Joybuy Insights

Buying shoes: how to choose a pair online that suits your needs

Buying shoes online might seem straightforward, but a nice photo doesn’t tell you much about fit, materials or grip. If you only focus on the brand or a discount, you could end up with shoes that pinch, wear out quickly or aren’t right for what you need them for. This guide helps you compare women’s shoes, men’s shoes, trainers and sports shoes based on features you can actually check.

Common pitfalls when buying shoes

1. Mistaking a familiar style for the right function

A trainer that looks sporty isn’t automatically suitable as a running shoe. Casual shoes are usually designed for everyday wear, not for repeated impact, wet trails or long training sessions. So start by thinking about where you’ll use them: work, walking, running, travel, indoor use or outdoor activities.

2. Only looking at the EU size

A size 42 can fit differently depending on the brand and model. The shape of the toe, the width of the last and the material all determine how much room your foot actually has. Some models include a foot length or fit guide. Use that information alongside your usual size, and also check whether the shoe has a regular, narrow or wide fit.

3. Marketing words without specifications

Terms like “ultra-light”, “extra comfortable” and “all-terrain” are only useful when the product information gives concrete details. Think about the upper material, the type of sole, the closure, the cushioning and the tread pattern. According to a brand’s own research, performance claims can sound convincing, but they aren’t automatically a guarantee for every user. So compare the listed features with your own situation.

The key parameters for trainers and sports shoes

Fit and sizing

Measure your foot at the end of the day, when your feet are usually a bit larger. Place your heel against a wall and measure to the longest point. Compare the result with the product’s size guide. Pay attention to:

  • Width: a standard fit can be uncomfortable if you have wide feet.
  • Toe room: your toes shouldn’t touch the front.
  • Closure: laces offer more adjustability than slip-ons.
  • Lining and insole: a padded collar or lined interior can affect how the shoe feels to wear.

Upper and lining

Leather and suede can be sturdy and mould to your foot over time, but they need proper care. Textile and mesh are often lighter and, according to the product description, allow more airflow. Synthetic leather is easy to wipe clean, but it feels different from natural leather.

Also check the composition. Some models state that they contain non-textile parts of animal origin. That’s useful information if you’re conscious about material choices.

Sole, grip and cushioning

For everyday use, a rubber sole with a modest tread is often enough. For running shoes and trail shoes, the midsole and outsole are more important. Look out for:

  • EVA midsole: often used for lightweight cushioning and bounce.
  • Rubber outsole: can offer durability and grip; the tread pattern determines how suitable the shoe is for slippery or loose surfaces.
  • Deep grooves: relevant for mud, gravel and wet paths.
  • Flexibility: a flexible sole suits casual use, while a more stable construction can be more practical on uneven ground.

No sole performs the same in every condition. So check whether the model is intended for tarmac, mixed terrain, indoor use or dry conditions.

Recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
US POLO ASSN MEN SNEAKERS ARIS001M/6YM1 BLACK 45

US POLO ASSN MEN SNEAKERS ARIS001M/6YM1 BLACK 45

Why this fits the profile: This black men’s trainer is designed for casual use and combines a standard width with a lace-up closure. That makes it practical for everyday outfits and the commute.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information mentions the material, sole, closure and width. So you don’t have to rely on looks alone.

Key benefit & highlights

Synthetic leather and mesh, lightly padded insole, rubber sole and closed toe.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality
Nike Wmns Dunk Low NN DD1873-113 36

Nike Wmns Dunk Low NN DD1873-113 36

Why this fits the profile: This women’s shoe suits anyone looking for a recognisable model for everyday wear who values leather, textile and a padded collar.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The listed materials and rubber outsole give you more information than just the colour and product image.

Key benefit & highlights

Leather and textile upper, padded collar, lined insole and rubber sole with pivot-point tread.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users
PELLIOT Running Shoes Unisex Lightweight Cushioning Obsidian Black EU 43

PELLIOT Running Shoes Unisex Lightweight Cushioning – Stable & Durable, Obsidian Black (EU 43)

Why this fits the profile: This model is designed for running and use on mixed surfaces, from city streets to paths. The product information mentions standard and narrow fits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Instead of choosing a regular trainer for intensive use, here you can see specifications for surface, foot shape and care.

Key benefit & highlights

Mesh and woven textile, EVA midsole and ROCKYTEC rubber outsole; the size guide is based on foot length.

Suitable for: Comfort seekers for warm weather
BIRKENSTOCK Arizona Birko Flor Dark Brown 43

BIRKENSTOCK Arizona Birko Flor Dark Brown 43

Why this fits the profile: This sandal has two adjustable straps and is suitable for anyone looking for an open style for home, leisure and dry summer days.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The adjustability allows you to fine-tune the fit more precisely than with a fixed slide.

Key benefit & highlights

Birko-Flor synthetic upper, cork-latex footbed, suede lining and EVA outsole.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and comply with current European safety regulations.

How to compare branded shoes and alternatives

A brand name can help you search, but always compare the specific model. For example, a Vans Hylane has a suede and synthetic upper, a textile lining and a rubber sole with tread. A Converse Star Player 76 OX, according to the product information, uses a canvas upper and a vulcanised rubber sole. That difference matters for feel, care and when you wear them.

For slides and sandals, check the adjustability, the footbed, water drainage and the sole tread. A bathroom slide needs different features from an outdoor sandal. For trail shoes, look at grip, durability and fit; for casual shoes, focus on material, closure and everyday comfort.

Store shoes in a dry place, let wet models dry at room temperature and follow the manufacturer’s care advice. Don’t use bleach or high heat if it’s not recommended. That way, you’ll avoid unnecessary damage to glue, textile and synthetic materials.

Frequently asked questions about buying shoes

How do I determine my shoe size when ordering online?

Measure both feet in millimetres and use the sizing on the product page. Take the size of your longer foot as a starting point. Also check the fit: standard, narrow or wide. With lace-up shoes, you can usually adjust the fit a bit more precisely.

How long do shoes typically last?

That depends on the material, how often you wear them, the surface and how you care for them. Everyday trainers wear out faster if you use them in the rain, for work and on long walks. Sports shoes can gradually lose their original cushioning and grip, even if the upper still looks fine. Replace shoes when the sole is clearly smooth, the structure is distorted or the comfort noticeably decreases.

Are more expensive shoes automatically more comfortable?

No. The right choice depends on fit, material and use. A lightweight mesh shoe can feel better for movement, while leather or suede suits a different style and care routine. Compare concrete specifications and choose the model that matches your foot and daily use.