How to buy shoes online without a disappointing purchase: choosing the right fit and sole

Buying shoes online seems simple: choose a brand, select your size and compare the price. Yet most disappointment only sets in after delivery. A shoe may look good in photos but feel too narrow, offer insufficient grip or be unsuitable for the surface you intend to use it on.

For Dutch consumers, these are the three most common pitfalls:

• Ordering a familiar size without checking: size markings vary between brands and models. An EU size 39.5 does not always provide the same amount of room inside.
• Confusing comfort with a soft sole: a soft insole may feel pleasant, but it says nothing about stability, fit or grip.
• Choosing one universal shoe for every purpose: casual trainers are not automatically suitable as sports shoes, women’s running shoes or men’s walking shoes.

By checking the size, material and sole carefully, you can compare trainers online more effectively and order with greater confidence.

What should you look for when buying shoes online?

1. Check the size, fit and fastening

Don’t just look at the size number. Also check whether the shoe has a regular, narrow or wide fit, and whether the fastening offers enough room for adjustment.

Ideally, measure your foot at the end of the day, when your feet take up slightly more space. Place both feet on a sheet of paper and measure from the heel to the longest toe. Then use the size chart for the specific product. This is especially important with children’s shoes: a child’s foot grows, but a shoe that is too roomy may feel less stable when walking and playing.

Also consider:

• Laces: suitable when you want to fine-tune the fit.
• Hook-and-loop fastening: practical for children’s shoes and quick to put on and take off.
• Elastic laces: convenient for everyday use, but less precise to adjust.
• High-top trainers and boots: provide more coverage around the ankle, but may feel warmer and less flexible.

2. Assess the material based on use and care

The upper largely determines how a shoe feels and how it needs to be maintained.

• Textile and mesh are often lightweight and breathable. This makes them suitable for running and active everyday use. However, they may be more susceptible to rain and stains.
• Synthetic leather is relatively easy to wipe clean and generally retains a smart appearance. Always check the care instructions.
• Leather or nubuck can feel sturdy, but requires specific care. Do not use harsh products and allow shoes to dry at room temperature.
• Canvas works well for casual trainers, but generally offers less protection against wet weather.

A product description may mention features such as “breathable”, “water-repellent” or “durable”. Treat these as claims made by the brand or seller, and focus particularly on the stated material, construction and care instructions. Additional performance claims may be based on a brand’s own research; they do not automatically apply to every user or situation.

3. Choose the sole based on the surface

The sole is one of the most important purchase criteria, but online descriptions are often too general. Look at the material, tread and intended surface.

• Rubber outsoles generally provide grip and durability for everyday use.
• Vulcanised rubber is often used for canvas trainers and can combine flexibility with grip.
• A deeper tread is better suited to walks or changing surfaces than a flat sole.
• AG studs are designed for artificial grass. AG football boots should therefore not be used as ordinary sports shoes on the street or on an unsuitable sports surface.
• A running sole is designed around foot roll, cushioning and grip on the surface for which the model is intended. This does not automatically make a running shoe suitable for football, strength training or long walks.

If you are specifically looking for a hard-wearing or sturdy sole, you can also browse the full range of durable sole.

Recommended shoes by shopper profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

CONVERSE Men Shoes A12203C PRO BLAZE CLASSIC OX 44.5

Why it suits this profile: This low-top trainer comes in a versatile black design and is intended for everyday use. It is easy to pair with jeans, casual clothing and smart-casual outfits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify a padded insole, a synthetic leather upper and a vulcanised rubber outsole. This makes its intended use clearer than a general comfort claim would.

Main benefit & key features

Low-top design, lace fastening, synthetic leather upper and rubber sole offering flexibility and grip according to the product description.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality

Lacoste Aceline 96 124 6 Sfa Off Wht/Off Wht 39.5

Why it suits this profile: The low-top, all-white design works well with a minimalist wardrobe and everyday wear. This shoe is aimed at adults looking for an understated style.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications mention a padded insole, a rubber outsole and a synthetic leather upper. This provides clear points of reference for comfort, care and everyday use.

Main benefit & key features

Retro court shape, neutral colour, soft textile lining and a padded sole according to the product information.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users

Salomon Spectur W 415893 42

Why it suits this profile: According to the product description, this model is intended for running on hard surfaces. It therefore suits users looking for a separate women’s running shoe for training or races.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The intended use and surface are clearly specified. This reduces the risk of using a casual trainer for repeated running sessions.

Main benefit & key features

Engineered mesh, Energy Surge midsole, R.Camber geometry and rubber outsole are listed in the product specifications.

Other considerations by shoe type

For women’s shoes and men’s shoes, size, width and intended use matter more than the model name alone. If you are buying trainers online for the office and leisure time, consider a low-top or high-top trainer with a rubber sole. For children, flexible soles, a regular fit and an easy-to-use fastening are practical choices.

With football boots, always check the abbreviation used for the sole. According to the product information, Joma Super Copa 2402 AG is intended for artificial grass. Brand usage suggestions are not a guarantee for every surface; follow the information on the product page and the rules of the sports facility.

The same applies to walking. A model such as the Nike Manoa has a high-top shape, nubuck leather upper and water-repellent construction according to the product description. These are relevant features for colder conditions, but care and fit remain decisive for everyday comfort.

Frequently asked questions about buying shoes online

How do I determine my shoe size when ordering online?

Measure both feet in millimetres and compare the larger foot with the size chart for the model you have chosen. Also check the fit, shoe width and any sizing advice on the product page. Do not rely solely on the size you wear from another brand.

How long do shoes bought online last?

Their lifespan depends on the material, frequency of use, body weight, surface and care. Rotate your shoes, allow wet models to dry naturally and use sports shoes for the activities they were designed for. A rubber sole or sturdy upper may help reduce wear, but it is not a fixed guarantee of a particular lifespan.

Can I use the same shoes for sport and everyday wear?

Sometimes, for light activities, but it is not always practical. Casual trainers are suitable for everyday use, while running shoes, AG football boots and walking shoes have a specific sole and construction. Choose your model based on the activity, surface and fit rather than colour or brand alone.