Finding the best budget basketball shoes has never been more important—especially with prices climbing across the footwear market. Many players want solid traction, cushioning, and durability without paying premium signature-shoe prices.
Table of Contents
This guide breaks down the top five budget models of the year, based entirely on real-world performance insights, comfort tests, and value for money.
In the sections below, you’ll get a complete, structured review of each shoe, plus a look at popular models that often drop below the $110 threshold even if the retail price is slightly higher. Whether you play indoors, outdoors, or need something compatible with orthotics, this buyer’s guide has you covered.
Adidas Dame 10
The Adidas Dame 10 kicks off the list by offering excellent containment, strong traction, and upper materials that feel premium for the price. The standout feature here is the shoe’s compatibility with orthotics—great news for ankle sprainers or players needing extra support.
Key Strengths
- Impressive upper construction with breathable materials
- Secure containment suitable for lateral heavy players
- Excellent grip and tread pattern
- Works very well with orthotics
- Durable shank plate improves stability
While Lightstrike isn’t the reviewer’s all-time favorite cushioning, the Dame 10 still offers enough responsiveness and protection—especially because of its supportive shank. For its sub-$110 price point, it delivers true value, and it’s refreshing to see a signature athlete intentionally keeping a model affordable.
Nike Giannis Immortality 4
The Giannis Immortality line continues to outperform many signature models, and the Giannis Immortality 4 is no exception. This shoe is widely accessible—you can even find it at retailers like Kohl’s—and offers great all-around performance.
What Makes It Great
- Stable lateral flange for safety and balance
- Easy break-in time with minimal heel slippage
- Very responsive when new
- Accepts orthotics
- Attractive design at an accessible price
Budget shoes inevitably require sacrifice somewhere, but this model minimizes drawbacks. If you want to elevate the performance further, the reviewer even mentions an eBook teaching players how to upgrade budget shoes to feel like top-tier models.
“Read Also: Best Winter Sneakers for 2025“
Nike GT Cut Academy
While none of the GT Cut 3 family is the reviewer’s personal favorite, the GT Cut Academy stands out as the most balanced option in terms of stability, comfort, and all-around usability.
Key Features
- Mimics the performance profile of the Kobe line
- More stable than the standard GT Cut 3
- Popular among NBA players
- Speed-focused design ideal for guards
If you’re searching for a fast, responsive guard shoe with a modern low-to-the-court feel, the Academy is an excellent budget pick.
Adidas Adizero Select 3.0
This shoe almost took the top spot. Despite using Lightstrike, the Adizero Select 3.0 delivers surprisingly great cushioning, stability, and overall performance.
Why It’s a Top Performer
- Remarkably consistent and responsive cushioning
- Wide, stable base with great lateral support
- Highly breathable upper
- Excellent compatibility with orthotics
- Easy to recommend for nearly any position
The shank setup keeps your foot elevated so you don’t compress the foam excessively, adding durability. Many NBA players use this model for a reason—it checks almost every performance box.
“Read Also: Best Winter Shoes for Men“
Budget-Friendly Models Above Retail but Mostly Under $110 Now
These shoes retail above $110 but frequently drop below the threshold depending on colorway and retailer.
A1 Model
- Retail price: $115
- Often discounted under $110
- Lightweight with soft cushioning
- Full-length tread pattern
- Feels like a refined version of Nike’s best budget models
New Balance Two-Way V5
- Often found between $49 and $65 depending on colorways
- Not always starting under $110, but frequently drops
- Stable, durable, and popular among players needing comfort
Way of Wade Shadow 6 / Shadow 6 V2
- Retail: $120
- Current price: ~$98 across most colorways
- Exceptional for indoor and outdoor hoops
- Also excellent for pickleball
- Considered one of the “best overall deals” available
“Read Also: Best Walking Shoes of 2025“
361° Team Joker (Best Overall Value)
Earning the number one spot is the 361 Team Joker, a shoe that delivers premium performance at a budget price. Even if it’s slightly less versatile than the Adizero Select, the value is unbeatable.
What Makes It the best
- Extremely fast and bouncy ride
- High-performance top-loaded shank
- Durable rubber traction pattern
- Breathable tongue and quality upper materials
- Flagship-level performance at under $110
- Often discounted to around $98
The only potential drawback is the bulging circular tread patterns, which some players may need time to get used to—but performance-wise, the shoe excels in speed and responsiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Budget Basketball Shoes
1. Are budget basketball shoes durable enough for outdoor courts?
Yes—many shoes on this list, especially the Way of Wade Shadow 6 and the 361 Team Joker, have durable rubber suitable for outdoor play.
2. Can budget shoes support orthotics?
Absolutely. Models like the Adidas Dame 10, Giannis Immortality 4, and Adizero Select 3.0 work exceptionally well with orthotics.
3. Are budget shoes good for players with ankle issues?
Yes, especially shoes with strong lateral containment such as the Dame 10 and Immortality 4.
4. Should I prioritize cushioning or traction on a budget?
Traction is usually more important for safety and performance. Most budget shoes here offer reliable grip even if cushioning varies.
5. Do NBA players wear budget basketball shoes?
Yes, especially models like the GT Cut Academy and Adizero Select, which offer pro-level features at accessible price points.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on the Best Budget Basketball Shoes
If you’re searching for the best budget basketball shoes, this year’s lineup delivers impressive performance across multiple price ranges. Whether you want stability, bounce, breathability, or compatibility with orthotics, the top five list provides clear winners based on real-world testing.
The 361 Team Joker earns the #1 spot thanks to its unmatched value, but the Adizero Select 3.0 is nearly tied for performance. And don’t overlook models like the A1 or Shadow 6, which frequently drop below $110 and offer incredible bang for your buck.
Before you buy, check for deals—colorways often matter! Share your own discoveries and prices with others so more players can benefit from premium performance at a budget-friendly price.
If you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with a friend or teammate. Your next great basketball shoe might be waiting in the comments below.
As a dedicated footwear reviewer, I have spent years analyzing and testing athletic shoes across every category, from high-performance running sneakers to lifestyle-inspired basketball silhouettes. My work goes beyond simple first impressions; each review is built on a foundation of hands-on experience, thorough research, and attention to the details that matter most to athletes and casual wearers alike. I aim to bridge the gap between brands’ marketing claims and real-world performance, giving readers an honest, balanced perspective.
My writing style combines technical evaluation with an accessible tone, so both professionals and everyday enthusiasts can understand the strengths and weaknesses of each shoe. Whether discussing midsole cushioning technology, outsole traction, or upper material breathability, I break down complex features into practical insights. Readers trust my reviews because they know I highlight both the benefits and potential drawbacks, helping them make more confident purchasing decisions.
Over time, my work has evolved into a comprehensive resource for anyone seeking guidance on athletic footwear. I regularly compare new releases with previous models to highlight improvements or missed opportunities, while also exploring how different shoes fit specific activities—such as marathon training, weightlifting, or casual streetwear. By staying updated with industry trends and listening to community feedback, I ensure that my reviews remain relevant, informative, and genuinely useful.
Ultimately, my mission is to provide clarity in a crowded market. With countless options available, choosing the right pair of shoes can feel overwhelming. Through in-depth, unbiased, and engaging reviews, I strive to make that decision easier, equipping readers with the knowledge they need to find footwear that truly matches their performance goals and personal style.
