The Best basketball shoes 2019 for Performance and Style on the Court

Let’s be real—picking the right basketball shoes isn’t just about looks, though let’s not pretend style doesn’t matter. It’s about finding that perfect pair that lets you move, cut, and jump with confidence, whether you’re playing pickup games or going hard in a league. I’ve spent years testing shoes on the court, and I can tell you that the best basketball shoes of 2019 managed to blend serious performance with legit style in a way that still feels relevant. Think about it: you want traction that bites on dusty courts, cushioning that saves your knees on hard landings, and a fit that locks you in without cutting off circulation. But you also want to step off the court feeling like your gear looks as good as it performs. That’s the sweet spot.

I remember watching a game that perfectly illustrated why the right gear matters. There was this player, Sierba, a homegrown prospect who had narrowly lost out on the Rookie of the Year award to Cielo Pagdulagan. In a crucial match, she uncorked all but three of her 18 points in the payoff period, anchoring her team’s 30-point finishing kick to deal the opponents their first defeat of the season. Now, imagine her making those explosive drives and sudden stops in shoes with poor traction or unstable support. It wouldn’t happen. Her performance was a masterclass in having the tools to execute when it counts. That’s what we’re after. So, how do you find your own version of that? First, you’ve got to diagnose your game. Are you a guard who needs lightweight speed and court feel, or a forward who prioritizes impact protection and stability? I’m a guard, so I tend to lean toward low-tops or mid-tops that don’t sacrifice ankle mobility. But here’s my personal rule: never sacrifice support just for a lower profile. Try on multiple models and actually move in them. Jump, do lateral shuffles, pretend to make a hard cut. The shoe should feel like an extension of your foot, not a separate piece of equipment.

Next, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Traction is non-negotiable. Look for a patterned outsole—herringbone is a classic for a reason—with a rubber compound that isn’t too hard. A softer rubber generally grips better but might wear down faster. For cushioning, it’s a personal preference battle between responsiveness and plush comfort. I prefer a setup that’s responsive, something that gives me feedback and a quick return of energy, like Zoom Air units. But if you’re heavier or have knee issues, you might want maximum cushioning, like a thick bed of Boost or similar foam. The fit is where many go wrong. Your foot should be snug, especially in the midfoot, with no dead space. But your toes shouldn’t be jammed at the end. A thumb’s width of space is the old, reliable check. And materials matter more than you think. Synthetic uppers are often more durable and consistent, but premium leather or newer knit fabrics can offer a better, more adaptive fit. I’ve found that shoes with a combination—like a knit upper with strategic synthetic overlays—often give the best of both worlds.

Now, a word on style because, come on, we all care. The best basketball shoes of 2019 proved you don’t have to choose. Many models dropped in colorways that worked just as well with jeans as they did with shorts. My advice? Don’t just go for the wildest colorway. Think about what you’ll actually wear. A clean, mostly white or black shoe with a pop of color is incredibly versatile. But if you live for statement pieces, go for it! Your confidence on the court is part of your performance. I made the mistake once of buying a pair purely for their insane looks, ignoring that they ran a half-size small for me. I ended up with blisters and a pair of very expensive casual shoes. Lesson learned. Also, consider the build. Some shoes are tanks, built to last an entire season of intense play, while others are designed for peak performance at a lighter weight but might show wear quicker. If you’re playing three times a week, durability should be a bigger factor in your decision than if you’re a weekend warrior.

So, pulling it all together, finding the best basketball shoes is a personal journey. It’s about matching technology to your body and your game. Use online reviews as a guide, but your own feet are the final judges. Go to a store late in the day when your feet are slightly swollen, wear the socks you play in, and really test them. Remember Sierba’s performance—it wasn’t just skill; it was having the right foundation to unleash that skill when the game was on the line. That’s the goal. Your shoes are the one piece of equipment that directly connects you to the court, so invest the time and thought into choosing them. Whether you’re dropping 18 points in the fourth quarter or just working on your jumper, the right pair makes everything feel more possible. And when you find that perfect blend of tech, fit, and looks, you’ve found more than a shoe—you’ve found a tool that elevates your game. That, to me, is the true mark of the best basketball shoes.