Joybuy Insights

Buying trainers: how to choose the right pair without making an expensive mistake

Buying trainers sounds simple, until you have to choose between men’s trainers, women’s trainers, children’s trainers, sports shoes and casual shoes. An attractive colour says little about fit or ease of use. If you focus only on the brand, discount or appearance, you could end up with shoes that pinch, wear out quickly or are unsuitable for the activity you bought them for.

The main pitfalls are usually these:

  • Comfort as a vague marketing term: a brand may talk about cushioning or support, but always check what material the insole and sole are made from.
  • A fit that does not suit every foot: “regular fit” does not guarantee that the shoe will suit your foot width. Check the size guide and read whether the model comes up large or small.
  • Incorrect use: casual shoes are not automatically suitable for running. For sport, sole construction, fastening, grip and material are more important than the logo.
  • Ignoring care requirements: shoes made from textile, synthetic material or faux leather have different cleaning recommendations. Machine washing can damage the shape, adhesive or built-in components.

What should you look for when buying trainers?

1. Fit, size and foot width

Measure your foot at the end of the day, when feet often take up slightly more space. Compare the length with the size guide for the specific model. Also check the stated width, such as D, G or Relaxed Fit.

A shoe should provide enough room around the toes without allowing your foot to slide forwards. Growing room is important in children’s shoes, but a shoe that is too large can make walking feel unsteady. For children’s trainers with hook-and-loop fastenings, it is useful if the fastening is adjustable and keeps the foot securely in place.

Also look out for unusual sizing advice. According to the product information, the Skechers Relaxed Fit: D'Lux Walker 149023-BKPK in size 38 comes up large, so one size smaller is recommended. The version in size 36 is listed as a regular fit. So do not automatically choose the same size for every model.

2. Sole and insole

The sole determines how the shoe feels when walking, standing or exercising. A rubber outsole generally offers a practical combination of grip and durability, but the tread varies between models. A flat sole suits many casual activities, while a more pronounced tread can provide better traction on wet or uneven ground.

Some shoes have a textile insole with Memory Foam. According to the product description, this can provide a softer feel when walking, but it does not guarantee that the fit will be comfortable for everyone. Also check whether the insole is removable. Several Skechers models in this selection have a non-removable insole, which is relevant if you use your own orthotic or insole.

3. Material, ventilation and fastening

An upper made from mesh or textile may feel more breathable than fully synthetic material. For example, mesh panels are included in the Skechers Burns 52635 BBK. For rainy days, these shoes are not automatically waterproof, so check the product specifications.

Choose the fastening according to how you plan to use the shoes:

  • Laces: can be adjusted precisely and are suitable for everyday wear and sport.
  • Hook-and-loop fastening: practical for children and quick to put on and take off.
  • Slip-on: convenient, but pay extra attention to whether the heel stays securely in place.
  • Heel strap: can provide additional support on clogs and sandals.

For running, adidas running shoes such as the Galaxy 7 M, with a Cloudfoam midsole, textile upper and TPU outsole, are intended for road use according to the product information. Do not automatically use this type of model for trails or intense indoor sports; those activities require different grip and stability features.

Recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Vans VN000EE3BLK1 Authentic Black 37

Vans VN000EE3BLK1 Authentic Black 37

Why it suits this profile: A simple black model for walking, work, everyday outfits and leisure time. The low-cut shape is easy to pair with a range of clothing styles.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specification clearly states that it has a textile upper, textile lining and rubber sole. So do not expect a waterproof sports shoe or extra cushioning that is not mentioned.

Main benefit & advantages

Black design, textile construction and rubber sole. Suitable as a versatile casual shoe.

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

New Balance U574RUS39.5

Why it suits this profile: For anyone who wants to combine a retro look with everyday wear, walking and a sporty casual style.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The suede and mesh material mix is stated, along with a rubber outsole. However, check the care instructions for suede and mesh beforehand.

Main benefit & advantages

Suede and breathable mesh, a rubber sole and a tread designed for casual and sporty occasions.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users
Adidas Galaxy 7 M ROYBLU FTWWHT DKBLUE ID8756 42

Adidas Galaxy 7 M ROYBLU/FTWWHT/DKBLUE ID8756 42

Why it suits this profile: Designed for road running and sporty use where laces, a textile upper and a cushioned midsole are preferred.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The intended use and construction are clearly described: a Cloudfoam midsole, TPU outsole and regular fit. This makes it clearer what the shoe is designed for.

Main benefit & advantages

Textile upper and lining, lace fastening, Cloudfoam midsole and TPU sole according to the product listing.

Suitable for: Families with active children
Skechers Snuggle Sneaks Skech Squad 302214L-LVMT 34

Skechers Snuggle Sneaks - Skech Squad 302214L-LVMT 34

Why it suits this profile: A pink children’s trainer with a hook-and-loop fastening for school, play and everyday wear. The product information lists a regular fit and size 34.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fastening is clearly shown in the specifications. This makes it clear in advance that the model has no laces and can be put on quickly and independently.

Main benefit & advantages

Hook-and-loop fastening, rubber sole, synthetic upper and regular fit. According to the listing, clean with a damp cloth and mild soap.

Also worth considering: Memory Foam, clogs and white trainers

If you are mainly looking for a soft insole, consider Skechers trainers with Memory Foam, such as the Burns 52635 BBK in size 46 or the Dynamight 58360 NVY in size 46. The Burns has a synthetic leather upper, mesh panels, a rubber sole and a non-removable Memory Foam insole. The Dynamight is listed with a textile upper, Air-Cooled Memory Foam and a rubber sole.

For indoors, the garden, the beach or short everyday journeys, Crocs clogs and EVA sandals are a different category from closed trainers. The CROCS Classic Clog Black has ventilation openings, a rotating heel strap and a sole made from Crocs foam. The PUXI Cheese Clogs Reef Black is listed as having an EVA construction and a 6 cm sole. With these models, pay particular attention to the recommended foot length and do not wear them as running shoes.

White trainers, such as the Skechers D'Lites Fresh Start, show dirt more quickly. According to the product information, clean them with a damp cloth and mild soap; bleach, high heat and machine washing are not recommended. This care requirement should be part of your purchase decision.

Looking for more options?

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.

Frequently asked questions about buying trainers

Which trainers are suitable for everyday wear?

Choose a model with a fit that suits your foot, a flexible rubber sole and a fastening you find comfortable. If you do a lot of walking, trainers with a cushioned insole may feel more comfortable. Always check whether the model is intended for casual wear or a specific sport.

How do I choose the right size when ordering online?

Measure both feet and use the measurement of the longer foot. Compare the result with the product-specific size guide. Look for notes such as “comes up large”, “true to size” or “Relaxed Fit”. Try the shoes on indoors and check that your toes, heel and instep have enough room.

How long do trainers last?

Their lifespan depends on walking distance, surface, body weight, material and care. Replace a pair when the sole has become visibly smooth or worn unevenly, the stitching starts to come undone or the fit no longer feels stable. Alternating between two pairs can help the materials air and dry between wears.