Joybuy Insights

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

Buying sports shoes online seems simple, until you have to choose between running shoes, trainers, trail running shoes, walking shoes and children’s shoes. An attractive photo tells you little about fit, cushioning or grip. Even well-known brands such as Skechers, adidas and New Balance offer different models for different situations.

As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I look at the most important product specifications to help you compare marketing claims with what the product description actually says.

Three common pitfalls when buying shoes online

1. Mistaking a soft sole for the right cushioning

A shoe with a soft insole may feel comfortable straight away, but that doesn’t automatically mean it’s suitable for running. Check the midsole material too, such as EVA, Cloudfoam or Dreamstrike. Also check what the model is designed for: everyday wear, short road runs or off-road terrain.

2. Choosing breathable material without considering the terrain

Mesh is lightweight and helps air circulate. That makes breathable shoes comfortable in warm weather or during sport. However, a thin mesh upper may offer less protection from moisture and branches on wet woodland paths. For trail running shoes, the durability of the upper and the tread on the sole are important too.

3. Relying on the European size alone

An EU size isn’t identical across every brand or model. Check the foot length in millimetres, the width and the advice on the product page. Children’s shoes need extra attention: children’s feet grow, but shoes that are too roomy can feel less stable when running and playing. For example, the product page for the Skechers Flex Glow 90542L says it comes up small and recommends going up one size.

Which features should you compare?

Cushioning and midsole

For short runs on tarmac, a lightweight midsole with cushioning may be enough. According to its specifications, the adidas Runfalcon 5 has a Cloudfoam midsole and an OrthoLite insole. The adidas Supernova Ease M has a full-length Dreamstrike midsole and, according to the product description, is designed for short to middle-distance runs.

These are product specifications, not a guarantee of a particular running experience. The shoe’s weight, your running style and the fit all affect how it feels.

Grip and tread

If you mainly run on pavements and tarmac, you probably won’t need a deep trail tread. For mud, loose sand or wet rocks, shoes with good grip are more suitable. According to the product information, PELLIOT models use a ROCKYTEC rubber outsole. Vibram Megagrip is listed for some versions; always check that it’s included with the variant you choose.

A rubber sole with tread is also practical for everyday wear, but a casual trainer isn’t automatically suitable for intensive running.

Upper, width and fastening

A mesh upper can improve airflow. Suede, synthetic materials and mesh often combine durability with ventilation, as they do on the New Balance PC574EVN. For children, hook-and-loop fastening can be more convenient than laces. The New Balance PC574EVN has a hook-and-loop fastening and a rubber outsole with tread.

Also check whether the insole is removable. The insoles in several Skechers models in this range can’t be removed. This may matter if you use your own insoles.

Recommended models for different needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
adidas Runfalcon 5 BETSCA/FTWWHT/CBLACKJH6246 Size 41 1/3

adidas Runfalcon 5 BETSCA/FTWWHT/CBLACKJH6246 Size 41 1/3

Why it suits this profile: This model is designed for everyday running and short road runs. Its mesh upper and Cloudfoam midsole make it a sensible choice if you’re looking for your first pair of running shoes.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description clearly states that it’s suitable for 0–10 km runs, and specifies the type of midsole and upper material. Do check the size shown, as the product details list several different size formats.

Main benefit and key features

Mesh upper, Cloudfoam midsole, OrthoLite insole and Adiwear outsole, according to the product specifications.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
New Balance U574RUS39.5

New Balance U574RUS39.5

Why it suits this profile: These New Balance trainers pair a retro shape with suede and breathable mesh. They’re a good fit for everyday wear, light activities and outfits where you want a sporty look.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The shoe isn’t marketed as a running shoe. That helps you avoid buying a casual model for workouts that may call for more specific cushioning and support.

Main benefit and key features

Suede and mesh, a rubber outsole and a cushioned midsole, according to the product information.

Suitable for: Specific needs and intensive use
PELLIOT Unisex running shoes, breathable and lightweight, Obsidian Black

PELLIOT Running Shoes Unisex – Breathable & Lightweight, Obsidian Black (EU 42)

Why it suits this profile: According to the product description, this model is designed for varied terrain, from city streets to mountain trails. It’s worth considering if you’re looking for one pair for running and trail-style terrain.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description mentions not just breathable mesh, but also a durable upper and treaded ROCKYTEC rubber. When ordering, check which specific sole version you’re choosing.

Main benefit and key features

EVA midsole, sandwich mesh, standard and narrow fit options, and a rubber outsole with trail tread, according to the product details.

Suitable for: Families with active children
New Balance PC574EVN28.5

New Balance PC574EVN28.5

Why it suits this profile: The combination of hook-and-loop fastening, mesh and a rubber outsole is well suited to school, play and everyday wear. The easy slip-on design makes it simpler for children to put the shoes on themselves.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications list the material, fastening and sole tread separately. This makes it easier to decide whether the shoe is suitable for school and outdoor play.

Main benefit and key features

Suede, synthetic material and textile mesh; lightweight EVA midsole; hook-and-loop fastening and a rubber sole with tread.

Looking for more options?

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

Frequently asked questions about buying sports shoes online

How do I work out my shoe size when ordering online?

Measure your feet at the end of the day while standing. Compare your longest foot with the size chart for the model you’ve chosen. Don’t just look at EU sizes: check foot length, width and the sizing advice too. If a model comes up small or large, the advice on the product page is more important than your usual size.

How long do sports shoes usually last?

Their lifespan depends on how often you wear them, the surface you use them on, your body weight, how well you look after them and how you store them. Trainers worn every day will wear differently from running shoes used several times a week. Replace a pair when the sole becomes visibly smooth, the upper starts to come away or the fit changes noticeably. There’s no set lifespan that applies to every model.

Can I use running shoes for walking too?

They’re often practical for short walks on paved roads, as long as they fit comfortably. For long walks, wet paths or uneven terrain, walking shoes or trail running shoes with a suitable tread are often a better choice. Before ordering, compare the grip, stability, upper protection and weight.