Basketball players need a good grip on their shoes to perform fast moves. Whether you are playing on an indoor or outdoor court, shoe friction is essential for performance. If you make basketball shoes grippy and have better traction, a player can move quicker, but the question is can you increase the grip of basketball shoes? We’ll discuss easy and tested methods to make basketball shoes more grippy if you’re troubled by slippery shoes that don’t let you stop and go and make quick cuts.
Table of Contents
Quick Steps To Make Basketball Shoes More Grippy
Cleaning Method
Dirt and dust on the floor cause many basketball shoes to lose traction. Shoes tend to slide on the hardwood if that layer is barely noticeable. You can eliminate that layer with two different cleaning methods, which will reliably give you more grip, no matter how much you play.
First, you can wipe your shoe’s bottom with a wet cloth. Just make sure to get into the grooves. You don’t need to scrub deep enough to lift off the dirt particles.
The second method is cleaning your soles with a stiff bristle brush and soapy water. While scrubbed down in this manner, I find it quite comparable to using a rag in terms of cleanliness, but it depends on the amount of dirt on your shoes and your preference.
Stones can easily scuff the grooves of your shoe soles if you play basketball on an outdoor court. Use a toothpick to remove any rocks stuck inside your shoes. Clean your basketball shoes for a better grip with warm water and environmentally-friendly laundry detergent. Scrub the soles of your basketball shoes lightly with an old toothbrush or soft brush.
Don’t use the washing machine to clean your shoes because, in the washing machine, basketball shoes can change shape and colour, so don’t try to wash them and always dry them at room temperature. Avoid a dryer or heater to dry shoes because rubber can change shape and colour with heat.
You should avoid intense cleaning products like softeners or scented detergents since they can dry out your shoes and crack the soles. These products will leave a greasy residue that is no longer grippy even after cleaning.
Use Of Traction Mat
It is most common for gyms and basketball courts to use traction mats. The mat’s purpose is to collect dust and wax that the sole has grabbed from the hardwood floor. Additionally, it adds a little adhesiveness to the rubber sole Consequently, the shoe bottom gets clean within a few seconds and gives a better grip on basketball shoes for a while.
Cleanliness Of Floor Courts
The best way to keep the floors clean is to mop them wet, but that requires a dedicated staff that is both costly and time-consuming. Dry mopping makes a difference but won’t guarantee a clean court. Wet mopping is the best way to keep the floors clean, but dry mopping does not remove dust or dirt. Dry mopping is only effective in drying liquid spills or absorbing perspiration after players fall.
Use of Gels/Lotion
To increase the tackiness of your shoe, grip lotion can be sprayed on. A quick spray will be more than enough. Do not wear your basketball shoes outside. The rubber grooves on the traction are designed specifically for hardwood surfaces. Use them on any other surface, and you will slip more easily.
Wipe your Shoes For a Better Grip
It would be best to always have a dry and wet cloth in your bag when playing basketball. Because if the sole collects dirt between games, wipe it off.
Use Moisture
It’s common for your traction to gradually break down during a game. If that happens, you should moisten your soles to prevent losing your edge. You can either dampen your shoes with saliva or wipe them down with a damp rag (which some teams or gyms may facilitate). To make your footwear stick, rinse your hand in drinking water or wipe it across the bottom of your shoe. If that’s impossible, lick your hand and wipe it on the bottom of your shoe.
Maintenance Tips
To prolong the grip and overall lifespan of basketball shoes, it is essential to follow some maintenance tips. Here are a few recommendations:
1. Regular Cleaning
Apart from cleaning the outsole, it’s crucial to maintain the overall cleanliness of the shoes. Wipe off any dirt or stains from the upper material using a damp cloth. Additionally, allowing the shoes to dry naturally after each use can prevent the growth of bacteria and maintain the shoe’s performance.
2. Avoiding Excessive Wear
Using basketball shoes exclusively for on-court activities can help preserve their grip. Avoid wearing them casually or on rough surfaces that cause excessive wear and tear. This will ensure that the outsole retains its grip for a longer duration.
What Should We Do if We Start Losing Grip in The Middle of The Game?
Losing grip in the middle of a basketball game can be frustrating and greatly affect your performance on the court. When you find yourself slipping or experiencing a loss of traction, here are a few steps you can take to address the issue and regain your grip:
Wipe the Outsole: If you notice dust, dirt, or moisture on the outsole of your basketball shoes, take a quick break and wipe them off using a towel or your hand. This simple action can help remove substances that may compromise your shoe’s grip.
Use a Gripping Agent: Gripping agents, such as rosin or resin bags, can increase traction temporarily. These substances enhance grip by creating friction between the shoe and the court surface. Apply a small amount of the gripping agent to your hands and rub them together before touching the outsole of your shoes. This can provide some immediate grip improvement.
Communicate with Your Team: Inform your teammates about the issue you’re experiencing with your grip. This can help them understand your limitations and adjust their game accordingly. They may be able to provide assistance or modify their passes to accommodate your current situation.
Consider Substituting Shoes: In some cases, the loss of grip may be due to worn-out outsoles or inadequate shoe condition. If you have a spare pair of basketball shoes, consider swapping them during a break or halftime. New shoes with a better grip can significantly improve your performance and confidence on the court.
Change Courtside: If you’re playing on an outdoor court and the surface is excessively dusty or slippery, consider moving to a different area of the court that offers a better grip. Look for sections of the court that are less affected by dust or moisture. Changing your location on the court might help you find a spot with improved traction.
Modify Your Playing Style: Adjusting your playing style can somewhat compensate for the loss of grip. If you notice a decrease in traction during sharp turns or quick movements, anticipate and make those moves with slightly less force or speed. This can help minimize the risk of slipping and maintain control over your movements.
Maintaining optimal grip throughout the game is crucial, but adapting and making the best of the situation is essential if grip issues arise unexpectedly. Stay focused, communicate with your team, and take the necessary steps to regain control and maximize your performance.