The 11 Best Low Top Basketball Shoes in 2023: Your Ultimate Guide!
Basketball is one of the most dynamic sports around.
It requires a lot of movement, quick turns, and fast sprints.
For me, I’ve always wanted a pair of basketball shoes that can keep up with my hustle and allow me to jump out of the gym. (Or at least try.)
Low top basketball shoes have come a looooong way since I started playing and now allow for the best of both worlds.
Best Overall
Nike LeBron XX
LeBron’s 20th signature shoe has the style of a low cut basketball shoe with the support and stability of a high top shoe. You get the best of both worlds!
Best Under $100
Nike Air Impact 4
These shoes absorb impact well with a high-grade cushioning system while also being lightweight, allowing you to fly up and down the court.
Best for Outdoor Play
Nike KD 15
These low tops include great cushioning that allows you to jump on those hard outdoor surfaces and even includes deep grooves for better traction whether you’re on the hardwood or asphalt.
They now provide style AND support.
If you’re looking for high-performing, stylish options to add to your sneaker collection, I’ve got you covered.
Take a look at the list of the best low top basketball shoes this year and pick out the pair that lets you be a menace on the basketball court!
What Are The Best Low Top Basketball Shoes of This Year?
Here are my picks for the best low top basketball shoes this year.
Nike LeBron XX
Here it is, LeBron’s 20th pair of basketball shoes with Nike. It’s hard to believe he has been in the league for as long as he has and still doing what he does. This one does it all. It’s the best low top basketball shoe of the year, the best overall performance basketball shoe of the year, and one of the best Nike LeBron basketball shoes in recent memory. Check out our Nike LeBron XX performance review.
Key Benefits
- Low-cut yet supportive in the ankle for more confident cuts.
- Designed with comfort and breathability to help players play longer.
- High-quality material helps these shoes last longer.
- Worn around the NBA by LeBron himself as well as others. It stands up to NBA player standards.
- A variety of different color options.
My Take
I have always been a fan of the look of low-cut basketball shoes when I play. One caveat is the lack of support. The Nike LeBron XX, however, offers great support for cuts, change of direction, and high-flyers. Even many NBA players choose to sport this shoe in their games. The Nike LeBron XX is a great pickup for players of any age and one of the best basketball shoes on the market.
Nike KD 16
The Nike KD 16 is the ultimate pair of basketball shoes for athletes seeking exceptional performance in a pair of low tops. A few advantages of this shoe are its lightweight design and responsive cushioning. The KD 16 offers unmatched agility and comfort on the court. The Flyknit upper provides a snug fit, while the Zoom Air technology delivers explosive energy return at every step.
Key Benefits
- Lightweight design with less material than other shoes for enhanced agility on the court
- Responsive cushioning for optimal comfort and support during intense games
- Flyknit upper for a snug and breathable fit, reducing distractions
- Zoom Air technology in the midsole for explosive energy return and quick movements
- Durable rubber outsole with multidirectional grooves for exceptional traction on any surface
- Dynamic lacing system for a customizable and secure fit
My Take
The Nike KD 16 is a cutting-edge pair of basketball shoes designed by Ben Nethongkome, offering versatile performance and style in this great shoe. One pro is the responsive cushioning and lightweight design – which is an upgrade from the KD 15 from last year – while one con is that some players may need to go up half a size for a better fit.
Nike GT Cut 2
The Nike GT Cut 2 is a game-changer when it comes to basketball shoes. With its responsive cushioning and lightweight design, the GT Cut 2 offers exceptional agility and comfort on the court. The Flyknit upper delivers a secure fit, while the durable rubber outsole provides outstanding traction. Check out our Nike GT Cut 2 performance review.
Key Benefits
- Responsive cushioning for optimal comfort and support during intense gameplay
- Lightweight design for enhanced agility and quick movements on the court
- Flyknit upper provides a secure and breathable fit, reducing distractions
- Durable rubber outsole with multidirectional traction for exceptional grip on any surface
- Dynamic lacing system allows for a customizable and secure fit
- Padded collar and tongue for added comfort and ankle support
My Take
The Nike GT Cut 2 is a top-notch pair of basketball shoes that excels in quick movements and agility on the court, with its low-to-the-ground design helping to minimize court contact while switching directions. One pro is its exceptional responsiveness, while one con is that it may lack arch support for those with high arches.
Air Jordan Luka 1
Introducing Luka Doncic’s first signature shoe with Air Jordan Brand. The Dallas Maverick frontman has turned heads with his phenomenal play and is looking to have the same effect on the low top shoe game as well. A nice first pair of basketball shoes and collaboration with Air Jordan. Check out our Jordan Luka 1 performance review.
Key Benefits
- The first performance basketball shoe with Formula 23 foam allows for deep cuts and good explosions out of them.
- Flight Wire cables keep you from jumping out of your shoes.
- High-quality traction on both indoor and outdoor courts.
- Lots of colorways and designs
- True to size
My Take
The Air Jordan Luka 1 is a very, very good-looking pair of basketball shoes that has an emphasis on those guards who run around the court like a panda without its bamboo. Hard cuts, coming off screens, and sliding back and forth defensively during indoor play were what the Air Jordan Luka 1 was made for and where they go a step above other shoes.
Way of Wade All City II
The Li-Ning Way of Wade brand is for those looking for performance and style wrapped in one pair of basketball shoes. The soon-to-be Hall of Famer presents heat even though he no longer plays for Miami.
Key Benefits
- The best-looking shoe on the market.
- Full-length BOOM cushioning for comfortability and to help you play longer.
- TPU support and PROBAR LOC stabilizer heel counter to keep it light yet explosive.
- TUFF RB rubber for a strong grip.
My Take
It’s a bit higher price point than some others on the list, but this is one of the best basketball shoes in the last few years that includes high style courtesy of Dwayne Wade himself. If you can swing it I highly recommend this basketball shoe.
Anta KT 8
Another Klay Thompson collab with the Chinese sports brand ANTA and its variety of basketball sneakers. This is a unique take that I have yet to see before. Buckle-up. These can be turned into low top basketball shoes for more flexibility or high-top basketball shoes for more support. Check out our Anta KT 8 performance review.
Key Benefits
- Can be transitioned from low top to high-top basketball shoes with a buckle and snap.
- Full-length carbon plate for more power flow.
- Water wave non-slip outsole.
- Nitrospeed Tech Pebox for quicker takeoff.
- Tons of colorways.
My Take
Worn by one of the best stop-on-a-dime shooters in the league, this pair of basketball sneakers are great for the shooter who doesn’t mind stopping and shooting on a fast break rather than getting to the rim during indoor play. A pair of the best basketball shoes this year and a very good pick that brings a unique look to the hardwood.
Adidas Harden Vol 7
The Adidas Harden Vol 7 is the ultimate pair of basketball shoes for explosive performance. With its BOOST cushioning and lightweight design, the Harden Vol 7 provides unrivaled energy return and agility on the court. The breathable mesh upper ensures a comfortable fit, while the rubber outsole offers exceptional traction.
Key Benefits
- BOOST cushioning technology for maximum energy return and responsiveness on the court
- Lightweight design for enhanced speed and agility during quick movements
- Breathable mesh upper for optimal ventilation and comfort
- Rubber outsole with herringbone traction pattern for exceptional grip on various court surfaces
- Padded collar and tongue for added support and comfort
- A lace closure system for a secure and customizable fit
My Take
The Adidas Harden Vol 7 is James Harden’s seventh signature basketball shoe, designed for style and performance. One pro is its stylish design inspired by James Harden’s love of fashion, while one con is the limited color options available.
Nike Air Impact 4 – Best Under $100
The Nike Air Impact 4 is a versatile pair of basketball shoes designed for comfort and performance. The Air Impact 4 features a responsive cushioning system that absorbs impact, providing a smooth and comfortable ride. Its lightweight construction and breathable upper ensure breathability and flexibility throughout your game.
Key Benefits
- Responsive cushioning system for optimal shock absorption and a smooth, comfortable ride
- Lightweight construction for enhanced speed and agility during games
- Breathable upper made with high-quality materials for maximum airflow and ventilation
- Durable rubber outsole and heel counter with excellent traction for stability
- Padded collar and tongue for added support and comfort
- A lace closure system for a secure and customizable fit
My Take
The Nike Air Impact 4 is a pair of basketball shoes that combines lightweight construction with maximum cushioning, featuring a sleek and modern design. One pro is the inclusion of responsive Air Max technology for enhanced performance, while one con could be limited color options.
If you’re looking for more cheap shoes, check out our best cheap basketball shoes post.
Nike Freak 4 – Under $100
The Nike Freak 4 is a versatile pair of basketball shoes built for explosive performance. The Freak 4 features a durable and lightweight construction, providing agility and support on the court. Its responsive cushioning system offers optimal impact protection, while the multidirectional traction pattern ensures excellent grip.
Key Benefits
- Durable and lightweight construction for agility and support on the court
- Responsive cushioning system for optimal impact protection and a comfortable ride
- Multidirectional traction pattern on the outsole for excellent grip and traction
- Breathable upper made with high-quality materials for enhanced airflow and ventilation
- Giannis Antetokounmpo’s signature shoe, showcasing his unique style and performance needs
- Padded collar and tongue for added comfort and support during intense gameplay
- A lace closure system for a secure and customized fit
My Take
The Nike Freak 4 is a forward-thinking basketball shoe designed to provide a lightweight fit and agile movement on the court. One pro is its innovative design that helps propel players down the court along with the reasonable price point, while one con could be the limited availability of color options.
Nike KD 15 – Best Outdoor
Here’s yet another signature sneaker in a long list of Nike basketball shoes. Great cushioning on this shoe allows for longer play and above-the-rim action. Check out why these are on the list of best low top basketball shoes this year, best basketball shoes for ankle support this year, and one of the best outdoor basketball shoes this year. Check out our Nike KD 15 performance review.
Key Benefits
- Full-length Nike Zoom Air Strobel that provides support for hoopers both big and small and helps these puppies last longer than any other.
- Locked in wing laces for better foot security so you don’t turn your ankle.
- Fewer materials on the upper for less break in time so you can get out on the court faster.
- The “EASY” rubber traction pattern on the outsole allows for solid traction in every step and helps prevent your feet from getting stuck in the mud.
My Take
The cost of fewer materials on the upper part of this pair of basketball shoes may cause tears here and there if you’re playing a lot of ball, but that’s the price of being one of the most lightweight performance shoes out there that almost feels as though you’re not even wearing basketball shoes. It makes up for it in the Nike Zoom Air Strobel and “EASY” traction pattern that will support your feet through thick and thin. All of this makes it a solid low top shoe that can be great for outdoor play.
If you’re looking for some shoes you can play outdoor hoops in, feel free to check out our post on the best outdoor basketball shoes this year!
Way of Wade Fission 8 – Great for Outdoors
The Way of Wade Fission 8 is a cutting-edge pair of basketball shoes designed for elite performance. With its lightweight and breathable construction, the Fission 8 provides exceptional comfort and agility on the court. The shoe features a responsive cushioning system that delivers optimal impact protection and energy return.
Key Benefits
- Lightweight and breathable construction for maximum comfort and agility on the court
- Responsive cushioning system for exceptional impact protection and energy return
- Durable outsole with excellent traction and grip for enhanced performance
- Sleek and stylish design with Dwyane Wade’s signature touch
- High-quality materials ensure long-lasting durability
- Supportive fit with a secure lace-up closure
- Padded collar and tongue for added comfort and support during intense gameplay
My Take
The Way of Wade Fission 8 is a signature basketball shoe designed by Li Ning and Dwyane Wade. With its aerodynamic shape, responsive cushioning, and stylish design, it offers great performance on the court. One pro is its lightweight construction, while one con could be limited availability of certain sizes and styles.
What Are Low Top Basketball Shoes?
Low top basketball shoes are shoes that have a mid sole that sits right below the ankle, whereas high top basketball shoes extend above the player’s ankle.
The difference in where the midsole sits leads some to think that high top basketball shoes have more ankle support.
Not always the case.
The low top basketball shoes above have the look of a low top shoe, but the support of a high top shoes (which is why I picked these as my favorites).
Style AND support? Who would’ve thunk?
I would’ve, my dear hooper. I would’ve.
I have, actually.
Anyway, these are my picks for the best low top basketball shoes of the year.
These are the shoes that offer the best of both worlds. Most of the shoes on this list – from the Nike LeBron to the Air Jordan Luka 1 to the Way of Wade Fission 8 – don’t just offer a lightweight feel and flexibility but also a decent amount of support for your ankles.
There are plenty of options and colorways in each option to pick out the shoes that will make you the most productive on the court while giving you the style to give you some extra confidence while you’re out there.
Look good, feel good, play good.
Take a look at the list above and pick out the best low top basketball shoes for your game to flourish!
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best low top basketball shoe, it’s essential to prioritize comfort, support, and style.
Every player has a different preference and play style, but the shoes highlighted in this blog post have something to offer every type of player.
I remember when I had to sacrifice low top basketball shoes for high-top for extra support. With today’s technology in the shoe game, I don’t have to make that sacrifice anymore, and neither do you.
Happy hooping!
FAQ
Are Low Top Shoes Better for Basketball?
A few years ago, I would’ve said no.
Now, however, I would say yes. Or they’re at least EQUAL to high top shoes. (The only reason I’d give them a slight edge over high top is because I think they look better.)
The advancements in low top shoes and their ability to provide support for basketballers of all shapes and sizes have been remarkable.
Why Do Basketball Players Wear Low Top Shoes?
This is up to personal preference.
Thanks, Mark.
Sorry, Charlie. I wish I had a better answer for ya.
I wear them because of their style and the fact that I no longer need to compromise that style for the needed support. I’m sure you could ask 100 different players, and they’ll give you 100 different answers.
What shoes does Ja Morant play in?
Ja Morant recently joined the team over at Nike and will be wearing the Ja Morant 1, his first pair of signature shoes with the brand. Check out our Nike Ja 1 performance review for more details.
