There’s not always a difference between high-tops and basketball shoes. High-tops can be a specific type of basketball shoe, or they can be streetwear shoes with a classic basketball look that aren’t made to play in. High-top basketball shoes are designed to support players’ ankle and Achilles tendon. (Basketball shoes also come in mid- and low-cut styles.) For playing basketball, look for performance midsole cushioning technologies such as adidas Boost and adidas Bounce. Or if you want quick response and speed, a snappy midsole like Lightstrike might be for you.