Yes, NBA players still wear high-top basketball shoes in the modern game. While trends in athletic footwear have shifted significantly over the past two decades—favoring lighter, more flexible low-top and mid-top designs—high-top basketball sneakers remain a relevant and meaningful choice for many professional athletes on the court. The question of whether any NBA players wear high-tops is not only valid but opens up a broader discussion about performance, injury prevention, personal preference, and the evolution of basketball footwear.
High-top basketball shoes are defined by their extended collar that rises above the ankle, offering additional support and coverage compared to low-top models. Historically, high-tops were the standard in basketball footwear. Iconic models like the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star, which dominated the hardwood for much of the 20th century, set the precedent for ankle protection through elevated design. When Nike entered the basketball market with models like the Air Force 1 and later the Air Jordan line, high-tops became synonymous with elite performance and style.
Even as newer technologies emerged—such as advanced cushioning systems, lightweight mesh materials, and dynamic fit systems—the structural benefits of high-tops have kept them in rotation among NBA players. Some athletes continue to choose high-top sneakers because they believe the added ankle support helps reduce the risk of sprains and provides greater stability during quick cuts, lateral movements, and jumps—common actions in competitive basketball.
One of the most notable current NBA players who wears high-top basketball shoes is Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks. Giannis, known for his explosive drives to the basket and powerful dunks, wears signature Nike Zoom Freak models, many of which feature high-top or mid-to-high-top constructions. His aggressive playing style puts significant stress on his lower body, and the added ankle containment offered by high-tops may help him maintain balance and protect against injury during fast-paced games.
Similarly, Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers often opts for high-top basketball shoes. As a dominant center who operates in the paint and absorbs physical contact, Embiid benefits from the reinforced structure and cushioning found in high-top models. He has been seen wearing Under Armour’s Curry Flow series and other supportive high-top designs, even though Stephen Curry, the namesake of the shoe line, typically prefers lower-cut versions. This illustrates how individual biomechanics and positional demands influence footwear choices.
Another example is Rudy Gobert, the towering center for the Minnesota Timberwolves. Given his role as a rim protector and rebounder, Gobert engages in constant vertical movement and physical battles under the basket. He frequently wears high-top sneakers such as the Nike Air Zoom G.T. Cut, a performance basketball shoe designed with maximum support and impact protection in mind. The high-top collar of this model helps stabilize his feet during sudden directional changes and landing after shot blocks.
Beyond these prominent players, many others in the league incorporate high-tops into their rotation based on comfort, recovery needs, or past injuries. Ankle sprains are among the most common injuries in basketball, and while research on whether high-top shoes definitively prevent such injuries remains mixed, many athletes report feeling more secure and confident when wearing them. A study published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine suggested that high-top shoes can limit excessive ankle inversion—common in rolling injuries—thereby reducing the likelihood of certain types of sprains.
Moreover, advancements in shoe technology have allowed high-top designs to evolve without sacrificing mobility. Modern high-tops are no longer the stiff, heavy boots of the 1980s and 1990s. Today’s models use engineered mesh, adaptive lacing systems (like Nike Adapt), and internal heel counters to provide support without restricting natural motion. This means players can enjoy the protective benefits of a high-top while maintaining agility and responsiveness on the court.
Brand innovation also plays a role in keeping high-tops relevant. Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, and Puma all produce high-performance high-top basketball shoes tailored to elite athletes. For instance, the Adidas Harden Vol. series, worn by James Harden during his peak years, included high-top variations that combined lockdown fit with responsive cushioning. Similarly, the Nike LeBron signature line—worn by LeBron James himself—has consistently featured high-top silhouettes, emphasizing durability, impact protection, and premium materials suited for a player of his size and strength.
It’s important to note that not all NBA players prefer high-tops. Stars like Chris Paul and Damian Lillard often favor low-top shoes for their enhanced flexibility and reduced weight. The popularity of low-tops surged in the 2010s, led by Kobe Bryant’s advocacy for low-cut models such as the Nike Zoom Kobe line. Bryant argued that proper ankle strength and conditioning were more important than shoe height, and his success helped shift perceptions across the league.
However, the existence of this preference does not diminish the value or usage of high-tops. In fact, the diversity of footwear choices reflects a mature understanding among players: there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Foot structure, playing style, injury history, and personal comfort all factor into decisions about what shoes to wear.
In conclusion, yes, NBA players do wear high-top basketball shoes. While they may not dominate the market the way they once did, high-tops remain a trusted option for many professionals who prioritize ankle support, stability, and long-term joint health. From centers battling in the paint to versatile forwards driving to the rim, high-tops continue to serve a vital function in the world of elite basketball. As footwear technology progresses, we can expect high-top designs to become even more refined—offering the perfect balance between protection and performance. For now, they stand as a testament to tradition, innovation, and the individualized nature of athletic excellence in the NBA.