Top 7 Best Basketball Shoes for Achilles Support

While playing basketball, jumping, running, or accidentally stepping on a mate’s foot can cause inflammation of the ankle or tendons. Basketball is a game of making quick moves to dodge your competitor. These harsh and fast moves make you roll over your ankle.

The injuries sometimes get worse, and Achilles tendonitis is more common.

Achilles tendonitis is an injury of the Achilles tendon, the largest tendon in the human body, which connects the calf muscles of the lower leg to the heel bone.

You can prevent Achilles tendonitis by exercising. Proper exercise can give you long-term results. You can wear an ankle brace for additional support and stability during basketball.

To support your Achilles Tendons, we have shortlisted the Best Basketball Shoes for Achilles Support because “precaution is better than cure.”

  • Nike Zoom Freak 1
  • Nike Lebron 17
  • Under Armour Basketball Shoes
  • Nike Lebron Witness IV
  • Peak High Top Streetball Master Basketball Shoes
  • Nike AlphaDunk
  • Nike Kyrie Flytrap VI Basketball Shoes

LIST OF TOP 7 BEST BASKETBALL SHOES FOR ACHILLES SUPPORT 2023

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Nike zoom freak 1 review 2021

 

Nike zoom freak 1

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NIKE LEBRON 17

 


 

Nike Lebron 17

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Under armour basketball shoes

 


 

Under Armour Basketball Shoes

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Nike Lebron Witness IV Basketball Shoes

 


 

Nike Lebron Witness IV

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peak high top men's basketball shoes streetball master

 


 

Peak High Top Streetball Master Basketball Shoes

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Nike AlphaDunk basketball shoes 2021

 


 

Nike AlphaDunk

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Nike Kyrie Flytrap VI basketball shoes

 


 

Nike Kyrie Flytrap VI Basketball Shoes

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1) Nike Zoom Freak 1

Nike zoom freak 1 review [July 2021]

In our top best basketball shoe list, Nike Zoom Freak 1 is securing its place at no. 1. Giannis Antetokounmpo, the NBA MVP, composed his first-ever signature sneakers.

The upper is super soft, basically a fusion of textile mesh and plastic netting that provides durability and a bit more structure to the sneaker. The thin and breathable material also provides a cozy feeling to the foot.

Here’s a quick recommendation for what size you should buy. Many customers suggest you go a half size up from your actual size if you have a wide foot. This will give you the best fit. Other than that, you don’t need to switch sizes.

The lace loops on the upper front provide a lockdown fit to your front foot while doing crossovers and ankle-breaker dribbles.

The outsole is constructed with two different designs using solid and translucent rubbers. For the best traction experience, you must wipe the sole occasionally, as the translucent portion catches the dirt easily.

The traction pattern on the outsole is not a peak pattern; it’s kind of flat. The flat sole is made to prevent Achilles Tendonitis. The peak allows the sneaker to grab and bite onto the floor much easier than the flat traction pattern. So traction is pretty good but not perfect.

Your ankles need a support system to prevent Achilles Tendonitis; the Nike Zoom Freak 1 is double-stacked at the heel portion with dual zoom airbags. This double-stacked heel system is very comfortable and gives you a ton of impact protection.

The forefoot is made from Phylon injected foam, which gives you a solid bounce back and protects your sole from the ground.

The ankle area has comfortable paddings which are snug and cup the heel. The midsole keeps you on the footbed and prevents you from rolling. It is super comfortable and made from resilient foam.

The midsole has sections, one of which is the translucent portion of the outsole, other is the exaggerated swoosh in the heel. And the third one is at the midfoot. These sections provide some additional lateral support.

It comes in different dope colors and looks very sharp overall. Overall, these Basketball shoes are good performance-wise and look-wise and offer optimal support for Achilles Tendonitis and heel pain.

Pros
  • Dual Zoom Air bags support the ankle
  • Detailed outsole pattern provides traction
  • Extended Rubber sections for lateral stability
  • Padded collar for ankle support
Cons
  • Translucent rubber catches dust easily

 

2) Nike Lebron 17

NIKE LEBRON 17

These Nike Lebron 17 basketball shoes were designed with a serious player in mind. They are the perfect choice if you are looking for performance and style. The lightweight upper of this basketball shoe is made with breathable materials.

These shoes also feature Nike’s signature Zoom Air technology in the heel. This provides excellent support and cushioning and makes you feel like you are running on air.

The rubber soles offer traction and ensure a good grip on the basketball court. With this feature, you can make jumps and cuts at a moment’s notice.

The lace-up closure lets you find the best fit possible, making these shoes easy to slip on and off. The shoes are also true to size and reminiscent of earlier Nike Lebron models.

Additionally, even with excellent cushioning and comfort, these shoes offer the stability and support you need for your Achilles. The upper is supportive in the right places, and the design provides a well-rounded shoe.

Pros
  • Lightweight and breathable upper
  • Provides optimal cushioning and support
  • Rubber sole provides excellent traction and grip on the basketball court
  • Easy to slip on and off and offers a more customized fit
Cons
  • Might be harder to slip on if you have higher arches
  • True to size but might be a bit snug if you have wider feet

 

Under armour basketball shoes

These Under Armour basketball shoes are another great choice if you need more Achilles support while on the basketball court. These shoes were specifically designed for just this. They provide a comfortable, lightweight, and breathable fit, and the webbed lacing system allows you to customize the fit so they are snug and comfortable.

These shoes also feature a mesh tongue to help with airflow, and the lining has a half-bootie design and traditional tongue construction for a more secure fit. It also makes these shoes easy to slide on or off.

The die-cut EVA sockliner provides more than adequate underfoot cushioning and support. Finally, combining synthetic and textile materials lends to its overall durability.

Pros
  • Lightweight and breathable
  • The synthetic soles offer a better grip and traction
  • Webbed lacing for a more customized fit
  • Molded textile upper for breathability and comfort
Cons
  • Sizes tend to run smaller, so you may want to order a half-size up

 

4) Nike Lebron Witness IV Basketball Shoes

Nike Lebron Witness IV Basketball Shoes

You should consider the Nike Lebron Witness IV basketball shoes when looking for outstanding court performance. These are the fourth edition of Lebron James’s preferred sneakers and have all the revolutionary features you have come to expect from the brand.

The Nike Lebron Witness IV basketball shoes have an outsole unit with Zoom Air units in the forefoot. This provides you with more responsive cushioning. The outsole is rubber with a pattern that offers superior traction.

The modern design of this basketball shoe also includes a molded TUPU lion’s head on its heel. The high-cut collar and heel counter offer stability, and the padded heel helps with tension associated with the Achilles tendon. So, you will find it easier to jump and fight for the ball on the court.

The shoes offer a more responsive feel, and the forefoot springs back under your weight. The external heel helps with even more stability.

Pros
  • Offers excellent support for the Achilles
  • Rubber sole provides great traction and grip
  • Stylish design
  • Enhances performance while on the basketball court
Cons
  • Shoes may be on the narrow side, so you might want to size up if possible

 

5) Peak High Top Men’s Basketball Shoes Streetball Master

peak high top men's basketball shoes streetball master

Next on our list of the best basketball shoes for Achilles support is the Peak High Top Streetball Masters. Peak has been researching and designing comfortable and functional sportswear for decades. They aim to provide customers with stylish yet comfortable and functional products to help them achieve and maintain top performance.

These basketball shoes are made with synthetic leather and textile materials with a rubber sole. They offer high-quality cushioning and are wear-resistant and breathable. They offer ample support and a comfortable fit.

The upper surface of these shoes uses flying woven and PP film technology, making them breathable and comfortable. The hot melt film also improves the overall stability of these shoes, making them ideal for high-intensity exercise.

The sole parametric design of these Streetball Master basketball shoes enhances your grip on the court and is anti-skid and wear-resistant.

Pros
  • Deep traction pattern that wears nicely outdoors
  • Powerful protection and wear resistance
  • Peak stabilization module for lateral movement support
  • Provides comfortable wrapping and support
  • Reduces the chance of strain and ankle sprain
Cons
  • Has a structured toe, so you might not be able to achieve the ultimate fit you want
  • Cushioning is harder for some, and insoles were required

 

6) Nike AlphaDunk

Nike AlphaDunk basketball shoes 2021

The Nike AlphaDunk shoes have an upper made of Flyknit technology. This means the engineered mesh is an amalgamation of polyester, spandex, and nylon to make it more breathable and lightweight. The upper material is supportive that provides extra support to your ankle as well.

The laces are manufactured with Flywire cables that support the ankle and lock your feet into the shoe.

In this pair, the external heel counter gives your ankle the necessary support and stability it needs. There are padded inner collars to support your sensitive Achilles tendons.

The traction pattern on the outsole is circular. It provides decent traction for both indoor and outdoor games. An external heel counter supports traction. The outsole is made of translucent rubber and is wide enough for your stability.

The AlphaDunk has a large Zoom Air unit in a forefoot area of 270 degrees that provides cushioning and arch support. The rest of the cushion is made of basic Phylon. The Zoom Air unit is not exposed and is encased in translucent rubber for extra stability.

Look-wise, this pair comes in different vibrant colorways and ‘LOB’ letters are visible on the heel patch area of the left shoe, which means ‘Library of Bounce.’

Pros
  • Flyknit technology is lightweight and breathable
  • External heel counter for ankle and tendon support
  • Wide outsole for maximum stability
  • Zoom Air unit for cushioning
  • Vibrant colorways
Cons
  • Eyelet may get tight

 

7) Nike Kyrie Flytrap VI Basketball Shoes

Nike Kyrie Flytrap VI basketball shoes

Lastly, we have the Nike Kyrie Flytrap VI basketball shoes. These high top shoes feature a breathable upper mesh that provides a lightweight and conforming fit. The laces of the shoes feed through crisscross webbing straps, which help you achieve a tight fit. The Zoom Air technology embedded under the forefoot helps absorb shock and increases your energy return.

The basketball shoes also feature 360-degree multi-directional traction patterns on the outsoles, and the rubber curves up the side of the shoe help you stay more in control, no matter which direction you go on the court.

The collar and tongue are padded, and the shoe has a rounded toe. This version of the Nike Kyrie was specifically designed for outdoor court use and has an extra durable rubber outsole.

Pros
  • Comfortable and lightweight fit
  • Provides a more impactful return on energy
  • Stylish design
  • Good shoe for on the court and off
Cons
  • Run on the smaller side

 

How to Choose the Best Basketball Shoes for Achilles Support

Basketball player training on the court

Now that you know you need Achilles support, it is time to narrow down your choices and find the best pair of basketball shoes. Let’s look at some of the considerations you want to keep in mind as you make your purchase.

High Top Design

High top shoes offer the ankle support you need to help reduce the tension on your Achilles tendon. The high top design helps prevent your ankle from rolling, reducing your risk of injury while you play.

The high top design is especially important when playing basketball because of your sudden movements on the court. When the Achilles tendon or your ankle don’t have adequate support, you are much more susceptible to twisting, sprain risk, and fatigue when moving quickly or making quick direction changes.

Flexibility

Next, look at the flexibility the basketball shoe offers. If the shoe is too stiff or flexible, it can cause injury. Find a shoe that offers the right amount of ankle support but has enough flexibility for movement and offers a comfortable but secure fit.

Breathability

Believe it or not, breathability has much to do with the support your basketball shoe offers. If the shoe is not breathable, your feet get sweaty. This leads to tons of discomfort, leading to blisters, slippage while playing, and other injuries. Shoes with mesh allow for optimal breathability.

Lace Up Styles

There are a few different lace-up styles, including the standard lacing system, crisscross lacing system, speed, and lockdown. Many of the shoes we reviewed have a crisscross lacing system. This system provides the wearer more support because the laces stretch over a larger area, allowing for more tension in the upper portion of the shoe.

Cushioning

There are different stiffness levels when it comes to the cushioning of your basketball shoes. You don’t want the cushioning to be too soft because this can slow you down. If it is too firm, the shoe won’t be as comfortable.

Our Verdict
All of the above basketball shoes for Achilles support are best for you whether you’re already suffering from Achilles tendonitis or simply want to prevent it.

But if you want our recommendation on choosing the best from the best, we will recommend you Nike Zoom Freak 1, Nike PG 4 Basketball Shoes  and Nike Kyrie 6. Both these shoes give you maximum Achilles support due to the extra cushioning and midsole foam.

The padded collar allows stable movements and less pressure on your ankles. The traction provided by the rubbery and patterned sole allows the best grip on the court while making cuts and dribbles.

The Air Zoom cushioning provides the perfect impact protection and the upper material is breathable that allows ventilation and flexibility. Try one of our recommended shoes for maximum Achilles support, quality, comfort, and best on-court performance.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Are basketball shoes good for Achilles tendonitis?

Yes, basketball shoes are good for Achilles tendonitis, as most shoes are now designed to have airbags and a gel system at the forefoot and heel area. These airbags give maximum support to the Achilles tendon and help reduce inflammation in your body’s largest tendon.

What are the common symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis?

Some of the more common symptoms you may experience with Achilles tendonitis include swelling, inflammation, difficulty flexing your foot, stiffness, and pain and tenderness that runs along the bag of your leg above the heel area.

Achilles pain makes it difficult for a basketball player to perform at peak levels. It also causes more difficulty when running, jumping, and changing direction quickly on the court, so you need to find a supportive shoe.

How do you protect your Achilles tendon when playing basketball?

Overworking is the main reason amongst basketball players that will increase the risk of Achilles tendonitis. To protect your Achilles tendons from inflammation, you should use basketball shoes that support Achilles tendons and other footwear like ankle braces. Icing your tendons after a workout also helps in reducing inflammation.

Also, perform exercises soft calf stretches and Achilles tendon stretches like that prevent Achilles tendonitis and strengthen auxiliary muscles.

Are high top shoes better for Achilles tendonitis?

Yes, compared to low top shoes, high top shoes can help to reduce Achilles tendonitis. When high top shoes are tightly laced, they can prevent Achilles tendonitis to a great extent.

 

Author Bio
author

Hey! I’m Shaun Allen, an Author at Basketball Scan.
Since childhood, I’ve been very fond of playing basketball. However, even more, obsessed with analyzing every move while watching the legends when they smash the basket. From Shaquille O’Neal to Michael Jordan, I believe that every one of them is the God of Basketball.
This same obsession of mine with basketball leads me to start the blog. For a few years now, I have been sharing my experience of different basketball gadgets that I use and tried to cover every product’s positive and negative aspect in my articles. So you guys can purchase the best one for yourself or your loved ones. I hope this blog will help you find every kind of information regarding basketball.

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