There’s nothing like a good old fashion streetball game.

It’s basketball in its purest form and when it’s time to step on the concrete, you want to make sure you’re prepared.

There’s no better way to prepare than by making sure you have the right shoes before going out there but in order to have the right shoes you need to know exactly what makes a great outside basketball shoe.

In this guide, we’re going to break down and review the best basketball shoes for concrete courts, so you can feel confident and secure on the concrete.

Top 5 Best Basketball Shoes for Concrete

The Top 5 Best Basketball Shoes for Concrete

Adidas Men’s D Rose 773 Iii

The Adidas Men’s D Rose 773 lii are made from highly durable leather that is crafted specifically to withstand outside elements. The leather also comes with perforations for enhanced breathability while the SPRINTWEB offers lightweight support and stability.

These shoes also have a non-marking rubber sole and an advanced traction pattern that effectively grips the concrete and maintains durability. The cushioning is strategically placed to be able to reduce the amount of shock that is constantly being placed on the ankles and knees.

The traditional style lacing system adds extra stability and the heel collar webbing gives you more of an enhanced fit.

A great pair of shoes if you’re looking to play some games on the concrete.

Pros

• Great traction
• Durable rubber sole
• TPU offers upper stability
• Lightweight

Cons

• Narrow

Under Armour Men’s Curry

The Under Armour Curry 6 is a basketball shoe that is made specifically for explosiveness, only weighing 12 oz. This shoe has a split outsole construction that significantly increases your contact with the court and offers great traction which is needed for outdoor play.

This shoe also comes with a full length speed plate that keeps your movements sharp that helps you split the defense and blow right by defenders. The zero gravity feel of this shoe makes it great for explosiveness while at the same time delivering a compression feel for that extra stabilization and direction strength.

The external heel also adds extra comfort and stability. A must-have if you like to play outside.

Pros

• Offers stability
• Internal and external support
• Breathable
• lightweight

Cons

• Low durability

Nike Men’s Lebron Soldier XII Basketball Shoe

The Nike Men’s Lebron Soldier XII is precisely designed to offer a maximum amount of support and comfort with the upper being engineered with breathability and stabilization and the dynamic crisscross straps locking your foot in place, helping you move with ease without having to worry about your foot sliding around.

These shoes also come with the Zoom Air unit cushioning that is excellent at absorbing the constant shock that comes with constantly running up and down the court.

The strap and closure system locks your foot in allowing for a quick change of direction without risking accidental slips or injuries. A great outdoor basketball shoe that offers not only support but style.

Pros

• Zipper and strap closure system locks foot in place
• Zoom Air cushioning helps to take impact
• Breathable mesh

Cons

• Some users prefer the velcro top over the straps

Men’s Air Visi Pro Vi

If you’re looking for a basketball shoe that is not just made for outdoor play but actually increases your overall performance, then the Men’s Air Visi Pro Vi are a great choice. Dealing with the constant impact from constantly running can be hardening on the ankles and knees but the air unit that’s included in these shoes are made to absorb shock and impact and keep ease on your joints.

The mesh lining and perforations in the forefront of this shoe enhance the breathability while the asymmetrical foam collar and the self-tie closure keep your compress in place.

The rubber sole is not only comfortable but durable and supportive. Everything you need to keep your comfort while playing outdoors.

Pros

• Self-tie closure keeps your foot in place
• Asymmetrical collar offer comfort and support
• Padded footbed

Cons

• Not much arch support
• Weak air pockets

Men’s Hyperdunk X Team Basketball

The Men’s Hyperdunk X Team Basketball Shoe comes with a dynamic lacing system that allows laces to wrap completely around your foot, giving you a tight and secure fit.

You’ll be gripping the concrete with no problem because of this shoe’s wavy traction pattern and remaining comfortable the entire time because of the responsive cushioning.

The 3/4-bootie stretches so you can easily slide your feet in and out while the textile keeps your ankle supported in the midst of gameplay. Everything you need in a shoe to ball to your full potential.

Pros

• Effective traction pattern
• Dynamic lacing system
• Lightweight

Cons

• The low rise can irritate skin if you don’t wear high socks
• Runs small

4 Attributes To Keep An Eye Out For When Choosing a Shoe Appropriate For Concrete Courts

Traction Pattern

Having the right kind of traction pattern when you’re playing outside is really important because it determines how well your shoes will grip the ground.

Having a weak traction pattern can easily lead to injury.

Look for a tread pattern that is wide with deep grooves. Not only is it easier to clean because of the space in-between the grooves but its also more difficult for the pattern to pick up dirt and rocks, which can clog the grooves and make traction difficult.

If you tend to toe drag when you play, or play a position where you’re required to be in the paint where it’s easy to get your toes stepped on, be sure to choose a shoe with a durable upper mesh and toe box.

Cushioning

If you’ve ever played outdoor basketball before, you know how important it is to have the right cushioning.

There can be multiple places on a shoe that can be cushioned but some of the most common places are around the ankle and on the bottom of your feet.

Having cushioning in these two places can help with absorbing the shock that comes from the constant running and jumping you’re doing when playing, especially outside on concrete basketball courts.

Closure

The way the closure is made on a shoe can vary from shoe to shoe.

Some shoes have a velcro strap while other shoes have a self-tie closure but there is no right or wrong style of closure.

It’s important to note that lacing closures may offer more of a customized compressed fit than strap closures, due to you being able to loosen or tighten the laces.

Sole

The best type of soles for outdoor basketball shoes are the harder rubber soles.

The textures of concrete are much more uneven and rough than an indoor court so having a sole that is highly durable can prove to stand up against outside elements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difference Between Indoor and Outdoor Shoes?

The most important difference between indoor and outdoor basketball shoes are the tread patterns and the construction of the sole.

Outdoor shoes are typically harder and are composed of rubber.

Indoor shoes are also made of rubber but they are a lot softer than outdoor shoes due to the wooden floors on an indoor court.

How Do Basketball Shoes Prevent Injuries?

Basketball shoes that have cushioning can help greatly when it comes to easing the pressure on the joints and preventing stress fractures and other injuries.

You will usually notice cushioning on or around the ankle, heel and the inner sole. These are all areas of the foot that deal with constant impact while playing and having a shoe that can keep these areas protected is the best way to avoid ankle injuries.

How Do Basketball Shoes Improve Performance?

Basketball shoes help you to better navigate the court without risking slipping or rolling your ankle. Everything from the traction to the cushioning of a shoe can help with your overall performance.

Having a great lacing system is imperative when it comes to performing well. The lacing system will determine how secure your foot is while running up the court and during lateral movements.

Final Thoughts

There are a number of key differences when it comes to indoor basketball shoes and outdoor basketball shoes. Which ones you choose can depend on a number of factors. But some of the most important attributes you should consider when looking for basketball shoes for concrete are the traction pattern, durable sole, supportive closure and enhanced cushioning.

All of the basketball shoes on our list are great for outdoor play but our top pick is the Adidas Men’s D Rose 773 Iii. Not only do these shoes have great support, compressed closure and a durable sole, but they also have an excellent traction pattern that is perfect for outdoor play.

It’s time to get on the court and ball out!