The Top 10 Basketball Shoes with the Best Cushion

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The cushioning setup of basketball sneakers can differ wildly. There are shoes like the Kyrie 3 that make you feel like walking on a slab of concrete while others (Lebron 18) provide cushion that feels like a soft pillow.

Not everybody needs soft and comfortably-cushioned basketball shoes, but there are a lot of reasons why basketball shoes with a lot of impact protection might make sense for you:

  • You are a big and heavy guy
    Large players put a lot more stress on their joints and profit the most from well-cushioned shoes
  • You experience a lot of knee pain
    If your knees are hurting after every game you should look for more impact protection!
  • You play a lot
    If you are absolutely crazy about basketball and play hours every day it might make sense to get a second pair that provides additional cushioning to relieve the stress on your joints

To help you find the best cushioned basketball sneaker I am constantly checking out the latest shoe releases and record the ratings of every honest and qualified performance review I can find. So far I have summed up the findings of 1720 reviews of 330 different performance basketball shoes.

The following overview shows the top ten sneakers, ranked by the average score they received for their cushioning. This list was last updated on Nov 26, 2024. Scroll down further to see a more detailed summary of each shoe, or click on the links to see quotes and ratings from every review I gathered for each shoe.

1. Nike G.T. Jump 2

  • 9.7 cushion rating based on 7 expert reviews
  • Nike's G.T. Jump 2 has one of the best cushioning setups.
  • Any players who thrive with maximalist cushioning will love the Nike G.T. Jump 2.

2. Nike GT Hustle 3

  • 9.5 cushion rating based on 7 expert reviews
  • The Nike GT Hustle 3 offers plenty of impact protection with its plush-feeling cushion setup.
  • These shoes are best for bigs who get off the ground often and require impact protection.

3. Air Jordan 38 Low

  • 9.5 cushion rating based on 6 expert reviews
  • The Air Jordan 38 Low provides all the performance of the 38 with a lower cut.
  • All players can take advantage of the comfortable cushioning and reliable traction.

4. Li-Ning Way of Wade 11

  • 9.4 cushion rating based on 8 expert reviews
  • Li-Ning's Way of Wade 11 is an outstanding performance hoop shoe with grippy traction and bouncy cushioning.
  • The lightweight, well-cushioned Way of Wade 11 is recommended for players who like to get up and down the court and vertical.

5. Li-Ning Way of Wade All City 12

  • 9.4 cushion rating based on 8 expert reviews
  • The Li-Ning Way of Wade All City 12 is a fantastic shoe with close-to-top-tier traction and cushioning.
  • The Way of Wade All City 12 is best for guards or players who play fast and rely on court feel and responsiveness.

6. Nike Lebron 21

  • 9.4 cushion rating based on 11 expert reviews
  • The Nike LeBron 21 maintains its high level of performance while improving its support and stability.
  • The Nike LeBron 21 is fit for all play styles because of the mix of traction, cushioning and support.

7. Air Jordan 38

  • 9.3 cushion rating based on 7 expert reviews
  • The Air Jordan 38 takes a step forward with improved support. The traction and cushioning are also solid.
  • This is a perfect shoe for players looking for maximalist containment.

8. Adidas Harden Volume 8

  • 9.2 cushion rating based on 10 expert reviews
  • The Adidas Harden Volume 8 is a fantastic performer with excellent traction on clean courts and comfortable cushioning.
  • The Harden Vol 8 is best for players who use powerful footwork to create space.

9. Nike Lebron 22

  • 9.1 cushion rating based on 4 expert reviews
  • The recent LeBron signatures are some of the best shoes for traction and cushioning, and the Nike LeBron 22 is no exception.
  • This shoe is best for anyone looking for a comfortable, responsive, and bouncy cushioning setup.

10. New Balance Kawhi 4

  • 9.1 cushion rating based on 7 expert reviews
  • The Kawhi 4 is an improvement from any previous Kawhi shoe. The traction is reliable, and the cushioning is a standout feature.
  • The New Balance Kawhi 4 is best for players who enjoy springy, plush cushioning setups.

 

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Top 10 Best Cushion Basketball Shoes

1. Nike G.T. Jump 2

Performance Rating:
9.7
Nike's G.T. Jump 2 has one of the best cushioning setups.
cushion rating based on 7 reviews
Pros:
Top-tier cushioning setup
Improved mobility from the Jump Frame
Cons:
Materials quality could be better
What do the experts think?
The latest in the Nike Zoom G.T. Jump series is an impressive upgrade. The traction is reliable, and it performs well on all court types. Dust doesn't affect performance much, but make sure to wipe. Nike improved the cushioning setup too. The React is soft and comfortable, while the Jump Frame and Zoom Air provide outstanding bounceback. The material quality isn't the best, but they feel comfortable. Lateral stability isn't as secure because of the reduced Jump Frame, but the support is still fantastic and uncompromised. The shoe allows for more movement. Overall, the Nike G.T. Jump 2 is a maximalist shoe done right.

2. Nike GT Hustle 3

Performance Rating:
9.5
The Nike GT Hustle 3 offers plenty of impact protection with its plush-feeling cushion setup.
cushion rating based on 7 reviews
Pros:
Abundance of impact protection
Fantastic traction
Cons:
Stack height is high off the ground
Upper materials aren't the most durable
What do the experts think?
The Nike GT Hustle 3 continues to evolve in unexpected ways. This year's version focuses heavily on the cushion.  The traction performance is well-reviewed. It performs exceptionally well, especially on clean courts.  For cushioning, Nike uses a React foam midsole, a ZoomX foam insole, and double-stacked Zoom Air under the forefoot. It's incredibly plush, and the forefoot also feels bouncy.  Nike's choice of materials keeps the shoe lightweight and very breathable. The only potential downside is the upper's durability.  Support and lockdown get the job done, but the high stack of cushioning can affect containment and stability. Some reviewers felt a bit uneasy being so high off the ground.  Nike's GT Hustle 3's impressive traction and plentiful cushioning make it a strong performance shoe.

3. Air Jordan 38 Low

Performance Rating:
9.5
The Air Jordan 38 Low provides all the performance of the 38 with a lower cut.
cushion rating based on 6 reviews
Pros:
Improved containment and stability
Traction and cushioning remain unchanged
Cons:
Dust pickup
What do the experts think?
Jordan Brand did a solid job on their latest release, the Air Jordan 38 Low. The traction performance remains the same on the Low. It performs exceptionally well as long as players wipe the dust. The full-length Zoom Strobel remains a favourite amongst reviewers. This shoe has one of the best cushioning setups on the market. Reviewers also enjoyed the containment and stability of the 38 Low, especially around the heel area. There are no complaints about the material usage. Reviewers say the shoe feels comfortable on foot. The Air Jordan 38 Low delivers impressive performance in a low-cut form factor. The traction and cushioning combo remains elite.

4. Li-Ning Way of Wade 11

Performance Rating:
9.4
Li-Ning's Way of Wade 11 is an outstanding performance hoop shoe with grippy traction and bouncy cushioning.
cushion rating based on 8 reviews
Pros:
Bouncy cushioning
Grippy and consistent traction
Cons:
Lack of breathability
Shallow tread depth for outdoor play
What do the experts think?
Li-Ning delivers yet another impressive performance shoe with the Way of Wade 11. It's a worthy successor to the Way of Wade 10. The traction is consistently grippy, and dust has minimal effect on the performance. Li-Ning uses a full-length Boom midsole with a full-length shank plate sandwiched in the middle. The performance feels springy and bouncy while remaining lightweight. Materials are lighter than expected. The shoe feels comfortable and light but lacks breathability outside of the tongue. The construction of the upper and the wider outsole helps keep you secure during play. Support and stability are not an issue. The Li-Ning Way of Wade 11 is a fantastic performance basketball shoe. The grippy traction is incredibly consistent, and the bouncy cushioning feels impressive.

5. Li-Ning Way of Wade All City 12

Performance Rating:
9.4
The Li-Ning Way of Wade All City 12 is a fantastic shoe with close-to-top-tier traction and cushioning.
cushion rating based on 8 reviews
Pros:
Comfortable and responsive Boom foam
Grippy traction on all surfaces
Cons:
Shoe retains a lot of heat
What do the experts think?
Li-Ning continues to put out top-quality performance shoes with this year's All City 12. The traction performs consistently well on all surfaces, and the rubber holds up outdoors. Li-Ning's Boom foam cushioning is a favourite among reviewers. It feels responsive and offers plenty of court feel. Reviewers had no complaints about any of the support and lockdown features. The materials feel sturdier than last year's model without sacrificing comfort. The Li-Ning Way of Wade All City 12 is a top-notch performer. It has no noticeable weaknesses, and the traction and cushioning excel.

6. Nike Lebron 21

Performance Rating:
9.4
The Nike LeBron 21 maintains its high level of performance while improving its support and stability.
cushion rating based on 11 reviews
Pros:
Bouncy cushioning
Upgraded support and materials
Cons:
Slightly narrow fit
What do the experts think?
Nike and LeBron hookup for the 21st entry in his signature shoe line. This time, with improved materials and stability. Most reviewers agree the traction performance is solid, especially on clean courts. Make sure that you wipe on dusty courts. The cushioning feels springy and bouncy. The Cushlon foam and Zoom units provide a balanced feel. The upper materials are where the shoe sees the most change. The leather feels more supportive, and the tongue is breathable, too. With the revamped upper, the support and lockdown are better. Lateral containment is incredible and secure. Nike continues in the right direction with the LeBron signature line. The Nike LeBron 21 makes slight tweaks to improve the materials and support.

7. Air Jordan 38

Performance Rating:
9.3
The Air Jordan 38 takes a step forward with improved support. The traction and cushioning are also solid.
cushion rating based on 7 reviews
Pros:
Improved containment and stability
Comfortable full-length Zoom Strobel
Cons:
Price is expensive
Outsole durability
What do the experts think?
The latest entry in Jordan Brand's signature lineup improves on the previous Air Jordan 37. The traction grip is elite, but the rubber wears away quickly. It's not suited for outdoor use. Jordan Brand uses a full-length Zoom Strobel combined with Cushlon 3.0. It provides a comfortable and bouncy cushioning setup. Support is much improved this year. The lockdown and containment keep you stable and secure. The materials are comfortable and breathable. The upper feels more traditional in terms of materials. Jordan Brand paid attention to the details with the Air Jordan 38. The shoe is more reliable and secure this year.

8. Adidas Harden Volume 8

Performance Rating:
9.2
The Adidas Harden Volume 8 is a fantastic performer with excellent traction on clean courts and comfortable cushioning.
cushion rating based on 10 reviews
Pros:
The Jetboost cushioning feels plush
Traction is tacky
Cons:
Heavy shoe for modern performance standards
Picks up dust quickly
What do the experts think?
James Harden's signature shoe continues to be one of the best on the market with the release of the Adidas Harden Volume 8. All reviewers agree the traction performance is excellent on clean courts, but the outsole picks up dust quickly. After the rubber warms up, the performance on dust improves. The full-length Jetboost cushioning setup provides comfort and responsiveness. The materials are interesting, especially the EVA sidewall. The shoe is comfortable, but it retains heat longer than other shoes. The weight is also on the heavier side. Support and lockdown are not an issue. The shoe's construction keeps you stable and secure through lateral movements. Overall, the Adidas Harden Volume 8 is another impressive performer because of the tacky traction and comfortable cushioning.

9. Nike Lebron 22

Performance Rating:
9.1
The recent LeBron signatures are some of the best shoes for traction and cushioning, and the Nike LeBron 22 is no exception.
cushion rating based on 4 reviews
Pros:
Excellent, bouncy cushioning
Supportive midfoot saddle
Cons:
Increased weight
Forefoot is not breathable
What do the experts think?
The Nike LeBron 22 continues to try and build on the performance of the previous two models but takes a slight step back in one regard. Traction performance remains top-tier. Most reviewers agree the outsole grips well and feels safe, especially on cleaner courts. The cushioning is outstanding for impact protection and bounciness. The midsole also feels responsive, which is a plus. Materials are where the shoe regresses. The upper is comfortable and supportive, but the shoe feels heavier than the previous models. The fit is accommodating, thanks to the spacious forefoot. For support and lockdown, Nike implements a unique midfoot saddle to help with stability and torsional support. Your foot also feels secure during lateral movements. LeBron's latest signature shoe maintains impressive performance, highlighted mainly by the traction and cushioning.

10. New Balance Kawhi 4

Performance Rating:
9.1
The Kawhi 4 is an improvement from any previous Kawhi shoe. The traction is reliable, and the cushioning is a standout feature.
cushion rating based on 7 reviews
Pros:
Reliable traction
Dual-density FuelCell cushioning feels plush
Cons:
Fit feels slightly wide
Takes extra effort on the laces for lockdown
What do the experts think?
The New Balance Kawhi 4 is Kawhi Leonard's fourth signature shoe with the brand, and it's shaping up to be one of his best. The traction is reliable. Reviewers say the performance is outstanding on clean courts and solid on dusty courts. Make sure to wipe. New Balance updates the cushioning with a dual-density FuelCell foam. It feels plush and bouncy. The upper is engineered mesh. It's not the most premium feeling, but it's comfortable and well-padded. It also does a solid job of providing containment. Support and lockdown get the job done. The shank plate provides stability, and the upper keeps your foot contained nicely. The Kawhi 4 is the best in the Kawhi lineup, with the most plush cushioning setup yet.

Frequently asked questions about cushion in basketball shoes

What types of cushioning are there? And which cushion is the best?

It is impossible to say which type of cushioning setup is the best because they each cater to different needs and styles of play.

There are firm cushions like pure Phylon that provide great court feel and responsiveness which are perfect for light and quick guards. Other types of cushion like Nike Zoom Air provide a lot more impact protection and are better suited for heavy players or older athletes that want to go easy on their joints.

These are some of the most popular cushioning systems often used in basketball sneakers:

Nike Zoom Air

Zoom Air was first released in 1995 and is one of the oldest and most popular cushioning systems. It is made of tightly stretched tensile fibers in a pressurized "Air" unit. It is most often used in high-end basketball shoes and expensive signature lines like the Lebron or KD shoes.

Nike Zoom Air

Nike Zoom Air is a very bouncy cushioning that provides great energy returns through the way the fibers expand back to their initial state after every impact. It is also very versatile and can be used in different ways: from small Air units like in the heel of the Kyrie 4 to one huge full-length Zoom unit like in the Jordan Why Not Zero.1

Adidas Boost

Adidas Boost is still relatively new and was first used in basketball shoes for the Adidas Crazylight Boost in 2014. Since then it has taken the sneaker world by storm because of the incredible comfort it provides and is used in popular lifestyle models like the NMD or the Yeezy Boost

Boost outsoles are made of hundreds of tiny thermoplastic urethane pellets that are fused together using hot steam. What makes these pellets unique is that they are incredibly soft while still remaining springy enough to provide great energy return. This allows Adidas to make shoes that are insanely comfortable but still provide enough responsiveness to be used in quick sports like basketball.

Boost is used in most of Adidas' high end basketball sneakers like the Crazy Explosive, D Rose 8 or the Harden Vol. 2. Check out this video to learn more about the Boost technology:

WHAT IS ADIDAS BOOST...

Other foam-based cushioning

Every shoe brand has multiple versions of foam cushionings usually made of EVA which is a mixture of two plastics (Ethylene and Vinyl Acetate). EVA is a foam that includes a lot of tiny air bubbles which provide the intended bounciness and comfort.

A well-know example of a simple EVA cushioning is Phylon which is used in a lot of Nike sneakers. Other more advanced forms of cushioning like Nike Lunarlon, Adidas Bounce or Under Armour Micro G use a mix of EVA and other rubbers to create lighter and more comfortable foam.

While the characteristics of foam cushioning can vary wildly, they are usually very responsive and provide great court feel but lack elite impact protection.

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