Basketball shoes from the brand TB (Tony Baines) have become increasingly popular among players in recent years. TB shoes stand out for their innovative technology, stylish designs, and endorsement from top NBA stars. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a close look at TB basketball shoes – their key features, top models, and how they compare with other major brands like Nike and Adidas.
The History of TB Basketball Shoes
TB basketball shoes were launched in 2018 by British entrepreneur Tony Baines. A basketball fanatic himself, Baines set out to create shoes that could give players an edge on the court through new cushioning and traction technologies. The brand is headquartered in Los Angeles and has quickly expanded across the US market as well as internationally.
In just a few short years, TB has landed endorsements from NBA stars like Damian Lillard, Trae Young, and Zach LaVine. The brand has also focused on stylish designs that appeal both on and off the court. As TB shoes have gained popularity in the NBA, more players have started wearing them. The increased exposure has further accelerated the brand’s growth.
Key Features of TB Basketball Shoes
TB basketball shoes stand out for their innovative features designed to improve performance:
- Cushioning – TB shoes use proprietary foam cushioning that is soft and responsive. This helps absorb impact and reduce fatigue.
- Traction – Outsoles use thick, multi-directional traction patterns to grip the floor. This allows for quick cuts and changes in direction.
- Support – Many models have external support cages and stable heel counters to lock in the foot over the footbed.
- Materials – TB shoes utilize lightweight, woven material uppers for breathability. Some models also use leather for increased durability.
- Fit – The shoes are designed to contour closely to the foot for a snug, supportive feel.
By focusing on these performance attributes, TB aims to give players the technology they need to excel on the court.
Top TB Basketball Shoe Models
TB has released many popular signature shoes endorsed by NBA stars as well as additional models for different player needs. Here are some of the top TB basketball shoes on the market:
Dame 7
This lightweight shoe is the 7th signature model for Portland Trailblazers star Damian Lillard. Key features include full-length Bounce cushioning, a traction pattern inspired by Lillard’s Oakland roots, and a lace-less bootie construction for lockdown fit.
Trae Young 1
Designed for Atlanta Hawks point guard Trae Young, this shoe has lightweight woven upper material and a soft foam midsole. The outsole uses a herringbone traction pattern and deep flex grooves for optimal grip and flexibility.
Zach LaVine 1
Chicago Bulls high-flyer Zach LaVine’s first signature TB shoe uses a breathable mesh upper and responsive Bounce cushioning. For traction, the outsole has a circular pattern to enable LaVine’s smooth multidirectional movements.
Nitro Elite
Built for speed and quickness, the TB Nitro Elite uses a lightweight textile upper with dynamic lacing for foot lockdown. Underfoot, it has a full-length Nitro Foam midsole and featherweight outsole for responsiveness.
Anomaly X
The Anomaly X is TB’s max cushioning shoe, making it ideal for bigger players. It includes ultra-thick Stratus Foam in the heel and forefoot to absorb heavy impacts. The outsole wraps up on the medial side for lateral stability.
TB Basketball Shoes Compared to Other Brands
How do TB basketball shoes stack up against the leading brands Nike and Adidas? Here is a brief overview:
| Brand | Known For | Cushioning Tech | Traction Tech |
|---|---|---|---|
| TB | Innovative performance features, stylish signature shoes | Bounce Foam, Nitro Foam, Stratus Foam | Multi-directional traction patterns |
| Nike | Iconic legacy, athlete endorsements | Air units, Zoom Air | Solid rubber outsoles |
| Adidas | Classic styles, lightweight builds | Boost foam, Lightstrike foam | Herringbone traction patterns |
As the newcomer, TB places more emphasis on using advanced cushioning and traction systems to try and give athletes a performance advantage. Nike and Adidas have more brand legacy and access to endorsements.
Buying Considerations for TB Shoes
When shopping for TB basketball shoes, keep the following tips in mind:
- Consider your playing style – Guards may prefer lighter shoes like the Dame 7, while big men might opt for maximum cushioning in the Anomaly X.
- Check the fit – TB shoes tend to fit snugly, so going up half a size may be recommended.
- Look for sales – Older colorways of TB shoes can often be found at discounts to make them more affordable.
- Browse reviews – See what other players are saying about traction, cushioning, and fit to inform your decision.
- Prioritize key features – Focus on the cushioning, materials, support and traction that align with your needs.
Taking the time to find the right TB shoe for your game is key to getting the most out of these innovative basketball shoes.
The Future for TB Basketball Shoes
In just a few short years, TB has already made an impact on the basketball shoe scene. The brand seems poised for continued growth as more players try out their shoes.
TB will likely continue expanding their roster of player endorsements. More signature shoes for emerging stars could be on the horizon. We also expect the brand to keep innovating with new cushioning, materials and traction technologies.
The increased competition from brands like TB will push major players like Nike and Adidas as well. This means more choices and improved performance for basketball players across the board.
While still new, TB has proven they are here to challenge the top brands. Their combination of tech, style and endorsements points to a promising future in basketball footwear. Players should keep an eye on TB as they strive to deliver game-changing shoes year after year.
Conclusion
TB basketball shoes offer players a fresh option packed with innovative features. By focusing on cushioning, traction and support, TB aims to give athletes a performance edge on the court. Top models with stylish designs are endorsed by rising NBA stars like Lillard, Young and LaVine.
While not yet an established basketball brand like Nike or Adidas, early success and feedback indicates TB is on the rise. Their shoes could soon become a go-to choice for players looking for lightweight, responsive footwear. With their continued technical improvements and growth, TB is a basketball shoe brand worth watching closely in the coming years.
