On WearTesters, we have created a slew of different lists that we are constantly updating of the best overall basketball shoes, and the best budget basketball shoes, all of which are not exactly the best value basketball shoes.
Why are these the best value basketball shoes of 2024?
Our best overall basketball shoe list compiles the best basketball shoes available with no regard to price, our best budget basketball shoe list compiles the best low-priced models out there, often shoe brands release as inexpensive performance options, and lastly, our best basketball deals page offers our picks of the best basketball shoes that are currently on sale.
But, there is one other way to organize basketball shoes taking into consideration performance and price: by their value. That was the genesis of our best-value basketball shoes list.
In this list, you’ll find the best bang-for-your-buck options currently on the market. You’ll find both expensive and inexpensive options as long as they pack a ton of value for the money you pay.
We’ll consider technology, on-court performance, and all-around versatility, so it’s no easy task to make this list even with testing hundreds of basketball shoes each year.
Whether you’re looking for that one shoe that will have you covered no matter what position you play or the surface you play on, or you’re just looking for the most advanced shoe at the best price, this is the list for you. You can also check Weartesters in Español Best Value Basketball Shoes Picks.
Last updated 12.23.2024
Best Value Basketball Shoes Show
Best Value Basketball Shoes 2024
361 Joker 1
361 has been making some really great basketball shoes. The 361 BIG3 5.0 Quick Pro has a weird name but is a great basketball shoe, and Aaron Gordon’s AG 5 is one of the most tech-heavy and well-performing basketball shoes on the market. The Joker 1, simply put, is a great first signature shoe, and there are not many (or any) better-equipped basketball shoes for $129. This is a very versatile basketball shoe. Whether you are a big, power-based player or a light, speedy guard, the Joker 1 has you covered. Read the full review. Price: $130
Nike Air Max Impact 4
The Air Max Impact 4 is very similar to the Air Max Impact 3, and that’s a good thing. The Air Max Impact 3 was the best budget model of last year, and the Impact 4 will likely take those honors this year. One standout feature of both shoes is the cushion. The tooling (midsole/outsole) stays mostly the same, which is great news for fans of the last year’s model. It’s Phylon foam with a heel Air Max unit. One of the best-value basketball shoes out there. See the full review. Price: $90
Way of Wade All City 12 Encore
The Way of Wade All City 12 Encore is an updated version of the 12th iteration in Dwyane Wade’s All City line. The Way of Wade All City 12 Encore is a very solid all-around performance model with no real weak points. The full-length Boom cushioning is very well balanced, the traction is great and more durable than it looks, and containment and support are near-elite. As a bonus, this is one of the rare Way of Wade models to feature (synthetic) leather. You would be hard put to find a better setup for the price, making it one of the best value basketball shoes of the year. Read the full review. Price: $150
Wade Shadow 5 V2
The Way of Wade Shadow 5 V2 is a solid all-around performance basketball shoe, especially considering that it retails for just $120. It is also one of the most well-ventilated shoes we have ever tested, making it a great option for outdoor hooping during the summer months. The traction is trustworthy and will hold up very well outdoors, the cushioning provides a well-balanced and fluid ride on the court, the support features will keep you locked in and reactive on court, and the super-lightweight material setup is elite. On top of that. Read the full review. Price: $120
Puma Stewie 3
The Puma Stewie 3 is an elevated and improved Kobe 11. It’s more flexible, wider, lower to the ground, with better torsional support and more durable cushioning…so if you like the Kobe 11 or you’re looking for an affordable Kobe substitute, the Puma Stewie 3 should be at the top of your list.
With this shoe, you’ll get top-notch traction, a smooth and reactive ride on court, and elite lockdown and containment. And you get all of that for the very reasonable price of $120. It’s more of a guard shoe, and if you need above-average cushioning, this might not the shoe for you. But all around, the Stewie 3 is a great performance model, a worthy 3rd model in Brianna Stewart’s signature line, and one of the best value basketball shoes. Read the full review. Price: $130
Nike LeBron NXXT Gen AMPD
The Nike LeBron NXXT Gen AMPD is a solid and well-rounded basketball shoe. For $170 you’re getting almost everything the Nike LeBron 21 has to offer, and that shoe is currently our top pick for the best overall basketball shoe of the year. It is also a basketball shoe that almost any type of player will enjoy, and a more than decent option for outdoor play. If you are looking for a more inexpensive version of the flagship LeBron, this is the shoe you are looking for, and even if you aren’t, this might be one of the safest bets out there in terms of on-court performance. Read the full review.
EQLZ 247
The EQLZ 247 is an excellent, well-rounded, high-performing basketball shoe, which is made all the more impressive since this shoe is coming to us from a practically unknown brand. The EQLZ 247’s innovative traction system, comfortable and responsive cushioning, high-quality materials, and well-designed support features collectively contribute to its impressive on-court performance. For $150, you’re getting great value for its performance and quality, making it a solid choice for serious basketball players looking for a unique and beastly on-court performance model. Read the full review. Price: $150
Puma Stewie 2
The Puma Stewie 2 is Bianna Stewarts’ second signature, and simply put it is just a great all-around performance model. The shoe boasts excellent indoor traction, a very well-balanced and bouncy cushioning system, and a very secure and natural falling build. If on top of that, you add that they retail for just $125, you can see why this is one of the best value basketball shoes of the year. KEEP IN MIND that in the US the Stewie 2 comes in woman’s sizes, so if you want the correct men’s size you will need to go 1.5 sizes up (ie: 12M = 13.5W). Read the full review. Price: $125
Puma All Pro Nitro
The Puma All Pro Nitro is quite different from the original model, but it is a more than worthy successor to an iconic performance basketball shoe. This iteration boasts outstanding traction, a bouncy and well-balanced cushioning system, and decent materials that effectively fulfill their purpose, resulting in an exceptional all-around performance basketball shoe. Read the full review. Price: $130
Anta Kai 1
This is the ultimate Kyrie shoe. If you’ve enjoyed Kyrie’s shoes with Nike, you’ll love these. They are secure, agile, quick, and bouncy. This is a wonderful first signature for Kyrie with Anta, and, considering that they retail for just $125, they’re easily one of the best bang-for-your-buck performance models of the year. They take a bit to break in, and ventilation is an issue, but in general, these are great and one of the best value basketball shoes of the year. Read the full review. Price $125.
Thinking of a shoe we should add to the best value basketball shoes list? Comment below or message us on Instagram or Twitter.