The Top 5 Basketball Shoes For Boys (2024)

Alex Morata

Updated: January 26, 2024

If you’re the parent of a budding baller, you might be wondering why your kid can’t play in his regular sneakers—especially if you’re budget-conscious and feel a bit of sticker shock browsing kids’ basketball shoes. The truth is, there’s more to basketball shoes than style. Getting sneakers with the right fit, traction, and support can prevent injuries and damage to your child’s developing bones and muscles, safeguarding their long-term health. Viewed that way, basketball shoes are an investment in their future.

The same factors you’d look for in a quality adult basketball shoe apply for the kids’ version, too. Look for a sneaker with consistent traction, good stability, and enough cushioning to support the jumping and running your kid will do on the court.

While there are a lot of options out there, the shoes below meet those standards, and have been rated among the best basketball shoes for boys.

1. Nike Zoom Freak 4

Nike Zoom Freak 4
  • Durable, dust-resistant outsole and solid traction gives an especially good grip on hardwood courts.
  • Thick EVA foam midsole with two Zoom Air units in the forefront provide reliable impact protection.
  • Improved stability over the Freak 3, with a supportive and durable upper and a solid midfoot shank.
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Nike Zoom Freak 4

Fan Average

3.68
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Review Average

4.6

2. Under Armour Curry 11

  • Flow technology foam compound sole is super grippy, though it lacks the durability of rubber, making it less suitable for outdoor use.
  • Bouncy full-length Flow cushioning with midsole cut-outs that give it room to expand, enhancing its compression and comfort.
  • Combination of shank plate, external heel counter, and a Pebax plate in the forefoot give great support, with a 1-to-1 fit and lateral lace cables for a firm lockdown.
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Fan Average

3.90
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Review Average

4.9

3. Air Jordan 38

Air Jordan 38
  • Biting, dust-resistant traction is ideal for indoor courts, though lacks the durability for outdoor play.
  • Responsive midsole with a double-stacked forefront Zoom units that give them a ton of bounce and excellent jump height.
  • Great ankle support from the extended collar and neoprene ankle pillows.
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Air Jordan 38

Fan Average

3.46
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Review Average

4.7

4. Adidas D.O.N. Issue #5

  • Elevated traction pattern on rubber outsole sticks to hardwood courts during quick cuts.
  • Lightstrike Strobel provides huge explosive power, with a sculpted midsole for speed.
  • TPU heel clip and medial zone stabilizer combine for solid support.
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Fan Average

3.74
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Review Average

4.8

5. Under Armour Curry 3Z7

  • Durable full rubber outsole provides superior traction and can stand up to both indoor and outdoor courts
  • Great energy return and power from the full-length Micro G midsole
  • Internal shank gives it midfoot stability, with locked-down webbed lacing for a secure fit
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Fan Average

3.47
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1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars (15 votes)

Review Average

4.6
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