Basketball is a sport that requires constant movement and quick decisions. For this reason, the referees must be able to keep up while still concentrating on the game. They cannot be distracted by what they are wearing or how they look; for this reason, most NBA referees wear black shoes with white soles.
These black shoes are made of leather, providing the best possible grip on an indoor basketball court. The soles are extremely thin and made of rubber for maximum traction.
The most important thing in choosing a good basketball referee shoe is comfort. These shoes must be able to support the referee’s ankle while not limiting his mobility or distracting him in any way.
What Sneakers Do NBA Refs Wear?

NBA referees are not allowed to wear any shoes that have luminous or reflective material on them. This is to ensure that they are always seen by the players during the game. Since basketball is a fast-paced sport where quick decisions are constantly being made, referees must have a steady shoe so they do not slip. Additionally, the soles of the referee shoes should be clean and white, as this will ensure that they are seen by players on the court.
NBA officials are required to wear black leather shoes with rubber soles. The most important quality in basketball referee shoes is comfort, followed by support and grip on the court. Since basketball officials have to keep up with the speed and roughness of the game, they must wear comfortable shoes that won’t get in their way. Most professional basketball referees do prefer leather shoes for this reason, although there are some exceptions.
What Brand Shoes Do Referees Wear?
All officials in the National Basketball Association (NBA) wear standard black leather shoes with rubber soles. Although there are no requirements for the brand of referee shoes, Nike is the most popular among NBA referees. This is because they offer high-quality shoes that keep up with the speed and intensity of basketball games. Plus, all Nike basketball sneakers include extra padding for added support and impact protection.
Related: Why Do Basketball Referees have numbers?
What Does Refs Mean In Shoes?
“Refs” means “referee shoes,” or sneakers designed specifically for basketball referees. In the National Basketball Association (NBA), officials are required to wear black leather shoes with rubber soles. These shoes should be relatively plain and simple, allowing the referee’s whistle to stand out from the rest of their attire.
What Shoes Are Banned In The NBA?
NBA referees are required to wear black shoes with a clean white sole. The materials of the shoes must not be made in a way that will create extra shine or make it easier for players to see officials’ feet. Shoes must also have a non-combustible outsole and may not have reflective surfaces or features that could result in distraction during the game.
NBA officials are required to wear shoes with non-marking soles so they will not leave lasting marks on the court. Sneakers for NBA referees must have flat or low profile rubber soles.
The Players who play at center, power forward, and small forward are not allowed to wear shoes with a white midsole. This is to help them better recognize the boundary lines of the court.
What Is The Referee Called In Basketball?
The referee in basketball is referred to as an “official” or simply, a “ref”.
How Can I Become A Basketball Referee?
Before becoming an NBA referee, there are several basketball officiating organizations that you can join to gain experience and knowledge of the sport. The two most prominent of these include the National Association of Sports Officials (NASO) and USA basketball. Both have training programs for young referees so they can learn the rules of the game and gain experience officiating actual games.
Why Do Referees Have To Wear Black Shoes?
NBA referees are required to wear a specific type of shoes designed for sports. They must have a rubber sole and non-marking soles that will not damage the court surface. In addition, they must have white soles that can help them be seen by players on the court.
Is A Basketball Official Called An Umpire Or A Referee?
An official is referred to as a referee or “crew chief” in basketball.
Final Thoughts
In this article, we have touched upon the topic of what sneakers NBA refs wear and we have answered the question by pointing out that, as mandated by the National Basketball Association, professional basketball referees must wear black leather shoes with rubber soles. Furthermore, we have explained that there is no requirement for the brand but Nike is highly preferred.
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