Basketball shoes at Black Friday
The Black Friday brings together basketball shoes designed for the court: signature models from adidas by Anthony Edwards, James Harden, and Donovan Mitchell, Puma by LaMelo Ball and Scoot Henderson, Li Ning by Dwyane Wade, and Nike LeBron, available in adult and kids' sizes. A selection for the playmaker seeking speed as well as for the big man wanting cushioning and support.
Signature shoes from the stars, at reduced prices.
Signature shoe: a model built around a player
Basketball is the sport of the signature shoe: a brand designs a line with a NBA player, according to their physical traits and playing style. At adidas, the A.E. accompanies explosive guard Anthony Edwards, the Harden Volume follows James Harden and his step-back shot, and the D.O.N. Issue carries the signature of Donovan Mitchell. At Puma, LaMelo Ball's MB models are recognised by their bold colours, and the Scoot Zeros are signed by Scoot Henderson. The Li Ning Wade Shadow extends the partnership established in 2012 by Dwyane Wade with the Chinese brand, and the Nike LeBron NXXT Gen belongs to LeBron James' line.
The rest of basketball
Basketball during Black Friday also has:
All the basketball is gathered on the basketball page.
Low or mid-high: what ankle support
The height of the collar is chosen based on your style of play and injury history. A low collar, like that of the A.E. in Low version or the Puma MB kid Lo, lightens the shoe and keeps the ankle free for the quick movements of the guard and backcourt players. A mid-high collar, like the A.E. in Mid version, wraps the ankle more and reassures the player who has previously twisted their ankle. Support does not just depend on height: a rigid heel counter, lacing that locks the midfoot, and a sole that is wider than the collar prevent the foot from rolling during landings and directional changes.
Cushioning and responsiveness by position
The point guard, who accelerates and brakes constantly, prefers a shoe close to the ground, with firm and responsive foam: they feel the court and gain speed in their reactions. The forward attacking the basket and the bigger players, who are heavier and often airborne, need thicker cushioning at the heel and forefoot to absorb the impacts under the basket. The Puma MB uses Nitro foam, injected with nitrogen, which combines lightness and bounce. A shoe is also judged by its sole: a herringbone pattern or tight zigzag bites into the court during sudden stops, as long as the rubber is kept clean from dust.
Children's and women's sizes: finding the right fit
Younger players have their own versions, like the Puma MB Lo Team kids, which share the same design codes as the model of LaMelo Ball but are shaped for a narrower foot. For the size, measure the foot at the end of the day, standing, with the match sock on: half a centimetre of extra space in front of the big toe is enough, otherwise the foot slides during stops. Female players often wear unisex models, starting from small sizes; it's just a matter of converting their size into centimetres. Depending on the models, some shoes fit large and others narrow: the size guide from the brand clarifies this, and trying them on with a jump and shuffle will eliminate doubts.
Frequently asked questions
Can you play basketball outside with these shoes?
Yes, but asphalt wears down the rubber much faster than the court. For the playground, choose a thick and hard sole, and keep a pair reserved for the gym to maintain grip on the court.
How to clean the sole of your basketball shoes?
Wipe the sole with a damp cloth before the game and during time-outs: dust from the court makes you slip. For the upper, a soft brush and soapy water are enough, without a machine that can detach the reinforcements.
How long do a pair of basketball shoes last?
With two or three training sessions a week, expect an average of one sports season per pair. A sole that's worn smooth and cushioning that no longer bounces signal that it's time to replace them.
Can basketball shoes also be worn in the city?
Yes, many signature models are worn daily for their style and comfort. However, reserve a pair for the court: the sidewalk wears down the sole and brings in gravel that affects grip in the gym.
What basketball shoe is best for a beginner?
A beginner is mainly looking for a comfortable, stable, and well-fitting shoe, rather than the most technical model. A mid-high collar reassures the ankle while learning footwork, and a grippy sole helps to stop without slipping.
