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10 Best Basketball Shoes for Kids Reviewed in 2024

last updated Oct 07, 2019

Having the right kicks isn’t just about looking cool. Proper footwear can truly help to protect an athlete’s body as well as elevate their game. Shoes for football, soccer, baseball, and basketball all have different features and designs for a reason. The demands of each game are different and it’s important to provide your child with the equipment necessary for them to not only play their best but feel most secure. Best kid basketball shoes come in many shapes, sizes, and colors. We’ve listed ten of our favorites below. Lace-up and get out there!

This is the best product on our list that is currently in stock:

icon
Under Armour Boys Pre School Jet
94.3/100 our score
Brand
96
Materials
95
Fit
92
Under Armour Boys Pre School Jet
Why is it better?

Lightweight

Rubber soles provide a high level of grip control

Designed with an EVA sockliner and an antimicrobial top cloth

Available in a wide variety of colors.

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Under Armour Boys Pre School Jet
Test Winner: Under Armour Boys Pre School Jet
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Researched Sources
26
Researched Sources
Hours Researching
48
Hours Researching
Products Evaluated
20
Products Evaluated
Last Updated:
By Jessica Mentzer:

Basketball shoes for the kids need to be comfortable while providing them with the support that their little growing feet need. Playing a sport is always fun for both parents and the kids so making sure they have good quality gear is important for their performance. This list of basketball shoes has been created to provide parents with good quality gear that is popular in the marketplace. We have created the list and then recently did an update. The update included the replacement of two new products.

Sorting Options
Brand Materials Fit By Default
Rank
PictureProduct
Name
Rating
Shops
#1
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94.7
Brand
97 %
Materials
94 %
Fit
93 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (09.12.24)
Amazon Link
#2
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94.7
Brand
96 %
Materials
95 %
Fit
93 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (09.12.24)
Amazon Link
#3
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94.3
Brand
96 %
Materials
95 %
Fit
92 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (09.12.24)
Amazon Link
#4
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94.3
Brand
96 %
Materials
92 %
Fit
95 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (09.12.24)
Amazon Link
#5
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94
Brand
95 %
Materials
94 %
Fit
93 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (09.12.24)
Amazon Link
#6
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93.7
Brand
96 %
Materials
94 %
Fit
91 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (09.12.24)
Amazon Link
#7
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93.7
Brand
96 %
Materials
93 %
Fit
92 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (09.12.24)
Amazon Link
#8
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93.3
Brand
96 %
Materials
94 %
Fit
90 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (09.12.24)
Amazon Link
#9
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93
Brand
92 %
Materials
94 %
Fit
93 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (09.12.24)
Amazon Link
#10
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92.7
Brand
92 %
Materials
93 %
Fit
93 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (09.12.24)
Amazon Link
$39.99

10 Best Basketball Shoes for Kids Reviewed

1. Nike Kids' Team Hustle

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94.7
Nike Kids' Team Hustle
Amazon Link
Brand
97
Materials
94
Fit
93
best offer for today
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Feature quality rubber sole for tractions and support

Upper constructed from quality leather materials

Hook and loop strap for secure closure system with laces

Midsole offer lightweight foam insole and flexible cushion

Shaft of high top design runs from the top of the shoe to arch

Sizing runs small, review the size chart before purchasing

Velcro hook and lack closure system is hard to get tight for little ones

Basketball is a sport that you spend the entire time on your feet when you are playing. This means that what is on your feet is important. It is important to make sure they fit well and provide the super that is needed during the game. Quality shoes for playing basketball for little feet are just as important. These Nike Team Hustle basketball shoes provide those little feet with the support and traction that they need to perfect their game.

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Brand

From the makers of some of the most fashion shoes in history comes these basketball shoes for your kids. They are created with quality materials and the branded well-known trademark is included right in the design on the side. The flexible sole, lightweight design, and secure fit provide children with the support that is needed throughout the game.

Materials

Each pair of these shoes has been constructed from quality materials. The soles are made from a rubber material that is ideal for traction, plus it provides the solid base that supports the lightweight foam in the midsole. The midsole foam is great for giving the shoe a flexible and supportive cushioning that is much needed during a long game. The upper has been constructed from leather. The leather creates a durable and supportive upper.

Fit

It fits like a glove because it has been designed with a few things that make gloves great. Leather material provides a durable and comfortable fit with the midsole that features a hook and loop closure system that keep them secure. When shoes feel secure they feel like they are a good fit that provides support and traction when little basketball players need it most.

2. adidas Originals Superstar Foundation

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94.7
adidas Originals Superstar Foundation
Amazon Link
Brand
96
Materials
95
Fit
93
best offer for today
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Rubber shell toe and sole

Upper made of leather and synthetic

Mesh lining (breathability)

Velcro straps instead of laces

Several colors from which to choose

Not many sizes available

Sizes run small (buy a larger size)

Probably the best thing about these basketball shoes for toddlers that parents will love is the fact that they are easy to clean. They will keep their great look for a long time, most likely long after your child outgrows them. The quality rubber and leather materials will not hold stains or dirt and can easily be wiped clean.

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Brand

This is the original Adidas for toddler feet with the reputable all-rubber toe and a herringbone traction pattern on the soles. So adorable, yet so durable and safe for those tiny feet!

Materials

There is a mesh inner lining for moisture to expel quickly, plus the velcro straps make for easy put on and take off without the fuss of laces. Your toddler will look so cute in these original Adidas basketball shoes, and there are several color patterns from which to pick. Because of the all rubber toe shell and sole and the leather upper, these toddler shoes are very easy to clean. They are super durable and can take any rough and tumble that your little one can dish out.

Fit

Velcro straps instead of shoelaces for toddlers is a huge plus for footwear. Velcro ensures a tight, but not too tight, fit on the foot, which makes it safer for your child when they walk and run. Laces can quickly come undone, tripping the child who might not yet know how to retie the laces, whereas the velcro straps will not. This option is the best for a great fit and safety.

3. Under Armour Boys Pre School Jet

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94.3
Under Armour Boys Pre School Jet
Amazon Link
Brand
96
Materials
95
Fit
92
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Lightweight

Rubber soles provide a high level of grip control

Designed with an EVA sockliner and an antimicrobial top cloth

Available in a wide variety of colors.

Runs large

The lightweight material will not hinder your child’s mobility as they go in for layups or run down the court. The rubber soles will help them stick the landing after every shot.

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Brand

With the Under Armour shoes , your child will look like a pro athlete on the court. These shoes are available in over ten different colors so your child can represent their team or sport their favorite colors.

Materials

The combination of leather and mesh in the design of the shoe is not only practical but also super stylish. The leather on the toes will protect your child’s feet if they’re accidentally stepped on. The molded leather quarter panels will provide support to your child’s ankles as they run up and down the court. The mesh material gives these shoes a high level of breathability. In fact, the material also makes them super lightweight thus allowing your child to get down the court quickly.

Fit

The rubber sole is designed with a herringbone pattern that will provide your child with a high level of grip control on and off the court. The inside of the shoe is equipped with an EVA sock liner and an antimicrobial top cloth that will help reduce the risk of odor-causing bacteria from growing. These sneakers are designed to be laced up to provide your child with a more secure and comfortable fit.

4. Under Armour Grade School Jet

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94.3
Under Armour Grade School Jet
Amazon Link
Brand
96
Materials
92
Fit
95
best offer for today
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EVA sockliner

EVA midsole support

Perforations, side panels, and mesh tongue provide breathability

Anti-odor technology

Rubber sole for traction

Rear pull tab may fray with rough use

These feel lightweight on kids’ feet so they won’t be complaining about heavy, clunky shoes. But don’t let that fool you; they’re also incredibly supportive, especially in the arch region. The design is unisex and the odor control is just a cherry on top.

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Brand

The Under Armour Grade School Jet is a fully engineered design meant to make practice the best it can be for your player. Die-cut EVA sockliner provides added support with a full-length EVA midsole delivers lightweight comfort.

Materials

Perforations and the mesh tongue increase the ventilation to your child’s foot and a leather upper with quarter panels adds yet another layer of breathability while still keeping the foot locked firmly in place and secured in the shoe. They even utilize an anti-odor technology to prevent microbes from stinking up your little one’s sneakers (and subsequently your car and home). These high-tops are available in six different colors and both little and big kids sizes.

Fit

These shoes will keep your child’s foot secure while also allowing ventilation and breathability. This aids in the additional technology meant to help control odors so your sneakers will last for much longer.

5. Champion Boys' Inferno

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94
Champion Boys' Inferno
Amazon Link
Brand
95
Materials
94
Fit
93
best offer for today
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Plenty of big kid and little kid sizes

Made of faux leather and mesh (breathable materials)

Has non-skid rubber soles

Padded insole and collar

Pull tab on the ankle

Not many color choices

These youth boy basketball shoes from Champion is a well-built piece of basketball equipment that comes in many sizes for kids and little kids. It is appropriate for girls or boys to wear and is made of the most durable materials of faux leather, mesh, and rubber.

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Brand

The extra padding in the insole and collar show that Champion wanted to make comfort the top priority of this basketball shoe for children. Comfortable shoes help little ones enjoy what they are doing longer as they learn the wonderful sport of basketball. The pull tab on the ankles is a welcome aspect that helps them get the shoes on and off easily. When looking for the best shoe, these small extras really help with the best shoe decision.

Materials

These super lightweight fabrics create a shoe that will not hinder the legs and feet with added weight, yet support the feet and ankles with padded cushioning. The thick laces go all the way to the ankle for added support, plus there is a pull tab on the back of the ankle to aid in putting the shoes on. Unfortunately, there are not many colors to choose from with the Inferno basketball shoe, but the comfortable fit and durability more than make up for that small issue. Being that this shoe does not have as much traction as some other basketball shoes, it would be best suited for outdoor games and practices rather than for indoor activities where the floor surfaces can be somewhat slick.

Fit

The Inferno for kids is made of fantastic lightweight materials to ensure that legs and feet do not tire easily from heavy, weighty shoes. Basketball practice and games require so much running and fast footwork that the shoes must be super light and not a hindrance to the activity.

6. WETIKE Kid's Basketball Shoes

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93.7
WETIKE Kid's Basketball Shoes
Amazon Link
Brand
96
Materials
94
Fit
91
best offer for today
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Featuring long lasting traction for improved outsole design

Midsole with lightweight EVA for improved performance

Breathable, light, and solid for superior comfort

Provides a wider fit for extra comfort

Build for comfort, designed for practicality

Shoes come in a plastic bag, not in a traditional box

Sizing does run small and tight

Children dream of becoming professional basketball players and that dream takes lots of practice and many hours on the court. What do they need for those hours on the court? They need a pair of great quality shoes that provide support and traction throughout the entire game. These shoes are just that and more. They are created from quality materials that are made to last and also provide them with the support that their little feet need during those court times.

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Brand

A new company comes to the game with these shoes. They are a company that focuses on the practicality of shoes. They are created for comfort and support for lots of different activities. The company is committed to the quality that its customers want and delivering that each time. Each pair of shoes is created with high-quality materials, but also cost-effective materials making them affordable for everyone. The product delivered to the customer and making them feel the quality and charm put in each pair is their goal.

Materials

The upper part of these basketball shoes has been created from high-quality smooth leather. The quarter panels have been molded to provide the player with breathable and the structured support. Each of the panels is overlaid to provide a durable design that also helps lock in the midfoot.

Fit

Designed with love and created with care is one of the best qualities of this company. Then comes what is best offered from a company that creates that type of design. It features the flexibility that allows the foot to naturally move and groove on the court plus the solid piece of the outsole gives it the exceptional traction that those quick movements require.

7. NIKE Boy's Air Force One High

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93.7
NIKE Boy's Air Force One High
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Brand
96
Materials
93
Fit
92
best offer for today
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Nice selection of color patterns and sizes for big and little kids

Has a velcro ankle strap for added support

Has leather upper and rubber sole

Pivot point on the rubber outsole

Full-length Air-Sole unit for the midsole

A few complaints about arch support

The Air Force 1 High best kid basketball shoes have pivot points on the rubber outsole for the added traction to the already grooved pattern on the bottom. The sole is made completely of rubber, no synthetic here, and the upper section is all leather for true comfort.

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Brand

A full-length Air-Sole unit, unique to Nike, gives great support and cushioning for the heel, arch, and forefront. To aid the ankle, a velcro strap can be fastened over the laces when needed. Air holes in the upper leather provide adequate evaporation of moisture, and the superior stitching ensures a durable shoe that will last a long time. Abundant color choices and sizes for big and little kids are available for the little basketball fan in your family.

Materials

Pivot points on athletic shoes give the wearer added traction, agility, and flexibility in their foot movements. This allows better playing ability and enjoyment in the game. Better, quicker movements in basketball can make a good player great, and possibly the star of the team.

Fit

When feet take hard punishment from work or play, they deserve the best footwear that we can give them. Nike provides such great products for feet, especially ones with their Air-Sole units like this one. A full-length Air-Sole means that the whole foot will enjoy the “walking on air” feeling the whole time they are on. What could be better than a shoe that can provide this kind of comfort for prolonged periods?

8. NIKE KD Eight Inch OKC Thunder

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93.3
NIKE KD Eight Inch OKC Thunder
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Brand
96
Materials
94
Fit
90
best offer for today
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Mesh-upper section

Lightweight Flyweave construction

Rubber sole and phylon for cushioning

Zoom Air unit in sole

Large selection of colors

Could be more sizes to pick from (only youth sizes available currently)

Shoes are a bit narrow (maybe order a larger size than a regular shoe worn)

The Nike creators have outdone themselves with this model of basketball shoe for youths. The KD 8 features super lightweight Flyweave construction and a Zoom Air unit in the sole.

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Brand

Zoom Air is unique to Nike creations and is present in several of its footwear offerings. Youth KD 8 is one of them. It gives a superior, cushiony feel when walking or running, but its real quality is felt when landing from a jump. It greatly lessens the jolt of impact on the soles and midsole and also decreases the shock to the knees and spine. Nike certainly continues to develop sports equipment with the health and well-being of the user in mind.

Materials

This air unit consists of tightly stretched fibers that quickly rebound after impact for the entire life of the shoe. It creates a feeling of landing on an air pocket when the foot hits the floor. If that was not enough, the KD 8 also has Flyweave for the upper section adding stability, durability, and strength to the life of the shoe. For added support and tighter grip, cables were added to the forefront for the laces to go through in addition to the normal shoelace holes. Add to this the huge selection of colors and patterns to pick from and you have a wonderful piece of basketball footwear masterfully crafted by Nike.

Fit

Although the Flyweave material is not new in creation, as its beginnings are in aerospace technology, Nike did implement it in their shoe construction with great success. Flyweave construction allows the upper material to not only be lightweight but to give with the movements of the wearer. Woven materials are more flexible than standard fabrics, and thus make perfect coverings for athletic shoes.

9. Hawkwell Casual Outdoor

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93
Hawkwell Casual Outdoor
Amazon Link
Brand
92
Materials
94
Fit
93
best offer for today
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Durable

Great for games indoors and outdoors

Available in super cool bright colors

Affordable

The finger loop on the back makes it easy for younger children to put these on themselves

Runs small

The collar is designed with extra padding and the inside is lined with a soft fabric for added comfort. These best basketball shoes for youth are available in a variety of bright colors so your little one can truly stand out on the court.

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Brand

Hawkwell kids shoes are great for children who love to play basketball indoors and outdoors. The rubber soles are highly durable and will provide your child with an excellent level of traction wherever they play.

Materials

The perforations on the toe area give these shoes a high level of breathability. Priced under twenty-five dollars, we find these shoes to be super affordable as they are durable and designed for indoor and outdoor use.

Fit

The shoe laces will provide you with the reassurance that these sneakers will stay on your child’s feet during the entire basketball game. The finger loop on the back of the shoe makes it easy for smaller children to put these on themselves.

10. AND1 Show Out

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92.7
AND1 Show Out
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Brand
92
Materials
93
Fit
93
best offer for today
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$39.99

Lightweight

9 different colors

High topped ankle support

EVA midsole for cushion and comfort

Keep foot securely in shoe

A little difficult to get on and off with the high top

These are a great choice for players that have sustained an ankle injury or are just looking for a little extra support there. Acting almost like a brace, these shoes keep their foot and ankle secured inside and protect against tweaks, twists, sprains, and breaks.

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Brand

The AND1 Show Out is a reduced weight basketball sneaker. The midsole is made of EVA, resulting in plush comfort and superior support but without any added bulk or weight.

Materials

These shoes are meant to protect your child’s foot and stabilize them. The high tops provide added support and structure for kids and the shoe manages to remain lightweight so they can still sprint at top speed.

Fit

These fit snugly and yet aren’t so tight as to be uncomfortable. They help to stabilize players and support the areas of their body taking the most impact damage during practices and games. These shoes come in nine different colors and provide exceptional stability, especially for weak ankles prone to twists and sprains.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Brand

Most basketball shoes, especially ones for children, are made by well-known companies like Nike, Adidas, Under Armour and FILA. These are names that consumers can depend on for quality and durability. They do command higher prices than unknown brands, but you do get what you pay for in the long run. These quality basketball shoes will not fall apart, come unstitched, or be a hindrance to your child during their activities. They are safe products that can be trusted and adored.

Materials

Because these shoes are all made by well-known suppliers, the materials used in the creation are of the best. Most are made of leather, mesh, and rubber materials to produce the quality shoe that parents can trust for their kids. Added support padding in the areas of the ankle and heel help make the basketball footwear the best it can be and most definitely the most comfortable. The superb stitching of all of the shoes listed can be seen in the photos along with the strong durable laces. These models are the best that the great athletic shoes brands have to offer your little one for all of his or her basketball endeavors.

Fit

Shoes should fit your child as perfect as they can. Shoes too big or too small will cause injury to the feet. Even if frequent purchases are necessary every few months, it is worth having the shoes that properly fit your child.

Good basketball footwear can handle the many pivots, twists, and jumps that happen in this sport. Great ankle support is necessary from the cushioning provided by basketball shoe manufacturers. Basketball shoes must absorb plenty of shock to prevent injuries to the ankles and foot soles. This added support which also can be found in hiking boots for kids is not provided in regular running sneakers.

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Parents, Did You Know?

Basketball shoes are required for proper play in the sport. Simple running shoes are okay for playing and running, but basketball is more than just running. Basic requirements of good shoes for this sport are a good fit, strong support, and breathable materials.

Parents, Did You Know?

Sweaty shoes are not good for a couple of reasons. Moisture build-up causes fungus and disease of the feet if the shoes don’t dry out quickly. Sweat can make feet uncomfortable during activities and cause injury if the feet slide in the shoes. Make sure the shoes are made from lightweight materials that can breathe well, such as mesh.

Other Factors to Consider

Age Range

The biggest concern with any item of kids clothing, especially for children, is the size. With shoes made especially for kids, the sizes are specified as Little Kid, Big Kid, or simply Kid. A few of the named shoes offered some Youth sizes too. The sizes generally run true to regular shoe sizes for kids, so it is best to purchase the size that the child normally wears. The Little Kids sizes run from 10.5 to 13.5 and then from 1 to 3. The Big Kids sizes go from 3.5 to 7. Most, if not all, of the shoes here have these size choices available in abundance.

Frequently Asked Questions

q: What does the Big Kids’ size mean? Is it for little kids or adults?

a:

Big Kids’ size generally means 8 to 12 years old. In other words, they are not for toddlers or pre-kindergarten children.

q: The sizes for children’s shoes are very difficult to understand, especially since some manufacturers have different size measures. What is a general guide for kids’ shoes when they say big kids’ and little kids’ sizes?

a:

In general, little kids sizes for the United States standard run from sizes 10.5 to 13.5 and then from sizes 1 to 3. Big kids size run from 3.5 to 7. For all of the featured basketball shoes here, we specify for which size type the shoes were intended.

q: Are these basketball shoes for girls or boys, or when it says “boys’” does it means that they are only for boys to wear?

a:

All of the shoes listed can be worn by girls if the sole shape is contoured for their generally smaller feet. Girls usually have more slender feet than boys do, so that has to be kept in mind when purchasing boys' shoes for girls. Their feet might move around in the shoe too much because it would be bigger than girls’ shoes. Several girls’ basketball shoes are listed here as well. Naturally, all of the boys’ shoes can be worn by boys. The girls’ shoes would most certainly not be a good fit for a boy because of the foot shape and size.

q: Do the shoes listed come in any other colors than what is pictured?

a:

Usually, they do. Some parents ordered shoes with the insolesthinking they were getting the colors pictured, but a few received colors that were not listed. It is best to check with the manufacturer to see what is available before you buy if a certain color is needed. Make sure to look at all the thumbnail pictures, as all shoes featured had at least more than one color choice, but you must hover over the pictures to see them or click on each.

q: Do most of the children’s athletic shoe sizes run true to regular shoe sizes?

a:

Yes, the sizes more often than not run true to regular shoe sizes.

q: Have there been any known complaints of the kids’ basketball shoes featured coming apart, either the soles coming off or the stitching popping open? I really need dependable shoes that will at least last until my child has a chance to grow out of them first.

a:

No, all of these basketball shoes are known for their quality materials and superior stitching. They are all products of the top athletic name brands which are reputable for excellence. All of these models should still be in good shape (with moderate, usual wear) when the child has outgrown them.

Sources

  1. SportsTG Networ, 9 BENEFITS TO PLAYING BASKETBALL for KIDS, Online Article
  2. SHARON O'NEIL , How to Choose the Right Basketball Shoe , Online Article
  3. Austin , Kids Basketball Shoes : 5 Tips For The Perfect Fit, Informative Article
  4. Dicks Sporting Goods, How to Buy Basketball Shoes, How-To-Article
  5. JulieD , Basketball Sneakers: What Parents Need To Know, Online Article