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18 Best Low Top Basketball Shoes For The Next Kobe

18 Best Low Top Basketball Shoes For The Next Kobe

Low top basketball shoes have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many top players opting for their greater mobility and flexibility on the court. So, it’s not surprising that many people are searching for the best low top basketball shoes on a daily basis.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out in the game, finding the right pair of low-tops can make a big difference in your performance. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the options that are currently on the market, based on factors such as comfort, support, and durability.

Whether you’re looking for a budget option or the latest high-tech design, there’s a low top shoe out there that will meet your needs. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect pair for you! Who knows, maybe only one perfect pair of basketball shoes will help you become the next Kobe Bryant.

The history of basketball shoes

18 Best Low Top Basketball Shoes For The Next Kobe

Okay, here’s the thing, when someone mentions basketball we immediately think of some of the most famous players on the court wearing those high-top shoes we always wanted to get. However, did you know that low top basketball shoes are becoming more and more popular from season to season?

Wait! If high-top shoes protect the ankles so well, why would someone switch to low-tops? What’s so special about them? Don’t worry, we’re going to teach you everything, so here’s a quick lesson about the history of basketball shoes.

Most people believe that low-tops appeared recently, however, that’s not true. Some of the best low top basketball shoes were actually released back in the ‘70s.

By the mid-’80s people started believing in more-is-more and that’s when low-tops were almost forgotten. And then brought back to life in the early 2000s.

If we go back to the ‘70s we’ll see some of the most iconic shoes such as Bruin or Air Force 1 Low. They were popular because of how light and flexible they were. That helped players move more quickly and make improvements in their performance.

However, in the ‘80s companies started adding more material, air, and gimmicks to their shoes and increasing prices. Even though it made shoes a bit more protective, in reality, they were much heavier and bigger so it made playing on a high level more difficult.

That’s why in the 2000s companies decided to reduce weights and cuts started to trend downward. And it’s the reason why so many people believe that low top basketball shoes appeared around that time.

The popular era of the best low top basketball shoes

Nowadays, at least one player in every NBA team wears a pair of some of the best low top basketball shoes. That’s good enough proof that you won’t make a mistake if you choose one for yourself.

You’ve probably already heard of Zoom Kobe IV, Gilbert Arenas, and Gil Zero which are definitely amongst the most famous low-top shoes. Some examples of players who have worn low-top shoes include Stephen Curry, Kyrie Irving, and James Harden.

However, it’s worth noting that many players prefer different types of shoes depending on their playing style, position, and personal preference. Some players may prefer the support and stability of high-top shoes, while others may prefer the freedom of movement offered by low-top shoes.

Even though low-tops are becoming more and more popular, you don’t have to worry about the extinction of classic high-top basketball shoes. They aren’t going anywhere! And the best part is that many companies decided to make the same designs in low-top and high-top models.

The best low top basketball shoes

Now that we’ve learned something new, it’s time to see what the best low top basketball shoes are. It’s not surprising that some of the world’s most skilled players prefer low top shoes instead of high top ones that we usually think of when someone mentions basketball.

Low top basketball shoes give greater mobility and flexibility on the court, which is great for teams that like to play fast. However, since there are so many options on the market, it’s difficult to choose the right pair of shoes on your own.

It’s essential that they still support your feet and keep your ankles safe. That’s why we’re here! To help you narrow down your search, we’ve compiled a list of the 15 best low top basketball shoes currently available. Take a look at them and choose the one that you like the most. You won’t make a mistake.

1. Under Armour Curry 10

(Source: Under Armour)

When you look at Curry 10 and Curry 9 shoes, you may not notice the difference easily. However, the Curry 10s are definitely one of the best low top basketball shoes out there. Even though their designs don’t differ too much, there are some huge upgrades when it comes to their insides.

They are among the lightest basketball shoes which will give you the chance to move swiftly and achieve the best results. They have exposed foam without an outsole that will make them so comfortable you’ll never wish to take them off.

Their responsive cushioning system helps to absorb shock and provides a comfortable ride during games and practices, which makes them people’s favorites. When it comes to their price, it usually goes somewhere around $160.

2. Nike Jordan Luka 1

Nike Jordan Luka 1 Unisex Shoes Size 13, Color: White/Black/Volt


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The popularity of the Jordan Luka 1 shoe is definitely not surprising. Of course, it is largely due to Luka’s historic performances. Some other reasons why these shoes are considered one of the best low top basketball shoes include their comfort, style, and performance on the basketball court.

When it comes to comfort, we have to mention that the Jordan Luka 1 shoes are designed with a padded collar and tongue to provide support and cushioning for the foot. They also feature a full-length foam sole that helps to absorb shock and reduce fatigue during long training and games.

In terms of style, the Jordan Luka 1 shoes have a sleek, modern design that makes them stand out. It’s also great that the shoes are available in a variety of colors, so you can choose the one that best suits your personal style.

3. Adidas Trae Young 1

adidas Trae Young 1 US Men Size 8.5 Black
$78.99


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03/17/2024 11:49 pm GMT

Everyone who’s ever been interested in basketball has definitely heard of Trae Young. He’s one of the most successful point guards in the NBA. So, it’s not surprising that there’s a whole line of basketball shoes made after him.

The Adidas Trae Young 1 shoe is built to be lightweight and responsive, which can help you move quickly and change direction easily on the basketball court. They also feature a rubber outsole with a herringbone pattern, which provides good traction and helps you stay stable on your feet during play.

Many players, including Trae Young, have been seen wearing them, so they’re definitely of good quality. Their price goes up to $150.

4. Nike Cosmic Unity 2

18 Best Low Top Basketball Shoes For The Next Kobe

(Source: Nike)

Nike Cosmic Unity 2 is one of the best low top basketball shoes, especially for anyone looking for a comfortable, stylish, and performance-oriented basketball shoe. They are one of Nike’s newest and most popular releases.

These amazing shoes are even eco-friendly since they are made from 25% recycled trash. Their quality is very high, and their design is inspired by the concept of unity. That means it features a color palette that reflects the diverse range of people who play basketball. The price is around $150.

5. Nike KD 15

Nike Men’s KD15 TB White/Black DO9826 100 (us_Footwear_Size_System, Adult, Men, Numeric, Medium, Numeric_11)
$170.33
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03/18/2024 12:26 am GMT

The Nike KD shoes have always been one of the most popular basketball shoes. So you may want to know the difference between Nike KD 15 and 14. The main difference between them is their collar height.

The best thing about this model is that their quality stayed the same, but they gave people who love low top shoes the chance to enjoy wearing this beautiful pair of basketball sneakers. They are comfortable, and wearing them for hours won’t do any damage to your feet.

When it comes to their price, they usually go up to $200, but they’re worth every cent. Some of the most famous players wearing them are Kevin Durant, Deni Avdija, Joe Harris, Brandon Clarke, and many more.

6. Nike Jordan Zion 1

Nike mens Jordan Zion 1 Bloodline DA3130-006 Shoes, Black/White/Bright Crimson, 10
$128.79
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03/18/2024 12:39 am GMT

Jordan Zion 1 shoes definitely deserve their place amongst these top 15 low top basketball shoes. Here’s why! They have great impact protection, minimal break-in period, and superb lateral support. They are light and beautiful on the outside which makes them very popular worldwide.

These shoes are best for an explosive guard or a forward player who usually handles the ball and attacks through contact. However, their sizing is different from the other models, so it’s best you try them out in the store instead of ordering them online. That’s how you’ll avoid making a mistake.

7. Under Armour Curry 9

Under Armour Curry Flow 9 Team Basketball Shoes - Black - Men's Size 11.5 / Women's Size 13
$160.00 $148.49
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03/18/2024 12:50 am GMT

The Under Armour Curry 9 basketball shoes are a signature shoe model for professional basketball player Stephen Curry. They are designed to be one of the world’s most comfortable and stylish shoes, as well as perform well on the court. Some of their key features include:

– A full-length foam sole makes them softer and more comfortable.

– A lightweight, breathable upper made from a combination of materials.

– They come in different colors so it’s easy to find something that fits your style.

– A rubber outsole with a multi-directional pattern for traction on the court.

– A design that is inspired by Stephen Curry which is great for all his fans.

8. Puma Rise Nitro

PUMA - Mens Rise Nitro Shoes, Size: 11 M US, Color: Lime Squeeze/Harbor Mist
$78.96


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03/18/2024 01:05 am GMT

Another pair that comes up when you’re looking for the best low top basketball shoes is Puma Rise Nitro. With every new design, Puma has been improving more and more. Not only are their shoes beautiful, but they are also very comfortable and give players the chance to perform better.

Their design is inspired by the concept of “rising up” and features a color palette that is meant to evoke a sense of energy and movement.

9. Li-Ning Way of Wade 10

(Source: Stockx)

The Li-Ning Wade 808 shoes are a basketball shoe model released by Li-Ning, a Chinese sports apparel, and footwear company. A design that is inspired by the on-court style and performance of professional basketball player Dwyane Wade, who has a partnership with Li-Ning.

This shoe is an excellent option for all those players who are quick, explosive, and who enjoy a bouncy feeling in their shoes. However, you will need to save more money for them as they are a bit pricier. Their price is around $225.

10. Air Jordan 36 Low

Nike Men's Jordan 36 Low DN4195 430 Luka Doncic, Laser Blue/Electric Green, 9.5 M US
$149.99
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03/18/2024 01:49 am GMT

The Air Jordan 36 Low shoes are a low-cut version of the Air Jordan 36, a basketball shoe model released by Nike. A design that is inspired by the on-court style and performance of professional basketball player Michael Jordan, who has a partnership with Nike.

Their 2-loop band system combined with high sidewalls is amazing because it provides players with side-to-side stability. Therefore it’s a great option whether you’re cutting off the ball on defense or taking off to finish on offense.

Some of the players who wear Air Jordan 36 Low shoes are Jayson Tatum, Jeff Green, Devonte Graham, Moritz Wagner, and many other successful NBA and EuroLeague players.

11. Nike PG 6

Nike Mens PG 6 DC1974 003 Bred - Size 10
$278.59
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03/18/2024 02:05 am GMT

If you’ve heard of Paul George, then you’ve definitely seen this signature line. Nike PG 6 shoes are one of the best low top basketball shoes in the world. It’s actually their first model in the line that has a 100% foam-based cushioning system which makes the shoes extremely comfortable.

Players can wear them for hours without tiring their feet and that’s one of the biggest reasons they are so popular. Some other pros are a padded collar that brings additional comfort, and a rubber outsole for traction on the court. However, they are made of cheaper materials which can be considered a con.

12. Puma Court Rider 2

Puma Mens Court Rider 2.0 Batman Black Basketball Inspired Sneakers Shoes 8
$68.18
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03/18/2024 03:06 am GMT

If you want to be close to a budget line, but still not cross it, then Puma Court Rider 2 shoes are a great option. They are still among some of the best low top basketball shoes. Their cushioning is low to the ground which makes it great for fast players.

However, that’s not exactly what makes this pair of shoes stand out from the crowd. They are unique because of their many layers of materials. Puma Court Rider 2 shoes are a combination of textiles, synthetic leather, and mesh which makes them look much pricier than they really are.

13. Puma MB.01 Low

PUMA Youth LaMelo Ball MB.01 Lo 377676 02 UFO - Size 7Y


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Let’s stick to Puma for now. Why? Because they made another amazing pair of shoes for players who love low top sneakers. They are great for professional basketball players, but also for people who simply like to spend time playing it recreationally with their friends.

We’re talking about Puma MB.01 Low shoes. They offer the same performance features as the regular Puma MB.01 which is one of the fans’ favorites. However, they provide more ankle mobility because of their low cut.

14. Nike Zoom GT Cut 2

18 Best Low Top Basketball Shoes For The Next Kobe

(Source: Nike)

And back to Nike shoes! The Nike Air Zoom GT Cut 2 is one of the most hyped shoes by the audience worldwide. It’s not the best low top basketball shoe for outdoor activities, however, it will do wonders on the inside court. That’s thanks to its Smear traction wrapped around the forefoot area.

They are comfortable and will allow you to ball for a good period of time without experiencing knee pain after. Some of the most popular players who wear The Nike Air Zoom GT Cut 2 are Patrick Williams, Julius Randle, P.J. Washington, Josh Green, and many more. The average price is $150.

15. Puma Clyde All-Pro

PUMA Mens Clyde All-Pro Basketball Sneakers Shoes - Black,Off White - Size 6 M
$54.95
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03/18/2024 03:10 am GMT

The Puma Clyde All-Pro is a stylish and comfortable sneaker that is designed for both everyday wear and basketball practices. It features a suede upper and a cushioned insole for added comfort.

The shoe also has a rubber outsole for traction and durability. The Puma Clyde All-Pro is available in a variety of colors, including black, white, and red. It’s said that it provides the best traction of any shoe in the past years.

Its multidirectional pattern helps you stop on a dime, grip, and cut all over the court. Support is also great and people absolutely consider it one of the best low top basketball shoes.

Best low top basketball shoes: low-budget edition

If you’re on a tight budget but still want a high-quality pair of basketball shoes, don’t worry, we’re here to help you out! There are plenty of great options available at more affordable prices than you thought there were.

We get it, it’s difficult to save so much money when you’re constantly in need of buying new basketball equipment. That’s why it’s essential that we take a look at some low-budget products that are still of great quality.

So, let’s take a look at some of the best budget, low top basketball shoes currently at the stores, based on the most important factors that we’ve already mentioned such as comfort, support, and durability.

Whether you’re a professional player or you just like to hang out and play basketball with your friends, you can find a shoe that fits your needs and budget. Therefore, if you’re looking to save money without sacrificing performance on the court, these 3 budget basketball shoes are definitely worth considering.

1. Nike Air Max Impact 4

Nike Men's Air Max Impact 4 Black/White-Bright Crimson (DM1124 002) - 11
$79.97
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03/18/2024 03:15 am GMT

Hear us out, they’re definitely one of the best budget low top basketball shoes out there. They’re incredibly soft and wearing them feels like walking on clouds. That will definitely help keep your feet well-rested for an important game.

You won’t have to worry about break-in time as they will feel simply amazing from the first time you wear them. Support is amazing, and even though your ankle will be able to move freely, it will still be safe from most injuries. So, you don’t have to worry about that either.

If you’re looking for a pair of shoes that are budget-friendly, but you still want them to help you perform better, then we congratulate you, because you’ve just found a perfect option.

2. Adidas Son of Chi 2

(Source: Adidas)

The first pair of best low top basketball shoes that are not as pricey as the ones we’ve already mentioned is the Adidas Son of Chi 2. It’s even believed that they are the best Adidas shoes of the 2022 season, so wearing them in 2023 will both, make you stylish, but also help you with your performance.

The traction is what makes them so special. With translucent rubber, this pair of shoes still grips all floors well no matter on conditions. And the best part is, they are long-lasting too! Your ankles will be able to move freely which will help you be faster, but you will still have impact protection.

3. Nike Giannis Immortality 2

Nike Men's Giannis Immortality 2 - Sail/Smoke Grey-Rattan 7.5 US
$105.00 $88.99


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03/18/2024 03:20 am GMT

Giannis Antetokounmpo is one of the best players in the history of basketball, and he made a collaboration with Nike to release the Nike Giannis Immortality 2 shoes. These became one of the best low top basketball shoes for all those people who don’t want to spend a lot of money.

The traction is solid. It’s not the best in dusty conditions; however, there shouldn’t be any problems on a clear court. The cushion is great for those players who like responsiveness and court feel. And finally, the shoe fits true to size and fits like a glove which makes it very easy to get them.

These are a great option if you’re looking for new budget basketball shoes.

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18 Best Low Top Basketball Shoes For The Next Kobe
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