Basketball has always been an active sport. It is a well-known fact that to play basketball, and you need the right shoes! Being on your toes and jumping are dynamic movements that require power from your legs and feet.
One of the most important aspects of buying proper basketball sneakers is dunking ability – or how high you can jump off the ground when wearing them. There are three different types of shoes during this process: low top, mid-top, or high top.
Low tops provide maximum ankle mobility but less support than other options, so they are best used by guards who don’t post up as much and players with smaller builds. Mid tops offer more stability while still providing comfort because these do not get so high.
High tops are the most secure, but they limit ankle mobility and have more of a bulky feel. Which one is best for you? Well, that depends on your playing style! There’s no right or wrong answer here; it just comes down to what works best for you as an individual player.
For your ease, we have shortlisted the fives best shoes for dunking in our article. This will allow you to have a better understanding of the pros and cons before you go out there for yourself. Your sporting time will be safe and comfortable. These shoes will not let you down.
| Name | PEAK High Top Mens Basketball Shoes Lou Williams | Under Armour Men’s Lockdown 5 Basketball Shoe | adidas Originals Men’s Pro Model Sneaker | PUMA Mens Uproar Hybrid Court Core Athletic Basketball Shoes | Nike Men’s Shoes Kyrie 7 Sisterhood CQ9326-400 |
| Image |  |  |  |  |  |
| Material Type | Synthetic Leather+Textile | Breathable mesh upper, Synthetic | Leather upper, Textile lining | Faux Leather | Blue mesh upper |
| Sole | Rubber Sole | Rubber Sole | Rubber Sole | Rubber Sole | Rubber Sole |
| Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Top Five Best Shoes for Dunking
1.
PEAK High Top Men’s Basketball Shoes
Product Feature
PEAK High Top Men’s Basketball Shoes are for the guy who needs the time to wear these in. The integrated weaving will soften and conform to your foot over time, while a thickness and solid outsole will give you support on hardwood floors.
And don’t worry about the traction-this shoe is tough as nails with an aggressive pattern that’s built for outdoor play. Take fashion up a notch! This shoe is the newest shoe to hit the market that will help you take your game to the next level.
The stabilization module on these shoes reduces injury by providing extra stability around the side of your foot. Use this pair of shoes for those days when your ankles are feeling sore or vulnerable.
Technologies like fresh outdoor rubber outsole, lateral forefoot lugs, and heel-to-toe drop combine to offer you enhanced durability on all surfaces. It’s also equipped with an open-toe design that lets air flow in for relief, as well as a lace-up closure system designed for quickness and stability during sudden stops and turns.
This is a high-top shoe designed for your most intense game day. Stable heeling strikes and lateral stability are at the top of the list, with an all premium leather upper and laces that keep you tight on those heels without any irritation, all while delivering reliable traction keeping you in perfect control.
All this combined makes our one-of-a-kind basketball shoes fit like a second skin and delivers unmatched performance both on the court or practicing off it.
Pros
- Durable, flexible fits like a second skin on your foot
- lightweight nature of the shoe helps in running
- The stabilization module supports all lateral movements
- The rubber of this shoe has been upgraded for wear resistance
Cons
- The pressure spots of the shoe might be difficult for some people.
- The shoelace loop should be improved.
2.
Under Armour Men’s Lockdown 5 Basketball Shoe
Product Feature
The Under Armour Men’s Lockdown 5 Basketball Shoes have a reinforced heel and toe, so you can wear these show confidently in your game. They have synthetic leather that will hold up under the most intense conditions, and they come with both an insole and outsole to maximize comfort.
Plus, their design provides stability as well as better movement on the court! Get these new basketball shoes for some foot-to-court feel! You’ll never let these shoes out of your sight in all the slam-dunking, shooting, and up-and-under moves you pull on the court.
The basketball shoe features a molded footbed for optimal comfort and an improved lockdown fit to keep feet fresh from half court to free throw line. It’s got a cushioned tongue wrapped in leather for softness, protection, and good looks.
Plus, twin foam collar pads that create 360° of stability no matter what kind of crazy move you’re pulling off on your defender. The shoe comes in various colors with a number of different designs to fit your style.
If you’re more of a night-time baller, these shoes are the perfect fit. The shoe has all the components necessary for peak performance on and off the court. You will get all the sizes that you need to make the shoe perfect.
With functional features like flight speed split outsole, zone down tempo insole with formation technology to reduce foot fatigue and prevent injury; elastic arch bandage offers stability underfoot; 7mm heel height advantage that makes it easier to run taller lengths faster.
Pros
- The shoe comes in varieties of colors to add your style
- The shoe has formation technology to assist in smooth running
- The shoe materials are fully imported.
- The rubber sole helps to keep the grip properly.
Cons
- The sizing chart of this product can be difficult to understand.
- The ankle protection is absent in this shoe.
3.
Adidas Originals Men’s Pro Bounce 2018 Basketball Shoe
Product Feature
The Adidas Men’s Pro Bounce 2018 Basketball Shoe was designed to allow you to fly high. The patented stretch web outsole is light, flexible, and responsive, with a larger rubber patch at the forefoot for maximum grip in multiple directions.
Non-marking butyl rubber pods on the heel and toe provide enhanced protection against abrasion, while a new Traxion TM technology provides superior non-slip performance on natural surfaces during sudden changes of direction when stopping or starting quickly.
The shoes are equipped with an internal TPU plate situated between the EVA midsole that acts as a cushioning element and improves rebound properties directly below your feet, as well as doubles as an added shank element for increased support around ankles.
These are the shoes you’ve been waiting for. It is designed with a high-top design, and these kicks combine Adidas’s classic style and comfort in an iconic next-generation basketball shoe. The able lacing system with webbing eyelets will help keep these kicks tight and light, while Geofit construction provides both the perfect fit and comfort for all your take-offs.
These shoes use Adidas Bounce cushioning that provides enhanced comfort and flexibility for the all-day player. The rubber outsole is durable, so you can move with confidence on any court or street surface, slip-resistant in wet weather, and environmentally friendly—not to mention odor-free!
Pros
- The shoe comes with a bounce cushion system.
- This shoe has Geofit construction, which provides comfort.
- The rubber sole is very rugged and helps to keep the balance.
- The weather-resistant coating is very useful for users.
Cons
- The outer covering of the shoe fells apart easily.
- The sole gets easily ripped in long-term usage.
4.
PUMA Men’s Uproar Hybrid Court Core Athletic Basketball Shoes
Product Feature
PUMA Men’s Uproar Hybrid Court Core Athletic Basketball Shoes are the best way to rock your game. These shoes offer superior performance with a built-in, lightweight Phylon midsole for cushioned comfort around every play.
They have a synthetic upper for ultimate durability, an abrasion-resistant toe wrap, and eye stays to prevent wear on the toes, and the eye stays from abrasion. The rubber outsole won’t lose its grip in rain or shine, meaning you can seamlessly work up a sweat even if you’re running through water!
These shoes will have you feeling unstoppable, whether you’re on the court or out in the world doing recreational activities. The wrap-around TPU heel piece and a lace-up closure give it a unique look that is as sleek as it is stylish.
Powered by Ignite Foam
and equipped with a rubber outsole, the Uproar Hybrid Court Shoes are perfect for all your hardworking moments, as well as being both comfortable and stylish.
These bold, multi-colored sneakers are the perfect choice for those who like to stand out. Designed with athletic performance in mind, they can withstand any game-day challenge and still offer fresh looks.
Pros
- This shoe comes with ignite foam midsole for extra comfort.
- The materials of this shoe are highly durable.
- The lacing of this shoe is very stylish with closure.
- The synthetic sole keeps the feet dry while playing.
Cons
- Sometimes the shoe might slip in wet grounds.
- The weather-resistant coating should be improved for better performance.
5.
Nike Men’s Shoes Kyrie 7 Sisterhood CQ9326-400
Product Feature
The Nike Kyrie 7 is the premier basketball shoe for the street, park, and arena. The Kyrie 7 line features a range of sizes, including 12 to 14, so everyone can enjoy elite hoop sneakers. Built for the next generation of energy return, control and speed while helping you take advantage of your quick first step with banked surfaces in all playing environments.
The Kyrie is engineered with Nike’s Dragon flat outsole that repels water as well as an abrasion-resistant design highlighted by triple-density foam pods on the outsole to provide grip during gameplay without sacrificing comfort. It’s time to take your hoops to the next level.
Breeze through the court with the fresh and new Nike Kyrie 7 Sisterhood shoes. This shoe has a one-of-a-kind mesh details wrap for a custom, snug fit. The laces feed through molded fins that pull down over your forefoot when you secure them using Nike lock laces.
From sprints to spirals, this shoe was designed for quick movements. The large forefoot Zoom Air unit is curved to bend in multiple directions providing energy return and responsive cornering with every step.
Pros
- This shoe has super soft meshes for comfort.
- The air unit is easily tractable for better bending.
- Nike lock laces make the shoe firm to the foot.
Cons
- The shoe might be difficult to clean during weather conditions.
- The exterior of the shoe gets loosened easily due to heavy use.
What is Dunking in Basketball?
Basketball has many different types of shots, but arguably the most impressive is when a player dunks the ball. Dunking in basketball means that you are jumping up and throwing down with two hands on the rim to score points or make an amazing play.
These are very exciting moments in a game and can be demoralizing to the other team. A player will often take off from one or both feet, leap into the air, then slam dunk the ball down through either their opponent’s hoop (or ‘basket’) or sometimes just over it.
Dunking is usually not allowed outside of professional games because it puts too much pressure on people’s joints when they land hard on them after jumping high up with two hands for such an impressive play. But that doesn’t stop some players from trying!
The exact shoes that are best for dunking depend on what you’re looking to do. Dunking is an art that is practiced by very few people, and it takes a lot of practice to get really good. And once you have the right shoes, you can improve your chances of success. Dunking can turn the game around and have people cheering for you.
Dunking Shoes vs. Normal Shoes
There are various kinds of shoes for dunking. There are casual and dressy ones, expensive or cheap, old or new. Which one should you choose?
Dunking Shoes
- Designed to give maximum protection when jumping up in the air with arms stretched out (elevation)
- Because of the thick sole which is used on these types of shoes, they don’t compress/give much, causing them to be stiffer than other shoe models. They also have a lot more cushion because it’s designed to make your feet feel comfortable
- Dunking Shoes are great for players who need height that can only come from wearing high tops or if you’re really into dunk contests, but not so good if you just want something lightweight with minimal arch support. If what you’re looking for is having the edge over another player, then we would recommend going with this style.
Normal Shoes
- Normal shoes can offer great support if worn properly; however, they’re not as tall, so there isn’t as much elevation, and the lack of arch may cause discomfort while wearing them.
- This might be a good option for someone who wants to be able to wear their shoes outside of the gym and also want a little more support. Normal shoes are lighter in weight because they’re not made with thick soles. But thick soles are always important for having a perfect game. They are long-lasting and safe.
- Normal shoes are best for: people who want to be able to wear their shoes outside of the gym and also want a little more support.
How to Find The Best Shoes for Dunking?
There are certain features that will allow you to buy the best shoes for dunking. All of these features are important because they will help you to save both time and money.
Durability
You want your shoes to last for years, so be sure they have the durability needed.
Comfort
Comfortable is key when it comes to dunking on a court with no padding – luckily, most of today’s sneakers are made with comfort in mind.
Stability and Grip
You need both stability and grip if you’re going to pull off some amazing dunks like these guys. The sole of the shoe should be grippy and have some good traction, so your foot doesn’t slip from the shoe.
Style
Let’s not forget about style – these days, there are plenty of options for both men and women when it comes to dunking on a court with no padding insight
Weather-resistant Coating
Weatherproofing is important for shoes to be used in a variety of conditions, from the dry asphalt of an outdoor court to wet pavement and concrete that can cause slipping or skidding on slick surfaces.
Shoes with waterproof coating will always fare better than those without any weather-resistant properties when it comes to handling moisture.
Size and Color
The size of your feet will be the next big concern. If you’re a shoe fanatic, then this is no problem; but if not, it can be difficult to find the right pair for your foot type.
The best thing to do in this situation is try on some different pairs and see what fits well without being too tight or loose. You want enough room so that they’re comfortable while still fitting securely on your foot and arching up at just the right spot around the ankle bone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Dunking Shoes Really Matter?
Dunking shoes are specifically designed for basketball players, and they help protect your feet from damage when playing in high-contact games like slam ball where there is no padding on the floor;
Instead of just wearing any old pair of sneakers that may slip off or get stuck if someone tries stealing it while you’re grabbing at them. Players wear these shoes because it is their job, but many people enjoy dunking too, so they will buy these specific kinds of the shoe which are solely manufactured for dunking.
Are Dunking Shoes Good for Skipping?
Since dunking shoes are made for basketball, they will be slightly stiffer and not as flexible as a regular pair of sneakers. This means that while wearing these shoes, you may have less ability to move your feet in cross-steps or dance around like you would if you were barefoot.
However, this doesn’t mean it’s impossible to do any sort of skipping people wear them all the time at parks by using their hands instead of their feet when jumping rope.
Do Dunking Shoes Make You Jump Higher?
There are many factors that go into making a person jump higher – the muscles in your legs, which side of the body you’re jumping off from (if both sides are equal), and even height.
So while dunking shoes do give an advantage for those who want to boost their vertical leap, it’s not something that will be game-changing if you don’t have good athleticism or coordination skills already.
Do You Need Dunking Shoes?
The first thing any new basketball player needs is a pair of sneakers, and they should look for ones with good grip so they can keep themselves grounded when playing on different surfaces. They probably won’t need dunking shoes because this specific kind of shoe is exclusively made just for this one purpose.
Will the Shoe Still Work if It Rolls on Its Side During a Drive to the Basket?
Sometimes while playing basketball, players are in a good position to take the ball hard at the hoop. However, there may be times when your foot rolls on its side as you’re driving for that dunk, and it would seem like gravity is working against you.
Conclusion
Lastly, our list of the top five best shoes for dunking will surely be effective for providing a blissful dunking experience. The PEAK High Top Men’s Basketball Shoe is my choice for the best basketball shoe to dunk in. This one has turned out to be the most comfortable for its build quality.
It offers good ankle support without restricting movement while still giving you room to jump high into the air when taking off from your feet.
Some other features that make it great are its rubber traction sole which gives you a better grip on court surfaces, so there’s less risk of slipping during play; plus, these shoes also come with extra padding at key points like heel and toe, where additional protection can really help avoid injury issues down the line. Give them a try if you want
