affordable price, making them a great choice for indoor sports officials. One advantage is their superior shock absorption and cushioning, but one drawback is that they may not be suitable for outdoor use.
New Balance Men’s 520 V7
Overview
The New Balance Men’s 520 V7 is the perfect blend of style and performance. These shoes feature a durable and breathable upper with supportive overlays for a comfortable fit. The responsive cushioning provides all-day comfort, while the rubber outsole offers excellent traction on various surfaces. With its sleek design and versatile functionality, the New Balance Men’s 520 V7 is a must-have for any active lifestyle.
Key Benefits
Durable and breathable upper for long-lasting comfort.
Supportive overlays ensure a secure fit.
Responsive cushioning provides all-day comfort.
Rubber outsole offers exceptional traction on various surfaces.
Sleek design adds style to any outfit.
Price
My Take
The New Balance Men’s 520 V7 is a versatile running shoe that prioritizes comfort and support, making it perfect for various activities. One advantage is its airy and lightweight design, while a potential drawback is that it may not offer as much stability compared to other models.
Nike Air Monarch IV
Overview
The Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV is a classic and reliable training shoe for men. These shoes feature a durable leather upper for long-lasting wear and support. The Air-Sole unit in the heel provides excellent cushioning and shock absorption, while the solid rubber outsole offers traction and durability. With its timeless design and dependable performance, the Nike Air Monarch IV is the perfect choice for all your training needs.
Key Benefits
Durable leather upper for long-lasting wear and support.
Air-Sole unit in the heel provides cushioning and shock absorption.
Solid rubber outsole offers traction and durability.
Phylon midsole for lightweight and responsive cushioning.
Perforations enhance breathability to keep feet cool and comfortable.
Price
My Take
The Nike Air Monarch IV is a versatile training shoe for men, offering durable leather support and lightweight foam cushioning for comfortable workouts. One advantage is its classic style, while a potential drawback could be that it may not provide the same level of advanced features as some other athletic shoes on the market.
HOKA ONE ONE Men’s Bondi 6 Running Shoe
Overview
The HOKA ONE ONE Men’s Bondi 6 Running Shoe, designed for maximum cushioning and comfort. These shoes feature a full-length EVA midsole that provides plush cushioning and stability. The Meta-Rocker technology promotes a smooth and efficient stride, while the breathable mesh upper offers excellent ventilation.
Key Benefits
Full-length EVA midsole for exceptional cushioning and stability.
Meta-Rocker technology promotes a smooth and efficient stride.
Breathable mesh upper for excellent ventilation and comfort.
Padded collar and tongue provide added cushioning and support.
Internal heel counter for a secure and locked-in fit.
Price
My Take
The HOKA ONE ONE Men’s Bondi 6 Running Shoe offers a smooth and balanced ride with its full EVA midsole and Meta-Rocker technology, providing excellent cushioning and support for long-distance runs. One advantage is its plush comfort, while a potential drawback could be its relatively higher weight compared to other running shoes on the market.
3n2 Reaction Patent Leather Shoe
Overview
The 3n2 Reaction Patent Leather Shoe is a perfect blend of style and performance. These shoes are crafted with patent leather for a sleek and polished look. The cushioned midsole provides exceptional comfort, while the durable rubber outsole offers excellent traction and grip. With its lightweight design and reinforced toe, the Reaction Patent Leather Shoe is a versatile choice for athletes and professionals alike.
Key Benefits
Sleek and stylish patent leather upper for a polished look.
Cushioned midsole for enhanced comfort and support during long hours of wear.
Durable rubber outsole with excellent traction and grip on various surfaces.
Lightweight design to prevent fatigue and allow for agile movement.
Reinforced toe for added durability and protection.
Price
My Take
The 3n2 Reaction Patent Leather Shoe is a versatile and durable choice for referees and umpires, with its easy-to-polish and wear-resistant patent leather construction. One advantage is its sleek and professional appearance, while a potential drawback could be the limited availability of width options.
What Are Referee Basketball Shoes?
Basketball referee shoes are specifically designed footwear worn by basketball officials during games.
These shoes are designed to provide comfort, support, and traction on the basketball court while allowing referees to move quickly and efficiently.
Basketball referee shoes typically have features that distinguish them from regular athletic shoes. Some common characteristics of basketball referee shoes include:
Professional Look: Referee shoes often have a clean and professional appearance, with colors such as black or white being common.
Comfort and Cushioning: These shoes prioritize comfort to support referees who spend extended periods on their feet. They often have cushioning in the midsole and footbed for shock absorption.
Durability: Basketball referee shoes are made with sturdy materials to withstand the demands of frequent use on the court.
Traction: They feature a sole with excellent grip to help referees maintain stability and quick movements on the basketball court.
Lightweight: Referee shoes are typically lightweight to enhance agility and prevent fatigue during long games.
Support: The shoes may offer additional ankle support to prevent injuries and provide stability during lateral movements.
Conclusion
Choosing the right basketball referee shoes is important to ensure safety and performance on the court.
With these shoes, you can move easily on the court, maintain balance and stability, and make fast and accurate decisions.
As a basketball referee, investing in a quality pair of shoes is definitely worth it.
FAQ
What kind of shoes do NBA referees wear?
The NBA referee community often wears brands like Nike, New Balance, HOKA ONE ONE, and Asics. The specific shoe models can vary among referees depending on personal preference and comfort.
NBA refs are not limited to wearing Nike shoes, although they receive three pairs of their choice per season as part of their agreement.
What shoes do college basketball referees wear?
Asics GT-1000 11: These shoes are known for their combination of comfort and weight.
New Balance Men’s 520V7: The 520V7 is one popular model known for its comfort, support, and durability.
Smitty Basketball Referee Shoes: Smitty brand basketball referee shoes are known for their quality and performance on the court.
What shoes do referees wear?
Basketball Referees: Basketball referees often wear Nike, New Balance, HOKA ONE ONE, and Asics brands.
Soccer Referees: Soccer referees typically wear specialized soccer referee shoes. These shoes are designed for use on both natural grass and artificial turf surfaces.
Football Referees: Football referees commonly wear athletic shoes with good traction suitable for running on grass or artificial turf.
Do basketball referees have to wear black shoes?
Yes, basketball referees are generally required to wear black shoes. The official uniform guidelines for the basketball referee community often specify that they should wear primarily black shoes.
Having said this, there may be variations or exceptions depending on the specific league or governing body. Referees should familiarize themselves with the uniform regulations set by the organization they officiate for.
