Buy shoes without making the wrong choice: how to choose the right pair online

Buying shoes seems simple until you have to choose between trainers, sports shoes, football boots, indoor shoes, running shoes or casual shoes. Online, you often see the same promises: lightweight, comfortable, durable and suitable for all-day wear. Yet a striking design or well-known brand name says little about whether a pair is right for the way you intend to use it.

Most disappointing purchases are caused by three common pitfalls:

1. Choosing the wrong sole for the surface: indoor shoes and football boots are not automatically interchangeable. An AG sole is designed for artificial grass, while a non-marking rubber sole is better suited to indoor courts.
2. Looking only at the EU size: fit varies from one model to another. A regular fit, shoe width and internal length are at least as important as size 40, 42 or 46.
3. Confusing marketing claims with guarantees: terms such as “extra cushioning” or “maximum grip” are not always directly comparable. Look at verifiable details such as the material, sole type, fastening and care instructions.

Which specifications should you check?

1. Choose the sole based on how you will use the shoes

For everyday use, rubber soles are practical thanks to their grip and durability. A casual trainer such as a Converse, Vans or adidas model is mainly intended for walking, work, school and leisurewear.

For sports, the surface is the deciding factor:

• Indoor shoes: look for a non-marking rubber sole suitable for use in a sports hall.
• AG football boots: according to the product information, the sole is designed for artificial grass.
• FG boots: these are intended for firm natural ground. Always check whether the model is specifically made for football or another field sport.
• Running shoes: pay attention to the combination of mesh or woven upper, midsole material and tread. A road and trail shoe may have different characteristics from a model designed solely for asphalt.

Do not routinely use football boots with AG studs on an indoor floor. This can affect grip, underfoot feel and the lifespan of the sole.

2. Check the material and breathability

The upper determines how a shoe feels and how it should be cared for. Mesh and textile generally allow more air to pass through than synthetic leather. Leather and synthetic materials can provide a firmer feel, but often require different cleaning methods.

Examples from the product specifications:

• The PUMA Speedcat OG has a leather upper, a textile lining and a rubber outsole.
• Skechers Burns uses synthetic leather and mesh, with a rubber sole and a non-removable Memory Foam insole according to the product description.
• The Converse Star Player 76 OX has a canvas upper, a textile lining and a vulcanised rubber outsole.
• The adidas Run 70s 2.0 combines textile and synthetic materials with a rubber outsole.

Pay attention to care instructions too. Some models must not be washed in a washing machine. With shoes featuring built-in lights, such as certain children’s shoes, washing them may damage the components according to the product information.

3. Look beyond the size

Choosing the right size starts with the size chart on the product page. Also check:

• Fit: regular, narrow or wide.
• Shoe width: for example D or G.
• Fastening: laces offer an adjustable fit; hook-and-loop fastenings are convenient for children’s shoes.
• Toe room: a round toe may provide more freedom of movement, but the actual fit still depends on the model.
• Wearing with socks: sports socks may require more room than thin casual socks.

Several of the models mentioned are stated to have a regular fit. That does not mean every model feels the same. If in doubt, compare the measurements in the size chart with a well-fitting pair you already own.

Recommendations by user profile

The following selection is based on product information such as material, sole, fastening, fit and stated intended use. Brand characteristics have not been independently verified; statements about comfort or performance come from the relevant product descriptions.

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

adidas Run 70s 2.0 GRESTR/FTWWHT/GUM3JI4922 40

Why it suits this profile: This trainer combines a retro look with a lightweight feel and is suitable for everyday wear, walking and casual outfits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information mentions a breathable upper, lightweight cushioning and a rubber outsole. This means you can base your choice on specific features rather than appearance alone.

Key benefit & highlights

Textile and synthetic materials; rubber sole; EU size 40 and a stated length of 25 cm.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality

Puma Speedcat OG Dark Myrtle-White 398846-12-38

Why it suits this profile: The low-profile, streamlined shape is ideal for those who appreciate a distinctive trainer for everyday wear and casual clothing.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications state a regular fit, round toe, lace fastening and rubber outsole. However, check beforehand that the flat sole suits the way you walk and work.

Key benefit & highlights

Leather upper; textile lining; according to PUMA, IMEVA material provides a lightweight and comfortable feel.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users

Joma Top Flex Rebound 2502 IN TORS2502IN 40.5

Why it suits this profile: This model is specifically listed for futsal and indoor football. Its sole and construction are therefore better suited to quick movements in a sports hall than an ordinary trainer.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details explicitly mention indoor use and a non-marking rubber sole. This helps you avoid choosing an outdoor shoe for use in a sports hall.

Key benefit & highlights

EVA insole; reinforced toe; lace fastening; regular fit and rubber sole for indoor surfaces.

Ordering shoes online: practical checklist

Use this checklist before you check out:

• Check whether the model is intended for everyday use, running, football or indoor use.
• Compare the stated fit and shoe width with a pair that fits well.
• Examine the upper, lining, midsole and outsole separately.
• Read the care instructions; leather, mesh, canvas and shoes with lights do not all require the same treatment.
• Check the available size and whether the product page includes a size chart.
• Review delivery information, returns policy, seller details and statutory guarantee before ordering shoes online.
• Choose children’s shoes based on the fastening and freedom of movement, not just the colour or light-up details.

The same technical points are important for women’s and men’s shoes. The label “women’s” or “men’s” does not automatically tell you anything about width, cushioning or fit. For children, a hook-and-loop fastening, as found on some Skechers children’s shoes, can be more practical for school and everyday use.

Frequently asked questions about buying shoes

Which shoes are suitable for everyday use?

Trainers and casual shoes with a rubber outsole, regular fit and sufficient breathability are often practical for walking, school, work and leisure. However, check that the sole and support are suitable for how much you walk. A flat lifestyle trainer is not automatically a running shoe.

How long do sports shoes last?

Their lifespan depends on how often they are used, the surface, body weight, care and storage. Use indoor shoes only in a sports hall and AG football boots on artificial grass when the product information specifies this. Replace a pair when the sole becomes visibly smooth or unevenly worn, the fastening no longer works properly or the upper starts to come away.

Is ordering shoes online cheaper than buying them in a shop?

It varies by model, size, offer, delivery costs and returns policy. Comparing online gives you quicker insight into materials, sole type and available sizes. Do not look only at the item price: also check delivery charges, returns conditions and any costs involved if you order several sizes.