Generally, basketball shoes are crafted with either a leather or synthetic upper material, ensuring durability and a firm grip on the court surface. These shoes boast a stretchable upper and a comfortable midsole cushion, making them the optimal choice for basketball or any court related sports.
Investing in a high-quality basketball shoe can prove to be a wise decision for many. However, it may not be financially feasible to purchase a new basketball shoe pair before every season. Therefore, if you desire to extend the lifespan of your basketball shoes, consider implementing the following tips:
Buy Quality Shoes
The first step to making your basketball shoes last longer is to invest in quality shoes that are durable, comfortable, and suitable for your playing style. Quality shoes for basketball may cost more, but they will also last longer and perform better.
Clean Your Shoes Regularly
Cleaning your shoes after every game or practice will help prevent dirt, dust, and sweat from accumulating and damaging the materials. Moreover, you can use a mild soap and a soft brush to gently scrub the shoes, and then rinse them with clean water.
You should avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or a washing machine, as they can ruin the shoes. Lastly, you can also use a shoe cleaner spray or wipes to keep your shoes fresh and clean.
Dry Your Shoes Properly
After cleaning your basketball shoes, you should let them air dry in a well-ventilated area. Do not use a dryer or any artificial heat source, as they can warp the rubber or leather parts of the shoes. You can also stuff some newspaper or paper towels inside the shoes to absorb the moisture and help them retain their shape.
Store Your Shoes In A Cool And Dry Place
Always keep your shoes away from direct sunlight, heat, or moisture, as they can cause fading, cracking, or mold growth. You should also avoid storing your shoes in a cramped or crowded space, as they can lose their shape or get crushed. Again, you can use a shoe rack, a shoe bag, or a shoe box to store your shoes properly.
Use Shoe Inserts Or Orthotics
Shoe inserts or orthotics can provide extra cushioning, arch support, or heel support for your feet. They can also help prevent injuries, reduce fatigue, and improve your performance. You can buy shoe inserts from a store or online, or get custom-made orthotics from a podiatrist or a chiropodist.
Rotate Your Shoes
If you play basketball frequently, you may want to have more than one pair of basketball shoes. This way, you can rotate your shoes and give them time to rest and recover. Rotating your shoes can also help prevent overuse injuries and improve your comfort.
Use Grip Gel Or Sticky Mat
To maintain the traction and grip of your basketball shoes, you can use grip gel or sticky mat to clean the outsole before and during the game. Grip gel is a liquid that you apply to the bottom of your shoes to enhance the friction and prevent slipping. Sticky mat is a pad that you step on to remove any dust or debris from the outsole.
