Buying shoes may seem straightforward, but when shopping online you often see mainly appealing colours, well-known brand names and promised performance. The fit, sole and suitability for your intended use can sometimes be overlooked. This can result in a pair that becomes uncomfortable after a few weeks or does not provide enough grip.
This buying guide helps you order shoes online based on verifiable features. Whether you are looking for women's or men's trainers, running shoes, trail running shoes, casual shoes, sports shoes, pool slides or sandals, consider how you will use them first, and their appearance second.
A popular trainer is not automatically suitable for running or long walks. Models such as Converse shoes, Nike Dunk Low, Vans Old Skool and retro trainers are primarily designed for everyday use and style. A rubber sole may provide grip on the street, but it does not tell you enough about cushioning, stability or grip on muddy paths.
An EU size does not always have the same fit across brands and models. The width of the last, the shape of the toe box and the room around the heel also make a difference. Therefore, check your foot length in millimetres or centimetres when this information is available. If you wear thick socks or have wider feet, you may sometimes need a size larger or a wider fit.
Words such as “lightweight”, “non-slip” and “comfortable” are only useful when you know what they are based on. For example, a product description may mention an EVA midsole, mesh upper or rubber outsole. These are more specific details than a general promise of comfort. Also look out for exceptions: according to the product information, Vibram Megagrip is only available on certain versions of some PELLIOT models.
Measure your feet at the end of the day while wearing the socks you normally use. Compare the measurement with the product's size chart. Also check:
For example, the PELLIOT running shoes link foot lengths from 245 to 275 mm to EU sizes 39 to 45. The product information also lists standard and slim fits.
The outsole largely determines where you can use the shoe. For urban use, a flexible rubber sole is often sufficient. For trail running shoes and outdoor activities, a deeper tread and hard-wearing rubber are more relevant. On wet floors, such as in a bathroom, deep grooves and a textured tread are practical features.
Pay attention to the difference between a claim and a specification. According to the product description, the Salomon DRX DEFY GRVL features an All Terrain Contagrip sole and Active Chassis. The PELLIOT models are listed with a ROCKYTEC rubber outsole. These details help with comparisons, but they do not replace an assessment of the surface you will be walking on.
A mesh upper generally allows more air through than solid leather, while leather gives casual shoes a different look and structure. EVA is often used in the midsole for a lightweight, responsive construction. Also check whether the insole is removable; the Skechers D’Lites Fresh Start is stated to have a non-removable insole.
Care affects the product's lifespan:
Why it suits this profile: A low-profile model for everyday outfits, work or a walk around town. The canvas upper and navy blue colour are easy to combine.
The product information specifies a canvas upper, textile lining and vulcanised rubber outsole. This makes its intended use clearer: casual wear rather than intensive sport.
Low profile, breathable canvas according to the product description, and a rubber sole offering grip and flexibility.
Why it suits this profile: Suitable for trainer enthusiasts looking for a low-profile leather shoe for everyday wear and casual outfits.
The composition is specified as leather and textile with a rubber outsole. It is therefore presented as a trainer for everyday use, not as a running shoe.
Leather upper, padded collar, cushioned insole and rubber sole with pivot point according to the product details.
Why it suits this profile: For users who alternate between tarmac, gravel and off-road terrain and are looking for a lightweight shoe with a sporty construction.
The product information lists a sandwich-mesh upper, EVA midsole and ROCKYTEC rubber outsole. This makes the intended use and technical construction easy to verify.
Lightweight mesh and woven material, EVA cushioning and a rubber outsole that, according to the description, is suitable for multiple surfaces.
Why it suits this profile: For use at home, in the bathroom or by the swimming pool, where quick drying and a textured sole matter more than sports cushioning.
Rather than making a general grip claim, the product information specifies a drainage midsole and a wave pattern with grooves and textured particles. You should still check the floor for soap, oil or other slippery substances.
High-density EVA, drainage channels, quick-drying properties and a non-slip tread according to the product description.
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.
For everyday use, look for casual shoes with a comfortable fit, a flexible rubber sole and a material suited to the season. Canvas is lightweight and breathable, while leather generally has a more robust structure. Trainers such as Converse, Nike Dunk Low, New Balance 574 or Vans Old Skool are intended for casual and everyday use based on their product descriptions, not automatically for running.
Measure both feet and use the size of the larger foot. Then compare the foot length with the chart on the product page. Pay attention to the width and the type of socks you wear. With running shoes, a little extra room around the toes is often practical, while a pool slide should mainly fit securely without your foot slipping over the edge.
The lifespan depends on distance walked or run, the surface, body weight, care and materials. Running shoes can wear out more quickly after many miles on tarmac or rough paths. Casual shoes may last longer with varied use and regular airing. Replace a pair when the sole is visibly smooth or unevenly worn, the seams start to come apart or the fit no longer feels stable. Also check the warranty information when buying; according to their product pages, some of the listed models have a statutory warranty of at least two years under EU consumer law.