Joybuy Insights

Buying trainers: how to choose comfortable shoes for everyday wear

Buying trainers seems simple, until you have to choose from dozens of styles, materials and sizing recommendations. A shoe may look sturdy in photos, but turn out to be too warm, slippery or difficult to care for in practice. This applies to men's trainers, children's trainers and styles you want to wear both around town and on a walk.

As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I focus on product information you can verify: materials, sole, fastening, sizing and care. That way, you can avoid choosing based on colour or a brand name alone.

Three common pitfalls when buying trainers

1. Mistaking a breathable upper for waterproofing

Textile mesh and perforations can help air circulate, but they don't automatically make a shoe suitable for rainy weather. According to the product description, the Geox Nebula 2.0 has a suede and mesh upper, along with a perforated sole. This suggests a more breathable design, but doesn't guarantee that the shoe is waterproof.

If you cycle or walk a lot in changeable British weather, check the care instructions and whether the shoes have had a water-repellent treatment.

2. Measuring length only

Getting the right size isn't just about foot length. The width of your forefoot, the height of your instep and the room around your toes all affect comfort. This is especially important for children's shoes: growing feet need room to move, but shoes that are too roomy may feel less stable.

Measure both feet at the end of the day and compare the longer foot with the size chart. For children, check the specific advice for the style. For example, Geox recommends allowing approximately 0.5 to 1 cm extra room beyond the measured foot length for the Kilwi children's trainers.

3. Assuming a soft sole means good grip

A lightweight EVA midsole can provide cushioning, but grip mainly comes from the tread and rubber on the outsole. For everyday use on pavements, a flatter tread is often practical. For woodland paths, wet ground or longer walks, deeper grooves and a sturdier rubber tread are more relevant.

A trainer isn't always a substitute for walking boots or shoes, either. Check the construction, tread and level of support before wearing a style for more demanding outdoor activities.

Which features should you compare?

Materials: leather, suede or textile

Leather trainers and styles combining nappa and suede leather often have a smart look. On the other hand, they usually can't be machine-washed. According to the product information, the Geox Spherica E styles are made from 60% leather, 28% textile and 12% synthetic material. The manufacturer recommends professional cleaning in line with the care label.

Suede trainers feel soft, but need regular brushing and protection from moisture. Don't use harsh cleaners without checking the instructions first. The WARRIOR Matterhorn combines Mastrotto suede with Cordura textile. According to the product description, this combination is designed for a robust look and everyday wear, but still needs careful maintenance.

Textile and mesh can feel comfortable in warm weather. Just check that the fabric offers enough protection for how you plan to use the shoes.

Sole and cushioning

Look at three parts:

  • Midsole: EVA is lightweight and often used for cushioning.
  • Outsole: rubber with a tread can help provide grip on different surfaces.
  • Insole: a removable insole makes it easier to check, replace and air out.

Geox describes the Spherica E as having a sole construction with spherical elements and a Zero Shock System. These are claims from the brand's product description; they shouldn't be taken as medical claims or a guarantee of performance. The right choice for you depends on how the shoes feel, how you walk and what you'll use them for.

Fastening and ease of use

Laces offer an adjustable fit, while hook-and-loop fastenings are handy for young children who want to put their own shoes on. The New Balance PC574EVN has a hook-and-loop fastening. The Geox Kilwi has one hook-and-loop fastening and elastic laces. This can make the shoes easier to put on and take off, without having to tie laces each time.

Recommended choices for different needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
New Balance PC574EVN28.5

New Balance PC574EVN28.5

Why it suits this profile: These children's trainers are designed for school, play and everyday wear. The hook-and-loop fastening makes them practical to put on and take off.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The sizing information and fastening are clearly described. The shoes don't rely on a fashionable finish alone.

Key benefits and features

Suede, synthetic material and mesh; EVA midsole; rubber outsole with tread; hook-and-loop fastening.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for top quality
Geox Men U Spherica E Collection Nappa Suede Black 42

Geox Men U Spherica E Collection - Nappa+Suede Black 42

Why it suits this profile: Leather men's trainers for commuting, casual meet-ups and outfits where a smart look matters.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The material composition, sole and insole are listed. This means you can assess the shoes by their specifications, rather than their appearance alone.

Key benefits and features

Nappa and suede leather; removable insole; lace-up fastening; synthetic outsole.

Suitable for: Specific needs and frequent use
WARRIOR Matterhorn Black Anthracite 37

WARRIOR Matterhorn Black Anthracite 37

Why it suits this profile: For anyone looking for a trainer-style shoe for the city, paths and light outdoor activities.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product lists both the full EVA midsole and the rubber outsole with a chunky tread. That's more useful than the general term ‘outdoor’.

Key benefits and features

Suede with Cordura textile; EVA midsole; rubber outsole with lug tread; sizes 37 to 47 according to the size chart provided.

Suitable for: Parents who want a practical choice
Geox Unisex B Kilwi B B Collection Navy Royal 22

Geox Unisex B Kilwi B. B Collection - Suede+Synt.Lea Navy/Royal 22

Why it suits this profile: A lightweight style for toddlers and young children, with a fastening that makes putting them on less of a challenge.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The sizing advice is based on measured foot length and specifies extra room for the toes. This helps you avoid choosing based on age or EU size alone.

Key benefits and features

Suede and synthetic polyurethane; textile panels; rubber outsole; hook-and-loop fastening and elastic laces.

Looking for more options?

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

Frequently asked questions about buying trainers online

How do I find my size when buying trainers online?

Place a sheet of paper on the floor and measure both feet while standing. Measure from your heel to your longest toe, and use the larger measurement. Compare it with the size chart for the specific style. For children's shoes, also check how much extra room is recommended.

How long do comfortable trainers last?

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. Check the soles for wear, smooth patches and cracks. Alternating between two pairs can give the materials time to air out, but it doesn't replace checking the fit and soles.

Are trainers suitable for walking?

Comfortable trainers can be suitable for short walks on paved paths. For longer routes or uneven ground, look at grip, stability, cushioning and protection. According to the product specifications, a style with a chunky tread, such as the WARRIOR Matterhorn, is better suited to outdoor use than a low-profile lifestyle trainer. That still doesn't make it a specialist walking shoe.