Each shoe has its own specific role for each occasion. There are shoes for sports like basketball, football, etc. Talking about one of these shoes, Jordans as a brand, is one of the best for playing basketball.
Playing basketball in Jordans is a one-of-a-kind experience that combines style, performance, and history. Michael Jordan’s legacy has left an indelible imprint not only on basketball but also on the world of sneakers.
Jordan Brand has released a wide range of basketball shoes over the years to meet the needs of both professional athletes and casual players.
The Air Jordan brand is among the most well-known and recognizable basketball shoes on the market. They are well-known for their fashionable designs, high performance, and long-lasting durability.
If I may ask, which are the best Jordans to play basketball?
10 Best Jordans to Play Basketball
Join me in this article as we look at some of the best Jordans to play basketball, taking into consideration factors like design, technology, performance, comfort, and support.
1. Air Jordan 37
One of the best Jordans to play basketball is the Air Jordan 37. It is the latest and greatest basketball shoe from Jordan. It has a lightweight and durable upper made of Lenoweave, a new breathable and supportive material.
The Zoom Air cushioning in the heel and forefoot of the Air Jordan 37 midsole provides responsive cushioning and impact protection. The Air Jordan 37’s outsole has a herringbone traction pattern for excellent court grip.
2. Air Jordan 36
The Air Jordan 36 is the next best Jordan to play basketball. It has a lightweight and breathable jacquard-leno weave upper. The Zoom Air cushioning in the heel and forefoot of the Air Jordan 36 midsole provides responsive cushioning and impact protection. The Air Jordan 36’s outsole has a herringbone traction pattern for excellent court grip.
3. Air Jordan 35
Another of the best Jordans to play basketball is also the Air Jordan 35. This is a classic basketball shoe from Jordan that is still popular among players today. It has a Flyknit upper that is lightweight and supportive.
The Air Jordan 35’s midsole features Eclipse Plate technology, which provides stability and support. The Air Jordan 35’s outsole has a herringbone traction pattern for excellent court grip.
4. Air Jordan 34
The Air Jordan 34 basketball shoe is popular among guards and wings. It’s one of the best Jordans for playing basketball. This shoe has a Flyweave 2.0 upper that is lightweight and breathable.
The Zoom Air cushioning in the heel and forefoot of the Air Jordan 34 midsole provides responsive cushioning and impact protection. The Air Jordan 34’s outsole has a herringbone traction pattern for excellent court grip.
5. Air Jordan 33
The Air Jordan 33 is a versatile basketball shoe designed for players of all positions, including basketball. It has a fast-drying and supportive upper made of FastFit technology.
The Zoom Air cushioning in the heel and forefoot of the Air Jordan 33 midsole provides responsive cushioning and impact protection. The Air Jordan 33’s outsole has a herringbone traction pattern for excellent court grip.
6. Nike Air Jordan 1
Another common best Jordans to play basketball is the Air Jordan 1, which was the line’s first sneaker, designed by Peter Moore and released in 1985. It was notable for being the first basketball shoe to feature Nike Air technology. This breakthrough in cushioning and support was a game-changer on the court.
The Air Jordan 1 was popular not only among basketball players but also among streetwear fans, contributing to its iconic status.
It’s often associated with casual wear; the mid-top version can be a good option for players who like the classic look but don’t need the latest technology.
Some of its key features include ankle support with a high-top design, iconic “Bred” and “Chicago” colorways, and a distinctive wing logo.
7. Nike Air Jordan 3
This is one of the best Jordans to play basketball. Tinker Hatfield’s Air Jordan 3 was released in 1988 and is widely regarded as one of the most influential Jordan models.
It debuted the visible Air-Sole unit in the heel for added cushioning and featured the first elephant print on a sneaker, creating a distinct look.
Michael Jordan was tearing up the NBA during this period. Key features of this Jordan shoe include a visible Air-Sole unit, a tumbled leather upper, and elephant print detailing.
8. Nike Air Jordan 11
This Air Jordan 11 for playing basketball was a design and technological masterpiece that debuted in 1995. Tinker Hatfield designed it, and it featured patent leather for the first time in a basketball shoe.
The full-length Air-Sole unit provided outstanding cushioning and support. This particular model became associated with Michael Jordan’s retirement comeback, making it even more iconic.
Its key characteristics include a patent leather upper, full-length air cushioning, a single unit and a shank plate made of carbon fiber.
9. Air Jordan 13
The Air Jordan 13 is another excellent basketball shoe. Tinker Hatfield designed it and it debuted in 1997. This model had a distinct, sleek design inspired by a panther’s paw.
It was well-known for having excellent traction and responsiveness, making it an excellent choice for basketball players. Key features include a holographic eye on the heel, a sole inspired by a panther paw, and superior traction.
10. Air Jordan 34
If you love Jordan shoes or are a basketball player, this can be your best option. The Air Jordan 34, which was released in 2019, represented a significant advancement in basketball shoe technology.
This model was created with the modern player in mind, emphasizing performance, lightweight construction, and improved support.
The Eclipse Plate provided superior stability and responsiveness by being inspired by the natural motion of the human foot. The key features include: an eclipse plate for stability; a lightweight construction; and an aerodynamic design.
In choosing the best Jordans to play basketball, there are a few things to keep in mind to help you choose the right Jordans for you. This choice depends on individual preferences, playing style, and the specific features you prioritize.
Here are some factors to consider when making your Jordans choice for you:
- Cushioning: In choosing the best Jordan shoe for basketball, it’s vital to consider cushioning. Cushioning is important for impact absorption, especially during high-impact moves like jumping and landing. Look for Zoom Air or Air-Sole models with responsive cushioning.
- Playing style: Your playing style has a long way to go to determine what kind of Jordans shoe you should go for. What is your preferred playing style? Are you a wing, a guard, or a big man? Do you prefer driving to the basket or shooting from the outside? Choose Jordans, best designed to your specific playing style, whether you’re a guard who values speed and agility or a forward or center who needs more support and cushioning.
- Traction: This should be considered too. To avoid slipping and sliding on the court, good traction is essential. Models with advanced outsole patterns and rubber compounds provide superior traction.
- Foot type: Are your feet flat, high-arched, or wide? Choose Jordans that are appropriate for your foot type and provide the necessary support.
- Budget: It’s a known fact that Jordans can be expensive, so it is ideal to set a budget before you start shopping.
- Personal preference: Obviously, the best Jordans for you are those that you are comfortable in and like the appearance of.
- Support: Consider the support you’ll get while choosing the best Jordan shoes for basketball. Consider ankle braces that can help reduce the risk of injury. High-top models and those with strong lacing systems add stability.
- Fit and Comfort: Fit and comfort are paramount considerations when choosing the best Jordan shoes for basketball. The right fit and comfort are essential for moving freely and confidently on the court. When selecting a model, keep your foot shape and size in mind.
- Weight: Talking about weight, lighter shoes can help improve agility and speed. This comes at the expense of some cushioning and support, however. Balance your weight preference with other performance characteristics.
Lastly, let’s take a few considerations on the best ways to care for these Jordan shoes for playing basketball. It is not enough to select the best Jordans for playing basketball; it’s essential to take proper care of them to ensure longevity and maximum performance.
Here are some tips on how to care for your best Jordan shoes for playing basketball:
- Regular cleaning: The most important thing you can do to keep your Jordans looking and performing at their best is to do this. Wipe them down with a damp cloth after each use to remove any dirt, dust, or sweat. If they become extremely dirty, a mild soap and water solution can be used to clean them. Before storing them, make sure they are completely dry.
- Use a shoe protector: A shoe protector is a must-have as it helps to repel water and dirt, making it easier to clean your Jordans. This shoe protector can also help protect them from fading and cracking. Learn to apply a thin coat of shoe protector to your Jordans before wearing them for the first time, and then reapply every few weeks.
- Pepper storage: When the shoes aren’t in use, please store them properly in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing them in a closet or other humid environment, as this can cause them to mold or mildew.
- Condition the leather: Your Jordans shoe leather needs to be conditioned regularly to keep it soft and flexible. Apply a mild leather conditioner to your Jordans with a soft cloth. Don’t forget to wipe away any excess conditioner.
- Replace the laces and insoles as needed. The laces and insoles on your Jordans shouldn’t be longer than usual. Replace it when it’s time. Be sure to use high-quality replacements to ensure that your Jordans continue to perform at their best.
Following these tips will help you keep your Jordan shoes intact and still perform at their best for many years to come.
Conclusion
It should be noted that Air Jordans are among the best basketball shoes available. They are well-known for providing exceptional performance, comfort, and support.
In selecting your best Jordans to play basketball, you must consider your playing style, foot type, budget, and other factors.
