How to Break in New Basketball Sneakers
Having the proper size and type of basketball shoes is important for overall comfort and performance, but there are some steps to take before hitting the court. It can be exciting to get a pair of shiny new basketball sneakers, and breaking them in first can ensure your feet feel as good as they look.
Having the proper size and type of basketball shoes is important for overall comfort and performance, but there are some steps to take before hitting the court. It can be exciting to get a pair of shiny new basketball sneakers, and breaking them in first can ensure your feet feel as good as they look. If you wear any brand new pair of shoes for an extended time, such as the duration of a basketball game, it can become painful for your feet after a while and could cause blisters.
Purchase new basketball sneakers well in advance of the season, to give yourself plenty of time to break them in slowly.
Wear the sneakers at home initially with a pair of thick socks. Start with 10 minutes of wear while doing normal, everyday activities around your house, allowing the shoes to adjust to your feet. The thick socks will help prevent the shoes from being too tight on your feet when you are ready to wear them for a game.
Increase the amount of time you wear the shoes at home each day, adding 10 minutes per day until you can wear them comfortably for one hour at a time.
Take the next step in getting your feet accustomed to the shoes by performing light jogging at a gym for 15 to 20 minutes. Jog in the shoes daily for one week. Perform light sequences of movements involving changes of direction, stopping/starting and jumping to simulate the action of a basketball game.
Introduce the shoes to competitive-level basketball by wearing them to basketball practice. Observe how the shoes adjust to full-speed action and consider making adjustments to the tightness of the laces if necessary for comfort and control.
Tip
High-top basketball shoes provide the most stability and ankle support, according to iSport.com.
Mid-top basketball shoes allow more freedom while still supporting the ankle.
Low-top basketball shoes are ideal for speedy players, allowing them to move more quickly, but provide little ankle support.