The Best Nike Basketball Shoes | 2019 Selection
Today, Nike is undoubtedly the most popular sports brand in the world. Additionally, with total revenue of over $35 billion, they have separated themselves from their competitors.
As far as basketball goes, Nike has had several shoe releases. Apart from the signature models of Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Kyrie Irving, Kevin Durant, and Paul George, the brand has recorded huge success with other low-budget models like the LeBron soldiers and ‘hyperdunk’ series.
Based on their design, comfort, and performance, we have compiled a list of the best Nike basketball shoes on the market today.
1. The Best Nike Basketball Shoes: Nike Zoom Kobe 1 Protro
The Nike Zoom Kobe 1 Protro isn’t like the regular shoe, as you may notice some similar parts in the design. According to some reviewers, the tough materials are a great addition, and the old-school look is classy as ever. On the other hand, people complained about the weight of the shoe and the bulky design of the sportswear. The durable materials of this Nike shoe make it a great tool for long hours of comfortable sports play. However, there’s a downside to it. The leather is not as fitting and conforming as contemporary textile materials. This shoe will be great for you if you’re a fan of old-school basketball shoes. However, we advise against this shoe if you are looking for optimal performance during your game.
2. The Best Nike Basketball Shoes: Nike PG 3
According to reviewers, the PG3’s support and performance are great, but the design is a little weird. It features a “moon crater” traction pattern, which makes it great for both outdoor and indoor floor play. The traction pattern is also long-lasting. The PG3 features ‘Zoom Air’ cushioning under the forefoot, which makes it feel bouncy while offering protection during the basketball game. Though the materials seem inexpensive, they are able to provide that support and performance of the best basketball shoes. You can wear the PG3 regardless of your position. They’re priced at $110 which is reasonable, considering their sports value.
3. The Best Nike Basketball Shoes: Nike Lebron 16
The LeBron 16 is among the best of LeBron’s signature shoes. It is basically a step up from its predecessor, the LeBron 15. It features a strong traction sole that is perfect for all surfaces. The LeBron 16 is a lot more versatile that the 15, however, they’re very comfortable and stable due to the small lateral ‘outrages’ that make up the outsole. As far as support, the Battleknit 2.0 gets the job done, keeping your feet locked down and controlled. In summary, the 16s are excellent shoes, and we recommend them for strong and explosive basketball performances. Definitely a great option among these best Nike basketball shoes.
4. The Best Nike Basketball Shoes: Nike Kobe AD NXT 360
The Nike Kobe AD NXT 360’s design and composition is very unique. It features a drop-in midsole. Additionally, the rest of the shoe is made using the 360 ‘flyknit’ technology, which makes it very light. At first, the 360 flyknit seems stretchable, but it’s not. It provides complete control and keeps your feet stable, refreshed, and comfortable. At the same time, the shoes are responsive and agile. The Kobe AD NXT 360 is without a doubt one of the best Nike basketball shoes of all time. And, if the coming versions are able to include solid rubber outsoles, the shoes would prove to be revolutionary in the industry.
5. The Best Nike Basketball Shoes: Nike PG 2.5
If you’re familiar with the PG2, then this shoe is no surprise on the list. The PG 2.5 looks very similar to the PG 2.0; only the former features an extra forefoot strap, which provides more support for the shoe. It also makes it more comfortable, and provides a better ‘fit.’ Besides those minor additions, nothing has changed. The PG 2.5 offers performance similar to PG 2.0 and sells for $110.
6. The Best Nike Basketball Shoes: Nike Lebron 15
According to many reviewers, the LeBron 15s are ‘straight up’ the best shoes customized by LeBron. They are a perfect mix of AirMax and Zoom technology, which results in an extremely comfortable shoe with impact protection for the big players. The upper part is made of the new premium ‘Battleknit’ technology, making it extremely comfortable, fitting, and controlled. The 15s have a bit of an issue with their traction, which takes some time to break in. Also, there’s a bit of an issue with lateral cuts. Overall, the LeBron 15 is a great choice for big guys in search of full support, comfort, and performance.
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7. The Best Nike Basketball Shoes: Kyrie 4
The Kyrie 4 stands out in the Kyrie range of signature shoes. It enjoys more cushioning as compared to its predecessors. It offers great impact protection while keeping a smooth court feel intact. It also features a mesh and suede upper body for increased support and comfort. However, the Kyrie 4 lacks a heel stoppage for lateral movement. Although the traction is lesser than those of the Kyrie 2 and Kyrie 3, it’s still a high-quality traction surface. This shoe sells for $120 and is a good buy for people looking for a high-performance, comfortable basketball shoe.
8. The Best Nike Basketball Shoes: Nike Lebron 15 Low
The LeBron 15 low is similar to the high version of the LeBron 15, but with a few changes in cushioning setup. This means that the lows are more responsive and comfortable. Both versions feature the same traction pattern. The lows do a great job for linear movements but fall short during lateral cuts. The body is made of Battleknit technology, which is extremely supportive, looks great, and provides substantial reinforcement. Overall, the LeBron 15 low is a great shoe, especially for big guys that love low-cut shoes.
9. The Best Nike Basketball Shoes: Nike PG 2
Paul George takes a step further from the PG 1, bringing about a much better and more comfortable shoe. The PG 2 features a far bigger ‘Zoom’ air unit in the forefoot, which means more cushion and more traction. With these, the shoe is able to function optimally, even on dusty courts. Lateral containment was given a bit of attention in the PG 2s. The PG 2 features a forefoot wing-strap for more lockdown and containment – one that wasn’t present in the PG 1. Priced at $110, the PG 2 is a great buy, and due to the performance, it makes its way onto our list of the best Nike basketball shoes.
10. The Best Nike Basketball Shoes: Nike PG 1
The PG 1, Paul George’s first signature shoe, generated a lot of buzz after its release. Also, besides the affordable price of $110 which it sells for, the PG 1s are made of strong, premium quality materials that provide great foot support. This shoe is great for guards with normally narrow feet. However, if you’re a big guy that needs added impact protection, then this shoe is not your best option.
The Best Nike Basketball Shoes: Conclusion
Everyone who plays a sport knows just how important it is to have the right gear. For all of the basketball players out there, these Nike shoes can provide the support and performance to be total game changers. Check out these shoes as some of your favorite basketball stars continue to rock them during the game.
