The Best Jordans For Basketball in 2023

This guide is for the best Jordans for basketball play, not necessarily fashion.

In the world of basketball, the name ‘Jordan’ resonates far beyond the legendary player himself. It has become synonymous with a brand that has consistently set the bar in the basketball shoe industry. With each year, Jordan Brand continues to innovate and impress, delivering top-notch sneakers that combine style, comfort, and high performance on the court.

Welcome to our comprehensive roundup of the best Jordan basketball sneakers for 2023. Whether you’re a seasoned sneakerhead, a dedicated hooper, or someone looking to invest in a solid pair of basketball shoes, this article is your one-stop guide.

Basketball isn’t just about scoring points; it’s a sport that demands agility, speed, and strategic footwork. The right pair of shoes can significantly enhance your game performance, providing the necessary support, traction, and cushioning. This is where the Jordan Brand truly shines.

Jordan Brand

The brand’s offerings cater to a wide range of athletes, including renowned names like Luka Don?i?, Zion Williamson, and Russell Westbrook, which speaks volumes about its credibility and appeal.

Over the years, Jordan Brand has released numerous models and limited editions, each boasting unique features such as upper material design, innovative midsole cushioning, superior support, and excellent traction. But with so many options available, finding the right pick can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this article.

In the following sections, we’ll deep dive into various Jordan basketball models, reviewing their features in detail to give you an idea of what they offer. We aim to help you navigate the vast sea of choices and find the best Jordan basketball sneakers that can be a true game-changer for you.

So, whether you’re looking to soar like Michael Jordan or simply seeking a reliable pair of basketball shoes, stick around. From big men to point guards, this roundup might just lead you to your next perfect sneaker match.

The Best Jordans For Basketball

Air Jordan 36 Low

Design and Materials

The Air Jordan 36 Low is a sleek and modern basketball shoe that boasts a unique blend of style and functionality. The shoe is made from high-quality materials, including a breathable mesh upper, durable rubber outsole, and premium leather overlays. The design details are impressive, with the signature Jumpman logo adding an iconic touch. The shoe comes in several appealing colorways, allowing players to express their personal style on the court.

Fit and Comfort

When it comes to fit and comfort, the Air Jordan 36 Low scores highly. The shoe runs true to size, providing a snug yet comfortable fit. The inner sleeve provides a sock-like feel, while the padded collar ensures added comfort around the ankle. It’s also lightweight, making it suitable for long practice sessions or games without causing foot fatigue.

Support and Traction

The Air Jordan 36 Low offers excellent support, thanks to its low-top design that allows for unrestricted ankle movement, coupled with a robust lacing system for a secure fit. The shoe incorporates FlightPlate technology, which aids in stability and helps prevent foot-rolling injuries.

In terms of traction, the shoe’s durable rubber outsole features a herringbone pattern that grips well on different court surfaces, providing reliable traction during quick moves and high jumps.

Performance

On the court, the Air Jordan 36 Low delivers superior performance. The shoe handles quick movements well, offering responsive cushioning and excellent energy return. The Zoom Air unit in the forefoot enhances responsiveness, while the Eclipse Plate at the midsole facilitates smooth transitions.

Value for Money

Given its high-quality materials, advanced features, and outstanding performance, the Air Jordan 36 Low offers great value for money. While it falls into a higher price range, the shoe is a worthy investment for serious players who demand both style and functionality from their basketball shoes.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• High-quality materials and construction
• Comfortable fit and feel
• Excellent support and traction
• Superior on-court performance
• Stylish design and appealing colorways

Cons

• Higher price point may not suit all budgets
• Some users may prefer a high-top design for added ankle support

Jordan Luka 1

Design and Materials

The Jordan Luka 1 is a basketball shoe that seamlessly merges style and performance. The design is modern and bold, with a host of colorways to suit different tastes. In terms of materials, the shoe features a mix of synthetic leather and mesh on the upper for durability and breathability. The rubber outsole and the Zoom Air unit in the midsole are also worth noting, contributing to both the shoe’s performance and aesthetic appeal.

Fit and Comfort

Comfort is a standout feature of the Jordan Luka 1. The shoe is true to size, offering a snug fit without feeling restrictive. The padded collar and tongue, combined with a cushioned insole, ensure comfort during long games or practice sessions. The breathability offered by the mesh upper also adds to the overall comfort, keeping your feet dry and cool.

Support and Traction

The Jordan Luka 1 offers excellent support, thanks to its high-top design and robust lacing system. The shoe incorporates a heel counter to lock the foot in place and prevent injuries. As for traction, the shoe’s rubber outsole features a herringbone pattern, providing a firm grip on various court surfaces.

Performance

On the court, the Jordan Luka 1 shines. The shoe’s Zoom Air unit provides responsive cushioning, aiding in quick movements and high jumps. The shoe is lightweight yet sturdy, handling intense gameplay with ease. The flexible upper allows for unrestricted foot movement, further enhancing performance.

Value for Money

Considering the shoe’s impressive features and on-court performance, the Jordan Luka 1 offers good value for money. It’s a mid-range shoe that delivers in terms of comfort, support, and performance, making it a worthwhile investment for any basketball player.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Stylish design and multiple colorway options
• Excellent fit and comfort
• Great support and traction
• Impressive on-court performance

Cons

• Synthetic leather may not be as durable as genuine leather
• Some players may find the high-top design restrictive

Jordan Zoom Separate

Design and Materials

The Jordan Zoom Separate is a basketball shoe that combines classic Jordan aesthetics with modern design elements. The shoe features a blend of synthetic leather and mesh on the upper, providing durability and breathability. The colorways are stylish and versatile, making the shoe just as suitable for casual wear as it is for on-court action. The overall quality of the build is impressive, with solid stitching and a robust outsole.

Fit and Comfort

In terms of fit, the Jordan Zoom Separate runs true to size. The interior is well-cushioned, providing a comfortable feel even during extended periods of wear. The shoe’s mid-top design ensures a balance between freedom of movement and ankle support, adding to the overall comfort level. The mesh sections of the upper also contribute to breathability, helping to keep your feet cool during intense games.

Support and Traction

Support is a strong point for the Jordan Zoom Separate. The shoe incorporates a sturdy heel counter and a robust lacing system to help keep the foot securely in place. For traction, the rubber outsole features multi-directional patterns, providing a strong grip on a variety of court surfaces.

Performance

On the court, the Jordan Zoom Separate performs admirably. The shoe’s Zoom Air units offer responsive cushioning, facilitating quick movements and high jumps. The shoe’s lightweight construction ensures that it doesn’t weigh you down during gameplay, while the flexible upper allows for unrestricted foot movement.

Value for Money

Given its high-quality materials, solid performance features, and the renowned Jordan brand backing, the Jordan Zoom Separate offers good value for money. It’s competitively priced within the Jordan line, making it a viable option for both amateur and professional players.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Stylish design with versatile colorways
• Comfortable fit and feel
• Excellent support and traction
• Solid on-court performance

Cons

• Synthetic leather may not be as durable as genuine leather
• Some players may prefer a high-top or low-top design

Jordan Zion 2

Design and Materials

The Jordan Zion 2 is a basketball shoe showcasing a dynamic blend of style and substance. The design is inspired by Zion Williamson’s speed and power, resulting in a sleek silhouette that exudes athleticism. The shoe features a blend of synthetic leather and breathable mesh on the upper, ensuring durability and ventilation. The colorways are bold and varied, offering something for every taste. The overall quality of build is top-notch, reflecting Jordan’s commitment to excellence.

Fit and Comfort

Fit and comfort are paramount in the Jordan Zion 2. The shoe runs true to size, providing a comfortable and secure fit. The padded collar and tongue, coupled with a cushioned insole, ensure comfort during long games or practice sessions. The shoe’s forefoot strap, a distinctive feature, not only enhances the fit but also adds a stylish element to the design.

Support and Traction

The Jordan Zion 2 offers excellent support and stability. Its high-top design and robust lacing system work together to keep the foot firmly in place. The shoe incorporates a Zoom Air unit under the forefoot and an Air Strobel under the entire foot, providing responsive cushioning and stability. For traction, the rubber outsole features a multi-directional pattern, ensuring a firm grip on various court surfaces.

Performance

On the court, the Jordan Zion 2 performs exceptionally well. The shoe handles quick movements and high jumps with ease, thanks to its responsive cushioning and lightweight construction. The flexible upper allows for unrestricted foot movement, making it a reliable choice for intense gameplay.

Value for Money

Given its premium materials, superior comfort, and impressive performance, the Jordan Zion 2 offers good value for money. While it falls into a higher price range, it’s a worthwhile investment for serious players seeking a shoe that delivers both in terms of aesthetics and on-court performance.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Stylish design with bold colorways
• Excellent fit and comfort
• Superior support and traction
• Impressive on-court performance

Cons

• The high price range may not suit all budgets
• Some players may find the high-top design restrictive

Air Jordan 37

Design and Materials

The Air Jordan 37 is a basketball shoe that perfectly blends contemporary design with iconic Jordan aesthetics. The shoe comes in a variety of colorways, ensuring there’s something for everyone’s style preference. A standout design feature is the mesh netting on the upper, which enhances the shoe’s overall look and performance. However, it’s worth noting some users have raised concerns about the durability of this netting over time.

Fit and Comfort

When it comes to comfort, the Air Jordan 37 shines. The shoe runs true to size and is especially accommodating for wider feet. Its lightweight construction promotes a sense of agility and speed, making it comfortable to wear during extended games or practice sessions.

Support and Traction

The Air Jordan 37 strikes a commendable balance between breathability and support. The shoe incorporates high bounce and court feel, along with adequate padding for additional comfort. Regarding traction, the shoe performs well on indoor surfaces; however, some users have reported that it struggles with dust.

Performance

In terms of performance, the Air Jordan 37 is often referred to as a “potential beast” on the court. Its responsive cushioning system facilitates quick movements and high jumps. However, some users have reported that the materials used in the shoe can feel “cheap” and “plasticky”, which could impact its overall performance.

Value for Money

Given the mixed reviews regarding the shoe’s performance and materials, the value for money of the Air Jordan 37 may be questionable for some. While it does offer an excellent fit and comfort, the concerns about the durability of the netting and the traction’s performance with dust might deter some potential buyers.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Modern design with varied colorways
• True to size fit, accommodating wider feet
• Excellent comfort and support

Cons

• Durability concerns with the netting
• Potential issues with traction on dusty surfaces
• Materials may feel “cheap” or “plasticky”

Jordan one Take 4

Design and Materials

The Jordan One Take 4 is a performance basketball shoe with an appealing design. Its look is inspired by Russell Westbrook’s signature style, with the outsole wrapping up nearly to the midsole for a distinctive appearance. The shoe’s colorways are varied, appealing to a range of aesthetic preferences. While some have commented that it resembles a cheaper shoe, the overall build quality is solid for its price range.

Fit and Comfort

The Jordan One Take 4 offers a comfortable fit, with particular praise for its wide toe box. This feature ensures ample room for your feet, enhancing comfort during prolonged wear. It fits true to size, and while the zoom setup isn’t overly extravagant, it provides enough propulsion to support quick movements and jumps.

Support and Traction

In terms of support, the Jordan One Take 4 stands out, especially for ankle support and guards. It’s a lightweight shoe with reliable stability. The outsole’s unique design, wrapping up to the midsole, contributes to this stability and allows for quick starts, stops, or changes in direction. The traction has received positive reviews, with users noting its effectiveness on the court.

Performance

Performing well on the court, the Jordan One Take 4 handles quick movements and high jumps with ease. Its lightweight nature enhances agility, while the zoom setup provides a boost during gameplay. However, there might be room for improvement in terms of cushioning, with some users suggesting the purchase of an after-market insole for enhanced comfort.

Value for Money

Given its performance features and affordable price point, the Jordan One Take 4 offers good value for money. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on important aspects like support, traction, and comfort.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Appealing design with varied colorways
• Comfortable fit with a wide toe box
• Excellent support and traction
• Lightweight and agile on the court

Cons

• The design might seem cheap to some
• Cushioning could be improved