Choosing premium basketball shoes comes down to a number of different aspects, especially when you are looking for the best basketball shoes to jump higher.
There are many things that make a shoe good for jumping, and that mostly comes down to the material of the shoe.
Which material could help a player jump higher? Does it come down to the outsole or the upper?
The answer can be both, but it also includes the cushioning of the sneaker as that is what helps players really enjoy the bounce they need to jump higher.
In this article, we will explore various basketball shoes that are specifically designed to help you jump higher.
Top 8 Recommended Shoes
1. Nike Kyrie 5
One of the most popular manufacturers of basketball shoes is Nike, and the reasons for buying their shoes go beyond their brand reputation.
The Nike Kyrie 5 is a testament to that, named after the 2011 rookie of the year and basketball legend Kyrie Irving.
These shoes really bring together all of the best possible materials that a basketball shoe can have and the best technologies mixed right in to make them a truly outstanding choice.
The Nike Kyrie 5 starts with the upper that is crafted out of premium ultra-breathable mesh material that helps to push air in and out of the shoe while you play, helping to keep your foot nice and cool during wear while also allowing the shoe to dry more swiftly after it becomes wet.
The shoe also has a Venus Flytrap lacing system that brings you a sprawling network of cables beneath and above the surface that secure the shoe to the foot and will keep it from feeling clunky when you wear it.
These cables connect to the lower end of the shoe and the laces as well, letting you cinch them down to perfectly fit the shape of your foot.
As stated, the cushioning of the shoe is very important when it comes to being among the best basketball shoe to jump higher, and the Nike Kyrie 5 shoe doesn’t disappoint. The shoe is filled out with Air Zoom Turbo cushioning.
The cushioning uses pressurized air as well as stretched fibers that are tight enough to absorb impact when you run and jump but bounce back immediately to help you jump even higher while reducing the amount of stress that sits on your joints, tendons and muscles.
This responsive padding system really goes the extra mile to help you perform at your best, and the wider forefoot also gives you extra bounce and support around that area.
Pros of Nike Kyrie 5
Air Zoom Turbo cushioning
Breathable mesh upper
Strong outsole
Secondary lockdown cable lacing
Cons of the Nike Kyrie 5
Takes time to build up traction
Difficult to put on
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2. Under Armour HOVR Havoc
Under Armour is another reputable brand that makes basketball shoes to jump higher.
This sneaker has excellent traction that gives you greater control over how you move and jump and will help you step with greater precision.
The strong rubber outsole will let you play comfortably and intensely on any basketball court, regardless of the material while giving you superior grip.
The Herringbone pattern on the bottom of the shoe is also responsible for its grip, and it won’t lose traction even on slippery floors.
The Under Armour HOVR Havoc has what is considered to be HOVR cushioning that puts focus on a basketball player’s need for bounce in order to jump as high as possible.
The cushioning provides an energy return that will have you bouncing with very jump while still absorbing the shock of your movements to reduce stress on the joints, tendons and muscles.
The cushioning is foam based and feels super comfortable against the foot.
Pros of Under Armour HOVR Havoc
Herringbone pattern traction
HOVR Cushioning
Strong rubber sole
Breathable upper
Cons of Under Armour HOVR Havoc
Needs a lot of breaking in to be comfortable
Heel counter can be uncomfortable
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3. Adidas Harden Vol 2
Adidas is back with another great basketball shoe for jumping.
The first thing you’ll likely notice about this shoe is the fact that it has a unique lockdown system that really keeps the shoe attached to the foot for comfortable, seamless wear.
This system is incorporated into the shoe in the form of the laces and eyelets that have a die-cut pattern consisting of four eyelet columns that can be used in two ways:use the farthest eyelets to get a strong lockdown not unlike a Nike FlyWire system, or you can use the eyelets closer for a more standard, low-key lockdown.
The outsole of the adidas Harden Vol 2 is crafted out of tough rubber that has a rather unique pattern on the outsole that gives you plenty of traction when making swift movements in many directions so you’ll never have to worry about slipping.
The shoe also has Boost cushioning that gives the shoe a remarkably bouncy effect for high jumps.
Pros of Adidas Harden Vol 2
High-bounce boost cushioning
Durable rubber outsole
Unique lockdown system
Strong Forgefiber upper
Cons of Adidas Harden Vol 2
Feels a little heavy
Traction is lacking on slick courts
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4. Nike Air Versitile Li
The Nike Air Versitile Li is another premium basketball shoe that features a superior dual lockdown system for those who find that to be one of the most desirable traits in good basketball shoes for jumping higher.
The shoe features a primary lockdown feature to start it off, and then there is Nike FlyWire technology that is just beneath the surface, providing more cables that connect the laces of the shoes to the insoles, giving a perfectly fitting, hugging feel that will keep the shoe perfectly in place as you play.
Just beneath the heel of the Nike Air Versitile Li is an Air Zoom unit, which also makes it a good option for jumping higher as it is able to absorb some of the shock of your jump while also providing superior bounce-back ability to capitalize on every movement.
Even though it is not as present as a full-length Air Zoom might be with one part on the forefoot and one on the heel, the shoe still provides a similar effect and at a good price.
The outsole of the Nike Air Versitile Li is tough and durable, which will help you play on rough courts without having to worry about the sole wearing down or fraying.
The shoe offers decent traction and while it is not 100 percent herringbone patterned like some other basketball shoes, it is, for the most part, going to give you a similar effect to a full herringbone pattern, which means excellent traction.
Pros of the Nike Air Versitile Li
Dual lockdown system for snug fit
Breathable mesh upper keeps your foot cool
Strong leather outsole remains intact during rough play
Air Zoom cushioning for excellent bounce
Cons of Nike Air Versitile Li
Traction is lacking on some surfaces
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5. Adidas Crazy Explosive PrimeKnit
For many basketball players, having a shoe that fits close to the foot and doesn’t allow room for movement is the key to playing more comfortably and with more accurate steps.
The adidas Crazy Explosive PrimeKnit is known for its sock-like fit, which sticks to the shape of the foot and holds on securely without making your feet feel heavy.
This lightweight shoe also features a breathable material that helps to keep your foot nice and cool with every step.
The shoe also has a thick midsole that provides an excellent bounce and rebound, helping you to hit the ground running and bounce back up with ease, making it a great basketball shoe for jumping higher.
The only real downside of the adidas Crazy Explosive PrimeKnit is that the traction is not that impressive.
The translucent rubber outsole is prone to fraying when you play on surfaces that are too rough.
The traction may also fail you on a slippery court and could leave you unable to perform at your best.
Even so, there is a digitally designed traction pattern that does its best on other types of courts.
Much like the previous adidas shoe we talked about, the adidas Crazy Explosive PrimeKnit shoe also features a Boost cushion that will provide you with a nice bounce when you hit the ground after jumping, helping to propel you to higher heights when you go back up.
The Boost cushion is made of air-filled pockets of foam that will at once compress upon landing and then spring back into their usual position once you jump up for your next move. It gives the bouncy effect that you’re looking for.
When it comes to the lockdown, the adidas Crazy Explosive PrimeKnit doesn’t disappoint.
It has both the standard laces and the PrimeKnit upper that will securely wrap around the foot to keep it snug as you make quick moves.
Pros of the Adidas Crazy Explosive PrimeKnit
Boost cushioning gives a bouncy effect
Breathable, durable upper
Digitally designed traction pattern
Sock-like construction
Cons of Adidas Crazy Explosive PrimeKnit
Eyelets tend to come out
Weak traction
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6. Adidas Dame 4
For players who have a preference for shoes that are more breathable and lighter than they are strong, you might be interested in the adidas Dame 4.
While the shoe is not waterproof, it is super light and breathable and will keep your foot cool, above all else.
The material of the upper is super lightweight and pushes air in and out of the shoe when you walk, making the shoe particularly great choice for playing basketball in hot weather.
Because the upper is made from lightweight textiles instead of mesh, this part of the shoe is pretty strong.
When it comes to cushioning, the adidas Dame 4 has Bounce technology that is made of foam similar to Boost, but it is able to keep your foot closer to the ground than Boost is able to.
This offers you better control over your movements on the court, making it good for those who make fast, erratic moves during play.
The shoe also has a strong rubber sole with a wavy tread that enhances the traction of the shoe and gives you even better control. The one-of-the-kind patterning is good on all types of surfaces.
Pros of Adidas Dame 4
Dual lockdown lacing
Strong, breathable textile upper
Cushion offers good bounce
Tough rubber outsole
Cons of Adidas Dame 4
Not ideal for dry courts
Not waterproof
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7. Nike LeBron Soldier 12
If you want a more casual shoe that you can just slip on and go without bothering with laces, the Nike LeBron Soldier 12 is an excellent choice.
This shoe forgoes the laces and instead uses a one-of-a-kind hoop-and-loop locking system that makes a great alternative to lacing.
Instead, you just slip the loops into the hook and go on your way without having to stop to lace and unlace them.
The unique straps run all of the way from the toe to the ankle in order to give you a secure fit from top to bottom for a dynamic lockdown experience.
The straps also run down both sides of the shoe, so it feels sock-like against the foot and won’t feel clunky or heavy, giving you greater control of your steps.
Thanks to the Nike Air Zoom technology of the Nike LeBron Soldier 12, you can also enjoy a nice bounciness that will let you jump higher when playing.
This technology sits around the heel and the forefoot for maximum bounce, and a Phylon midsole not only helps to add to its bounce but also gives you a nice bit of support and comfort.
The Nike LeBron Soldier 12 features a strong upper made with BattleKnit construction, and thanks to the canvas or leather material that comes with the style of shoe you choose, it is strong and resilient against damage.
The strong outsole also holds its own against any rough courts and won’t easily fray or become damaged.
Pros of Nike LeBron Soldier 12
Strong rubber outsole
Nike Air Zoom technology along the forefoot and heel
Super durable construction
Premium hook-and-loop lockdown straps
Cons of the Nike LeBron Soldier 12
Not very breathable
The hooks are a bit weak
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8. UA ClutchFit Drive 3
The UA ClutchFit Drive 3 is one of the most popular, best-selling and overall successful pairs of basketball shoes made by Under Armour.
It is a good basketball shoe that is made using Micro G foam cushioning, which makes it a good basketball shoe for jumping higher.
Micro G is yet another foam-style technology for cushioning that is famous for its superior return energy and shock absorption.
The combination of the two allows you to comfortably and easily land on the court and instantly jump back up into the air.
The technology is a blend of both traditional EVA foam and rubber that provides a beneficial shock-absorbing effect.
This is due to the overall general elasticity of rubber and the giving nature of the foam. Both of these aspects also make the shoe remarkably comfortable and supportive to wear.
The upper of the UA ClutchFit Drive 3 is a combination of strong textile and durable mesh that makes the shoe super breathable like mesh is known for without giving up the strength that textile offers.
Another perk of the shoe is the lockdown system. Known as bear-trap lacing, the system secures the shoe to the foot in an effective and comfortable manner, helping to make it feel less clunky.
The lacing system is even connected to the tongue that provides a stronger grip all around the foot.
On the bottom of the UA ClutchFit Drive 3 is a tough rubber outsole that uses a nearly herringbone pattern to deliver the best traction you can get on indoor and outdoor courts alike.
With so many basketball shoes on the market, finding the best shoes that can increase your vertical can be a bit daunting.
Basketball shoes, generally speaking, often tend to be a bit expensive, making you even more reluctant to make the decision to spend money on a new pair.
When it comes to the type of shoe you’re looking for, there are a few specific aspects of a the product which you’ll want to pay attention to so you can get the most out of your purchase.
This brief buying guide has been put together to help you make the most informed decision when it comes to choosing your next pair.
When looking for new basketball shoes to that meet your needs, here are a few factors to consider:
1. Durability is king
Perhaps the most important point you should keep in mind when looking for new basketball shoes is their strength and resilience.
The shoe is going to be used in a rougher manner compared to jogging shoes, on both smooth and rough courts alike, meaning any old sneakers won’t cut it.
Basketball shoes are designed specifically to be able to handle any sort of terrain you may be playing on, no matter how often you play, remaining intact game after game.
There are many brands that put emphasis on the durability of the shoe so they won’t fall apart prematurely.
2. Style
Of course, just like any other shoe or apparel you buy, you want to look and feel your best.
Basketball shoes typically have a very distinct silhouette, but there are many variations in both style and color that will let you express your personality through your shoes.
Still, when you are specifically shopping for shoes to increase your leap, style isn’t necessarily going to be the most important factor you should be looking at; you could be holding yourself back in terms of options for a high quality shoe if you have your heart set on red but you can only find them in blue.
Instead, focus on the benefits of the specific shoe you are looking at and make a decision on the style of that shoe based on the colors that are available to you.
3. Price
Just like with any other purchase, price is going to be one of the main things to consider.
If you find yourself to be a brand-loyal kind of person, you might need to rethink your approach.
It is important to spend within your means while still getting the best possible shoe out there so that you won’t regret your purchase.
Therefore, go on a thorough search before you actually commit to buying a shoe.
4. Body size and type
Some shoes are going to be better suited for body types and heights that do not match your own, and you should avoid those, no matter how tempting they look.
Those who are taller and weigh more will need larger, thicker shoes that can accommodate this stature, whereas a smaller player might feel weighed down by the same shoes.
If you don’t feel like taking the time to determine which basketball shoe is specifically good for your unique build, there are shoes that are neutrally designed to fit most body types.
Conclusion
In this article, we suggested several of the best basketball shoes for jumping higher, letting you achieve your goals on the court with greater levels of comfort and style.
The shoes presented here give you a wide range of various styles to choose from, and with so many different types of shoes available to you, we have also created a buying guide that will allow you to more easily decide upon your next shoe.
Use our buying guide the next time you set out to buy a new pair of basketball shoes which can elevate your game. Browse through each item on the list with the tips outlined in the back of your mind in order to make an informed decision on your next pair of shoes.
