Having the proper footwear when playing basketball can make a significant impact on the player’s performance, especially during crucial moments of the game.
It can be really disappointing when you play out your defensive plan flawlessly, only to slip on the court. This is why it’s essential to make sure your basketball shoes have the proper grip and support.
We will explore a few ways to improve your basketball shoe’s grip. This will ensure you have the necessary traction to make quick cuts and stops on the court. You will be able to take the necessary steps when you know how to clean your basketball shoes for a better grip.
With the right footwear, you can focus on your game plan, knowing that your shoes are up to the task. So, lace up!
Few Ways to Clean Your Basketball Shoes for A Better Grip
Read the methods on how to clean your basketball shoes and repeat the one that works best for you. Let’s get started.
1. Clean the Soles of the Shoes
Your shoe’s soles are critical for your performance on the court. The dirt and debris that have accumulated can create a slippery surface, sabotaging your ability to make quick cuts and changes in direction.
To restore your grip, start by cleaning the outsoles. Use a hard bristle brush or toothpick and remove any debris stuck on the bottom of the shoes. Then grab a towel, dip it in a mixture of clean water and liquid detergent and wipe the outsole clean.
Use a toothbrush or a soft brush to scrub any remaining dirt. After this, air-dry your shoes to prevent damaging the fabric. Avoid using a washing machine because it might ruin the quality of the shoes.
A simple cleaning can go a long way in ensuring that your footwear is up to the task.
2. Mop the Floor
Keeping the basketball courts floor clean is a fundamental aspect of ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of basketball shoes. The dust particles and dirt on the playing surface can greatly affect the grip of the shoe, leading to a slippery and hazardous playing environment.
One of the simplest and most effective way to improve this concern is by regularly mopping the hardwood or acrylic surfaces on the court.
Indoor courts are generally cleaner than outdoor ones, neglecting to clean the court daily can compromise the outsole’s grip. It is crucial to maintain a tidy court free of dust and dirt to enhance basketball shoes’ traction during play.
3. Use a Sticky Mat
Sticky mats can easily pull out dirt from the soles of you basketball shoes, and they are often placed at the corners of a court.
Get off the court, step on the mat, and you’re done! This process should help restore the grip of your basketball shoes.
4. Apply Traction Gel
Another easy way to improve your basketball shoe’s grip is by applying traction gel. This product is widely available in the market and designed to increase the traction of the outsole if applied properly.
The application is simple and involves two steps. First, apply the gel on the outsoles of your shoes. Then, wait for it to dry before taking to the court. Once it has dried, you can enjoy a slip-free and confident game.
However, the traction gel is a temporary solution that might work only for a limited time if the court is dirty. Therefore, it is crucial to regularly clean the outsole of your shoes.
5. Apply Vaseline
Vaseline is yet another effective way to make your shoes slide-free. Just simply thoroughly clean the outer surface of your shoe and apply Vaseline. This will repel the dust for a longer time.
6. Use Hair Spray
When you don’t have access to other cleaning supplies, hair spray can come to the rescue. This is a quick and easy solution that can improve the grip of your basketball shoes in a matter of seconds.
Just simply clean the soles of your shoes and spray them for about 20 seconds. Let the spray settle for a moment before wearing the shoes.
While this can provide a temporary boost in traction, it’s important to note that it might not be a long-term solution. The effect might wear off after a short period of time. However, it can provide enough grip to keep you from slipping during the first quarter of the game, or a quick training session.
BS Opinion
Maintaining a good grip and traction on your basketball shoes is crucial for your performance on the court. It enhances your swift movements but also prevents injuries that might result from slipping on a dusty or dirty court.
It is tempting to buy a new pair of shoes when they become less grippy, but our guide has provided handy tips to improve their traction and extend their lifespan. It is also important to consider the latest reviews before making a purchase.
By following these tips, you can get the most out of your basketball shoes and maximize your performance on the court.
