Joybuy Insights

Buying shoes online: how to choose a suitable and practical pair

Buying shoes online is convenient, but a good-looking photo tells you little about the fit, grip or material. A pair may look comfortable yet turn out too roomy, offer little support or be unsuitable for wet walking trails. By checking a few key points, you can avoid ordering a pair in the Netherlands that ends up unworn in the cupboard after a short time.

Common pitfalls when buying shoes online

1. Focusing only on design and colour

Grey shoes, black trainers and striking women's shoes are easy to combine with different outfits. However, colour tells you nothing about the construction. Always check the upper material, lining and sole. Textile can be lightweight and breathable, while leather and synthetic materials have different characteristics when it comes to care and protection.

2. Assuming every size fits the same

A size 37 from one brand may feel different from a size 37 in another model. There are also differences between trainers, walking shoes and slippers. Pay attention to the stated fit:

  • Regular fit: usually suitable if you normally wear the same size.
  • Runs large: according to the product information, a smaller size may fit better.
  • Roomy toe box: useful if you want more room for your toes to move.
  • Between two sizes: follow the specific size chart and measure your foot length.

Do not automatically order your usual size. Measure both feet from the heel to the longest toe and compare the longer measurement with the size chart. It is best to do this at the end of the day, when feet often take up slightly more room.

3. Confusing marketing claims with guaranteed performance

Terms such as “extra cushioning”, “waterproof” or “slip-resistant” should always be read alongside the technical details. According to PELLIOT's own product information, the model mentioned has a waterproof membrane and a rubber outsole with a tread pattern. This provides relevant information about its construction, but does not guarantee comfort in every situation.

The same applies to technologies such as Memory Foam or IMEVA. It is wise to consider the complete shoe: the sole thickness, fastening, width and material all determine how the model feels in practice.

The most important specifications to compare

Fit and size

A good fit prevents your feet from sliding around as you walk. As well as the EU size, check the width, such as D on some models. Whether you are looking at a shoe size 42, shoe size 44 or another size, the size chart for the specific product is the most important reference.

Consider the socks you plan to wear. A slightly roomier fit can be comfortable for running or walking shoes. With children's shoes, such as sandals for babies, pay extra attention to the age recommendation, foot length and fastening. A shoe that is too loose can move around while walking.

Sole, grip and cushioning

The sole determines what a shoe is suitable for:

  • A rubber outsole generally provides grip on everyday surfaces; the actual result depends on the tread and material.
  • A PU or synthetic sole can be lightweight and is often suitable for shoes intended for everyday use.
  • A sole with a deep tread is better suited to walking on off-road terrain than a flat trainer sole.
  • For running shoes, cushioning, heel stability and flexibility are important points of comparison.

According to LI-NING's own product information, the YUEYING 6 features a full-length Tempo Bounce midsole, a wider heel and zones of rubber grip. The manufacturer positions this as support for running and outdoor sports. If you plan to use the shoes intensively, also check whether the width and design suit your foot and running style.

Material and care

Always check the care instructions before ordering. Not every pair can be machine washed. Leather models such as the PUMA Speedcat should, according to the product information, be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. The Skechers Track-Ripkent can be washed on a delicate cycle at up to 30 °C according to the stated instructions, and should be left to air dry.

For most shoes, avoid high heat, tumble dryers and harsh cleaning products. Allow wet shoes to dry naturally, using a brush or soft cloth suitable for the material.

Recommended choices for different types of user

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Skechers Graceful - Get Connected 12615-BKRG 37

Skechers Graceful - Get Connected 12615-BKRG 37

Why it suits this profile: A low-cut model for everyday use, with a textile upper, laces and pull tabs. The black colour with rose-gold accents works well with a range of outfits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page states a regular D width and recommends choosing one size smaller because this model runs large. This makes the size choice easier to verify than simply relying on the photo.

Key benefit & advantages

Memory Foam footbed according to the product description, a 2 cm PU sole and a non-removable insole.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality
Puma Speedcat OG Cool Mid Gray-White 398846-05-38

Puma Speedcat OG Cool Mid Gray-White 398846-05-38

Why it suits this profile: This grey trainer combines a leather upper with a textile lining and a flat sole. Suitable for casual outfits and everyday activities on paved surfaces.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications state a regular fit, lace fastening and rubber outsole. This makes the shoe easier to assess than a model described purely in terms of style.

Key benefit & advantages

IMEVA material in the description, a leather upper and rubber midsole and outsole.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
PELLIOT High-Top Hiking Boots Rock Gray EU 37

PELLIOT High-Top Hiking Boots for women, Rock Gray EU 37

Why it suits this profile: These high-cut hiking boots are designed for camping, travelling and walking on varied terrain. The combination of a treaded sole, protective toe cap and quick fastening is well suited to more intensive use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The information explicitly mentions a hard-wearing synthetic upper, protective toe cap, waterproof membrane and rubber sole with an off-road tread. The size chart uses foot length in millimetres.

Key benefit & advantages

High shaft, rubber sole with a grippy tread and manually adjustable quick fastening according to the product description.

Suitable for: Runners and active outdoor users
LI-NING YUEYING 6 running shoes EU 44 1/3

LI-NING YUEYING 6 running shoes EU 44 1/3

Why it suits this profile: This model is designed for running and outdoor sports. The roomy toe box and regular sizing may suit users who value extra space around the forefoot.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description specifies the foot shape, heel width, size guidance and rubber outsole with grip zones. This allows you to compare the model based on how it will be used, rather than on the brand name alone.

Key benefit & advantages

Full-length Tempo Bounce midsole according to the manufacturer, a roomy toe box and rubber grip zones.

Looking for more options?

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.

Frequently asked questions about buying shoes online

How do I determine my shoe size when ordering online?

Measure both feet in millimetres and use the size and width chart for the product you have chosen. Use the measurement of your longer foot. Also check whether the model runs large, small or true to size. Extra room may be useful with roomy walking shoes or thicker socks, but always follow the specific size guidance.

Which shoes are suitable for everyday use?

Trainers with a regular fit, a flexible rubber or PU sole and an easy-care material are often practical for everyday use. For walks in rainy weather, walking shoes with a treaded sole are more suitable. Slippers and clogs are mainly suited to relaxed wear, short trips to the shops or wearing indoors.

How long do shoes bought online last?

Their lifespan depends on walking distance, surface, body weight, care and material. Do not automatically use running shoes as walking shoes, and allow wet footwear to dry completely. Check the tread, seams and cushioning regularly. When the sole becomes visibly smooth or the fit changes, replacing the shoes is wiser than judging their condition solely by the age of the pair.