Here’s a review of the best basketball shoes for jumping and the answer to this frequently asked question: What basketball shoe makes you jump the highest as a basketball player? Well, this is the question I keep hearing young basketball players ask. The truth is, the majority of the athletic footwear companies focus their manufacturing efforts on shock absorption and cushioning.
Footwear that is manufactured for shock absorption and cushioning literally helps in increasing the vertical leap of an athlete. Footwear manufacturing companies know that the forefoot is the most critical part of the basketball shoe for jumping, and as such, they locate the Athletic Propulsion Labs® Load ‘N Launch® system within that region of the footwear.
In this article, we’ll quickly review and recommend some of the best basketball shoes that are manufactured for shock absorption and cushioning and can make you jump the highest.
How Do Basketball Shoes Affect Performance?
Jumping is one of the most complex movements in sports that requires power, stability, and good shock absorption. The right pair of basketball shoes can generally enhance your performance because it will give you the support you need to reach maximum vertical height.
Below are some key points you need to know about basketball shoes and how they can affect your overall performance:
- Cushioning: Good basketball footwear is designed for shock absorption and cushioning. Good footwear must be able to absorb impact that is usually forced upon landing, allowing for better energy return on your next leap.
- Ankle Support: Good footwear enhances ankle support. By having solid ankle structure, your basketball footwear can prevent sprains and provide stability.
- Traction: Good basketball shoes have a high-quality grip. This grip allows for a firm landing. This can generally enable players to jump with more confidence and power.
- Weight: The weight of basketball shoes can affect your reach. Lighter shoes help you move faster and avoid excessive weight. Wearing lighter basketball shoes can enhance your vertical reach.
10 Best Basketball Shoes for Jumping 2025
What basketball shoe makes you jump the highest? Here, we break down some of the best-rated basketball shoes that can absorb shock and cushioning that makes you jump the highest with their detailed reviews.
1. Nike Kyrie Infinity: Bounciest Basketball Shoes
The Nike Kyrie Infinity offers superb responsiveness and ankle support. Its high-traction outsole and midsole cushioning are perfect for players looking to boost their vertical.
| Where to Buy | Nike, Amazon, Foot Locker |
| Sizes Available | Men’s 6-15, Women’s 5-13 |
| User Rating | 4.5/5 |
| Best For | Guards and Forwards |
| Price Range | $130-$140 |
2. Adidas Harden Vol. 6: 2nd Best Basketball Shoes for Jumping
This shoe offers excellent shock absorption. It is manufactured to boost cushioning and absorb shock effortlessly. It is one of the most fantastic basketball shoes for players who prioritize explosive jumps.
| Where to Buy | Adidas, Zappos, Dick’s Sporting Goods |
| Sizes Available | Men’s 6-16, Women’s 5-12 |
| User Rating | 4.3/5 |
| Best For | Forwards |
| Price Range | $140-$160 |
3. Under Armour Curry 8: 3rd Best Basketball Shoes for Jumping
This basketball shoe is designed for agility and speed. The Curry 8 has a unique UA Flow outsole that maximizes traction and support. It is one of the best basketball shoes that can enhance high jumps.
Where to Buy
- Under Armour
- Eastbay
- Amazon
Sizes Available
- Men’s: 7-15
- Women’s: 5.5-12
User Rating
- 4.7/5
Best For
- Guards
Price Range
- $160 – $180
4. Nike LeBron 19: 4th Best Basketball Shoes for Jumping
The Nike LeBron 19 is a premium shoe known for its excellent ankle support and powerful cushioning. This shoe can give players the added stability that is needed to jump higher without risking injury.
Where to Buy
- Nike
- Foot Locker
- Finish Line
Sizes Available
- Men’s: 8-16
- Women’s: 6.5-13
User Rating
- 4.4/5
Best For
- Power players and centers
Price Range
- $200 – $230
5. Puma Clyde All-Pro: 5th Best Basketball Shoes for Jumping
The Puma Clyde All-Pro is made of lightweight materials and ProFoam cushioning. This show is designed for high performance by providing a quick, light feel that doesn’t affect the player’s stability.
Where to Buy: Puma, Champs Sports, Amazon
Sizes Available:
- Men’s: 7-13
- Women’s: 5.5-11
User Rating: 4.2/5
Best For: Quick jumpers and guards
Price Range: $130 – $150
6. New Balance TWO WXY
This high-performing shoe is known for its FuelCell foam, which provides high rebound and excellent responsiveness. It is a perfect choice for players looking for a basketball shoe with extra bounce.
Where to Buy
- New Balance
- Dick’s Sporting Goods
Sizes Available
- Men’s: 8-16
- Women’s: 6.5-12
User Rating
- 4.5/5
Best For
- Versatile players
Price Range
- $140 – $160
7. Jordan Jumpman Diamond
The Jordan Jumpman Diamond footwear is a good wear that can enhance vertical enhancement. It provides a responsive cushioning and a solid midfoot plate for added stability.
- Where to Buy: Nike, Champs Sports, Eastbay
- Sizes Available: Men’s 7-14, Women’s 5-11
- User Rating: 4.3/5
- Best For: Guards and Forwards
- Price Range: $110 – $130
8. Li-Ning Way of Wade 9
The Li-Ning Way of Wade 9 shoe was once endorsed by Dwyane Wade. The shoe is made up of a combination of Bounce+ technology. It has a wide base and carbon fiber support, making it stable and responsive.
- Where to Buy: Li-Ning, eBay, GOAT
- Sizes Available: Men’s 8-14
- User Rating: 4.4/5
- Best For: Balanced players
- Price Range: $200 – $220
9. Reebok Shaq Attaq
The Reebok Shaq Attaq shoe is known for its durable build and support. It is a good choice for players who need reliable shoes for rebounds and blocks.
- Where to Buy: Reebok, Amazon, Foot Locker
- Sizes Available: Men’s 8-16, Women’s 6.5-12
- User Rating: 4.2/5
- Best For: Centers and Power Forwards
- Price Range: $130 – $150
10. Anta KT6
Klay Thompson’s signature shoe is best for advanced shock absorption. It is known for a highly supportive build, and it is great for vertical enhancement and stability.
- Where to Buy: Anta, GOAT, eBay
- Sizes Available: Men’s 8-13
- User Rating: 4.3/5
- Best For: All-around play
- Price Range: $100 – $120
Differences Between Basketball and Volleyball Shoes
While basketball and volleyball shoes may look similar, they’re designed by the manufacturers with specific features in mind and for specific movements.
| Basketball Shoes | Volleyball Shoes |
| Heavier and often provide more ankle support to withstand the constant jumping and physical contact of the game | Lightweight and feature a high level of traction and shock absorption for jumping on hard courts |
| The cushioning is tailored for impact and shock absorption, to enhance vertical jumps and quick lateral movements | The flexibility is slightly higher, allowing players to move freely without the added bulk of a high-top basketball shoe |
Read more: What is the Difference Between Volleyball Shoes and Basketball Shoes?
How to Select the Best Basketball Shoe for Jumping
Choosing the right basketball shoe that will enhance your jumping and reach depends on several personal factors, such as your position, play style, and even your foot shape. Below are points to guide you to make the right choice:
1. Know Your Jumping Needs:
Start by considering your jumping style. Do you prefer lightweight shoes for quick jumps, or do you need more cushion and support for powerful verticals?
2. Look for Key Features:
Focus on features like midsole cushioning, ankle support, and traction. A good blend of these features will allow you to maximize your vertical.
3. Check the Fit:
Basketball shoes that are too tight or too loose can impede your jump. Try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet may be slightly swollen to ensure a proper fit.
4. Consider Your Position:
Guards might prefer lightweight shoes, while forwards and centers may need shoes with more support and cushioning.
See Also: How to Increase Your Vertical Jump for Volleyball: Best Exercises and Tips for Higher Jumps
Final Thoughts
Your choice of basketball shoe can have a significant impact on your vertical jump. While no shoe will magically increase your jump height, certain models are tailored to give you an edge by enhancing responsiveness, cushioning, shock absorption, and stability.
Read More:
- Are high-top shoes good for volleyball? 10 best high-top volleyball shoes
- What is the Difference Between Volleyball Shoes and Basketball Shoes?
- 8 Best Basketball Shoes for Volleyball
FAQs:
What Basketball Shoe Makes You Jump the Highest?
There’s no magic basketball shoe that will instantly make you jump the highest; the right pair can provide the support, cushioning, and stability that help you achieve your best jump.
Here’s a detailed look at the best basketball shoes that are great for improving your vertical leap and what makes these certain basketball shoes the best for jumping.
1. Cushioning for Jumping Higher
The cushioning in basketball shoes is crucial for giving you the bounce needed to jump higher. Shoes with responsive cushioning, like Nike Kyrie Infinity or Adidas Boost, help absorb the shock when you land and provide energy return for your next jump. This means the more responsive the shoe’s cushioning, the more “bounce” you feel when you push off the ground.
Best Picks:
- Nike Kyrie Infinity: These shoes have excellent Zoom Air cushioning, which is known for its responsiveness. This gives a little extra boost when jumping.
- Adidas Harden Vol. 6: The Boost cushioning in these shoes offers a great mix of comfort and energy return, making them the best basketball shoes for high jumps.
2. Traction for Better Takeoff
A shoe with excellent grip is vital when you need to jump as high as possible. Without proper traction, your feet can slip during takeoff, reducing your vertical leap. Shoes with solid rubber outsoles and a pattern that grips well to the court are key.
Popular Picks:
- Under Armour Curry 8: Known for its excellent traction, these shoes give you the grip needed for a solid jump.
- Nike LeBron 18: With a traction pattern that digs into the court, you can trust these shoes for both grip and jump.
3. Support and Stability
While cushioning helps with comfort, stability and support are what keep you safe and help you perform your best. Shoes that offer ankle support and a snug fit can help prevent injuries and allow you to focus on jumping without worrying about losing balance.
Popular Picks:
- Jordan Why Not Zer0.4: These shoes have a stable base and ankle support, perfect for explosive takeoffs.
- Puma Clyde All-Pro: The low-cut design gives freedom of movement, while the heel and midfoot support keep you stable when jumping.
4. Weight of the Shoe
Lighter shoes often make it easier to jump higher because there’s less weight to carry with each leap. Heavy shoes can drag you down, which might make it harder to push off the ground with power.
Best Picks:
- Nike KD 13: These are lightweight shoes that don’t compromise on support and cushioning, which can help with your vertical jump.
- Puma Clyde All-Pro: With a minimalistic design and lightweight feel, these shoes make it easier to get off the ground quickly.
5. Fit and Comfort
The right fit is just as important as the features listed above. A snug and comfortable fit prevents discomfort or distractions, allowing you to focus on your jumps. Shoes that are too tight or too loose can mess with your jumping technique.
Top picks:
- Li-Ning Way of Wade 9: Offers a comfortable and supportive fit, which can make a difference when jumping.
- Adidas Dame 7: Known for a snug fit and great comfort, these shoes help keep you grounded and ready to jump.
6. Breathability
While not directly affecting your jump, breathability is important for keeping your feet cool and dry during intense basketball games. Shoes with breathable mesh or perforated uppers help maintain comfort and prevent your feet from getting too hot or sweaty.
Popular Picks:
- Nike Zoom Freak 1: With a breathable mesh upper, these shoes keep your feet cool during intense games.
- Under Armour Curry 8: Featuring a knit construction, these shoes offer both breathability and flexibility for maximum comfort.
By focusing on your needs and considering some of the best basketball shoes for jumping listed here, you can find the best shoe to help you jump higher and perform at your best on the court.