With basketball season starting, basketball players’ new sneakers will soon be on the court.
Support, cushion, traction, and breathability are all attributes that are important to consider when shopping for the perfect shoe.
Nike, Puma, Under Armour, and Adidas, are just a few of the most popular basketball sneakers.
For some, the appearance of the sneaker is equally important to the functionality.
Junior and boys varsity point guard, Parker Spencer, describes the importance of the pair you choose: “Getting bright color shoes can show you that you like to be different and getting shoes that are very expensive can show your dedication to the game.” He continues, “Also, getting brands other than Nike or Under Armour can show that you want to separate yourself from what everybody else has.”
Freshman Mason Dyer, who plans on trying out for the WHS basketball team this year, looks for expert opinions: “I watch NBA basketball games and just see what the best players are wearing.” He cares about not only his basketball shoes but his everyday shoes. He adds, “They give me a chance to show my personality.”
“The biggest thing is comfort… if you are comfortable in your shoes, naturally you’ll play well,” Girls varsity basketball player, Jennie Macca-Barnes expresses, “Personally, I always lean towards Nikes.”
Waterford High School volleyball player, Lexi Pelt, shares, “I typically lean towards basketball sneakers rather than volleyball sneakers when choosing what shoes I want to play in for volleyball because there’s more to choose from. I look for bright colors, good ankle support, comfortability and high top rather than low top.”
Nowadays, online shopping for basketball sneakers is widely preferred among many players. Junior Denatto Barnhill shares, “I mostly get my shoes from GOAT. I only wear KD’s and Kyries.”
StockX and GOAT are two shopping websites that many players prefer because they can search and purchase specific sneakers that best suit their needs.
Sneakers can also impact a player’s mental state. Senior varsity basketball player Matthew Shampine says, “Last year I wore Nike’s [Giannis Immortality 3’s]. Every year I wear a different pair and feel as though they become a part of who I am. Not only do they make me feel better emotionally and confidence-wise, they also make me feel more physically agile.”
Basketball players aren’t the only students at WHS who value what kind of shoes they’re wearing. Other students also share how their regular shoes are a reflection of their personality and a way to express themselves.
Birkenstock, New Balance, Ugg, Doc Marten, Hoka, Converse, Asics, Crocs, Reeboks, and more are some of the most popular shoes at WHS.
“Some shoes in my everyday rotation are Yeezy’s, my New Balance 574’s, and my Ugg Ultra Mini’s because they are all comfortable and match with everything.” Pelt says.
Bronson Leone, says, “My favorite shoes to wear to school are my New Balance 550’s because of how comfortable they are and their versatility when it comes to outfits.”
Overall, shoes and sneakers can be a way individuals and players show who they are while simultaneously providing support and functionality. For this season, sneakers will allow players to distinguish themselves and dominate the court.
Shampine adds, “I feel more athletic as a player and comfortable with the ball when I have a solid pair of shoes beneath me.”
