Buying shoes and trainers online seems simple: choose a brand, select a colour and add your size. Yet many disappointing purchases are caused by an unsuitable fit, a sole that does not match how you plan to use the shoes, or a fastening that proves inconvenient in practice. This applies to women’s trainers, men’s trainers and children’s shoes alike.
Product photos do not tell the whole story either. A low-profile trainer may look lightweight but feel stiff. A slip-on may be easy to put on but fail to provide enough support around the heel. And with children’s shoes, length is only part of the picture: the fastening, width and freedom of movement matter too.
A familiar logo says little about the fit of a specific model. Puma Speedcat, Converse trainers, Vans Authentic and Skechers shoes each have a different construction. As well as the brand, pay attention to:
A leather upper feels different from textile or synthetic material. Likewise, a flat rubber sole is not the same as a patterned sole with extra cushioning.
Sizing can vary from one model to another. One shoe may be described as true to size, while another model may be listed as coming up larger according to the sizing advice. For example, the Skechers OG 85 Old School 699-WHT is described as a roomy model, with advice to choose one size smaller. For other models, such as the Skechers Summits, the advice is to order your usual size.
If you are unsure, measure both feet at the end of the day and compare the measurements with the size chart on the product page. Check the shoe width too, such as D, G or H. This letter is important if you are looking for a wider or narrower fit.
Casual shoes are suitable for everyday use, but that does not automatically mean they are designed for running, intensive training or long walks. A sporty trainer with a flexible rubber sole may be better suited to active everyday use than a thin canvas trainer.
For the garden, beach or quick trips to the shops, a Crocs Classic Clog can be practical thanks to its easy-care material and ventilation holes. For the office or a smart-casual outfit, low-profile trainers made from leather, canvas or textile may be a better choice.
Check whether the product page lists a regular fit, any special sizing advice and the shoe width. For children, shoes with hook-and-loop fastenings or elasticated laces are useful when putting them on independently is important. The Skechers Gametronix and Microspec Texlor, for example, combine elasticated laces with a hook-and-loop fastening.
Laces offer more flexibility for adjusting the shoe around the instep. A bungee-lace fastening or slip-on design is quicker to put on, but provides less individual adjustment. The Skechers Summits 52811 BBK features a slip-on construction with bungee laces and a memory foam footbed.
Textile and mesh are often lightweight and breathable. Leather has a different appearance and requires suitable care. Synthetic materials are generally easy to wipe clean, but feel different from canvas or mesh.
Pay attention to the full composition. According to the product information, the Puma Speedcat OG Dark Myrtle-White has a leather upper, textile lining and rubber outsole. The Converse STAR PLAYER 76 OX features a canvas upper, textile lining and vulcanised rubber outsole.
When a brand makes claims about sustainability or responsible production, treat these as brand claims. According to PUMA’s own information, its leather products support production through the Leather Working Group. For the latest details, always check the information on the product page or the brand’s website.
A rubber sole can provide grip and flexibility, but the tread also affects how suitable a pair is for wet pavements, slippery floors or outdoor use. A flat sole suits a retro or casual look, while a treaded sole may offer more support for everyday outdoor use.
Also consider care requirements. Some Skechers models must not be machine-washed and should be cleaned with a damp cloth. According to the product information, Crocs Classic Clogs can be cleaned with water and mild soap. With Crocs, avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat or direct sunlight, as this can cause the material to warp.
Why it suits this profile: This low-profile canvas trainer is easy to pair with jeans, skirts and casual clothing. The navy colour with white details makes it suitable for everyday wear.
The product information lists the canvas upper, textile lining and vulcanised rubber outsole. This means you can assess the materials rather than relying on the photo alone.
Canvas upper, low-profile shape and rubber outsole offering grip and flexibility according to the product description.
Why it suits this profile: This model is ideal for fans of a slim, retro-inspired low-profile trainer with a leather upper and flat sole.
The product page lists a regular fit, round toe and specific material percentages. However, check that the relatively low sole suits how you plan to use the shoes every day.
Leather upper, IMEVA midsole, rubber outsole and lace fastening; according to PUMA, the model is true to size.
Why it suits this profile: Practical for the garden, beach, swimming pool, home and quick trips to the shops, when easy cleaning and quick slip-on convenience are important.
The ventilation holes, water-resistant construction and adjustable heel strap are clearly described. This makes the intended use more specific than a general comfort claim.
Lightweight material, easy care, ventilation holes and a pivoting heel strap according to the product information.
Why it suits this profile: This children’s shoe is designed for everyday wear, school and play. Elasticated laces and a hook-and-loop fastening make it practical to put on and take off.
The regular fit, D width, rubber sole and non-removable insole are listed. Check in advance that a non-removable insole suits your needs.
Textile upper, rubber treaded sole and a combination of elasticated laces and hook-and-loop fastening.
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.
Children’s feet grow quickly, so their shoe size can change rapidly. Do not automatically choose a larger size “for later”, as an oversized shoe can move around while walking. Check the foot length, size chart and fit. The range includes children’s shoes in sizes 27, 29, 30, 31, 32 and 33, among others.
For adults, models are available in sizes including 36, 37, 39, 41, 42, 44 and 45. The available sizes vary by product. Always check the selected variant before ordering. If a model comes with specific sizing advice, the information on that individual product page is more important than your experience with the same brand.
That depends on your surroundings and preferences. Low-profile trainers with a rubber sole are practical for the city, work and leisure. Slip-ons are useful if you want to put your shoes on quickly. For wet or easily soiled conditions, a Crocs Classic Clog can be a practical choice. Above all, look at the fastening, sole tread, material and care requirements.
Measure both feet on a flat surface and use the larger measurement. Compare it with the size chart for the chosen model. Also check whether the shoes come up true to size, small or large, and look at the stated width. For children, measuring again regularly is advisable.
Always follow the instructions on the product page. Many textile and synthetic models can be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth. Machine washing is not suitable for every model. Allow shoes to air-dry and avoid direct heat unless the manufacturer provides different instructions.