Why Womens Basketball Shoes are Different from the Men’s
While men and women play basketball with perhaps the same degree of passion, there are certain differences that separate the two, well, teams. One obvious difference is in the area of physique, particularly the feet. This explains why basketball shoes for women differ from the men's.
Flatter Feet
Female feet are generally flatter and narrower than their male counterparts. Even when a male and female basketball player are of the same height, the latter's shoes would require a wider frame. The fundamental differences in feet configuration among the sexes is the reason why a female basketball player can't and should not assume that buying men's basketball shoes of the same size as she is will work out just fine. Female feet are different and they need shoes of the same gender, if you may, to measure up to the twists and turns of the game.
A Style That Suits Her Style
Differences in frame notwithstanding, female basketball shoes are made to execute the same thrilling moves of the game just like men do. The exhilarating sprint bursts, abrupt halts, and intense jockeying for position can put a tremendous amount of pressure on feminine feet. And depending on the type of player one is, there is a particular shoe type that has been designed to respond well to the challenge.
Female power players love a physical game and get maximum ankle support from high-top basketball shoes. All-around players who switch from offense to defense need less of the restriction provided by the heavier high-top shoes and thrive on mid-top or low-top ones to excel at what they do best. Fast players, on the other hand, have speed as their advantage; they utilize it to the hilt using low-top basketball shoes that are lightweight.
Women who love basketball should find out which playing style they perform best and get the basketball shoes that fit it.
How They're Constructed
Female basketball shoes essentially comprise three main components.
The UPPER PART is the soft outer covering which keeps the feet snugly in place and prevents them from sliding around while the player is in action. The cut is either high top, mid top, or low top, while lightweight synthetic materials are used to construct them.
The MIDSOLE is the inner layer between the upper part and outsole. It is made of soft synthetic materials like ethylene-vinyl acetate, polyurethane, or proprietary cushioning unique to different brands which are found on the forefoot and heel. Densities differ, again according to the brand, and it is important to try the shoes on before buying to determine how your feet will react and feel while wearing them.
The OUTSOLE, finally, comprises the bottom part of the female basketball shoes. It is the one that is responsible for traction. It is normally made of rubber or other synthetics. Specific brands also equip it with scientific-sounding names to describe the technologies that provide traction and control on the hardcourt.
Buying Your Shoes
Fit is of paramount importance in buying female basketball shoes. Trying them on and spending a few minutes jumping, making side-by-side movements, and other basketball moves is important to determine how it and your feet react while in use. Also keep in mind that your shoe size changes over time. Never assume that your size two years ago will be the same as today's or you could buy a pair of basketball shoes that you won't feel comfortable especially during an important game.