Black trainers go with almost any outfit, but colour alone tells you little about the fit, materials or intended use. A pair that feels comfortable on a short walk may be less suitable for long working days or running. Product photos can also differ from the actual colour: some trainers feature white, pink or contrasting details.
When buying black trainers online, you are most likely to encounter these common pitfalls:
Below, you will find a practical guide to choosing black trainers from Vans, Adidas, Skechers, Puma and other brands.
Do not start with the brand. Start with the activity you need the trainers for.
For commuting, shopping and casual outfits, a textile upper and rubber sole are often sufficient. The Vans Authentic black is a clear example: the shoe has a textile upper and lining with a rubber sole. The product information lists walking, work and everyday outfits as suitable uses.
If you walk a lot every day, it is best to look for a flexible sole, a well-enclosed heel and an insole that does not feel too firm. Several Skechers models feature a Memory Foam insole. According to the product information for the Skechers Burns 52635 BBK, this insole is fixed and cannot be removed. This is important if you normally use your own insole.
Ordinary lifestyle trainers are not always suitable for running. Look for lightweight running shoes, a breathable upper, an EVA foam midsole and an outsole with a tread pattern. According to the product description, the PELLIOT shoe in this selection is designed for road-to-trail use and has a mesh and woven upper, EVA midsole and ROCKYTEC rubber outsole.
A model such as Adidas running shoes or the Adidas Supernova Rise M ATR is therefore a more logical choice for sporting activities than a flat canvas trainer. According to the product information, the Supernova Rise M ATR has a padded insole, adjustable laces and a synthetic rubber outsole.
The material affects not only the appearance, but also the care required and how suitable the trainers are for the Dutch weather.
Always follow the manufacturer's care instructions. Several Adidas models, for example, state that you should clean the shoes with a damp cloth, leave them to air-dry and not put them in the washing machine. According to the product information, the Skechers Summits 149037 BKRG, on the other hand, is machine washable. So check the specific model, not just the brand.
If you are looking for trainers in sizes 36 to 43, check the specific size chart on the product page. Measure your feet at the end of the day while wearing the socks you would normally wear with the trainers. Measure both feet and choose the size that fits your longer foot.
Also pay attention to:
The Skechers Graceful - Get Connected is described in the product information as running large, with advice to order one size smaller. According to the available information, the Skechers Summits 149037 BKRG is true to size. For the Puma Speedcat OG, the advice is to choose your usual size. Differences like these make a size chart more important than a general preference for a particular brand.
Why it suits this profile: A simple black canvas trainer for everyday outfits, walking and work. Its low-profile, neutral shape is easy to pair with jeans, chinos and casual clothing.
The product information clearly states that it has a textile upper and lining, a rubber sole and a size 37. This means you know what you are buying instead of focusing only on the black colour.
Textile upper, rubber sole and a classic low-profile design for everyday wear.
Why it suits this profile: For anyone looking for a black Vans trainer with more structure than a simple canvas design. This model has a suede upper and a distinctive Sidestripe.
The material composition is described more specifically than simply calling the product ‘premium’. The product information mentions suede, synthetic details and a rubber waffle sole.
Suede upper, Vans Sidestripe and rubber waffle sole. Please note: the product information states that it contains components of animal origin.
Why it suits this profile: For running, longer walks and changing surfaces. The product description focuses on road-to-trail use and lists size 43 as an available size.
Instead of a lifestyle sole, this model has an EVA midsole and a treaded ROCKYTEC rubber outsole, according to the product information. Do check that the fit suits your foot width.
Mesh and woven upper, EVA foam and rubber outsole. The size chart includes sizes from EU 39 to EU 43.
We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
For everyday walking, look for a flexible rubber sole, a good fit and an insole that feels comfortable. The Vans Authentic is primarily designed for everyday use. For longer distances or fitness walking, models with an EVA midsole, such as certain Adidas running shoes or the PELLIOT, are more logical options to compare.
Their lifespan depends on walking distance, surface, body weight, care and material. Textile can become dirty more quickly, while suede needs care to keep it looking its best. Check the sole for smooth patches and the upper for loose stitching. The statutory minimum two-year guarantee applies to many of the products mentioned, but normal wear and tear from use is not automatically covered by the guarantee.
Not every black trainer is a running shoe. Models such as Nike Dunk Low women’s, Vans Authentic black and Puma Speedcat OG are primarily lifestyle models. For running, check whether the product description explicitly mentions running as an intended use, and consider the weight, midsole, ventilation, heel support and outsole tread. Use the size chart and do not choose a model based solely on its colour or brand name.