BY ANDREA AVIADO

Basketball shoes have gone a long way ever since shoe manufacturers started creating specialized footwear for the sport. From its canvas, Chuck Taylor origins (yes, people wore them initially for shooting hoops!) introduced by Converse to the highly-coveted pairs named after famous star players of today, hardwood sneaks have become a sports and fashion statement for the guys. And with its numerous designs and variations that turn out to be more comfortable, it’s not surprising why some men have swapped this for their regular kicks when off the court.

That’s why we listed seven pairs of highly-functional men’s basketball shoes to help you score three points on the court while keeping your style in check.

Adidas Harden Vol. 6 Shoes

One of the few pairs in this list that made us squeal when we first saw its design, the sixth signature James Harden shoe from Adidas is surely a head-turner. Dressed in a breathable mesh upper with a matching rubber sidewall and a contrasting cloud-like turquoise sole, these white kicks from “The Beard” ooze a fluid appeal reminiscent of his swift moves. Its versatile, dominant color also makes it easy to partner with any off-the-court look with a touch of blue.

These Harden shoes also come with a Boost midsole that returns the needed energy during those intense moments while its forefoot and heel bands deliver that locked-down feeling. Its recycled content composition also makes it one of the most sustainable shoes in the James Harden line.

Nike Precision 5

Thanks to its stripped-down and structured shape, this pair of black Precision 5 from Nike almost makes it look like a regular sneaker that goes well with any off-duty look.

Made from lightweight materials and less foam and rubber, these basketball shoes are the perfect companion to do those quick cuts and hard banks without carrying a heavy weight on your foot. Its herringbone-patterned traction sole and low collar also provide better mobility, while its sculpted foam midsole delivers soft cushioning while you work on that three-point shot.

Nike Lebron XVIII Low

Another pair that can be mistaken for a casual sneaker, this atmos x Nike collab kicks is another favorite of ours. Crafted in a sleek color combination of khaki and dark mocha reminiscent of their 2003 collaboration, the 18th Lebron James signature shoes give off a luxurious yet sporty appeal with its leather and suede upper highlighted with a purple and metallic gold Swoosh. It was further balanced with its visible Max Air unit and light brown molded gum sole that goes well with any cargo pants or shorts look.

Aside from its Air unit for impact cushioning, these basketball sneaks also provide needed support with its responsive full-length Nike React foam for seamless transitions and molded heel clip at its exterior that helps in locking in the back of the foot. Not to mention that its upper and overlays are made of lightweight and durable materials, delivering more support and structure minus the weight.

Nike KD 13 EP

Non-basketball-fan sneakerheads might want to check out the 13th Kevin Durant signature shoes from Nike in White/Sports Red/Obsidian colorway. Donning a grid-checked textile upper with contrasting red tongue, inner and laces, this pair of basketball kicks looks like a lifestyle sneaker to the untrained eye. Its speckled dark blue midsole and two-tone Swoosh add to its minimal appeal, making it a perfect styling piece for a streetwear look.

KD will also not fail you with this pair’s performance technologies as it comes with a full-length Nike Air Zoom cushion that delivers an ultra-responsive feel and quick heel-to-toe transitions. Under this is another Zoom Air unit in its forefoot that gives more mobility and energy return. Its extra-durable rubber sole also makes it the perfect pick when you find yourself shooting hoops outdoors.

Nike Lebron 17 Low

If you’re searching for an all-white basketball kick, look no further than the Lebron 17 Low from Nike. Having a versatile color that can go well with any streetwear look, effortlessly show off your love for the King’s power moves with these sporty low-top sneaks.

Packed with a Max Air unit under its heel and a Nike React technology at its forefoot, these kicks would give your game that needed impact absorption and responsive cushioning. The additional soft foam pod underneath the Max Air unit also delivers extra cushioning. Its thick overlays and molded plastic around the toe and heel add to the shoes’ durability and lightweight support. The 17th signature shoe from the King doesn’t forget about traction, with its sole having flexible molded grooves that adjust when you move.

Adidas D.O.N. Issue #3

Wear the street on your foot with the D.O.N. Issue #3 from Adidas. Aside from being the third signature kick from the Spida that celebrates his basketball journey, this pair also features the vibrant origins of Filipino street style and comics as interpreted by mural artist Jappy Aguilar. From upper to the sole, never lose a splash of color to your game, and streetwear fits with these basketball sneaks.

Apart from its head-turning and striking colors, the D.O.N. Issue #3 is also infused with a Lightstrike cushioning that delivers that needed responsiveness for those quick and lateral movements. Its statement “Over Negativity” forefoot band also ensures a locked-down fit that adds a more Donovan Mitchell touch to this shoe.

Puma Clyde Hardwood Team Shoes

Nike and Adidas aren’t the only ones making a buzz in the hoops and streetwear scene, as the Clyde Hardwood Team Shoes from Puma has also become a favorite recently. Reminiscent of iconic retro shoes, partnering a pair from this line would be effortless, whether it’s a laid-back off-the-court look or a more casual t-shirt and chino pants combo.

These basketball shoes don’t sacrifice performance as well with their high-rebound EVA ProFoam midsole cushioning that delivers a responsive ride and a TPU heel clip and sidewall that provide support and stability. Traction has also been prioritized with its sticky herringbone-patterned forefoot and milk crate pattern at its midfoot and heel, adding to its durability.

Have one of these basketball line sneakers in your collection? Let us know which ones are your go-to in the comments below!