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Buying trainers seems straightforward until you have to choose from dozens of styles, materials and sizing recommendations. A pair might look appealing but still be less suitable for long walks, your daily commute or running. Shoppers in the Netherlands often face the same problems: a poor fit, insufficient grip on wet surfaces and shoes designed for a different purpose.
In this buying guide, you’ll find out what to look for in men’s trainers, women’s trainers and unisex trainers. We’ll also compare casual shoes, sports shoes, running shoes and trail running shoes using verifiable product information.
Not every trainer with a sporty shape is suitable for running. Casual styles are usually designed for everyday wear and short walks. For running, cushioning, weight, flexibility and grip are all important.
The Converse Star Player 76 OX, for example, has a canvas upper and vulcanised rubber sole according to its product description. That makes it a good fit for a casual wardrobe, but the specifications don’t suggest that it’s a running shoe. So always use the stated purpose as your first filter.
A size 42, 44 or 45 can fit differently depending on the brand and style. As well as checking the size, look at the foot length in millimetres, the width and the fit advice. For example, the PELLIOT models have a size chart listing 260 mm for EU 42, 270 mm for EU 44 and 275 mm for EU 45.
Also look out for exceptions. The Skechers Graceful - Get Connected in size 37 is described as coming up large, with a recommendation to go down one size. The Skechers Burns Agoura in size 44, on the other hand, has a regular fit and D width.
Words such as ‘shock-absorbing’, ‘stabilising’ or ‘energy-returning’ only tell you something if it’s clear which material or construction delivers those benefits. A brand’s own research might express performance as a percentage, for example, but that doesn’t automatically make the claim comparable with those for other shoes.
Instead, look for specific details: the type of midsole, upper material, outsole rubber, fastening, insole and care advice. A Memory Foam insole can contribute to how a shoe feels, but it can’t replace the right size and fit.
Measure your feet at the end of the day while wearing the socks you’d normally use. Compare your longer foot with the product’s size chart. Also check whether the shoe has a regular, narrow or wide fit.
So, knowing your usual size isn’t always enough. This applies to Skechers trainers, Vans trainers and New Balance trainers, as well as lesser-known styles.
Textile, mesh and knitted materials generally allow more air through than synthetic leather. This can be useful for everyday walking or training. Synthetic leather is often easier to wipe clean and can give shoes a more enclosed look.
According to its product description, the Skechers Burns Agoura combines synthetic leather with mesh. The Converse Star Player 76 OX has a canvas upper and textile lining. For rainy days in the Netherlands, neither material is automatically fully waterproof, so check whether water resistance is specifically stated.
For city use, a rubber outsole with a decent tread is often practical. With running shoes, you should also consider the type of midsole and the stability. Trail running shoes generally need a deeper tread for mud, loose ground and wet paths.
According to the product specifications, the PELLIOT models use an EVA midsole and ROCKYTEC rubber for grip on a range of surfaces. This makes them suitable for a mix of tarmac and off-road paths. However, if you’re only going for gentle walks, this kind of tread may feel heavier or stiffer than a casual trainer.
Why it suits this profile: A simple black style for everyday wear, work and casual outfits. The product description lists a regular width, lace fastening and lightly padded insole.
The description says the style is for casual wear and makes no specific claims about running. This makes its intended use clearer.
Synthetic leather and mesh, rubber sole, lace fastening and regular width. Available in EU 45.
Why it suits this profile: For anyone who values materials, finish and a recognisable low-cut silhouette for everyday wear.
The specifications list the leather upper, padded collar, insole and rubber outsole separately.
Leather upper, textile lining, rubber sole and padded collar. According to the product information, this model comes with a minimum two-year EU legal guarantee.
Why it suits this profile: A unisex style for running, walking and routes that alternate between tarmac and off-road terrain.
The model lists specific features for off-road use: an EVA midsole, breathable mesh and ROCKYTEC rubber. Check that your chosen version has the stated sole variant.
Lightweight mesh and knitted upper, EVA foam and a size chart from EU 39 to EU 45. Also available in regular and narrow fits.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety requirements.
Their lifespan depends on how you use them, your body weight, the surfaces you walk on, how well you care for them and how they’re made. Casual shoes can wear out more quickly if you use them intensively every day. With running shoes, look for visible wear on the tread, tears in the upper and a compressed midsole. Replace your shoes when the fit or grip has noticeably changed.
Not necessarily. Comfortable trainers for work or walking don’t always have the cushioning, flexibility and grip needed for running. Choose a style whose product description lists running as a suitable use, and check the sole, midsole and fit.
Measure both feet in millimetres and compare the larger one with the size chart. Then check the fit advice for the specific style. With size 42, 44 and 45 trainers, the internal space and width can vary. Check the returns policy before ordering too, so you can take your time checking the fit.
