Best Basketball Shoes for Guards in 2022 That You Should Buy Now
Are you playing in the guard position in Basketball and looking for a quality shoe? Fear not, because we are here to introduce you to 6 different types of sports shoes. They are the best point guard basketball shoes that we have picked after much research and calculations.
Playing in the guard position myself, I am fully aware that guards need specialized skills to shine and equally specialized basketball shoes to match our skills. As a playmaker, you need to have excellent ball-handling skills and have a fantastic view of the pitch. Forwards have good long-range shooting skills that are more than the arc for a three-point shot. Both of these positions need speed and agility to outsmart their defenders. Point guard basketball shoes play an essential role, and choosing the right pair can further boost your self-confidence.
6 Best Basketball Shoes for Guard
1. Adidas Dame 7 – Budget-Friendly Best shoes for Shooting Guards
- Weight: 15 ounces
- Sole: Rubber
- Upper: Textile
Almost all of the best basketball shoes today are named after an NBA superstar. From Harden, we move on to Portland talisman Damian Lillard, whose Adidas Dame 7 has been widely applauded as a great lightweight option.
The guards have to do a lot of sharp turns and quick cuts. It can put a lot of stress on your feet, which is why comfort is so important. The Dame 7 are versatile and reliable shoes with some of the best paddings and cushioning on the market today.
The Dame 7 is well ventilated but also cushioned thanks to the addition of Lightstrike foam. This means your feet should remain protected against impacts from the field and other players.
The traction on the Dame 7 works well, significantly better than the 6. Good news if you play a lot outdoors: the sole is made of very durable rubber and works well on asphalt. The configuration of the Lightstrike foam pad is also an improvement over the six and strikes a good balance between impact protection, feel on the pitch, and responsiveness.
Additionally, reviews suggest that Lightstrike cushioning delivers a reliable ground feel that’s exceptionally responsive around the forefoot, helping you stay alert and alert during what is widely known to be a speedy game.
Not only do they provide excellent ankle support, but they also have a slim fit and a cushioned sole. The lock is handy, especially in conjunction with the tighter design, as it actively reduces injury. The pair also have a striking appearance that why many players consider them the best basketball shoes for guards.
Like the PG 5s, they’re great shoes that don’t stand up to the elements. Cushion, shock absorption, cushioning, and sole are more suitable for gyms than outdoors on wet or rough terrain. If you want them to last for a while, it’s best to save them for games or internal training.
Key Features:
- Extra Impact protection.
- Extended ankle Aid.
- Classy look. Balanced and well responsive.
- Cushioned sole.
- Comfortable.
- Balanced cushioning
- Solid traction inside and out
- Budget-Friendly, so not built with high-class materials.
2. Nike KD 14 – Best Basketball Shoes for Jumping
- Weight: 14 ounces
- Sole: Rubber
- Upper: Mesh
The KD14s were designed to help versatile and relentless players like Kevin Durant attack the game, so they should be a great item to pack in your best match-ready duffel bag.
The grip of the KD14 took a little to break in, however, it provides a lot of traction on clean courts and doesn’t have much trouble with dusty courts either.
To start with the essential details of this basketball shoe, we have Selling Point # 1: Improved Air Zoom cushioning. This padding is full length, and all it gives the user is full responsiveness. It is sewn in the shoe’s upper part; it will also bring extraordinary softness to your walk.
Check best basketball shoes for big men
The Cushion is soft, elastic, and sensitive enough to be as smooth as them. Its Zoom Air unit allows the shoe to stay nimble underfoot rather than sluggish, and the midsole isn’t too thick (you mostly sit inside despite how they look), so you end up with luxurious driving. With each step.
The multi-layered mesh upper and exclusively included mid-strap should keep your feet on the ground inside the shoe as you run on the court while still providing a decent level of protection for your ankles.
The materials are a bit cheap to the touch, but they are comfortable on foot and, combined with the broad base and the application of plastic on the sides, provide a lot of support and support.
The construction offers a lot more support than last year’s KD 13 while maintaining a lightweight feel. The break-in time was quick, and the shoe ended up feeling like my foot in no time. Again, these are the best for me. I love all of them.
In the case of traction, reviews suggest these shoes work well both indoors and outdoors. This means you should be able to turn quickly to beat your man on the attack or come back and defend yourself.
The setting is a bit tricky. Recently (after filming the video review), I was able to try on a pair in my usual size nine and ended up buying a new one in size 9.5, the same size as the pair I tried on. When the KD 14 first came out, size 9 was not available, so size 9.5 was all that was available for me unless I wanted to downsize to 1/2. Most KDs are delicate, so I didn’t want to take any chances. I definitely won’t say size is the best, although size 9 fits me as well as I usually prefer; size 9.5 felt perfect everywhere; that’s what I ended up with. I highly recommend trying them out in the store, if possible, to avoid potential issues.
Key Features:
- Sports a multi-layer meshing, suitable for a secure fit.
- 4-way flywire cables for stability.
- Unique, Zoom Air cushioning.
- Flexible and perforated mid-sole.
- Contains internal shock lines.
- Rubber-made, traction-rich outsole.
- Comes in a good variety of sizes.
- Soft and comfortable cushioning
- Has no weakness
- A little bulky
3. PUMA RS Dreamer – Best Overall
- Weight: 15 ounces
- Sole: Rubber
- Upper: Kitted
At present, we are living in a world where a highly respected and influential rapper has a legitimate high-performance basketball shoe. The PUMA RS Dreamer, J. Cole’s iconic basketball shoe, is the real deal. As you will see in the performance review, this is a shoe you can trust on the court.
PUMA’s rubber compound for its performance basketball shoe has always been promising, and the RS Dreamer is no exception. The feather-inspired pattern looks a bit sketchy when it comes to performance, especially on the side, but they’ve proven to be good on the pitch. All the surfaces I took them to had the same results, which is a good sign in terms of consistency. If you’ve played PUMA Hoops deals before, you should already know what to expect. Solid traction inside and out.
This is one more consistent category for PUMA Hoops, as the materials are pretty nice. It’s not as high-end as the Clyde Hardwood, but it’s still lovely. Textile mesh is used as the main structure, while smaller suede patches are used. This gives the RS Dreamer a moderate mix of old and new. The raw materials give it a 90s look, while the fabric provides a modern fit and feel for the current generation. No theft is required except for the ankle collar, as the shoes are game-day ready right out of the box.
Like the traction, PUMA’s cushioning has also been relatively consistent. Only this time, it’s not exactly a compliment. While ProFoam gets the job done, it’s firmer than almost any other EVA setup used by other brands. When the midsole is thinner, like the PUMA Clyde Hardwood, then it’s tolerable. However, when implemented in a slightly thicker midsole, you can end up with something that feels a bit dead underfoot. There is no natural rebound or rebound with the foam. It’s just there. Swapping out the sock liner for something more comfortable on the feet will help a lot. Still, if PUMA is to be a real contender in the category, it needs better-cushioning technology.
The footwear fits true to size. If you want a super secured fit, you can cut it down by 1/2 length, but I think the measure will be the best option for most players. The lock is solid from heel to forefoot. The one thing you need to be aware of is that the textiles will start to stretch a bit once you start playing with them. You may need to go back and readjust the laces after one or two sets to fit your preferred fit. Apart from that, I had a great time playing in them.
Key Features
- Entirely knit upper with suede overlays
- Dynamic lacing system with locking midsole
- RS foam cushioning in the mid
- lightweight cushioning and energy return
- Fully grippy rubber outsole with traction points designed for maximum grip
- Belt pull tabs on the heel and tongue
- RS-D marking on the tongue
- J. Cole Dreamer emblem on the heel
- Disruptive lacing system for a comfortable and responsive fit on the forefoot and midfoot
- RoFoam midsole and RS foam heel for maximum energy return, perfect for any style of play
- High abrasion, full coverage rubber outsole for ideal grip for quick cuts, and spot play
- Minimum impact protection
- Quite heavy
4. Adidas Harden Vol. 2 – Best Basketball for Shooting Guards
- Weight: 2.4 pounds
- Sole: Rubber
- Upper: Knit
The following listing in this review is from Adidas’ infamous inventory, Another best basketball shoes for guards and it’s called Adidas Harden Vol 2. As part of their line of premium basketball shoes, this one, in particular, had been our favorite as a basketball shoe for the guards.
The Adidas Harden, Vol 2 for men, are basketball shoes that look serious. With a knit upper and a rubber sole, this is a shoe made for playing Basketball.
The first impression came with the engineering offered by the forefoot of this shoe. This specialized structure will allow you to gain more grip and support while performing sudden, dynamic movements like a baseball goalie. The traction is quite good when playing on a clean basketball court, but not excellent if the court is on. which you are playing is dirty.
In the future, this is the matter that concerns us. It is primarily made from synthetic knit fabric, with a custom lacing system and a sock-like construction. Check all the shoes before heading to make sure it remains a comfortable and soft companion on the toes.
You get good impact protection when wearing this shoe, which could make it ideal for the basics. This means you can still get stomped on, and it shouldn’t affect your game.
Fractal traction has been enhanced and improvised on the sole to improve your quick start and stop movements. Once you’re in the game, you can feel the change it has to offer.
The cushioning offered by the Adidas Harden Vol 2 for men is good, and you will get proof of that when you put the shoe on. The aid is also quite good, and you should feel it when you play. I would have really appreciated this feature when I was the playmaker for three days in a row last month. It would have made my feet feel less sore late in the game. In the area of cushioning, the Adidas Harden Vol 2 has cushioning called “boost.” In fact, it’s said to be Adidas’ most responsive cushioning system to date.
Those who have worn these shoes have sometimes said that these shoes are comfortable and look great on the court. Other people said they don’t slide a lot while playing.
Key Features
- Made of synthetic knitted fabric.
- Designed for movement support.
- The outsole contains a fractal traction pattern.
- Secure fit with custom laces.
- Includes one of the most responsive cushions from Adidas.
- A grey-white aesthetic appearance.
- They look great and should stand out against all those dark basketball shoes.
- They are solid and can last a long time.
- They are very comfortable to wear and don’t get too hot no matter how long you play.
- Laces don’t always seem to last long.
- The larger the size of the shoe, the more you will have to pay for it.
- They are not suitable for use on dirty grounds.
5. Puma Clyde All-Pro – Best Basketball Shoe for Performance
- Weight:2.5 pounds
- Sole: Rubber
- Upper: Woven
While 2020 wasn’t ideal for playing any indoor or outdoor games, brands threw some outstanding players onto the court. The Clyde All-Pro managed to beat some perfect shoes like the Nike KD 13, the Adidas DON Issue 2, and others on our list of the best basketball shoes to take the top spot.
Puma Hoops shoes had an obvious problem in each of their new basketball shoes. This problem was the lack of cushioning. ProFoam is the brand’s favorite foam compound, but ProFoam + is the best Cushion they’ve ever created. Yes, there is a Pebax disc in the heel for cushioning and impact protection; it works great when in use, but the show’s star is ProFoam +. Whatever they did to change the compound, the midsole ended up offering a good balance of feel on the court, cushioning, and response/response.
Due to the current conditions, I tested the Clyde All-Pro 100% outdoors. Playing outdoors is the biggest test of a cushion, and this cushion setup has withstood the rigors of outdoor Basketball well.
Construction is touted as a “lightweight, seamless knit upper with multi-zone materials for targeted breathability and support.” This is all true. While the materials slope a bit towards the stiff side of textiles, once they come apart, they feel amazing. Comfortable, snug, flexible, and stretch-free in high-impact stress areas. They also remained durable. Which is a huge plus point considering all the outdoor Basketball most of us do.
The traction is just fantastic. So, no worries from start to finish of the game. And I don’t think I’m done with the Clyde All-Pro just yet, because they’re in my bag every time I hit the pitch.
Coverage is multi-directional in all areas, and you can feel the grip biting the ground with every step and change in direction/speed. Fantastic setup. It’s a pull we haven’t felt underfoot since the Nike Kobe 9.
Support features are pretty standard at the moment. There is a small stabilizer, a torsion bar, and an internal heel. The fit/top is where the support features can do their job without giving it much thought. You put on the laces, you play, and you relish the game. The Clyde All-Pro is all the things you want a sports shoe to be.
I was true to size, and this is what I would recommend. Wide feet may want to be half the size due to the non-stretchy fibers found at the top.
If you’ve enjoyed the Kobe 9’s fit, then you’ll feel like you’re in the driver’s seat again. Comfortable, supportive, Innovative, and snug. I have no complaints or criticisms. The Puma Clyde All-Pro is a great basketball shoe.
Key Features
- Engineered knit upper material for lightweight support
- The forefoot propulsion plate provides reflex lift-off and propels you faster with every step.
- Pebax heel for lightweight cushioning and responsiveness
- Full coverage rubber outsole with high abrasion sticky rubber compound from PUMA that improves durability and traction
- High-class traction.
- Premium materials.
- It could have had more impact protection.
6. Under Armour Lockdown 5 – Best for Durability
- Weight:13.2 ounces
- Sole: Rubber
- Upper: Leather
The Under Armor Lockdown 4 basketball shoes are made with a soft molded synthetic leather upper. These latest Under Armor Lockdown 5s have been designed with durability in mind, with features like film toe caps that provide extra support and protection. The perforated finish makes it comfortable and breathable. It also provides a padded collar and tongue pad for added comfort. Moreover, this airy mesh tongue should be highly cozy and incredibly present when paired with the plush sock liner.
The integrated sock liner provides unique cushioning and support underfoot. The midsole is injected with an EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) material to improve shock absorption and is lighter than rubber. The rubber outsole has numerous levels of adaptive traction patterns. This pattern and design make the sole more durable.
The overall design is simple but looks quite classic for different uniform colors. The black and white color combinations are my favorite because they are perfect for indoor or outdoor use. You also have a choice of grey options.
Interestingly, the Lockdown 5s also features odor control technology in the sock liners, which discourages the growth of odor-causing bacteria and microbes.
This pair of mid-top shoes are trendy in terms of value for money. I wouldn’t mind doing it with my friends on the outdoor court, but they are pretty comfortable if used indoors. Just make sure you have different pairs for indoor and outdoor use.
Keeping that pair clean is a snap. Synthetic leather is easy to clean, and dirt is quickly removed. With its only pattern, a quick brush can clean it again. All in all, if you’re looking for a solid pair of basketball shoes that are built to last, these Lockdown 5 might just be the shoe for you.
Key Feature
- 100% synthetic
- Imported
- Rubber sole
- The tree is about half of the top of the arch
- Synthetic molded upper for a responsive fit and quick look
- Perforated leather provides increased breathability
- Lightweight, ultra-breathable sockliner offers to cushion and underfoot support
- Multi-level adaptive traction patterns
- Breathable
- Value for money
- Synthetic upper
Who is a Guard in Basketball?
The post of playmaker or PG is known as “One,” which is usually occupied by the team’s best passers and ball handlers. The unique qualities that a good playmaker should have are short jumps and good passing ability.
In addition to this, holders of PG positions can also play an essential role in creating plans for themselves and creating opportunities for the team. For all of this to happen, guards in a game need to show off their playing skills and good physique. And that’s where the ess the top-notch basketball shoe comes in.
What should a Basketball Guard’s Shoe Look Like?
All top-performance basketball shoes have excellent traction, which will grip the ground and allow you to change direction very quickly.
The padding responds and does not delay, It’s a low (or medium) fit shoe that doesn’t unnecessarily restrict your range of motion.
How to Find the Perfect Shoe?
Easy! Check out all the shoe versions from last year, choose all low or mid fit, read all the good and bad reviews, and choose the one with incredible traction and responsive cushioning!
Sounds like a lot of work? Luckily, I did it for you! I’ve reviewed the 186 most popular basketball shoe versions since late 2016, read (or watched) the 848 reviews I could find and summarized the experts’ conclusions here.
Above is the list of all the low or mid-size shoes for shooting guards (as of November 14, 2021) that have received excellent scores for their traction and responsive cushioning:
Buying Guide to Choose the Best Basketball Shoes for Guards
Here are the things you need to look out for before buying the shoe:
Comfort and Support
The guards must constantly be on the move. Whether you have the ball in your hands or read your opponent’s defense to get the space and position you need, your speed will be your trump card. Keeping this in mind, you should look for low to mid-cut shoes. This type of shoe would give pointers maximum flexibility when calling games. For those off guard, these shoes provide them with an edge as they break free from their defenders for that midrange jumper.
Shoemaking is crucial because it affects both your physical performance and the confidence you have on the court. We’ll go through the upper, midsole, and outsole to determine the best fit and construction. For quick and quick goalies who need extra ankle support, they can check out my article on ankle support and foot stability.
Durability
For goalies to optimize the performance and durability of their shoes, they should look for midsoles and soles designed for consistent, powerful impact.
In addition to making the decisions and making 3-points, you are also responsible for defending the best shooter and playmaker of the opposing team. You also need to protect yourself from impact when the opposing team’s big man sets up a pickaxe. It is challenging to be effective both in attack and defense. Having a pair of shoes that can support both ends of the floor not only improves your performance but also protects you from any injury.
The midsole and outsole should not be too thick or too thin. We have taken this factor into account when reviewing the shoes.
Enhanced Speed
Different materials and finishes provide other effects on the playing field. For temporary protection, you have to take a close look at the quality of the sole and the materials that make up the upper.
Rubber soles are the norm for good-quality basketball shoes. The patterns on the outsole differentiate a good pair from a great one. In this review, we’ve looked at shoes with soles that provide the best traction and grip when running on the court. We’ll also see basketball shoes that will give goalies the confidence to change gears and direction at will.
For the soles, the traditional herringbone pattern provides good grip and traction. Flexible grooves are built into some designs and improve flexibility and comfort. Full-length cushioned shoes will also be beneficial when skilled guards cut the middle for a tray or teardrop. Let’s watch this video to see how the NBA guards perform their ingenious plays.
The Sole
The sole is not just one part of a shoe. There is the upper sole, midsole, and upper sole. If you want to get full traction and durability in your Basketball, you need to ensure that the sole is made of premium material. The usual industry standard is to make 100% rubber soles. If you want to become a professional player, you can also search for it.
Traction
As a guard in Basketball, traction is by far the most critical aspect of a shoe’s performance. The sticky pull will let you outsmart your defender with an explosive first step, help you stop for a dime when attacking the basket, and give you the grip you need to annoy your defending opponent. Low-traction shoes will rob you of all your speed, negate all of your strength, and may even drag you into an opponent’s crossover – no one wants that!
So, the most important thing as a goalie is to have shoes with fantastic traction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are shooting guard and point guard the same person?
No, they are not the same person. The playmaker or point guard must create opportunities for his team to score points. You must distribute the ball among the players accordingly.
On the other hand, a shooting guard manages to put the ball in the basket and score for his team by stealing the ball from his opposing players.
Which Damian Lillard wore shoes in NBA?
Talking about Damian Lillard only reminds us of the importance of the NBA. And that has always been crazy for D Lillard fans for her shoes. And it’s no wonder Damian Lillard chose Adidas for his NBA games. And above all, they are Adidas Dame 6 sneakers.
Is puma Clyde hardwood good for guards?
Starting with Terry Rozier, Danny Green, Kevin Knox, and many more have joined Puma Clyde Hardwood. It just gives a feeling of excitement to the professional player on the pitch. Puma Clyde hardwoods are specially designed for a kick. Its durability is the rightful characteristic that has made all legendary players choose Puma Clyde hardwood.
Conclusion
Shoes with comfortable cushioning that make you feel like you’re walking on clouds are great for big, heavy guys but unsuitable for shifty guards. As a guard, you probably weigh a lot less than the Shaq and therefore need a lot less impact protection. Soft, spongy cushioning often harms your speed and quickness, removing the feel of the short and slowing down cuts and first steps for a fraction of a second. These shoes are also considered the best shoes for security guards because of their top-notch performance.
And so, I hope our article on the best basketball shoes for guards will surely help you understand the systematics and achieve the best performance quality.