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Choosing basketball shoes is easy because they all tend to have
a very similar design. While the sizes and styles might vary,
the actually design of basketball shoes is fairly uniform and
standard. Choosing basketball shoes is easy when you realize
that they are all high cut towards the ankle. The primary reason
for this high cut design on basketball footwear is that is
provides the playerˇs ankle with extra stability whilst the
player is running, turning and jumping on the court. With jump
shots, lay-ups, slam dunks, pivoting and rapid changes in
direction all now playing a major part of the game, the demands
on a playerˇs ankles is quite extreme.
The features that are quite literally essential in any good pair
of basketball shoes that should choose include:
,,« Lace Ups - Laces as opposed to Velcro enclosures are
essential because they help to keep the playerˇs foot set back
properly in the heel of the shoes. In Velcro shoes there is a
tendency for the foot to creep forward in the shoes which
restricts the foot from performing properly and can add to the
pressure on the toes.
,,« Broad Toe Box ˇV A broad toe box is essential to prevent a
squeezing of the toes from occurring. If the basketball shoes
are too shallow, this can lead to blisters and the formation of
corns, callus, ingrown toe nails and/or bruised toe nails.
,,« Thumb Space Clearance ˇV Players should always try on any
potential basketball shoes in a standing up position because
their feet will elongate and spread in this position. By trying
shoes on in a sitting down position a player can inadvertently
purchase the wrong size shoe which can lead to nail problems and
effect the stability of the foot in the shoe during a game. In a
standing position there should be at least 1/4" to 1/2" of room
beyond the longest toe for maximum comfort.
,,« Forefoot Bend ˇV When tested, basketball shoes should only
bend at the ball of the foot near the toes, not through the
archway area.
,,« Heel Counter - The heel counter on a basketball shoe should
be firm and feel snug when the heel is placed inside the shoe.
This is one area where you want snugness not plenty of room.
,,« Uppers ˇV Wherever possible you should buy shoes that have
leather uppers as they are far more durable and allow the foot
to breathe more readily than those that are made using synthetic
materials.
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