THE UPPER

When discussing the upper portion of basketball shoes, the first decision you have to make is which height you want. Basketball shoes are available in high, mid or low
heights; each of these appealing to a different style of player.
•High: The upper wraps around your ankle to provide an extra layer of support and stability. With this extra coverage often comes extra weight.
•Mid: As the name suggests, mid-top basketball shoes provide a happy medium for players in terms of ankle support. The upper material sits right at the ankle to provide
some coverage without an all-enclosing design. Mid-tops allow for increased flexibility.
•Low: Built for speed and agility, low basketball shoes have little ankle support due to their lower profile.
UPPER SECURITY
There are a number of closure techniques available, laces being the most popular.
You might also find basketball shoes with zippers, straps or hook-and-loop closures. These pieces can add more support to your ankle, especially in high-top models, as
well as provide another layer of coverage over your standard laces. Keep in mind added coverage means added weight.
THE MIDSOLE
A basketball shoe’s midsole is where the footwear’s cushioning will be found. This makes this section one of the most essential parts of a shoe’s performance. Most
midsoles are comprised of various foams, EVA and compressed EVA foam being the lighter options, compared to polyurethane midsoles, which are dense and more
durable.
Brand-specific cushioning technologies are also found in the midsole; namely in the heel and forefoot. This technology is added to give extra cushioning in pressure
points that will endure a lot of stress during the course of a game.
THE OUTSOLE
A shoe’s outsole is made of a rubber or synthetic material and is the point of traction for your footwear. When deciding on basketball shoes, look for a relatively flat and
wide outsole to provide you with maximum balance. For added grip, search for outsoles that feature a herringbone or hexagonal pattern, since these are designed to help
secure your feet and prevent you from sliding up and down the court.
Nearly all basketball shoes are designed with indoor play in mind. Outdoor courts are less forgiving than indoor hardwood ones. So, if you know that you’ll be playing
exclusively on outdoor surfaces, look for a shoe with a thicker, more durable outsole. Also, keep in mind that asphalt can eat up your shoe’s tread.