ASTM International, an ANSI member and audited designator, has developed a standard intended to assist in the fitting of athletic footwear, including shoes intended for use by basketball players. Because of the large amount of running and jumping involved in basketball at the college level, well-fitting shoes help to protect the health and safety of participating players. The standard,
ASTM F539-01(2011),
Standard Practice for Fitting Athletic Footwear, discusses a practical method for fitting basketball shoes, as well as footwear for tennis, football, and baseball.
Whether you're a student athlete playing in one of the tournament's games, or a college basketball superfan enjoying the spectacle at your local sports bar, voluntary consensus standards provide support for systems and devices that can make March Madness safer and easier to watch.
