Ranking the Top 50 Basketball Shoes of All Time
Just like there are some iconic players in the NBA, there are iconic shoes that were worn by them.
But what’s the greatest shoe ever?
There are plenty of candidates — from Michael Jordan’s iconic Air Jordans to Kobe Bryant’s signature shoes — but there can be only one best shoe of all-time.
To figure out the top basketball sneakers of all time, we looked at several factors — such as how they performed, whose signature shoes they were, and how well they sold.
BEST BASKETBALL SHOES OF ALL TIME
First Look at the Best Basketball Shoes of All Time
- Air Jordan III: Iconic Retro Classic
- Air Jordan I: Basketball Rebellion
- Nike Air Foamposite I: Futuristic Foam innovation
- Nike Kobe VIII: Kobe's Precision Performance
- Air Jordan XI: Timeless Championship Elegance
- Nike Kyrie 4: Kyrie's Agile Power
- Reebok Answer 1: Iverson's Signature Debut
- Reebok Shaqnosis 9: Shaq's Bold Swirl
- Air Jordan VI: MJ's Championship Sleekness
- Air Jordan IV: Timeless Hoops Heritage
AIR JORDAN
The Air Jordan, signature series of the legendary Micheal Jordan was launched in 1988 under a partnership between Jordan and Nike. This series has produced some of the best-selling basketball shoes of all time in history, and is a household name not only in NBA culture but fashion and lifestyle overall. Air Jordan kicked off Nike Basketball as we know it today.
NIKE KOBE
Launched in 2006, this line successfully enforced Kobe Bryant's vision of deviating from the traditional basketball style for sneakers. Making room for low-profile aesthetics while still incorporating new technology. Shoes from the line showcased this initiative, and elements such as the Mamba theme reflected Kobe's fondness, personality and talent. The Nike Kobe took basketball shoes by storm and created easily one of the best basketball shoe brands of all time.
NIKE LEBRON
Nike LeBron is the signature series marketed under LeBron James, which launched in 2003. As one of the greatest NBA players in history, this series mirrored the strong personality and powerful playing style of LeBron, while providing support and ease of use. This made it a hit not only in the NBA but sneaker culture as a whole.
REEBOK QUESTION
This signature shoe by NBA rookie Allen Iverson was launched in 1996, and came with a distinctive honeycomb design that made it easily noticeable and quickly gained traction. It stands out as one of the most unique designs for a basketball shoe ever.
UNDER ARMOUR CURRY
Under Armour Curry shoes, which launched in 2015, was popular for its functional and comfortable designs. It provided the responsiveness and lightweight feel which is a reflection of Stephen Curry's balling style.
AIR MORE UPTEMPO
The Air More UpTempo quickly became one of the most popular shoes in the 1996 NBA season. A top choice of NBA legend Scottie Pippen, they started getting noticed as Pippen would wear it to his games. It had a unique design with the iconic oversized "AIR" on both sides, and has been a top shoe brand in basketball since the 90s.
CONVERSE WEAPON & CONVERSE CHUCK TAYLOR
Converse is a widely popular brand, not only in basketball but sports in general and lifestyle as well. The Converse Weapon was the favorite of several popular athletes in the '80s. Followed by the Converse Chuck Taylor which was launched in 1917, the brand is considered the first signature basketball shoe in NBA history.
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TOP 50 BASKETBALL SHOES OF ALL TIME
1. AIR JORDAN III
Release Year: 1988
Whose Signature Shoe? Michael Jordan
The AIR JORDAN III had a pivotal role in Michael Jordan's career and the success of the Air Jordan line overall. Jordan had planned on leaving Nike but actually changed his mind once he saw these sneakers. These were also the shoes that had the jumping man logo, which is one of the most iconic symbols to date.
The 1988 Slam Dunk Contest was iconic because Jordan dunked the ball from the free-throw line. Once fans saw this, they wanted a pair of these sneakers, solidifying a top spot as the most influential and best basketball shoes of all time.
2. AIR JORDAN I
Release Year: 1985
Whose Signature Shoe? Michael Jordan
This was the very first sneaker in the Air Jordan series.
When Michael Jordan wore these shoes, he had some of his most memorable moments. Interestingly enough, the NBA deemed them illegal as the design was unconventional at the time. This sneaker did not conform to the league's uniform policies, and actually fined him every time he wore them. This controversy, along with the innovative design propelled it into becoming a symbol of basketball and street culture.
3. NIKE AIR FOAMPOSITE I
Release Year: 1997
Whose Signature Shoe? Anfernee "Penny" Hardaway
This sneaker had a unique and futuristic design that was ahead of its time and defied the traditional basketball shoe aesthetic. When these Nike Air shoes were being created, they were intended to be worn by Scottie Pippen. After a meeting with Nike, though, they caught the attention of Hardaway.
4. NIKE KOBE VIII
Release Year: 2013
Whose Signature Shoe? Kobe Bryant, DeMar DeRozan
The inspiration for this Nike Kobe shoe came from the Chinese Year of the Snake, which explains the Black Mamba. The sneaker was unique and different from anything else on the NBA court during that time. This basketball shoe featured Nikes Engineered Mesh technology that enhanced breathability and comfort, and was recognized for contributing to the evolution of basketball footwear.
5. AIR JORDAN XI
Release Year: 1995
Whose Signature Shoe? Michael Jordan, LeBron James
Michael Jordan wore these shoes in his 1995 return to the NBA and went on to have a fantastic season. He was the second player to ever win MVP for the regular season as well as the All-Star Game and the NBA Finals.
This basketball shoe made an appearance in the movie "Space Jam" and made a cultural impact beyond the basketball court.
6. NIKE KYRIE 4
Release Year: 2018
Whose Signature Shoe? Kyrie Irving
This sneaker helped Irving with his stellar skills during games, while also showing his personal style when he wasn't on the basketball court.
Easily one of the top basketball shoes that gives a balance of style and performance among basketball shoe brands.
7. REEBOK ANSWER 1
Release Year: 1997
Whose Signature Shoe? Allen Iverson
These best performance shoes were the second-longest running basketball sneakers of all time, right after the Air Jordans. Not only were they unique, but they were lightweight and comfortable, which made it easier for an NBA player to do their skills on the court. The shoes were made to reflect the fearless playing style of Iverson, and is now a symbol of his influence in basketball culture.
8. REEBOK SHAQNOSIS
Release Year: 1995
Whose Signature Shoe? Shaquille O’Neal
This sneaker enforced the larger-than-life attitude of O’Neal. It is one of the best basketball shoes that had a distinctive aesthetic, but retained the traditional basketball shoe style. The commercial was a team of Shaqs going against another team of Shaqs. Basketball fans absolutely loved this and flocked to the store to get a pair.
9. AIR JORDAN VI
Release Year: 1991
Whose Signature Shoe? Michael Jordan, Carmelo Anthony, and many more
This sneaker was launched around the same time Jordan won his first NBA championship title. Hence it is tied to some significant memorable moments like the "Carmine" edition at the 1991 NBA finals. This contributed to its lasting legacy when it comes to the greatest basketball shoes and the history of basketball in general.
The design of this sneaker was rumored to be based off of Jordan's sportscar.
10. AIR JORDAN IV
Release Year: 1989
Whose Signature Shoe? Michael Jordan
This Air Jordan has an iconic design and is associated with some key moments in NBA history like "The Shot" playoff game in 1989. Did you know that Spike Lee had some of his actors wear these in the movie "Do the Right Thing"?
This sneaker was available for $100 and you had four different colorways to choose from. It remains one of the most sought after basketball shoes of all time.
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11. NIKE LEBRON SOLDIER XII
Release Year: 2018
Whose Signature Shoe? LeBron James
Not only do these Nike LeBron shoes have Zoom Air technology, but they have a whopping four straps to ensure you stay in your shoes during those intense moments of playing basketball. The basketball shoe design had much emphasis on versatility, ease of use, and support. Whiles still complementing James' aggressive style of play.
12. REEBOK KAMIKAZE II
Release Year: 1996
Whose Signature Shoe? Shawn Kemp
This is an iconic basketball shoe with a unique design that symbolizes the explosive and vibrant playing style of Kemp. The commercial for this shoe put Kemp in the spotlight and was released during the Seattle SuperSonics' run to the 1996 NBA Finals.
13. AIR JORDAN V
Release Year: 1990
Whose Signature Shoe? Michael Jordan
These Jordan shoes were considered the best Jordans ever and were a huge improvement over the previous versions. They also had the long tongue, which may have helped showcase Jordan's signature look.
The sneaker quickly became one of the best-selling basketball shoes during that time of release.
14. LI-NING WAY OF WADE
Release Year: 2014
Whose Signature Shoe? Dwyane Wade
Wade was one of the first NBA players of all time to crossover and collaborate with Asian markets. His basketball shoe line had great performance features and distinctive design elements. As a result, people all over the world wanted these shoes.
15. NIKE ZOOM KOBE V
Release Year: 2010
Whose Signature Shoe? Kobe Bryant
Not only did this low-top shoe do better than many high-top options on the market, but they were worn by the Black Mamba. The design emphasized the lightweight feel Kobe was pushing at the time.
16. NIKE DURANT V
Release Year: 2012
Whose Signature Shoe? Kevin Durant
This sneaker had three awesome technologies, which were Hyperfuse, Max Air, and Zoom Air. These things made the shoes comfortable, durable and one of the best basketball shoes for jumping.
17. NIKE ZOOM KD 4
Release Year: 2011
Whose Signature Shoe? Kevin Durant
One of the greatest things about these Nike Zoom shoes is that you could get a pair for under $100. Durant also included imagery that represents important times in the NBA and items in his life as a basketball player.
18. NIKE AIR ALONZO
Release Year: 1997
Whose Signature Shoe? Alonzo Mourning
Mourning's signature shoe was made with a boot cut and had the number 33 on the tongue, and enforces a good game use in Nike basketball.
19. REEBOK PUMP
Release Year: 1989
Whose Signature Shoe? Dee Brown
These basketball shoes sold out quickly, but they kind of fell off after a while. However, it has cemented its place among the top basketball shoes of all time by being one of the first to have the pump technology. You could pump the shoes to fit your feet and create a snug fit.
20. NIKE AIR MAX LEBRON VII
Release Year: 2009
Whose Signature Shoe? LeBron James
Not only did these Nike LeBron shoes have Air Max cushioning, but they also had Flywire technology. These things together made the performance basketball shoes great, and it helped that they were comfortable and lightweight.
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21. ADIDAS KB8
Release Year: 1997
Whose Signature Shoe? Kobe Bryant
These Adidas basketball shoes were some of the first basketball shoes ever created to have the Feet You Wear technology, which mimics the natural curves and shape of the human foot. These were later renamed, but are still iconic.
This sneaker helped to establish a legacy for Kobe in basketball footwear, before he eventually moved on to sign with Nike and release the Nike Kobe Line.
22. NIKE KOBE IV
Release Year: 2009
Whose Signature Shoe? Kobe Bryant
These shoes reflect Kobe's dedication to performance and style. They have been dubbed the best shoes in the Nike Kobe line. These Nike basketball shoes adopt a lightweight and low profile design while still making use of new technology.
23. NIKE ZOOM FLIGHT THE GLOVE
Release Year: 1998
Whose Signature Shoe? Gary Payton
These Nike Zoom sneakers had a glove-like enclosure on the outside and a normal sneaker on the inside. Its distinctive design made it stand out in basketball footwear history.
24. FILA GRANT HILL
Release Year: 1995
Whose Signature Shoe? Grant Hill
Before Hill teamed up with Fila, they weren't really known for releasing basketball shoes. His first shoe brought in more than $100 million every year until he got injured.
25. NIKE AIR MORE UPTEMPO
Release Year: 1996
Whose Signature Shoe? Scottie Pippen
A big reason why these basketball shoes were so popular is because Pippen wore them in the Bulls’ 1996 NBA title run, as well as when he won an Olympic Gold Medal.
Not only were these a top choice among the fans of Pippen, but they were worn by Brendan Fraser in the movie George of the Jungle.
26. JORDAN MELO M10
Release Year: 2014
Whose Signature Shoe? Carmelo Anthony
Tinker Hatfield played a large role in the design and creation of these shoes, and he pulled it off effortlessly. The focus of this sneaker was to enhance responsiveness, and its features reflect exactly that, making it one of the greatest basketball shoes ever created.
27. NIKE AIR MAX UPTEMPO
Release Year: 1995
Whose Signature Shoe? Scottie Pippen, David Robinson
Many members of the Chicago Bulls team wore the shoes during the 1995-1996 season and the team went on to win 73 games and the NBA title.
28. CONVERSE WEAPON
Release Year: 1986
Whose Signature Shoe? Larry Bird, Magic Johnson
The Choose Your Own Weapon campaign was a huge hit and boosted sales of this basketball shoe. It also helped that Magic Johnson and Larry Bird appeared in the commercial, which was in French Lick, Indiana.
29. PUMA CLYDE
Release Year: 1973
Whose Signature Shoe? Walt "Clyde" Frazier
Frazier was one of the first to get his own signature shoe. While they were pretty basic athletic shoes, they were a huge hit during that time, and also recognized for its role in the adaptation of off-court style for basketball players.
30. ADIDAS MUTOMBO
Release Year: 1992
Whose Signature Shoe? Dikembe Mutombo
This sneaker is referred to as one of the most unique basketball shoes of all time, and Adidas helped incorporate Mutombo's beliefs and heritage into it.
The commercials for this shoe basically reminded you that while you didn't have any of Mutombo's stuff, you could get a pair of his iconic basketball shoes.
31. CONVERSE AERO JAM
Release Year: 1993
Whose Signature Shoe? Larry Johnson
Remember the Grandmama commercials in the ‘90s? These commercials played a huge part in the sale of this sneaker.
This excellent basketball shoe reflects the captivating playing style of Johnson, and its cultural impact. The campaign for the shoe was super successful, and they had an easy transition from the past commercials that had basketball legends Magic Johnson and Larry Bird.
32. STARBURY
Release Year: 2006
Whose Signature Shoe? Stephon Marbury
Starbury's company, one of the top brands in basketball footwear, only charged $15 for a pair of these basketball shoes, which meant those from low-income families could have a chance to follow their basketball dreams.
33. EWING ATHLETICS 33 HI
Release Year: 1993
Whose Signature Shoe? Patrick Ewing
This sneaker is named after basketball player Ewing’s jersey number, and remains one of the few signature shoes to be produced by an independent brand for an NBA player. It made nearly $1M in sales, and makes our list of the best basketball shoes of all time.
34. NIKE AIR PIPPEN I
Release Year: 1997
Whose Signature Shoe? Scottie Pippen
Pippen teamed up with Nike to release these shoes not long after Michael Jordan released his. Despite the competition, it still held up pretty well. This sneaker is a representation of Pippen's contribution to the success of the Chicago Bulls in the 1990s.
35. UNDER ARMOUR CURRY 2.5
Release Year: 2016
Whose Signature Shoe? Stephen Curry
This sneaker is inspired by Curry's style of playing. With reference to coordination and swiftness, the Armour Curry shoe is popular for good on-court performances and ability to support quick movements, due to its lightweight and responsive design.
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36. NIKE AIR PENNY I
Release Year: 1995
Whose Signature Shoe? Anfernee "Penny" Hardaway
This is the first signature shoe of Anfernee Hardaway. It was inspired by Hardaway's team, Orlando Magic, which explains the blue, black and white colors. The sneaker was designed for on-court performance hence it was more durable and made to last longer, and great for both on and off the court.
Lil’ Penny, voiced by Chris Rock, really helped to propel the exposure of these basketball shoes.
37. REEBOK SHAQ ATTAQ
Release Year: 1993
Whose Signature Shoe? Shaquille O’Neal
This basketball shoe is iconic for its bold design and pump technology. It has a unique style that is notable in basketball culture. This was Shaq's first signature shoe and his performance on the court was a domineering factor of the success of it.
38. NIKE AIR PENNY II
Release Year: 1996
Whose Signature Shoe? Anfernee "Penny" Hardaway
Not only did this Nike Air sneaker have a wavy foam midsole, but they also had Air Max in the heels and Zoom Air in the forefoot. These features together made it super comfortable and a highly sought after basketball shoe.
39. REEBOK QUESTION
Release Year: 1996
Whose Signature Shoe? Allen Iverson
A signature shoe by an NBA legend is inherently considered a classic. There haven't been many rookies that have had their own signature sneaker, but Iversion is one of the few to do so. Reebok Question had an innovative design that defied traditional basketball shoe aesthetic, impacting others that followed.
40. NIKE FLIGHT HUARACHE
Release Year: 1992
Whose Signature Shoe? Scottie Pippen
The sneaker design is an adaptation of Hatfield's classic running shoe called the Air Huarache. It was also Eric Avar's breakout design while being part of the company, earning its spot in top basketball shoes.
41. ADIDAS T-MAC 2
Release Year: 2002
Whose Signature Shoe? Tracy McGrady
This basketball shoe received a positive audience response with its commercial. At the end of the commercial, McGrady goes against three opponents and beats them. He finishes with a one-handed slam dunk and the commercial closes out on a close-up of the sneakers.
42. NIKE AIR ZOOM FLIGHT V
Release Year: 1997
Whose Signature Shoe? Jason Kidd
This is another commercial that made basketball fans laugh and, while it didn't focus much on the shoe itself, it was still a winning advertisement that got them to the store and made its mark as one of the best basketball shoes.
43. ADIDAS J WALL
Release Year: 2014
Whose Signature Shoe? John Wall
One of the reasons this basketball shoe sold out quickly is also thanks to a commercial that hit the mark. In the ad, Wall's friend says his contract will lead to bigger things but there would be a big downfall.
44. ADIDAS CRAZY 8 UNIVERSITY RED
Release Year: 2013
Whose Signature Shoe? Damian Lillard, Jimmy Butler
When these sneakers first came out, the stores around Portland where Lillard plays had trouble keeping them in stock. In fact, some outlets were completely sold out in a matter of a few hours.
45. NIKE SHOX BB4
Release Year: 2000
Whose Signature Shoe? Vince Carter
These were one of the first basketball shoes that Nike produced that had the Shox technology in the heels. Which then makes sense to be included in the best basketball shoes of all time. Not only were they stylish, but they gave you a little spring to your step.
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46. CONVERSE CHUCK TAYLOR ALL STARS
Release Year: 1920
Whose Signature Shoe? Almost every basketball player in the early ‘60s.
These sneakers were super popular in the 1960s because Converse owned 80% of the shoe market at the time. Eventually they were bought by Nike, but there's no forgetting these impactful OG sneakers.
47. ADIDAS HARDEN 2
Release Year: 2018
Whose Signature Shoe? James Harden
This is one of the best basketball shoes that are great for both on and off the court! They have the durability to play the game as well as the style to wear them out.
48. NIKE LEBRON VIII
Release Year: 2010
Whose Signature Shoe? LeBron James
Moderately lacking was the South Beach colorway which did not really look great on other shoes, but it looked fantastic on this one. These Nike LeBron shoes also came in a variety of colors, as well as both low-top and high top.
49. NIKE AIR ZOOM GENERATION
Release Year: 2003
Whose Signature Shoe? LeBron James
This top basketball shoe was designed by Eric Avar, Aaron Cooper, and Tinker Hatfield. Indeed, they did a good job in creating this iconic number. The sneaker was actually a quickstrike release and only 500 pairs of shoes were sold worldwide.
50. ADIDAS ADIZERO ROSE 2
Release Year: 2010
Whose Signature Shoe? Derrick Rose
This basketball shoe was a hit in the market. One of the main reasons for this was because of the well-received commercial, where Rose goes against bullfighters and goes right over them before finishing his moves with an impeccable slam dunk.
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