Buying trainers sounds simple, until you have to choose between men’s trainers, women’s trainers, children’s trainers, casual trainers and sporty trainers. An attractive style is not automatically suitable for long working days, cycling around the city or playing in the school playground. So don’t just consider colour and brand. Pay particular attention to fit, materials and how you intend to use them.
A thick insole may feel comfortable when trying on the shoes, but it doesn’t tell you everything about how comfortable they will be to wear. Also check the width, the shape of the toe box, the flexibility of the sole and how the shoe fastens. Trainers with memory foam, such as certain Skechers trainers, can feel soft, but the fit still needs to suit your feet.
Retro trainers, such as the New Balance 574 or adidas Run 70s, work well with everyday outfits. That doesn’t automatically mean they are suitable for intensive training. For sports use, grip, ventilation, flexibility and a stable construction are more important than appearance alone.
Sizes can vary between brands and models. A style described as true to size will usually require your usual size. The Skechers Graceful Get Connected, however, is described as a generous fit, with one size smaller recommended. Measure your feet in centimetres and compare the result with the size guide on the product page.
Keep these practical points in mind:
For children’s trainers, a hook-and-loop fastening is practical. The Skechers Gametronix 402260L in size 29, for example, has a regular fit, a hook-and-loop fastening and a rubber sole. Do check the product information carefully for this model, as the available sizes refer to different product pages.
The material partly determines how the trainer feels and how easy it is to care for.
New Balance U574 models use a combination of suede and mesh. Vans Old Skool models combine suede and canvas. If you are mainly looking for black trainers that are easy to style, you could also consider models made from synthetic materials and mesh, such as various Skechers Burns versions.
A rubber outsole is a common choice for everyday use. Also check the tread and thickness. A flat sole, as found on some Vans trainers, suits casual use and a skater-inspired style. A more pronounced tread can be more practical on varied surfaces.
According to the product description, the New Balance U327SWB has an enlarged rubber outsole with a distinctive tread. The New Balance U1906WFD is described as having a mesh upper, synthetic overlays and a rubber outsole. These specifications make the model an interesting option if you are looking for a sporty trainer for everyday use, but they do not guarantee that the shoe is suitable for every sport.
Why it suits this profile: The combination of suede and canvas, a low-profile fit and a flat sole works well with everyday outfits and casual wear.
The product information clearly states the materials, fit and sole. This means you are not buying based on brand image alone.
Suede and canvas; soft collar around the ankle; breathable textile insole.
Why it suits this profile: According to the product description, this retro style combines suede and mesh with an ENCAP midsole and rubber outsole.
The choice of materials and the construction are clearly stated. This helps you compare a fashionable retro trainer with other models.
Suede and mesh; ENCAP midsole according to the product description; sturdy rubber sole.
Why it suits this profile: The combination of mesh, synthetic overlays and a rubber outsole is well suited to active everyday use and sporty outfits.
The product description mentions ventilation, cushioning and grip separately. Do compare these features with the requirements of your specific sport.
Breathable mesh; synthetic reinforcements; rubber outsole with grip according to the product information.
Why it suits this profile: These red children’s trainers have a hook-and-loop fastening, regular fit and rubber sole for school, play and everyday wear.
The size, width and fastening are clearly described. This makes it easier to match the shoe to your child’s independence and fit.
Hook-and-loop fastening; regular fit; rubber sole; clean with a damp cloth.
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.
Lifespan depends on how often you walk, the surfaces you use them on, the material and how well you maintain them. Rotate your shoes if you walk a lot every day. Allow wet trainers to dry at room temperature and don’t use a direct heat source. Many models should not be machine-washed. For mesh, canvas and suede, a soft brush or damp cloth is usually safer than harsh cleaning; always follow the care label and product page.
A statutory minimum two-year guarantee may apply to many of the models mentioned, according to the product information and European consumer rules. This guarantee is separate from normal wear and tear, incorrect care or damage caused by use. Keep your order details and contact the seller if there is a problem.
Choose a style with a fit that doesn’t pinch, a sturdy rubber sole and an upper suited to the climate and how you intend to use the shoes. Casual trainers from Vans, retro trainers from New Balance and Skechers styles with memory foam may be suitable, depending on the fit and the surface.
Measure both feet at the end of the day and compare the longer measurement with the size guide. Also check whether the style comes up true to size, small or large. Don’t automatically choose the same size for adidas trainers, Puma trainers, Converse trainers and New Balance trainers.
First consider how often you will wear the shoes. For occasional use, a simple textile or canvas style may be enough. If you walk every day, you may place greater value on a sturdy sole, breathable materials and a well-fitting insole. Always compare the specific features and care requirements, not just the price or brand name.