The Top 5 Basketball Shoes For Quick/Speedy Guards (2023)

Updated: April 13, 2023

Whether you’re running the point, making a quick cut to the net or trying to create some open space for a jump shot, as a quick guard, you need the right basketball shoes for the job. Any guard who wants to crossing over his opponent and get to the rim or hit an open jumper over the guy who was just a step too slow to recover will require nothing less than the perfect sneaker.

So what should you be looking for?

  • Traction – The right shoe will allow you to grip the court while still allowing you to change directions without any problems.
  • Low or mid cut – The low or mid cut shoe allows you to have the right range of motion to go where you want to go in an instant
  • Shoes designed for guards – If you’re looking at signature shoes, the ones designed for NBA guards will typically work the best.

The shoes below are those that have been reviewed and rated as the best basketball shoes for quick guards that want to get even faster.

1. Jordan Luka 1

  • Translucent outsole performs well once it’s broken in, with a linear heel and midfoot pattern and multi-directional traction on the forefoot.
  • Midsole Formula 23 foam is highly responsive, though not as bouncy as other shoes.
  • IsoPlate system provides exceptional stability and torsional support, enhanced by the wide base and secure lateral containment.

Fan Average

4.63
Rate the shoe
1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars (19 votes)

Review Average

4.7

2. Under Armour Curry Flow 10

  • Outstanding grippiness, especially on clean indoor courts.
  • The Flow cushioning is nice and stable, without being too heavy duty.
  • Support is decidedly improved from the Curry 9. A huge win here.

Fan Average

3.66
Rate the shoe
1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars (141 votes)

Review Average

4.4

3. Nike Air Zoom GT Cut 2

  • Advanced traction with deep tread grooves that wraps around the forefoot for extra grip during fast stops and direction changes.
  • React midsole cushioning with a full-length Zoom strobel and embedded Zoom air pod combine for high impact protection and bounce.
  • Snug fit with good support and foot lockdown, though its torsional stability and ankle support are a bit lacking.

Fan Average

3.48
Rate the shoe
1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars (21 votes)

Review Average

4.6

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

  • Multidirectional pixelated traction pattern works well indoors and outdoors.
  • Cushioning may be a bit stiff for some, but softens up after a longer break-in period.
  • Wide base provides stability, with excellent support.

Fan Average

3.74
Rate the shoe
1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars (90 votes)

Review Average

4.1

5. New Balance Two Wxy V3

  • Grippy multi-directional traction uses a similar data-driven design to the original Two Way sneaker.
  • Solid impact protection thanks to FuelCell underfoot cushioning.
  • The upgraded mesh upper is breathable and supportive, with a midsole shank for extra support and a mid collar for more ankle stability.

Fan Average

3.82
Rate the shoe
1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars (76 votes)

Review Average

4.6
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