Joybuy Insights

Choosing children’s trainers: practical buying tips for school, play and sport

Buying a new pair of children’s trainers seems simple, until you consider fit, fastening, materials and intended use. A shoe that looks sturdy in the online shop may be difficult to put on, get dirty quickly or fail to fit your child’s foot properly in everyday use.

Pay particular attention to these common pitfalls:

  • Looking only at appearance: glitter, logos and light-up details say little about the fit.
  • Buying a size to grow into: too much room can cause the heel to slip and make your child less stable when walking.
  • Ignoring the fastening: laces can provide excellent adjustability, but they are not always practical for young children.
  • Skipping the care instructions: some models must not be washed in the washing machine, especially shoes with built-in lights.

Below you’ll find a practical overview of the key points to consider, followed by some popular choices from the range.

What should you look for in children’s trainers?

1. Fit and size

Always check the size guide for the specific model. A size 32 from one brand may not fit exactly like a size 32 from another. Many models in this selection have a standard fit and recommend ordering your usual size.

When trying them on, check that:

  • The toes do not touch the front.
  • The heel stays reasonably in place.
  • The shoe does not pinch at the sides.
  • Your child tries them on with the socks they wear every day.
  • You check the fit again after a few minutes of walking.

If you’re looking for children’s shoes in sizes 27 to 38, it’s best not to choose based on age alone. Measure both feet and base your choice on the longer foot. A removable insole can help you check how much space is available, although several models in this selection have a non-removable insole.

2. Fastening: hook-and-loop, laces or a combination

Trainers with hook-and-loop fastenings are practical for children who want to get dressed independently. They are quick to open and close, making them suitable for school, nursery and everyday wear. Some models combine elastic laces with a hook-and-loop fastening. This makes them quick to put on while providing extra support around the foot.

Trainers with laces are a good choice when precise adjustment is important or when your child can already tie their own laces. However, check that the laces are long enough and can be tied securely. For younger children, a laceless or combined fastening may be more convenient.

3. Sole, upper and care

Don’t rely solely on terms such as “comfort” in the product title. Check the specific details:

  • A rubber outsole can provide grip on different surfaces.
  • An upper made from textile or mesh may feel lighter and offer better breathability.
  • Synthetic leather is generally easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth.
  • Models with lights have additional components in the sole and must not be washed in the washing machine according to the product information.

For school and everyday wear, black or blue models are often practical. Black children’s trainers are less likely to show small marks and are easy to match with different outfits. Blue children’s trainers offer a sporty look without being too eye-catching. For PE, outdoor play and active days, a sturdy sole and a fastening that stays secure are more important than decorative details.

Recommended models for different uses

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Skechers Microspec Texlor 403770L BBK 32

Skechers Microspec Texlor 403770L BBK 32

Why it suits this profile: This black low-top trainer is suitable for school and everyday wear. The product description states that it has a standard fit, a D shoe width and a combination of elastic and hook-and-loop fastening.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size and fit information is clearly presented. The fastening means young children do not have to rely solely on laces.

Main benefit & advantages

Textile upper, rubber sole, standard fit and elastic fastening with hook-and-loop closure.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality
New Balance U1906RCB 37

New Balance U1906RCB 37

Why it suits this profile: This model is well suited to older children looking for a sporty trainer for everyday wear and active moments. The product information lists mesh with synthetic materials, an EVA midsole and a rubber outsole.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The materials and sole construction are described in detail, so you don’t have to judge the shoe by its retro styling alone.

Main benefit & advantages

Breathable mesh, EVA midsole, rubber outsole and size 37 in the stated version.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Skechers Heart Lights-Rainbow Lux 302308L-SMLT 29

Skechers Heart Lights-Rainbow Lux 302308L-SMLT 29

Why it suits this profile: This is an option for children who want light-up trainers. The product description states that the sole has lights, along with a hook-and-loop fastening and a standard fit in size 29.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The lights are an additional feature, while the fastening and fit are specified separately. This makes it easier to compare the options.

Main benefit & advantages

Heart Lights in the sole, hook-and-loop fastening, textile upper and rubber sole.

Compare more models

The category also includes other Skechers children’s trainers, such as the blue Microspec Texlor with elastic laces and a hook-and-loop fastening, the Gametronix with hook-and-loop fastening and the Sport Court 92 with laces. For children who prefer a higher shoe, there is the Meteor-Lights Krendox with a hook-and-loop fastening.

Take extra care when it comes to looking after light-up models. According to the product information for these models, they should be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap; machine washing may damage the lights and battery components. For a neutral school look, black children’s trainers such as the Sport Court 92 or Microspec Texlor are easy to style. If you’re looking for a more eye-catching pair, consider the colourful Heart Lights or Flutter Heart Lights models.

Looking for more options?

We’ve 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 children’s trainers

How much room should there be in children’s trainers?

There should be enough room for the toes not to touch the front, but the foot should not slide around. Ideally, try shoes on at the end of the day with the usual socks. Also check the width, such as shoe width D or G when this is listed for the product.

Are trainers with hook-and-loop fastenings suitable for school?

Yes, particularly for children who want to put their shoes on themselves. Hook-and-loop fastenings are quick to open and close. A combination of elastic laces and a hook-and-loop fastening can be especially practical, as the shoe does not need to be fully readjusted as often.

How long do children’s trainers last?

This depends on growth rate, how often they are worn and how they are cared for. Regularly check that the toes can still move freely, the sole has sufficient tread and the upper is not coming away. Clean the shoes according to the product instructions and allow wet shoes to air-dry naturally. This helps prevent unnecessary wear caused by incorrect care.