Updated October 30, 2026 · 8 min read
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Short on time? Our picks
Best overallLockdown 7 GSbig kidsCheck price on Amazon →Best for little kidsLockdown 8 PSlittle kidsCheck price on Amazon →The best basketball shoes for kids have one job that adult shoes do not: they need to fit a foot that will be bigger in a few months. Buying the most exciting signature shoe is tempting, but for most children the right fit and good grip matter far more than the name on the side.
This guide explains the confusing sizing codes first, then gives you our picks for little kids and big kids. Everything here works for boys and girls, because youth basketball shoes are usually unisex in everything but color.
Quick answer: the best basketball shoes for kids
- Best overallLockdown 7 GS · big kids
- Best for little kidsLockdown 8 PS · little kids
- Best previous little kids modelLockdown 7 PS · older model
- Best for fansAE2 GS · signature style
- Best for serious young playersJa 3 Big Kids · ZoomX foam
For most children aged about 8 and up, buy the Under Armour Lockdown 7 GS. For younger children, get the Under Armour Lockdown 8 PS, which is the same idea in a smaller size range. Only look at the signature models if your child plays often and really wants them.
Size a ball too: kids need a smaller ball as well as the right shoes. See our basketball size by age chart and our picks for the best basketballs for kids.
What do GS, PS and TD mean?
These codes tell you the size range a shoe is made for. They are the first thing to check, because the same model name can appear in several ranges with different sizes.
| Code | Means | Usual US sizes | Rough age |
|---|---|---|---|
| TD | Toddler | 2C to 10C | Under 4 |
| PS | Preschool, or little kids | 10.5C to 3Y | About 4 to 7 |
| GS | Grade school, or big kids | 3.5Y to 7Y | About 8 to 12+ |
Ranges vary a little by brand, so always check the chart on the listing. Age is only a rough guide, and foot length is what counts. A youth 7Y is usually about the same length as a men’s 7.
How to choose basketball shoes for kids
Measure both feet
Have your child stand on paper, mark the heel and the longest toe, and measure. Feet are often different lengths, so buy for the longer foot. Do this in the afternoon, wearing the socks they play in.
Leave growing room, but not too much
About a thumb’s width in front of the longest toe is a good rule. Buying two sizes up to save money backfires, because a loose heel can slide around in the shoe and cause blisters or stumbles.
Think about the court
Herringbone rubber grips clean gym floors well. If your child mostly plays on a concrete driveway, the outsole will wear faster, so a simple, durable pair makes more sense than an expensive one.
Choose straps if laces are a struggle
Younger children may need help tying laces tightly. A secure heel matters more than style, so check whether the model has a strap option if your child cannot lace up alone yet.
▶ How to choose basketball shoes for your kidsA short advice video from Decathlon. It covers general advice, and the shoes shown are not the picks in this guide. The video loads from YouTube only when you press play.
The best basketball shoes for kids, reviewed
Under Armour Lockdown 7 GS
You need this if: your child plays on a school or rec team and needs a dependable shoe.
- RangeGS, big kids
- StyleTeam basketball shoe
- UsePractice and games
Why we picked it: The Lockdown line gives kids a basketball-specific shoe without signature-shoe hype. It is a sensible buy for a foot that may outgrow it within a season.
Good side:
- Real basketball shoe, not a lifestyle sneaker
- Sold in big kid sizes
- A sensible choice for a growing foot
Bad side:
- Not a wide fit
- Colors and sizes vary, so check yours
Options: Choose size and color on the listing.
Under Armour Lockdown 8 PS
You need this if: your child is just starting basketball and wears a preschool size.
- RangePS, little kids
- UpperSynthetic with mesh
- SoleEVA midsole, rubber outsole
Why we picked it: Its listing gives you what a small child needs: a light EVA midsole, a breathable mesh section and a rubber outsole for grip. It is the newer model in the little kids range.
Good side:
- Light EVA midsole
- Mesh for airflow
- Rubber outsole for grip
Bad side:
- Only for the preschool size range
- Check that your child can do up the fastening
Under Armour Lockdown 7 PS
You need this if: the newer Lockdown 8 PS is not available in your child’s size or a color they like.
- RangePS, little kids
- StyleTeam basketball shoe
- UseRec league and PE
Why we picked it: Older models are often a good choice for fast-growing feet. Compare it with the Lockdown 8 PS on the day you buy.
Good side:
- Good backup to the newer model
- Basketball-specific design
Bad side:
- An older design
- Color choice may be narrower
adidas Anthony Edwards 2 GS
You need this if: your child loves Anthony Edwards and will wear these more often because of it.
- RangeGS, big kids
- StyleSignature shoe
- Brandadidas
Why we picked it: Sometimes the shoe a child loves is the one they actually wear to practice. Keep it for a gift or a keen player, and check the size chart first, because the listing gives little detail.
Good side:
- Great gift for a fan
- Big kid sizing
Bad side:
- Thin listing detail
- Costs more than a team shoe for a foot that will grow
Nike Ja 3 Big Kids
You need this if: your child trains several times a week and has outgrown basic team shoes.
- RangeBig kids
- CushionZoomX foam
- CollarPadded
Why we picked it: The listing highlights ZoomX foam and a padded collar for comfort, so this is the pick for a committed young guard who wants a more premium feel.
Good side:
- ZoomX cushioning
- Padded collar
- Signature style
Bad side:
- More than a casual player needs
- Will likely be outgrown soon
Kids basketball shoes compared
| Model | Best for | Size range | Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lockdown 7 GS | Big kids | GS | Everyday team play |
| Lockdown 8 PS | Little kids | PS | First team shoe |
| Lockdown 7 PS | Little kids | PS | Backup option |
| AE2 GS | Young fans | GS | Gifts |
| Ja 3 Big Kids | Serious players | Big kids | Heavy use |
What to look for at each age
| Age | Priority | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Under 6 | Easy on and off | Check the fastening, and keep costs low because feet grow quickly |
| 6 to 9 | Grip and comfort | Choose a real court shoe once they join a team |
| 10 to 13 | Fit and support | Measure every few months, because growth spurts are common |
| 14 and up | Play style | Many teens move into adult sizes, so see our adult guide |
Basketball shoes for boys and girls
There is no real difference in how youth basketball shoes are built for boys and girls. The sizes and materials are shared, and colors are the main difference, so let your child pick the color. It makes them more likely to wear the shoes. If your older daughter has moved into adult sizes, our best basketball shoes guide includes women’s and unisex picks.
Do kids need ankle support?
Many parents assume a high top will prevent a sprain. A secure fit around the heel helps, but no shoe can promise that. If your child has had an ankle injury, ask their doctor about it. Our ankle brace guide includes youth options.
Complete their kit
- Basketball socks for cushion and fewer blisters.
- A backpack with room for a ball and shoes.
- Training equipment for practice at home.
- A mini hoop for the youngest players.
Common mistakes parents make
- Buying two sizes up. A loose heel can cause blisters and stumbles.
- Measuring only one foot. Feet can differ, so buy for the longer one.
- Skipping socks. Measure and try shoes with the socks they play in.
- Waiting for shoes to wear out. Growing feet often run out of room first, so check toe room every few months.
Final verdict: which kids basketball shoes should you buy?
For a big kid on a team, start with the Under Armour Lockdown 7 GS. For a younger child, start with the Under Armour Lockdown 8 PS. Save signature shoes for gifts and committed players, because most children will outgrow them quickly.
Got questions?
Frequently asked questions
What basketball shoes are best for kids?
A shoe in the right size range with good grip and a secure heel. The Under Armour Lockdown 7 GS suits big kids, and the Lockdown 8 PS suits little kids.
What does GS mean in kids shoes?
GS means grade school, the big kid range, usually 3.5Y to 7Y. PS means preschool, the little kid range.
What is the difference between boys and girls basketball shoes?
Usually only the color. Youth basketball shoes are generally unisex, so buy by size and fit.
How much room should kids have in basketball shoes?
About a thumb’s width in front of the longest toe, with a snug heel.
Do kids need basketball shoes for PE or rec league?
Not always, but basketball shoes give better grip and a more secure feel than casual sneakers, so they are worth it if your child plays every week.
Can youth sizes fit adults?
Often, yes. A youth 7Y is close in length to a men’s 7, but widths and fit can differ, so check the chart.
How often do kids need new basketball shoes?
Whenever they run out of toe room or the grip wears smooth. For growing children, that is often sooner than the shoes wear out.
How we chose
We compared kids basketball shoes on Amazon in October 2026 by size range, grip, cushioning and listing details. Some listings give little detail, so check the size chart and return policy. Size ranges in the table are typical and differ by brand. We have not tested these products in person, no brand paid for placement, and prices and stock change often. Read our full method.
Related guides
- Best Basketball Shoes: Adult and unisex picks.
- Best Basketballs for Kids: The right ball by age.
- Basketball Size by Age: Quick sizing chart.
- Best Basketball Socks: Includes youth socks.
- Best Mini Hoops for Kids: Play at home.
- Best Gifts for Basketball Players: Ideas for every age.
We research sports gear for players, coaches and sports parents. We compare specs, read verified buyer reviews and name one clear pick for each kind of player. How we pick · Affiliate disclosure
