The 5 Best Lightest Basketball Shoes of 2023 (Ranked & Reviewed)
Growing up, when I was playing basketball, I would often complain about my basketball shoes.
Maybe they were too tight, and I needed a wider pair, or they didn’t look as cool as my friends’ shoes, or this, that, and the other.
Best Overall
Nike KD 15
These shoes are lightweight due to the flyknit construction these shoes were made with. Good for both indoor and outdoor play!
Best for Guards
Nike Precision 6
Here is a great pair of low tops that have flexibility that can enhance mobility on the court, which makes it a great choice for guards.
Best Under $100
Nike Giannis Immortality 2
Here’s a good budget option that has lightweight construction that allows you to fly up and down the court!
When I would complain, my dad would always bring up the fact that the only basketball shoes available to him when he played were old-fashioned Converse Chuck Taylors.
That usually shut me right up.
What I should’ve said was, “Dad, this isn’t the 70’s. There are so many sneakers out there. Can’t I get a pair that don’t feel like bricks on my feet?”
Of course, it’s possible that once I said this, he would give me some other “back in my day” story, but I rest my case.
There are hundreds of different basketball shoes on the market. It’s overwhelming. I’m overwhelmed. And I’m guessing you’re overwhelmed, too.
If you’re looking for a pair of the best lightest basketball shoes on the market, you’re in the right place.
A safe place.
A place where a trusted guide has narrowed down those hundred or so shoes down to the list below.
These shoes provide the support, cushioning, and traction you need to dominate the game while still allowing you to move quickly and effortlessly.
Trust me, it’s like wearing feathers on your feet so you can jump out of the gym.
So feel free to take a look below and find what shoes work best for you!
What Are The Best Lightest Basketball Shoes This Year?
Here are the picks for the best lightest basketball shoes this year!
Nike KD 15
Introducing the Nike KD 15, the lightest basketball shoes of the year. With its Flyknit construction and Zoom Air technology, the KD 15 delivers a comfortable and responsive feel on the court. This signature shoe also features a unique lacing system for a secure fit and a stylish design that will turn heads. Upgrade your game with the high-performance Nike KD 15. Check out our Nike KD 15 review.
Key Benefits
Flyknit construction for a lightweight and breathable feel
Zoom Air technology for responsive cushioning and support
Unique lacing system for a secure and customizable fit
Stylish design that will turn heads on and off the court
Durable rubber outsole with outstanding traction pattern for excellent grip on any surface
Reinforced heel and toe for added durability and protection during intense gameplay
Available in a variety of colors to match your personal style
Worn and endorsed by NBA superstar Kevin Durant
My Take
The Nike KD 15 is a high-performance basketball shoe that is the lightest basketball shoe on the market and features responsive cushioning. While it is a versatile shoe with a secure fit with unique lacing system, some users may find it slightly narrow in the toe area.
Nike Precision 6 – Best for Guards
Introducing the Nike Precision 6, a top-notch pair of lightweight basketball shoes. Featuring a low-top design and Zoom Air cushioning, the Precision 6 offers exceptional comfort and support on the court. The shoe also boasts a durable rubber outsole with a traction pattern for excellent grip and a sleek design that will take your game to the next level. Experience the lightweight performance of the Nike Precision 6.
Key Benefits
Low-top design for enhanced mobility and flexibility during gameplay
Zoom Air plush cushioning for responsive and comfortable support on the court
Sleek design with a clean, modern look that is both stylish and functional
Durable rubber outsole with traction pattern for excellent grip on any surface
Lightweight construction for easy movement and quick cuts on the court
Available in multiple colorways to match your personal style
My Take
The Nike Precision 6 is a lightweight basketball shoe that offers exceptional mobility and style. It has a durable rubber outsole and traction pattern, though some users may find it less comfortable when playing on outdoor surfaces.
Check out our post on the best basketball shoes for guards for more picks!
Under Armour Curry 10
Introducing the Under Armour Curry 10, the ultimate lightweight basketball shoe for the modern athlete. Featuring innovative UA Flow cushioning technology and a breathable upper material, the Curry 10 provides exceptional comfort and support on the court. With its advanced traction pattern and sleek design, the shoe is perfect for players looking to elevate their game. Step up your performance with the Under Armour Curry 10. Check out our UA Curry 10 performance review.
Key Benefits
UA Flow cushioning technology for a responsive and comfortable feel on the court
Lightweight construction that promotes speed and agility during gameplay
Breathable upper material that offers excellent ventilation and support
Advanced traction pattern for superior grip on any surface
Stylish design with a modern look that will turn heads
Reinforced heel and toe for added ankle support, durability, and protection
Multiple colorways available to match your personal style
My Take
The Under Armour Curry 10 is a top-tier, lightweight basketball shoe with innovative UA flow cushioning and an advanced traction pattern. While some users may find the shoe slightly narrow in the toe area, its breathable upper material and reinforced heel make it an excellent choice for players looking to take their game to the next level.
Nike Giannis Immortality 2 – Best Under $100
Introducing the Nike Giannis Immortality 2, an exceptional pair of lightweight basketball shoes designed for performance and style. With its breathable upper material and Zoom Air cushioning technology, the Immortality 2 promises superior comfort and support on the court. The shoe also features a durable rubber outsole with a unique traction pattern for unbeatable grip, making it the perfect choice for players looking to dominate the game. Experience the ultimate in style and performance with the Nike Giannis Immortality 2.
Key Benefits
Lightweight construction for enhanced mobility and agility on the court
Zoom Air cushioning technology for responsive and comfortable support during gameplay
Breathable upper material that promotes airflow to keep your feet cool and dry
Durable rubber outsole with unique traction pattern for excellent grip on any surface
Dynamic design with bold colors and Giannis Antetokounmpo’s signature details
Ideal basketball shoe for players looking for a combination of style and performance
Worn and endorsed by NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo
My Take
The Nike Giannis Immortality 2 is a superb pair of lightweight basketball shoes that provides responsive cushioning and excellent traction on the court. While some users may find the sizing to be slightly narrow, the shoe’s breathability and dynamic design make it an outstanding choice for players looking for a combination of style and performance.
If you’re looking for more cheap shoes, check out our best cheap basketball shoes post.
Nike KD Trey 5 X
The Nike KD Trey 5 X is a high-performance basketball shoe designed for comfort and support on the court. Featuring Zoom Air cushioning technology and a durable rubber outsole with multidirectional traction pattern, the KD Trey 5 X promises exceptional responsiveness and grip. With its breathable mesh upper and midfoot strap for lockdown support, this a supportive shoe that offers a lightweight and secure fit to help you dominate the game. Get ready to elevate your performance with the Nike KD Trey 5 X.
Key Benefits
Zoom Air cushioning technology for responsive and comfortable support during gameplay
Durable rubber outsole with multidirectional traction pattern for excellent grip on any surface
Breathable mesh upper material that promotes airflow to keep your feet cool and dry
Midfoot strap for lockdown support and added stability
Lightweight construction for enhanced mobility and agility on the court
Signature details inspired by NBA superstar Kevin Durant, including his logo on the tongue
My Take
The KD Trey 5 X is a sleek and stylish basketball shoe that offers exceptional responsiveness and grip on the court. While some users may find the shoe slightly narrow in the toe area, its breathable mesh upper, Zoom Air cushioning technology, and midfoot strap make it an excellent choice for players looking for comfort and support during gameplay.
What Are Light Basketball Shoes?
Light basketball shoes are sneakers that focus on having the least amount of weight on your feet for when you’re playing basketball.
Now the question becomes… why do I need a pair of light basketball shoes?
Having a lighter pair of basketball shoes on your feet can help tremendously since basketball involves a lot of running, jumping, and sliding (on defense, not at the water park).
Having a light pair of basketball shoes means less weight on your legs while you’re playing, resulting in less strain on your legs, allowing you to run faster and jump higher, allowing you to play better, allowing you… well, you get the point.
Winning basketball games is all about who has the edge, and investing in a pair of one of the best lightest basketball shoes is one more thing that can help you dominate your opponent!
Conclusion
Having the right pair of basketball shoes, as well as knowing how to clean basketball shoes, can make all the difference in your game. But with so many options out there, it can be hard to know where to start.
That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best lightest basketball shoes on the market today.
From someone who has had his fair share of heavy basketball shoes, I wanted to find some lightweight shoes that are designed to provide excellent support, cushioning, and traction while allowing you to move quickly and effortlessly on the court.
So lace up and get ready to lighten up your game!
FAQ
What Are The Best Lightest Basketball Shoes Under $100?
All of the shoes on this list are under the $100 mark at the time of this posting. So while you may feel light on the court, you won’t be light in your bank account!
Is There Less Support for Light Basketball Shoes?
Of course!
Not the answer you were expecting? Don’t worry, I have filtered out the light basketball shoes that compromise support. I’m guessing you’d rather not lose the needed support for a little less weight, right?
What’s The Point of Having Light Basketball Shoes?
First and foremost, less wear and tear on your legs.
There’s enough running and jumping in basketball, it’s a definite plus to not feel like a rhinosaurus barreling up and down the court.
