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Buying trainers might seem simple, but styles can vary considerably in fit, materials and sole construction. A pair that looks appealing online may turn out to be too narrow, offer little support or be difficult to keep clean. This applies to men's trainers, women's trainers, casual trainers and lifestyle trainers.
So don't focus on the brand or colour alone. The product description and size information often tell you more about whether a pair will suit your needs. Read on to find out which pitfalls to avoid and what features to check before placing your order.
Retro trainers and streetwear styles work well with a casual outfit, but they're not automatically comfortable enough for long days. A low-profile trainer with a flat sole may suit everyday wear, while longer walks might call for more cushioning and a softer insole.
Look for details such as a padded collar, cushioned insole, flexible sole and the stated intended use. These are more specific pointers than general terms such as “premium” or “performance”.
“Leather trainers” may be made entirely of leather, or they may combine leather with synthetic parts and textiles. Check the materials listed for the upper, lining, insole and outsole separately.
Some Vans styles, for example, are listed as suede, with synthetic details. The product specifications also state that they contain non-textile parts of animal origin. So if you're looking for vegan materials, don't go by appearance alone: check the materials listed.
An EU size won't fit the same across every brand or style. Adidas, in particular, may offer half sizes such as 41 1/3 or 43 1/3. A wider or narrower fit can also affect how a pair feels.
If possible, measure your feet at the end of the day, wearing the socks you usually wear. Then compare your measurements with the available size information. Also check whether the product comes in a fixed size variant, such as size 42, 42.5 or 44.
The upper has a big influence on a trainer's appearance, flexibility and care requirements. Canvas and textiles are often lightweight and are frequently associated with breathability in product descriptions. Synthetic leather is generally easy to wipe clean. Suede creates a different look, but needs more care and, according to the Vans information provided, should not be machine-washed.
When buying, check:
A padded or lightly cushioned insole can affect how a pair feels during everyday wear. That doesn't mean every style is suitable for intense sport or long walks. A lifestyle trainer is primarily designed for everyday and casual use.
The Skechers D’Lites 4.0, for example, lists an Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole and a rubber outsole. The Nike Dunk Low is described as having a padded collar and cushioned insole. Treat this information as a product specification, not a medical or health claim.
A rubber sole is popular on casual trainers, as rubber is used on many styles for grip and durability. Converse lists a vulcanised rubber outsole on the Pro Blaze Classic OX. Vans features its distinctive rubber waffle sole on various styles.
Also consider the shape:
Why it suits this profile: The retro-inspired shape pairs easily with jeans, chinos and casual clothes. The product information describes a lightweight feel, a textile and synthetic upper, and a rubber outsole.
The specifications make the material, size and sole type clear. That means you don't have to rely on the retro look or brand name alone.
Retro silhouette, textile lining, rubber outsole and light cushioning according to the product description.
Why it suits this profile: This women's trainer has a low-top basketball silhouette, a leather upper and a black-and-white colourway that works well with streetwear and everyday outfits.
The materials are clearly described as leather, with a textile lining and rubber outsole. This makes it easier to compare leather trainers like for like.
Leather upper, padded collar, cushioned insole and rubber sole with pivot point, according to the product details.
Why it suits this profile: This style is designed for a low-profile, skate-inspired fit for everyday wear. The combination of suede and canvas works well with a hard-wearing casual or streetwear wardrobe.
The construction and materials are clearly listed. The low, flat shape also helps you avoid choosing a sports style for a use it isn't designed for.
Suede and canvas upper, soft collar, textile insole and rubber sole according to the product specifications.
We've put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Measure both feet and use the larger measurement as your guide. Compare it with the size chart for the specific style. For Adidas, look out for half sizes, and if the product comes in fixed size variants, check that the size shown matches the one you want.
Their lifespan depends on how often you wear them, the surfaces you walk on, your body weight, the materials and how well you care for them. Alternate between pairs, let them dry naturally and follow the cleaning instructions. Don't put suede or synthetic leather styles in the washing machine without checking first. The product page also lists the applicable statutory guarantee; for several of the styles mentioned, the product information states that the statutory guarantee is at least two years.
Styles with rubber soles can be practical for everyday walking. Check the tread, flexibility, insole and stated intended use. Casual trainers aren't necessarily suitable for long hikes or sport. Choose based on the specifications, fit and the surfaces you plan to wear them on.
