In a hurry? If you quickly want to know my choice for the best mid-top basketball shoes, then I would recommend Nike LeBron 18 as the best one.
Basketball players know that reliable, high-performing shoes are essential for success on the court.
Yet, if you’re specifically looking for the best option to reduce strain and improve mobility, then a mid-tops is your best option.
After carefully evaluating the latest releases from Nike, Adidas, New Balance, and Air Jordans, among others, here are the best mid-top basketball shoes that I have rounded up.
5 Best Mid Top Basketball Shoes
Head on below and check out my detailed review of the best mid top shoes that I use for basketball.
1. Nike LeBron 18 – Best Overall
Features:
- Insole: Zoom Air Strobel padding
- Ventilation: Mesh and synthetic materials
- Weight: 15.4 ounces
- Outsole pattern: Herringbone
As someone who avidly plays basketball, I find the Nike LeBron 18 the best mid-top shoe to play in.
Being an established brand, this Nike shoe model boasts a wide array of impressive and exceptional features.
The Nike swoosh is instantly recognizable, even when it’s just a checkmark in a box.
One of the notable features you can expect is the Zoom Air Strobel midsole, which delivers outstanding heel comfortability, impact protection, and responsiveness.
The LeBron 18 is slightly heavier than some alternatives, but its exceptional cushioning compensates for the extra weight.
Pros
- Excellent forefoot comfortability
- Has better sole durability
- Good lateral support and bounce
- Breathable/good ventilation
Cons
- The LeBron 18 is on the heavier side
- More expensive than some other options
- Too narrow for some hoop players
2. Jordan Zion 2 – Best Value
Features:
- Insole: Dual-cushioning system
- Ventilation: Breathable mesh
- Weight: 14.6 ounces
- Outsole pattern: Herringbone
For anyone looking for great value in the best mid-top basketball shoes, the Jordan Zion 2 will surely get your attention.
The shoe’s dual-cushioning system provides a comfortable, responsive, and confident feel that allows you to move swiftly on the court.
The breathable mesh upper keeps my heel cool and comfortable during intense games. It’s the perfect shoe for forwards, centers, and big men.
In terms of value, the Jordan Zion 2 impresses with a starting price of approximately $140.
Pros
- Comes with an aggressive skid resistance
- Suitable for bigger ballplayers
- Casual/stylish design
Cons
- Lacks impact protection
- Dust-prone sole
3. Nike Kyrie 6 – Best Budget Pick
Features:
- Insole: Plush foam
- Ventilation: Breathable mesh
- Weight: 13.2 ounces
- Outsole pattern: 360 base pattern
Being a budget-conscious NBA fan, I am always on the lookout for good value basketball shoes. For mid-tops, the Nike Kyrie 6 is my best budget-friendly pick.
Nike Kyrie 6 is actually quite affordable, so you don’t have to break the bank. However, the shoe’s weight may be a drawback for some.
Nonetheless, the Kyrie 6 combines a 360 outsole pattern and strap lacing, which ensure a reliable grip and multidirectional movement.
It securely keeps the shoelaces locked, thus avoiding any trips and falls that could break your ankles.
This allows me to confidently make quick changes in direction and maintain control during a fast-paced game.
Pros
- Best priced for its quality
- Good lockdown and bounce
- Responsive cushioning
- The additional strap helps keep shoelaces locked
Cons
- It can be heavy for some
- Not for hard landings
4. Adidas Dame 8
Features:
- Insole: Bounce Pro cushioning
- Ventilation: breathable mesh
- Weight: 13.6 ounces
- Outsole pattern: herringbone
The Adidas Dame 8 is a standout choice, particularly for ballplayers with wider feet.
The Dame 8’s Bounce Pro insole makes it an excellent choice for outdoor basketball shoes.
The Adidas Dame 8’s foot padding provides good stability. It allows quick, explosive movements without fear of injury or a leg break.
While this Adidas model has numerous strengths, it’s important to mention that its grip can be impacted on dusty or dirty courts.
Therefore, regular wiping of the sole may be necessary.
Pros
- A great option for ballplayers with wider feet
- Good basketball shoes for their price
- Forefoot responsiveness is great
- Good ankle support and bounce
Cons
- Traction is better on clean courts
5. Under Armour Curry 9
Features:
- Insole: UA Flow
- Ventilation: breathable mesh
- Weight: 12 ounces
- Outsole pattern: multidirectional
The Under Armour Curry 9 is one of the most impressive kicks I have had the opportunity to review.
One of its standout features is its incredibly lightweight design, weighing 12 ounces.
This lightweight construction will improve a player’s agility and quickness.
I was also particularly impressed by the good traction provided by its multidirectional pattern.
Whether a player is making sharp cuts or executing explosive movements, the Curry 9 delivers excellent grip on different surfaces.
Pros
- Most lightweight shoes reviewed
- Excellent friction
- Well-balanced footwear
- More responsive and well-cushioned insole
Cons
- Most expensive in this review
- Not the best basketball shoes for shock protection
Factors To Consider When Buying The Best Mid-Top Basketball Shoes
Purchasing a new pair of basketball sneakers goes beyond having the signature shoes from an established brand over the past few years.
Remember, a good game starts with understanding what qualities to look for in your footwear.
Durability
This sport’s footwears are prone to a lot of wear and tear. A pair of kicks that are not durable means frequent shoe replacements.
Look for shoes with a durable outsole and good construction.
- Outsole – should be made of thick, sturdy materials like rubber or leather.
- Construction – look for a well-stitched and reinforced heel.
Cushion
Cushioning in basketball shoes absorbs impact and provides a safe landing after every jump.
It can also help to provide reliability and reduce fatigue, especially during long games or team practices.
Air cushioning is soft and comfortable, the foam is supportive, and the gel provides good shock absorption.
Player Position
Different positions have different preferences for grip.
Guards constantly cutting and changing direction may prefer a mid-top with a more aggressive grip.
In contrast, centers posting up and not moving as much may prefer those with less aggressive friction.
Traction
Sweat can be slippery on your mid-tops, so great traction is key to avoiding slips. It helps you stay grounded, generate power, and maintain steadiness.
The base should be a sturdy rubber with a herringbone or other pattern, ensuring good grip, control, and strength during dynamic plays.
Weight Support
This factor directly impacts your agility, endurance, and overall performance during the game.
Heavier athletes need to consider this more than lighter players.
Reinforced overlays and secure lacing systems can provide added stability without adding too much weight.
Budget
The excitement of buying new kicks can lead to impulsive spending.
These shoes can cost anywhere from $50 to $200.
So, having a budget in mind allows you to narrow your search and focus on a mid-top brand within your budget range.
What Is The Anatomy Of A Mid-Top Basketball Shoe?
All shoes have three main parts:
- Upper
- Midsole
- Outsole
These contribute to support, comfort, and on-court game.
Upper
This part covers the top of the foot and keeps them locked down.
The upper enhances steadiness and keeps the foot securely locked during quick movements and changes in direction.
It comprises the tongue, shoestring or strap, eyelets, and heel counter.
Midsole
The midsole is the middle part of a shoe. It helps to absorb shock and provide comfort during jumping and running.
A midsole of EVA foam is lightweight and flexible, while polyurethane is more robust.
Compressed air midsole materials provide a great cushion, while combination midsoles offer a range of advantages.
Outsole
The outsole is the contact point between the heel and the ground. It provides good traction and grip, which helps the hoop player change directions quickly and easily.
The most common and durable patterns are herringbone, zigzag, and stud.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To enhance both performance and comfortability, it’s essential to further understand what makes a mid-top shoe stand out.
What’s the Difference Between Mid Top, Low Top, and High Top Basketball Shoes?
A basketball shoe is available in different heights — from low to high. Nonetheless, here’s a breakdown for each model or style:
Mid Tops
A mid-top model sits right at ankle level.
They balance the ankle support of high-tops and the agility of low-tops.
These kicks provide stability for quick cuts, explosive movements, and swift direction changes while offering the freedom and range of motion required in every game.
Low Tops
Low-top kicks are a good choice and are comfortable for walking because they provide better ventilation.
They are a good pick for agile ballplayers who usually want lightweight ones.
However, it’s important to note that the trade-off for this increased mobility is reduced ankle support.
High Tops
High-tops offer the most support but are also the heaviest.
Forwards and centers may prefer them for the best ankle support.
It’s also recommended for those who often engage in rebounding, post-play, and defensive maneuvers that put additional strain on the ankles.
Should You Clean the Bottom of Your Shoes After Every Use?
Cleaning the bottom of your shoes after each use is advisable if they are exposed to dirty environments with dirt, mud, or debris.
This prevents dirt and debris build-up, which can prematurely wear them out.
But if you only play in a clean indoor game and your sneakers are not visibly dirty, you don’t have to clean them every after use.
Can You Wear Mid-Top Basketball Shoes Daily?
You can use them daily, even when not playing basketball.
Due to their supportive construction and stylish designs, many people find mid-tops comfortable for everyday use.
If you decide to wear mid-top shoes, make sure they suit your daily activities and the occasion.
The Awesome Choices
Here is a quick recap of the top picks for the best mid-top basketball shoes:
Best Budget Pick – Nike Kyrie 6
The Nike Kyrie 6 is the best budget pick, offering a tight grip and exceptional performance overall without breaking the bank.
Best Value – Jordan Zion 2
For those seeking the best value, the Jordan Zion 2 provides a winning combination of comfort, breathability, and on-court aesthetics at a reasonable amount.
Best Overall – Nike LeBron 18
The Nike LeBron 18 is the best overall mid-top, offering unmatched heel softness, strength, and reliability for long hours of elite play-offs.
Conclusion
Remember, finding the best mid-top basketball shoes depends on your team position, foot shape, and individual preferences.
It’s crucial to try on different brands, consider your specific requirements, read my review above, and prioritize the factors that are most important to you.