Sneakers and basketball go together perfectly like ganja and cold water. The duo complements each other almost perfectly. Most people think of something related with basketball when talking about sneakers and vice versa.
The evolution of sneakers and basketball go hand in hand. As times goes on, the connection between the two will only run deeper.
Basketball Sneakers: An Extraordinary Evolution
Sneakers and basketball started with humble beginnings. Players back in the day used to wear Converse high tops which provided virtually no ankle support. Now, basketball players are seen wearing low-top sneakers on court more than ever. It’s not even a debate that low cut basketball sneakers today are far more supportive and cushioning than even the highest of high-tops back when the NBA started to become mainstream.
Technology in performance sneakers has vastly improved over the past few decades which has proved to be immensely valuable for fans, players, teams, owners, coaches, and leagues all over the world. Now, a rolled or sprained ankle will not sideline a player for nowhere nearly as long as it used to. Anyone who has grown up watching basketball has witnessed a noticeable change in the technology built into performance basketball shoes. Even a decade ago, players would be hesitant to wear mid and low cut sneakers. Now, it’s the norm for the most active players on the hardwood to go for lows without worrying about their ankles all game.
Converse Chuck Taylors crawled so Jordans could walk. Even though Air Jordans weren’t the best on-court sneakers, they introduced a new level of cushioning- Nike Air. Now, LeBrons, KDs, Kobes, and countless other Nikes are fitted with top of the line technology crafted through countless years of trial and error before hitting the market. Basketball sneakers from other brands have also increased their technology exponentially. Adidas, Under Armour, and Puma basketball lines have gained massive respect over the last decade.
The evolution between sneakers and basketball has highlighted in footwear technology. Massive brands like Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, and Puma will continue to come out with innovative performance sneakers for years to come with no signs of slowing down or stopping anytime soon.
Basketball and Sneakers: Styling Off the Court
Basketball and sneakers run deep together. Obviously the duo teams up constantly on the court whether its on the hardwood or concrete. Over the last couple decades, basketball’s style has expanded visibly off the court. Influential figures like Michael Jordan, Allen Iverson, even Dennis Rodman, and today’s fashion experts such as Russell Westbrook have all contributed to the overall impact of basketball and sneakers.
Sneakers were once strictly for practice and games. With the introduction of Air Jordans, there was a noticeable shift in fashion and streetwear. As the 80s ended and the 90s began, it became more acceptable and rather fashionable to rock basketball sneakers to grocery stores, the movies, or even on hot dates. Jordans helped pave the way for countless other sneakers off the court.
Certain players have influenced fashion around basketball more than others. Some have different reasons or motives, but all influential figures must be acknowledged to remember how far basketball and fashion have come together.
Allen Iverson was not only one of the best players in the game in the early 2000s, but also one of the most influential outside of the arena. His sense of style pushed boundaries and broke barriers. Simple clothes were the norm at the time; Iverson donned chains, cornrows, baggy clothes, headbands, and visible tattoos. The NBA came back with an answer (no pun intended) and implemented a strict dress code.
Iverson’s individuality paved the way for NBA players and athletes across all sports. Now, players are encouraged to wear what they like and don’t have to be confined to dress codes.
Another influential figure that has impacted fashion in the basketball world is Russell Westbrook. He has always looked to step out of the box when it comes to fashion; he has shown how sneakers can be dressed up or down through his unique style choices. Westbrook’s brand Honor the Gift has been heavily influential in not only the basketball world but also the streetwear community as well. He has shown how sneakers and basketball tie into fashion and boundaries are meant to be pushed to and past their limits.
The Future of Sneakers and Basketball
Basketball and sneakers have a long history together. As technology advances in both worlds, the connection between the two will grow even stronger.
Basketball players will continue to wear the best of the best. Sneaker enthusiasts will continue to listen to stories related to or directly involving basketball.
Together, sneakers and basketball have a bright future. There is no denying the impact both have had on fashion, sports, and millions of people around the world. Sneakers and basketball are universally loved no matter the country, time, or language.