Buying trainers: how to choose a pair that suits the way you use them

Looking to buy trainers for everyday wear, work, walking, sport or running? It’s tempting to focus mainly on colour, brand name or a discount. But it’s the fit, material and sole that determine whether a pair stays comfortable.

There are three common pitfalls:

• Mistaking a soft sole for a good fit: extra cushioning may feel comfortable in the shop, but the shoe could still be too loose, too narrow or not supportive enough.
• Taking “breathable” as a general promise: check whether the upper is actually made from mesh or another textile. A synthetic outer may offer less ventilation.
• Using one pair for every purpose: casual trainers aren’t automatically suitable for running. For longer distances, weight, grip, fit and construction matter more than appearance alone.

What features should you check?

1. Fit, width and sizing advice

Getting the right size isn’t just about the number on the box. Pay attention to the width, the space around your toes and how the shoe fastens.

• Laces give you more scope to adjust the fit around your instep and midfoot.
• Slip-on styles are practical, but are generally less adjustable.
• Check whether the style is true to size, or whether it comes up large or small.
• For running shoes, allow a little extra room around your toes, especially if you run longer distances.

The product information is your best guide. For example, the Skechers Arch Fit-Infinity Cool is described as having a regular fit, width D and a recommendation to order your usual size. The Skechers Bobs Sport Sparrow 2.0, on the other hand, is described as coming up large, with a recommendation to order a size smaller.

2. Upper and ventilation

For commuting, walking or warmer days, breathable trainers with a textile or mesh upper can feel comfortable. Mesh generally lets more air through than synthetic leather, but it isn’t automatically waterproof.

Look out for:

• Textile or mesh: often designed to improve ventilation and reduce weight.
• Synthetic material: may be easier to clean and offer more protection.
• Lining: a textile lining can affect how the shoes feel to wear.
• Reinforcements: TPU or synthetic overlays can provide extra support around the midfoot.

According to the product description, the LI-NING Feidian 6 Challenger has a textile upper with TPU or synthetic overlays. The manufacturer presents this as a combination of ventilation and support. This is a brand claim, not a guarantee that the shoe will feel the same on every foot.

3. Sole, grip and intended use

The sole should suit the surface and activity. For casual trainers, flexibility and everyday comfort are often enough. For running, grip, weight and the way the sole rolls through your stride matter more.

Keep these points in mind:

• Rubber outsole: check that it has enough tread for wet British streets.
• Cushioned midsole: it may feel comfortable, but doesn’t indicate stability on its own.
• Removable insole: useful if you wear your own insoles.
• Weight: lightweight running shoes can feel comfortable during training, while a sturdier style may offer more protection for everyday wear.

Where possible, use sports shoes and running shoes for their intended purpose. A casual style with Memory Foam may feel comfortable for shopping or a day at work, but it won’t automatically replace a running shoe for training or a marathon.

Recommended choices for different types of user

Suitable for: Beginners on a budget

Skechers Bobs B Flex - Arctic Edge 118110-BBK 42.5

Why it suits this profile: A low-profile style for everyday wear, with a slip-on construction and synthetic upper. A good choice if you’re mainly looking for a straightforward pair for shopping, leisure and casual outfits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists a sole height of 3,5 cm, a textile lining and clear EU sizing. This lets you compare the style using specific details rather than appearance alone.

Main benefit & key features

Slip-on style, synthetic upper, textile lining and a construction designed for everyday wear.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality

LI-NING Feidian 6 Elite running shoes EU43

Why it suits this profile: Designed for runners looking for a dedicated running shoe for training and races, and who place more importance on construction and running feel than on a casual look.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description mentions a close, race-focused fit and a carbon plate. Check that this firm construction suits your running style, though: technical features aren’t a universal guarantee of greater comfort.

Main benefit & key features

Textile BOOM FIBER upper, GCU outsole and carbon plate, according to the product description. LI-NING also quotes specific responsiveness and grip figures in its own information; treat these as brand claims.

Suitable for: Specific needs & intensive use

LI-NING Feidian 6 Challenger running shoes EU44 1/3

Why it suits this profile: For runners looking for a lightweight style for training, outdoor use or a race. The black design is also easy to pair with other kit.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The sizing advice describes a standard men’s width and a regular fit. A half size up is suggested if you wear thicker socks or want extra room, giving you more flexibility when choosing your size.

Main benefit & key features

Mesh-like textile, TPU or synthetic reinforcements, GCR rubber outsole and a light weight, according to the product information.

Suitable for: Women looking for everyday comfort

Skechers Arch Fit-Infinity Cool 149722-BKMT 38.5

Why it suits this profile: A black women’s trainer with a regular fit, lace-up fastening and textile upper. Practical for everyday wear, work and walking.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The shoe has a removable insole and rubber sole, and the product information says it fits true to size. This makes it easier to compare with other styles than relying on the Arch Fit name alone.

Main benefit & key features

Breathable textile, rubber outsole, lace-up fastening and removable insole. Arch Fit should be judged by how well the shoe fits you personally; the brand name isn’t a medical claim.

Frequently asked questions about buying trainers

How long do trainers typically last?

Their lifespan depends on use, body weight, surface, care and materials. Casual trainers worn every day wear differently from sports shoes used a few times a week. Look out for worn-smooth tread, tears in the upper and lasting deformation of the sole. If you run, it’s wise to consider comfort and visible wear as well as how long you’ve had them.

Are trainers with Memory Foam suitable for running?

Trainers with Memory Foam can feel comfortable for walking and everyday wear. However, Memory Foam doesn’t tell you anything about the overall running construction, stability or grip. For running, it’s better to choose a style whose product information specifically says it’s designed for running, and to consider the fit, sole and surface too.

What’s the difference between women’s trainers and men’s trainers?

Differences often include the last, width, size range and colour options, but this varies by brand and style. Always check the stated width and sizing advice. A women’s style can suit anyone if the fit is right, while a men’s style isn’t automatically roomier.