Best Basketball Shoes for Guards 2022 – Reviews and Buying Guide

One of the most demanding positions and playing styles in basketball is the Guard. Being one means crossing the entire court back and forth for the ball, shooting, passing, dribbling and almost everything else concerning both the defense and attack.

Know what, the guard is maybe the most complete position in a basket match! That’s why it is essential to have the right shoes, or else you may fall behind in agility and performance.

But hey, don’t worry! To lend you a hand and make it easier for you to buy a new useful pair, here you have the best basketball shoes for guards; a list of eight high-quality choices that can improve your overall performance – come and see why!

Our Recommended Top 8 Best Basketball Shoes for Shooting and Point Guards

Let’s Jump To The Review Of  Our Recommended Top 7 Basketball Shoes for Shooting and Point Guards

1. Adidas Crazylight Boost Low-Top

For a pair that is marketed as low-top, these sneakers will feel like using a mid-top for how big they are. This, adding excellent material and textile construction on the top, you will receive a very comfortable pair. These are the best performance basketball shoes for guards for many reasons.

These boots weigh only 11.6 ounces, which is a lot less than most basketball sneakers. And what’s even better, the CrazyLight Boost is a boost, a particular kind of quick response for both traction and grip, making it easier to be fast and ready to do anything despite the light construction.

They look incredibly well too and provide a wide array of colors and style touches for those who want to boost their footwear.

These boots are also safe to wear due to the excellent quality material and the lace-up design, which are easy to adjust for different sizes and feet widths.

But what makes them stand out is the ability to offer great shock support and comfort while still being firm and grip-oriented.

You will get a pair of Adidas shoes made explicitly for guards, especially the point guard who needs to go back and forth and demands quick responses from his footwear. This pair will easily fit even the most demanding of players.

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Pros:

• Extremely Comfortable & Safe
• Outstanding Traction and Grip for Better Performance
• Look Really Good: Comes in 6 Different Designs to Choose
• Very Protective on the Ankle Despite Being Low-Top

Cons:

The main problem with this pair of shoes is that they feel too high for being low-top. Users who are looking for a lower feeling won’t feel as desired with this one. Also, the rear part of the shoe offers too much cushioning, making it a little uncomfortable for most guard’s applications.

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2. Under Armour Curry 2.5

The high-top cut of the Curry 2.5 allows any user to enjoy from a more protective and supportive design, offering a more-than-decent performance even in the hardest of courts, and at the same time fitting amazingly for a more comfortable experience.

You will receive a PU shell in the external design, which gets not only complete support to your feet but also provides excellent flexibility despite being slightly more laborious than others.

Nonetheless, the shoes come with a snug fit around the ankle and a burrito tongue, which alongside the high-top cut you will have no problem getting the shoes on and off.

The lace-up is exceptional, which allows users to tighten up to the shoes according to their needs and at the same time comes with superior convenience as it also offers closure for an internal tie-up.

But despite all of that, this is one of the best basketball shoes for shooting guards for everyone who likes great grip. With its rubber soles and outsoles, you get top-notch traction for a fantastic performance in any situation. This way it will fit any shooting guard like a gem.

And with its synthetic wrap, smooth lining, padded collar, full-length cushioning and foot cooler, you will receive a secure fit with outstanding comfort helping your foot to feel entirely safe even during the hardest of offenses.

Pros:

• Very Good Traction and Overall Fit for Superior Performance
• Top-Notch Cushioning for Shock Absorption
• High-Top Design is Perfect: Comes with Padded Collar and Smooth Lining for Safety
• Fits Amazingly Well and Provides Excellent Support [/su_box]

Cons:

Not the most fitting for a guard player, as the cushion is too much for the job and the sole doesn’t exactly offer the best grip.

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3. Adidas Crazy Explosive Primeknit

One of the most complete shoes for the basketball player, the Crazy Explosive from Adidas is a surpassing choice if you want to feel secure but free at the same time – perfect for point guards.

Everything on this shoe from the style to the performance is excellent without a doubt. The rubber sole, for example, comes with a translucent effect and looks transparent.

Yet, despite its weird-looking design, you will still get a top-notch response. If quick plays are what you like the most, then this pair will come perfect for you.

The high-top design with arch style also offers exceptional support for your ankle, considering the entire textile lining that makes it one of the most comfortable on the market as well. And of course, let’s not forget about the Xeno upper, a beautiful design no matter the color you choose.

Also, you will get a TPU midsole, which alongside the amazing cushioning make this pair outstandingly responsive and supportive, reducing the total shocks you feel and eventually helping you get the best from them without damaging your feet.

Then it’s noteworthy to mention the lacing system, which is less tight than previous versions but still helps to provide a fit and secure performance at all times. Alongside the light construction and the ventilated materials, you won’t have any problem using them at all.

Pros:

• Outstanding Light & Comfortable Feeling: Better Construction and Lining Material
• Exceptional Support Entirely: High-Grade Midsole and Excellent Ankle Support
• The comfort makes it the best basketball shoes for point guards
• Brilliant Lacing System Is Less Tight and Still Offers Decent Fit
• The Most Cushion-Effective in the Market: Absorbs Shocks and Offers Responsiveness

Cons:

Even though the traction is decent for the comfort and fits it offers, you won’t get the best grip especially because the sole wears down faster than other models.

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4. NIKE Lebron Soldier 10

A pair of good-looking shoes are always exciting to consider, and this pair is not an exception. Thanks to the excellent design and the overall quality, you will be enjoying a model that offers not only the looks to boast during a match but also the performance to enjoy your game to the max.

The design is ultra-lightweight with a 3-layer upper that offers much better ventilation while performing but still helping to get the support needed to avoid damage to the feet. This, paired up with the Zoom Air cushioning make this pair an excellent addition to any player’s equipment.

Constructed almost entirely from perforated foam, the shoe is also very long-lasting, yet feels a little stinky when it is not adequately cleaned and taken care of after use. But with its rubber sole, it outsmarts even the smarter of players, as it will help to get superb traction at all times.

And don’t forget about the forefoot and heel support, with a cushioning that absorbs even the hardest of impacts, making it perfect for those players who are continually going up and down, back and forth and getting into the most active plays.

Then you get the lacing design, which merely demands to stick with strength and you will have supportive and comfortable shoes to enjoy while playing, no matter the type of guard you are.

Even more so, when considering that this model comes in up to 30 different designs and colors for better looks and convenience, you need to put them in higher esteem.

Lets Watch a Video Review

Pros:

• Fantastic 3-Layer Upper for Superior Support and Breathability While Playing
• Outstanding Zoom Air Cushioning: Responsive and Very Comfortable Entirely
• Increased Grip Thanks to Excellent-Quality Rubber Sole
• One of the Lightest Shoes in the Market: Perfect for Active Guard Players

Cons:

Due to the unique lacing design, this pair offers a very tight performance which is not the most comfortable for most players, especially those with wide or large feet.

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5. Nike Air Jordan XXXI

What makes this pair one of the best outdoor basketball shoes for guards is the construction quality. If there’s a pair of basketball shoes that everyone knows about is Jordan’s. Almost everyone who plays basket and knows they need a good pair of boots, they go for these, and that’s not something as easy as just saying it.

These shoes are amazing from beginning to end, entirely, without a doubt. Not only they look outstanding, but they also offer a magnificent set of features including superior comfort.

Jordan’s the Zoom Air cushioning provides excellent shock-absorption while being incredibly responsive, offering a quicker and more explosive effect during plays. Plus, you have a flight speed technology, one of the essential features of the XXXI Jordan.

It offers incredible compression, so your feet not only feel comfortable but highly supported from the front to the back. A synthetic leather heel construction and the Flyweave design on the forefoot, making it easier to have more flexibility throughout the whole feet, reduce injuries and damage.

What is more, it improves your performance too. And of course, let’s not forget the solid rubber, one of the most durable yet amazingly grip-oriented and responsive soles ever made. When you step on these shoes, even in slippery courts, your feet will feel firm and ready to take action.

However, something that makes them unparalleled from other models is the ability to fit any type of feet. Even the widest feet or the longest or the biggest will feel like using a pair of walking clouds. They are excellent for any guard and perfect for any basketball player.

Pros:

• Superb Construction for Superior Comfort and Support to Your Feet
• Fit Any Feet: Excellent for Guards or Any Player Who Wants Responsive Shoes
• Sole Grip is One of the Best: Will Also Supply Excellent Cushioning for Explosiveness
• Looks Amazing on Any Color or Design: 10 Different Ones to Pick

Cons:

The sole is excellent, but alongside the tall design of the model, you will feel as if the traction is not so remarkable after all.

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6. NIKE Kyrie 3

One of the most overlooked basketball shoes in the market, but at the same time one of the most solid you will find. It doesn’t offer amazing features like others, but the pair is well-rounded in that any player can get the best from them, especially guards who need responsiveness and quick traction.

They are also incredibly protective on the ankle, with an excellent high-top design that provides enough support for even the most active of players. Also, you get a top-notch material, which allows you to enjoy a durable yet incredibly safe pair for playing basket.

A feature that makes it mark its place as one of the best Nike basketball shoes for guards is the Herringbone sole pattern, a rubber design for the sole which doesn’t only offer excellent traction but allows you to get the best from each rebound and jump, something that points guards will love.

Despite that, the cushioning is still one of the most comfortable. Coming with the Zoom Air design, you will get excellent explosiveness after the hardest of shocks.

However, it doesn’t fit as well as expected, and some players may find it slightly “too cushy,” but with the sole and traction, it won’t harm the performance much.

It looks terrific nonetheless and comes with some significant details on the tongue so that those Kyrie Irving fans would love the shoes even more.

Lets Watch a Video Review

Pros:

• Entirely Well-Made: Durable, Good-Looking and Extremely Supportive
• Will Take Care of Your Ankle Completely
• Superb Sole Design: Herringbone Sole Pattern Offers Superior Traction
• Textile Materials Provides an Amazing Design that Looks Excellent in Every Color

Cons:

Not the best cushioning in the market offers excellent support and absorption but may eventually feel too soft to use.

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7. Nike Zoom KD 9

If you want a pair of shoes that fit comfortably and supports your feet entirely while being a low-top, then the Nike Zoom KD9 will quickly become an excellent choice for you.

You won’t get any problem with the support these shoes offer, from the traction to the cushioning up to the ankle design; you will be able to use them however you desire and still get top-notch performance.

When we talk about traction, we need to consider that it is made of hard yet durable rubber material, with a design boasting little suction holes for a superior grip even in the most slippery courts.

The synthetic textile construction also provides the desired durability, so you get top-notch performance while being well-ventilated and receiving a very quality-oriented performance that doesn’t fall short after a few uses.

On top of that, you get superb cushioning with the Zoom Air design, which will eventually help you get the most from its comfort and overall explosiveness after a hard shock.

And all of this with one of the lightest experiences, you will feel as if you’re not using basketball shoes but running shoes.

Pros:

• Outstanding Traction for Quick Responses and Superior Support
• One of the Best Cushioning: Bouncy, Comfortable, and Explosive after Shocks
• Synthetic Top Construction Provides Better Safety & Tight Performance
• Straightforward Lacing System for Easier Tying Up and Fit

Cons:

The sole comes with holes which may eventually get dirty too fast, and you will have to wide it up before using, or else you may slip.

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Shooting Guards vs. Point Guards

When it comes to playing the guard position, you will have to choose between a shooting guard or a point guard.

Both are very similar, yet one is a lot more offensive than the other and can be complemented in the same match by the same player.

But overall, the point guard is always the quicker player, who controls and dribbles the most, shoots and passes the ball with more certainty and security.

Nowadays, most point guards are those players that stay under the basket, those who defend better and are always open to receive the ball and carry the pressure.

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On the other hand, we have the shooting guard. As its name says, it is the player that shoots.

However, they dribble and move more efficiently with the ball, looking to set up plays and shoot/pass faster towards more offensive and closer to the goal.

These players tend to win more matches, yet they can also play like point guards if needed.

Commonly, the guard position means being in the guard to receive and to pass while also shooting and mark points.

So, the player in this position will need footwear that allows him to move quickly and dribble while still offering great stability for more shooting/passing accuracy.

What Type of Shoes Do Guards Require?

A quick reaction for the right dribble, for the right pass, for the right dragging, is essential for a guard to make the right choice at all times.

As said before, there’s nothing more important for a guard than being fast.

A straightforward second can make all the difference between winning a game, losing a ball or scoring the point, and sometimes it all comes to having the right shoes.

Three essential factors here are the grip for faster stops, the traction for quicker acceleration and the weight and comfort that allow the player to use it for longer without feeling any discomfort. The best traction basketball shoes offer all of this.

Features to Consider For Choosing the Best Basketball Shoes for Guards

The perfect features to increase performance and maximize capacity when playing, whether it is speed, grip, and the opportunity to react faster to any ball or dribble made.

And of course, let’s not forget about the importance of the right fitting and comfort, as without them, the feet of the player may end up taking a beating.

This will make the match annoying and even hurtful, but with the right shoes, it will be the other way around, making the feet feel lighter and eventually free of any discomfort.

In short, you will need a pair of shoes that help get the best from every match – focusing on speed, traction, grip, and comfort.

Fit & Grip for the Shoes of the Basketball Guards

Whether you are a guard or prefer any other position, without the proper fit, you would end up having hurt and damaged feet. But guards, in particular, need something that makes their feet feel safe, a fit that helps them absorb more shocks and at the same time reduces the soreness.

On the other hand, they need to fit precisely to the right size. Playing with loose shoes may eventually end up in tripping or lower speed, while having shoes that are too tight may hurt your feet enormously.

So always make sure to choose the right size according to your needs, and lace-up or secure them as much as you can without hurting yourself.

Then, you will have to consider the grip. This is all about having the perfect sole that helps you stop and accelerate at the same time, giving you enough traction to avoid slow plays or slipping.

Here, there’s no other way to make sure the sole is the right one than using them.

No doubt, almost all outsoles are made of rubber, with little holes that suck the floor when using them, so you get even better traction. And using them, of course, will let you know if the grip is enough for your needs.

Ventilation & Comfort of the Shoes

A thing that often gets overlooked when choosing the right pair of basketball shoes is ventilation quality.

It means how much air goes through the shoe when using; whether it is because it has a mesh design or a superior quality material that allows a more ventilated performance.

The airflow will mark the difference between a stinky and sweaty shoe apart from a clean and odorless one.

But here also enters the comfort. Lighter shoes are often much better ventilated and comfortable but don’t offer strong enough for a guard position.

So you will have to choose something in-between. Something that not only fits your feet well and feels safe, but also offers enough ventilation, and that’s something you will have to be objective about.

From the material of construction to the design, make sure you choose something that not only looks great but that offers the most comfort you can get.

Cushion & Support for Basketball Guars

Cushioning has a big part in how comfortable the shoes feel, but even more important than that; they do change how supportive and safe they are in the long run.

The right cushioning on a pair of shoes for basketball guards may feel as if they were walking in clouds.

However, the right cushioning for a guard is not too much but not too little either. It is a combination of the cushioning to avoid injuries and damage on the feet when playing but at the same time low enough to help the player do quicker movements and feel the floor when playing.

So, the right cushioning would be something semi-hard, not the softest but good enough to safeguard your feet while playing. Herein, of course, you will also have to consider the support the shoes offer.

Not only does the plant of your feet eventually get damaged when playing, but the ankle also does too.

So it is essential to pick a pair of shoes that also come with support for the ankle so you need to go for something with a mid-top design and ankle support to avoid injuries and weak ankles that could even take you out of the game.

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Pricing & Quality

This is maybe the hardest part to consider when choosing the best beginner basketball shoes for guards, not only because there are several brands and thus prices, but because the quality is more of an overall thing than merely a set of features or looks.

For starters, you need to know that most of these basketball shoes don’t fall below the hundreds, and sometimes they can go up to three hundred or even more.

However, it doesn’t matter the price as long as you’re getting something that works.

Here, you will have to consider the set of features, of course, from the grip and traction to the comfort, support, cushioning and even how the model looks.

Then, pick the brand. Yes, although it seems counterintuitive, the brand has a significant impact on how much they can last and how resistant they will be.

Nike shoes, for example, are famous for offering the perfect performance and the sweetest looks, but Adidas are the ones that last the most and provide higher-quality materials.

Then you have Under Armour shoes, which are something between both, with nice-looking shoes and decent quality.

As long as you pick a pair that offers much more than a simple, good-looking design and that fits your feet and eventually feels impressive when using, you will be picking something worth your money.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a point guard?

Point Guard is a term used in the Basketball game which refers to the team leader, or you can say, an addition of the coach. Point Guards alongside the court leads the players of his team in defense and offense throughout the game.

How do I know good point guard shoes?

A good pair of point guard shoes got to be sturdy but at the same time very lightweight, regardless of whether you choose to go mid-top or high-top. It should feel responsive and not at all heavy to slow you down. Plus, proper ankle support is another determining criteria here.

Concluding Thought

Guards in the game of basketball gotta be quick on their feet, and you cannot afford a glitch for the poorly crafted shoes. Do you?

It is undisputed that you need to ensure the best basketball shoes for guards if you don’t want to play callous to the team and showcase a mess of a performance every time. So, better to choose wisely and not regret later!