How to Make the Bottom of Shoes Less Slippery for Basketball

Converse created the first basketball shoe in 1913. As the popularity of the game grew, so did the shoe for wearing both on and off the court. No matter what brand name you choose to wear on the court or black-top, you'll notice that the bottom of the sneakers get slippery from time to time. The build-up of dirt, dust and debris on the bottom of the shoe must be removed to regain optimal traction. Employing one of these methods allows you to continue to play the game with as much traction as possible.

Things You'll Need

  • Sticky mats
  • Moist towel
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Instructions

  1. Hand Method

    • 1

      Lick the fingertips of your hand. When time to properly wipe or clean your shoes is not available, such as in the middle of the game, this method removes the dirt and debris impeding your tracking.

    • 2

      Wipe the bottom of your shoe with your moistened hand. Start at the front of your shoe and work toward the back.

    • 3

      Repeat Steps 1 and 2 using the opposite hand wiping the opposite foot. If the sneakers are still slippery, repeat on each foot a second time.

    Sticky Mats

    • 4

      Place a sticky mat to the side of the bench.

    • 5

      Step on the sticky mat with both feet before entering the game.

    • 6

      Repeat Step 2, stepping on the mat several times. The sticky mat removes excess dust dirt and debris from the bottom of your shoes.

    Towel Cleaning

    • 7

      Place a moist towel at the top of your sneaker sole.

    • 8

      Wipe downward toward the heel of your shoe.

    • 9

      Repeat the process on the other shoe using a clean part of the towel. Clean your shoes before the start of games, at half-time and after games to remove as much dust and debris as possible.