How to Choose Kids' Basketball Shoes by Age and Size

Shoes are usually the first thing you buy when your child starts basketball. They don't need to be expensive, but they do need to fit and suit the court. This guide covers how to choose youth basketball shoes. It doesn't recommend models or prices; our gear section will add picks later.

Measure first, then shop

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) suggests:

• Shop late in the day or after activity. Feet swell during the day, so that's when you'll get the truest fit.
• Wear the socks your child plays in. Basketball socks are often thicker than everyday ones.
• Try both shoes. Feet often differ slightly; fit the larger one.
• Lace up before judging. The heel should be held firmly and shouldn't slip much as your child walks.

How much growth room to leave in kids' shoes

• Toe space: AAOS recommends at least about half an inch (about 1.3 cm) between the longest toe and the tip of the shoe, with room for the toes to move.
• Quick check: if the insole comes out, have your child stand on it with the heel at the back and look at the space in front of the toes. If it doesn't, have your child stand in the shoe and press at the front: you should have about a fingertip of space past the toes.
• Don't size up too far. Buying big to "grow into" saves money, but a loose shoe lets the foot slide, which can mean blisters and less stability on the court. Leave sensible room, not extra sizes.

What to prioritize by age

The American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) notes that children over three often outgrow their size every four to six months, and active kids may need new shoes every three to four months. Check fit regularly during growth spurts.

Youth vs. adult basketball shoe sizes

In North America, kids' and adult sizes are separate scales, and men's and women's sizes differ too. When buying online, use the brand's size chart and compare by foot length in centimetres, not just the size number. Brands vary, so try shoes on when you can.

Indoor vs. outdoor outsoles

• Indoor: softer rubber and finer tread for good grip on hardwood. Some gyms require clean indoor shoes.
• Outdoor: tougher rubber that lasts longer on concrete and asphalt.
• If your child plays both, consider two pairs. Indoor shoes kept only for the gym last longer and grip better.

AOFAS also cautions that very sticky or thick soles can cause stumbles, so normal grip is enough.

Do high-tops prevent ankle sprains?

High-tops are often marketed as "ankle support." AAOS notes that basketball shoes often have a higher upper for support when jumping and landing. But a randomized study of 622 college intramural basketball players found no significant difference in ankle sprain rates among high-top, low-top and high-top shoes with inflatable air chambers.

Fit and a secure, stable feel matter more than the height of the collar. If your child has had ankle sprains or other problems, ask a doctor or physiotherapist.

Weight

Lighter shoes feel quicker, but don't choose on weight alone. For growing kids who jump more each season, cushioning and stability count for more.

When to replace kids' basketball shoes

• Toes touch the front, or you see regular red marks or blisters (too small or too narrow).
• Tread is worn smooth and your child slips on the court.
• The midsole looks compressed, or the shoe is visibly warped or leaning.
• Your child complains of foot or knee pain.

AAOS also notes that cushioning breaks down over time even without use, so check old clearance stock before buying.

Buying used basketball shoes

• Look for even wear on the outsole. Heavy wear on one side means the shoe has shaped itself to the previous owner's foot.
• Press the midsole and check for collapse or separating glue.
• Shoes worn only a few times before a child outgrew them are the best value.

Socks

Choose athletic socks that wick sweat and have some padding, and always wear them when trying shoes. Thin socks can make a shoe feel bigger than it is.

Basketball shoe checklist for parents

• Try on late in the day, with basketball socks, on both feet
• About half an inch of toe room; toes can move
• Heel doesn't slip when laced
• Indoor or outdoor outsole to match where your child plays
• Size chart checked by foot length; youth vs. adult and men's vs. women's sizing understood
• Used shoes: outsole and midsole inspected
• Fit rechecked every three to six months

Next steps

• Watch our gear section for picks by age and budget.
• Read other parents' experiences in our Q&A section.
• Subscribe to updates on our gear guides.