The basketball sneaker market is developing rapidly to meet users’ tastes and improve comfort. However, there are some of the worst basketball shoes that brands want to forget about, and you may want to avoid them.
These pairs can’t bring either effective performance or aesthetic look for the players. Let’s follow along for more details about these shoes right now!
Top 14 Worst Basketball Shoes
Some basketball footwear products can be a shame of big brands such as Reebok Answer 9 “All-Star,” Adidas Kobe 2, Nike Flightposite III, or Jordan 13 Fusions. Although some of them can be among the best basketball shoes in terms of performance, their appearance fails to meet most users’ tastes.
Reebok Answer 9 “All-Star”
The shoes were worn by Allen Iverson, but that’s not enough to make the Reebok Answer 9 “All-Star” a hit but fail under the miss category. It features a self-inflating Pump, DMX Shear cushioning, and Velcro straps. Unfortunately, this combination turns out to be hotchpotch rather than a well-thought-out design.
Its wacky silhouette is not the only thing to complain about. This bulky pair does not match the fast-paced playing style. If you also pursue the same quick style, it’s not for you.
Dada CDubbz “Chrome”
In 2002, urban clothing brand Dada capitalized on the trend of “Bling Bling” and chromed-out cars in pop culture by introducing their signature “Spinners” to NBA All-Star Weekend. The CDubbz, made from patent leather, was worn by Chris Webber during the All-Star Game.
The CDubbz were not bad in their ordinary design, but the mirror-like effect gave them a horrible appearance. The model demonstrated the brand’s dedication to creativity and innovation. After all, however, it’s more likely a failure and was remembered for the wrong reason.
Starbury II (Stephon Marbury)
Sneakerheads describe Starbury II as cheap and low-quality. People can’t expect more than a clown shoe for the price of just around $15.
Although the design was not as horrible as their earlier version, you can’t deny its low-taste aesthetic. Furthermore, these shoes are bendable in half, so you’d better avoid them.
Adidas Kobe 2
While Adidas has produced some of the most popular shoes, several models are not welcomed on the market, notably the Adidas Kobe 2.
This model, made in 2002 and worn by Kobe Bryant, is considered the ugliest sneaker of all time. Its design combines a space boot, cinder block, and cheese block. While Adidas is credited with creativity, it is not a good idea to produce other shoes like this again.
The design is a low point in the Kobe lineage, with a futuristic appearance that makes it look less like a shoe than ever. Basketball players and sneakerheads should forget about using these sneakers.
Reebok Preachers
These sneakers have a sole design that extends to the heel, making them appear to be growing barnacles. To be honest, they also look a little bit childish.
The kicks were popularized by Shaquille O’Neal, possibly due to their base support. However, these sneakers are unappealing and not worth the price.
Puma Sky II
The shoes evoke a retro vibe, yet they’re destroyed by the ridiculous top leg warmer and low-top design. It does not appear to be attractive on the court as well.
Due to this reason, some people may joke about having Puma Sky II as a shin strapper. Yet, it’s understandable.
Nike Flightposite III
Nike’s Flightposite line was well-known for its unique futuristic designs, but the IIIs have been criticized for their strap-holding features and obtrusive appearance. The brand added too many things to a pair of shoes.
The shoe’s appearance could be improved without the shiny bug-eye elements. Yet, the worst thing is the ugly foams, making the Nike Flightposite III a disappointing failure for the designer.
Dada Sprewell Spinners
Latrell Sprewell, the face of Dada, introduced his “Spinner” shoes, which initially had a unique concept. However, the model was unsuccessful due to the spinning rim and flashy design.
The spinning rim annoyed users with the sound of pumped air created every time they walked. Without these two crazy features, Dada Sprewell Spinners would be impressive.
Jordan XV
The Jordan XV deserves a spot on the blacklist of basketball athletes. It was even considered the worst Air Jordan before the Air Jordan 2009 was released.
Its hideous weaving upper and weird tongue received the most criticism from users. Though the brand has many hits, this version is one of the most disappointing failures it wants to forget about.
Jordan 13 Fusions
The Fusion series is a combination of Jordan retro uppers and Air Force One soles. That might be why this pair is on the list of ugliest shoes since the two parts didn’t match well.
The design may be fine for easy-going people. However, it appears to be out-of-date for picky ones, and the pair looks a little awkward at the front due to the combination.
Reebok Answer IX (Allen Iverson)
Reebok re-established its “Pump” concept with the Allen Iverson line, incorporating it into various shoe models. Reebok Answer IX is one of the unsuccessful products based on this concept.
The shoes with a red/ gray release valve on the heel were a response to the negative impact on the Allen Iverson line. The design makes the pair look like a toy.
New Balance P790
New Balance should focus on its niche, running shoes, rather than try to produce this unsuccessful basketball shoe model. This may be because it lacks an understanding of the market and its failed attempts to emulate brands like Converse and British Knights.
With their iconic “N” on every model and version, the word “New Balance” on the ankle of the P790 seems too much. Plus, some people may think the design looks a bit cheap.
Nike Air Max-a-Lot
Nike Air Max-a-Lot is another design that needs to be deleted from the brand’s history. The combination of gradient Rasta colors hits the eyes. It’s not to mention that the patent leather gives it a cheap feeling.
Furthermore, you will find out the shoes have a weird shape that should not be on your feet. That’s enough about the Nike Air Max-a-Lot to make it on the list of the worst basketball sneakers.
Jordan Melo M9
The M9, a signature Melo shoe, performed nicely on the court. However, its design is the reason it is here. It was inspired by the luxury watch concept but turned out to be an unfinished sample.
What makes it become an unfortunate failure is the support system’s upper execution. It does not look elegant enough to turn the model into a hit.
How to Recognize Bad Basketball Shoes
Basketball players need to wear proper footwear for safety and performance. Improper shoes can lead to discomfort and even physical injuries, such as calluses, ankle sprains, or stress fractures.
Slipperiness
Basketball shoes are essential for comfort during the games, especially on slippery floors and smooth surfaces. Choosing the right pair with traction and good grip is crucial for jumping and dribbling.
Wearing the right shoes, like those worn by NBA players, allows quick movement without discomfort. Conversely, wearing the wrong pair can cause pain or injuries, impacting performance.
Sole
The sole is one of the most important parts of a basketball shoe. The low-quality ones are usually thin, stiff, and lack cushion, causing many problems such as fatigue, discomfort, or injuries.
A proper sole will give players the must-have cushion and support for impact absorption and stability during different movements.
Balance
A bad basketball shoe lacks essential balance for athletes to maintain agility and control during the game. Poor balance can cause falls and injuries, especially on wet surfaces.
You should look for better safety features, such as thick soles and a firm grip on the floor, to provide better protection and cushioning.
Ankle Support
Bad basketball shoes will not provide ankle and foot support for agility and stability. You may have physical issues, such as ankle sprains, without proper support.
A proper pair of shoes should have thick soles absorbing impact and cushioning your feet against hard surfaces. It ensures no bumps are felt during outdoor court play. Wearing shoes with ankle support provides stability and prevents ankle roll during sprints.
Conclusion
Above are the worst basketball shoes that most sneakerheads and basketball players would agree on. Some have quite nice features offering you good performance, yet the appearance is terrible. However, some are worse at either aspect.
To avoid picking a bad shoe product, besides the sleek design (according to your preference), you should check both the insole and outsole carefully to ensure they provide ankle support, balance, and protection from slipperiness.