Black trainers are easy to style, but not every pair is suited to the same activity. A casual trainer for work and walking has different requirements from black running shoes for training. If you focus only on colour, brand or discount, you could end up with shoes that wear out quickly, lack grip or don’t fit comfortably.
The main pitfalls to avoid when buying black trainers for women and men are:
First, decide what you need the shoes for. For everyday trainers, flexibility, comfort and a grippy sole are often more important than maximum energy return. For example, the Vans Authentic in black is designed for everyday outfits and activities such as walking, work or days out. The product information lists a textile upper and lining, with a rubber sole.
Running shoes have different features. According to its product description, the adidas Supernova Ease has a full-length Dreamstrike midsole, breathable mesh and a rubber sole with lugs. Its construction makes it more suited to short- to medium-distance runs and building a running routine. A model such as the adidas Adizero Boston 13 is designed by adidas for more intensive running and races, with Lightstrike Pro foam, Energy Rods and a technical mesh construction.
So don’t automatically use a lifestyle model as running shoes for training. Conversely, a race-day shoe may be unnecessarily firm or specialised if you mainly walk to the office.
Measure both feet at the end of the day, when they’re often slightly larger. Measure from your heel to the tip of your longest toe, then compare the result with the size guide for your chosen model. Check the following:
According to the product information, the Puma Speedcat OG Black-White is true to size. For the Geox D Bleyze E Collection, the advice is to use your measured foot length and consider going up a size if you’re between sizes. This difference shows why a general size guide isn’t always enough.
A leather upper may need different care and offer a different feel from mesh or textile. According to its specifications, the Puma Speedcat OG has an upper made from 97% leather and 3% textile, with a rubber outsole. The product information for the Geox D Bleyze E Collection lists an upper made from 85% full-grain leather and 15% stretch textile.
For black sports shoes, the outsole is particularly important. Check whether it’s designed for tarmac, indoor sports surfaces, everyday wear or a range of terrains. The adidas Adizero Boston 13 listing mentions Continental rubber and Energy Rods. These are product specifications, but they don’t guarantee that the model will suit every runner or surface.
Clean black shoes with a soft, damp cloth and leave them to air-dry. Avoid the washing machine and direct heat if the product care instructions advise against them. This helps prevent misshaping and unnecessary wear.
Why it suits this profile: A versatile choice if you’re looking for a black adidas trainer for light activities, walking and everyday wear.
The product information highlights a lightweight construction, a secure fit and a tread pattern designed for grip. Check that these features suit the way you plan to use the shoes.
Lightweight construction, black colour detailing and sizing information based on foot length.
Why it suits this profile: Designed for sporty runners who want to wear their black running shoes for training and races.
The product description lists technical mesh, Lightstrike Pro foam, Energy Rods and a rubber outsole. This clearly sets out the key construction features.
Technical mesh, a Lightstrike Pro midsole and a size range with foot lengths in centimetres.
Why it suits this profile: A practical option for runners looking for an everyday training shoe for short- to medium-distance runs.
Its intended use is clearly described: everyday running, short- to medium-distance runs and building a routine.
Dreamstrike midsole, breathable mesh and rubber lugs for grip, according to the product description.
For casual wear, the Puma Speedcat OG in black, Vans Authentic in black and Geox women’s shoes in black are also worth a look. The Puma has an IMEVA midsole and rubber outsole. The Geox D Bleyze E Collection features leather, stretch textile panels and a removable insole. Choose based on fit and intended use, not just the logo.
We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
It depends on the model. Check whether the shoe is specifically described as a running shoe, and look at its cushioning, fit, breathable upper and grip. Casual trainers such as the Vans Authentic are mainly intended for everyday wear.
Their lifespan depends on how you use them, the surface you wear them on, your body weight, how you care for them and the materials they’re made from. Replace your shoes when the outsole shows uneven wear, the fit changes or the cushioning no longer feels comfortable. There’s no set lifespan that applies to every model.
Wipe off dirt with a soft, damp cloth and leave your shoes to air-dry. Use a suitable leather care product for leather styles. Always check the care advice on the product label first, and avoid the washing machine if the instructions say not to use it.