20 Best NBA Basketball Socks for Every Hooper

When you don’t have performance basketball socks, you’ll end with blisters and sweaty feet, which can make you feel very uncomfortable while playing. Playing basketball the right way requires two things: choosing the right basketball size, and the right basketball socks.

• Using any random socks just doesn’t cut it, and you need well-fitting and sweat-proof ones. 
• Performance basketball socks are worth the investment.
• So, are you wondering what are the top hoops socks available?
• Check out this guide for the top 3 basketball socks recommendations.

Basketball socks buyer’s guide: what to look for in basketball socks?

Material

Most basketball socks socks are made from a mix of cotton, nylon, nylon, and elastane. It’s a kind of stretchy spandex. Performance socks are rarely made from pure cotton because it absorbs sweat quickly and doesn’t dry quickly.

Synthetic materials such as nylon and polyester are able to drain moisture quickly while retaining their shape for longer periods. Elastane adds incredible flexibility and makes socks much more comfortable.

Thickness

The ideal basketball socks are thicker than your casual socks. It makes your foot fit into the shoe much better, and your feet don’t wiggle around in the sports shoes. This helps prevent blisters from forming, and you’ll feel comfortable while wearing the socks. 

Thinner basketball socks are available, too, and if you have wider feet, they may be a more comfortable option. 

Sock length

In the past, basketball players used to wear very long socks that came up to their knees, but these socks are completely out of fashion. They are unnecessary because they’ve been replaced by compression pants. 

There are 3 types of sock lengths to choose from: 

1. Crew-cut socks which reach the middle of your shins.
2. Mid-cut socks that reach just above the ankle.
3. Low-cut socks that are nearly invisible when worn with shoes. These are also called no-show socks. 

Arch support and cushioning

The more expensive basketball socks like the Nike ones offer additional cushioning around your heels and in the forefoot. 

These socks are extremely comfortable and prevent blisters. The extra cushioning is a great feature that helps you keep your feet in the shoe without sliding. 

Basketball socks can have compression bands at the midfoot that offer additional arch support. If you have arch pain or plantar fasciitis, this can be helpful.

The compression bands and the cushioning inside modern basketball socks are worth the extra price because you can’t compare them with regular socks. 

The 3 Best basketball socks: 

1. Adidas Creator 365 Basketball Crew Socks

Adidas’ high-performance basketball socks, the Creator 365s, are made specifically for basketball players. If you ask a bunch of NBA players which brand of socks they recommend, many would surely pick these. 

These socks are a step up from Nike Elite socks. The surface of most socks is smooth and uniform. However, Adidas Creator socks have ribbed ankle cushioning that provides additional comfort. They call this their special “Traxion” footbed.

The three thick, stretchy compression bands that are woven into the middle foot provide arch support and improve traction when making quick stops and cuts.

These socks can be felt in your midfoot, and you don’t forget that they are performance socks.

Overall, the Adidas Creator 360 is a good option. They’re very comfortable, and players with flat feet can appreciate the extra arch support and elevation.

2. Nike Elite Basketball Crew Socks

In 2008, Nike introduced the Elite basketball socks, which gained tons of popularity and became bestsellers.

These socks are extremely popular to this day, and they come in several colors so they’re suitable for men and women. The Nike Elite logo socks have been the most sought-after basketball socks ever, and some of the rarer models are still collectibles and being sold online.

There is a good reason because these Nike Elite socks are a far superior product to the average 6-pack of white sport socks.

When you slip on Elites, the first thing you’ll notice is that they are tailored to fit either your left or right foot. You’ll notice the compression in the arch, midfoot, and shins which is very useful to have considering basketball games are long.

The socks prevent bunching around your toes. These socks are extremely comfortable and provide cushioning in high-impact areas of the foot. It is extremely durable and can withstand years of high-intensity play. These aren’t the kind of socks you need to replace constantly.

Although the Nike Elites can be expensive, they are well worth it. These were the first basketball socks with high-performance technology, and you can’t go wrong with them.

3. Under Armour Adult HeatGear Tech Crew Socks

The Under Armour Heatgear basketball socks are easily the best Under Armour socks on the market.

These socks are made from a mixture of synthetic and cotton materials. They are flexible and durable thanks to the combination of those materials. The best feature is that these socks dry quickly, so you don’t have sweaty feet for long.

As well, these socks have HeatGear technology, which is designed to keep your feet cool.

The dynamic arch support reduces foot fatigue. The socks also come with sweat-wicking materials to keep them dry quickly and anti-odor technology if your feet are particularly prone to sweat. 

Mesh panels provide additional breathability, which is a great bonus, especially during the hot summer months.

The compression material around your ankles and calves is very tight and can make it hard to pull the socks up, but once they’re on, they feel like they’re not there.

 

Want more basketball socks recommendations? Okay sure! Here are 17 more NBA-ready basketball socks to choose from:

1. Under Armour Men’s Crew Basketball Socks – Designed with moisture-wicking fabric and Arch compression for a secure fit, these socks help keep your feet dry and comfortable during intense games.

2. Adidas Harden Vol. 4 Basketball Socks – These socks feature an ankle brace for extra support and stability, as well as strategic cushioning for comfort on the court.

3. Stance Men’s Curry Crew Basketball Socks – Inspired by NBA superstar Stephen Curry, these socks offer a bold look and dynamic performance with reinforced heel and toe, arch support, and a secure fit.

4. Jordan Jumpman Crew Basketball Socks – These classic socks feature a mix of breathable mesh and supportive cushioning, as well as the iconic Jumpman logo for a touch of style.

5. McDavid Adult Athletic Basketball Socks – Made with advanced moisture-wicking technology, these socks keep your feet dry and comfortable during games, while the reinforced heel and toe provide added durability.

6. Warrior Sports Basketball Socks – These socks offer a blend of comfort, support, and performance with a blend of nylon and spandex for a secure fit, cushioning in key areas, and moisture-wicking technology.

7. HOPESHINE Basketball Socks – These socks feature a unique design and bright colors, as well as a blend of polyester and spandex for a comfortable and supportive fit on the court.

8. Russell Athletic Men’s Basketball Socks – These classic socks feature reinforced heel and toe for added durability, as well as arch support and a blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex for comfort and performance.

9. New Balance Men’s Basketball Crew Socks – Designed with a blend of moisture-wicking and antimicrobial fabric, these socks help keep your feet dry and odor-free during games, while the cushioned footbed and arch support offer added comfort.

10. Nike Elite Crew Basketball Socks – These socks offer a cushioned footbed and dynamic arch support for increased comfort during play.

11. Under Armour Men’s HeatGear Crew Socks – Made with moisture-wicking fabric, these socks are designed to keep your feet dry during high-intensity games.

12. Stance Men’s Jordan Jumpman Basketball Socks – These socks feature a reinforced heel and toe for added durability, as well as mesh ventilation for breathability.

13. adidas Men’s Athletic 2-Pack Crew Socks – These socks are made with a blend of cotton and synthetic fibers for a comfortable and supportive fit.

14. Mizuno Elite Low-Cut Basketball Socks – These low-cut socks offer a secure fit with a reinforced heel and toe, as well as moisture-wicking technology for added comfort.

15. Jordan Dri-FIT Cushioned Crew Socks – Made with Dri-FIT technology, these socks help to keep your feet dry and comfortable during play.

16. New Balance Men’s NB Athletics Crew Socks – These socks feature arch support and reinforced heel and toe for a comfortable fit during play.

17. Under Armour Men’s Highlight Crew Socks – These socks offer a cushioned footbed and arch support for added comfort during play, as well as moisture-wicking technology to keep your feet dry.

Some popular brands of performance socks that are worn by NBA players include Nike, Stance, and Under Armour. These brands offer a variety of different styles and designs, each with its own unique features and benefits. Some of the most common features that you might find in NBA performance socks include:

1. Moisture-wicking technology: This helps to keep feet dry and comfortable during games, even in intense and demanding conditions.

2. Arch compression: This helps to provide support for the feet and can help to reduce the risk of injury.

3. Cushioned soles: This helps to provide extra comfort and shock absorption for the feet, reducing the impact of jumping, running, and landing.

4. Breathable materials: This helps to keep feet cool and dry, even during long games in hot and humid conditions.

5. Anti-friction technology: This helps to reduce the risk of blisters and other foot injuries, and can also help to prevent the socks from slipping inside the shoe.

Overall, NBA players wear performance socks that are designed to provide comfort, support, and protection during games. Whether they choose Nike, Stance, Under Armour, or another brand, these socks are an important part of their gear and help to keep them playing at their best.

Here are 8 different types of socks that basketball players usually wear:

1. Moisture-wicking socks: These socks are designed to wick away sweat and moisture from the feet, keeping them dry and comfortable during games. They are typically made from high-tech materials that are engineered to quickly transport moisture away from the skin.

2. Cushioned socks: These socks are designed to provide extra cushioning and shock absorption for the feet. They may have extra padding in the heel, ball, and toe areas to help reduce the impact of jumping, running, and landing.

3. Compression socks: These socks are designed to provide support and stability for the feet and legs. They may have extra compression in the arch and ankle areas to help reduce the risk of injury and improve blood flow.

4. Anti-blister socks: These socks are designed to reduce the risk of blisters and other foot injuries. They may have special anti-friction materials or technologies built into them to help prevent rubbing and chafing.

5. Performance socks: These socks are designed to be worn during games and are typically made from high-tech materials that provide a combination of comfort, support, and protection. They may have features like moisture-wicking, cushioning, compression, and anti-blister technologies to help players perform at their best.

6. Crew socks: These are traditional, ankle-length socks that provide coverage for the entire foot and lower leg. They are a popular choice for basketball players who prefer a classic look and feel.

7. Ankle socks: These are shorter socks that only cover the ankle and lower calf. They are a popular choice for basketball players who prefer a lighter, less-restrictive feel.

8. Over-the-calf socks: These are longer socks that cover the entire calf and knee. They are a popular choice for basketball players who prefer extra coverage and support for their legs during games.

Still not sure what to buy? Here are 10 great tips for choosing the right basketball socks in 2023:

1. Consider the material: Look for socks made from moisture-wicking material, such as polyester or nylon, to keep your feet dry and comfortable during the game.

2. Look for padding: Socks with additional padding can help protect your feet from impact and friction while playing.

3. Choose the right fit: Make sure the socks fit comfortably and securely without sliding down your heel or bunching up in your shoe.

4. Choose the right height: Basketball socks come in different heights, such as ankle-length, crew-length, and knee-length. It depends on your preference and style, but also, ankle-length socks may offer a better fit and greater range of motion than knee-length.

5. Consider ventilation: Mesh or ventilated materials can help keep your feet cool and reduce sweating.

6. Check for durability: Look for socks that are made with high-quality materials and feature reinforced toes and heels to withstand the wear and tear of playing basketball.

7. Pay attention to compression: Some players may prefer compression socks for improved blood flow and reducing muscle fatigue.

8. Look for features that meet your needs: If you’re someone who plays frequently, you may want a sock that has additional support and cushioning.

9. Think about style: Many brands offer a variety of different designs and colors, so you can choose a style that matches your team or personal preferences.

10. Read reviews: Before buying, you can always read reviews from other players to see what their experiences with the product and if it’s the right fit for you.