How to Make Your Basketball Sneakers Have Traction

In addition to skill and speed, part of a basketball player's success depends on his ability to stop, start and change direction quickly. These attributes are vital at both ends of the court. When you're carrying the ball, you can get in position for a shot with a quick turn. When you're on defense, you can keep up with the sharp turns of the ball carrier. Your stopping and starting ability is significantly improved when you can keep the soles of your basketball shoes sticky.

Things You'll Need

  • Adhesive mat
  • B-Sharp Traction Action
  • Rag
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wear your basketball shoes outdoors as little as possible to keep their soles sticky. When you wear shoes outside, the soles get covered in dirt and dust, which reduce their traction. If you have to wear your shoes outdoors, wash them thoroughly and allow them to dry before stepping on the basketball court.

    • 2

      Wipe the excess sweat off your hands during the game, and then rub your palm along the length of each shoe's sole. This process will help lift any dust or residue off the shoes quickly and easily. Best of all, you can do it during stoppages in play to give yourself good traction in a hurry.

    • 3

      Buy an adhesive mat for use during your games, or ask your coach or school to provide one. Adhesive mats, often called sticky mats, are covered with a rubbery substance. When you step on the mat and scuff your shoes back and forth, your shoes gain superior traction. Use the adhesive mat throughout the game to keep a high level of traction.

    • 4

      Coat the bottom of your basketball shoes with B-Sharp Traction Action, an adhesive liquid substance. To apply the substance, dab some of it on a rag and wipe the rag over the soles of your shoes. As with the adhesive mat, your shoes will be extremely sticky. You can re-apply the adhesive throughout the game for maximum traction.