For NBA and WNBA players, what they wear off the court is becoming just as important as what they wear during games.
From recovery to personal style, footwear now plays a bigger role in how athletes move through their day. For Oklahoma City Thunder guard Jalen Williams, that starts with getting out of game shoes and into something more comfortable.
Why off-court footwear and style matter
“Man, it’s huge,” Williams said. “As hoopers, we’re in our game shoes all day—practice, lifting, shooting around, games. So when you finally get to take those off and throw something comfortable on, it makes a difference.”
He said comfort and breathability are especially important during the season.
“Having something lightweight and breathable that lets your feet relax is key, especially during the season when every little bit of recovery helps.”
Off the court, Williams said sneakers are also a major part of how he approaches style.
“I’m big on style and trying new things, so the shoes are always a big part of the fit for me,” he said. “Sometimes the sneakers are the statement piece, sometimes they just tie everything together, but either way they set the vibe.”
As tunnel walks and pre-game arrivals continue to gain attention, players are using fashion as a way to express themselves beyond the game.
“Basketball’s always been connected to style,” Williams said. “Guys are expressing themselves more now, and the tunnel gives you a chance to show people who you are outside of the game. Fans see that confidence and creativity, and it just becomes part of the culture the same way the game itself is.”
Williams added that sneakers are usually the final piece when putting together a look.
“For me, the sneakers are usually the last thing I put on,” he said. “I’ll have the outfit together first and then choose the shoes that complete the look. Sometimes they pull the colors together, sometimes they add a little contrast.”
“It’s really about making sure everything flows and the energy of the whole fit feels right.”
Where new sneakers like Climacool fit in
As brands continue to introduce new models built for both comfort and everyday wear, that shift is showing up in releases like adidas’ updated Climacool sneaker.
The latest Climacool release—fronted by Williams and WNBA forward Kahleah Copper—focuses on airflow and a lightweight feel, aligning with what players say they look for off the court.
When it comes to his ideal off-court shoe, Williams said comfort is the priority.
“It’d have to be crazy comfortable first, something you can wear all day and chill in,” he said. “I like futuristic designs too, so probably something that looks different from anything else out there.”
“Clean colors, simple branding, but still something that stands out when you see it. Just something that feels like the next step forward.”