The Top 5 Basketball Shoes with Great Grip/Traction (2024)

Updated: January 26, 2024

A lot of factors come into play when you’re looking for the basketball shoe with the best traction. The tread and materials of the sneaker are important, and even the rubber used for specific colorways can make a difference in how they handle on the court. Where and how you play make a difference here, too, so there’s no one sneaker that provides the best traction for everyone.

Generally speaking, signature sneakers made for guards and fast players will have grippy traction perfect for quick stops and direction changes. Shoes designed for outdoor play tend to have the most durable traction, another factor to consider when you’re shopping for your new favorite sneakers.

The shoes below are consistently reviewed and rated as having the best traction for guards, small forwards, and any player who needs their shoes to grip the court.

1. 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.

Fan Average

3.96
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Review Average

4.9

2. Nike Sabrina 1

  • Aggressive multi-directional traction grips well during lateral shifts and quick stops.
  • Well-balanced and responsive cushioning, with firm React foam and a Zoom unit in the forefront for more bounce.
  • Stable ride with good torsional rigidity, a flat base, and an outrigger for extra stability.

Fan Average

3.30
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1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars (10 votes)

Review Average

4.8

3. Adidas Dame Certified 2.0

  • Wavy herringbone traction stops on a dime and holds well on dusty courts with occasional wiping.
  • Lightweight and flexible Bounce midsole with a responsive forefront and some impact protection in the heel.
  • Slightly large fit is ideal for those with wide feet and the wide base gives it good stability, though ankle support may be lacking for some players.

Fan Average

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars (No Ratings Yet)

Review Average

4.7

4. Jordan Luka 2

  • Radial traction pattern gives similar multidirection coverage and grip to the Luka 1.
  • Dense full-length foam slab is reactive but lacks much impact protection.
  • Improved lockdown over the Luka 1 with a similar forefoot spring plate for torsional support.

Fan Average

3.45
Rate the shoe
1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars (11 votes)

Review Average

4.7

5. New Balance Two Wxy V4

  • Solid traction that resists dust and has the durability to play on any style of court
  • The FuelCell technology and Fresh Foam gives explosive energy return for an ideal combination of comfort and rebound power
  • ABZORB pillars in the forefoot and heel absorb impact, with a molded heel counter for excellent foot lockdown

Fan Average

3.44
Rate the shoe
1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars (16 votes)

Review Average

4.7
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