Joybuy Insights

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

A pair of children’s trainers needs to cope with a lot: cycling to school, running around the playground, playing in the park and the occasional unexpected shower. Yet children’s trainers are often chosen mainly for their colour or brand. This can result in the wrong size, a fastening that is not suitable for the child’s age or a sole that does not provide enough grip.

With this guide, you can compare children’s shoes by fit, fastening, material, sole and intended use. The selection below is based on the available product specifications, not general marketing claims.

Three common pitfalls when choosing children’s trainers

1. Choosing a size without checking the fit

Children grow quickly, but that does not automatically mean you should buy a size larger. A shoe that is too loose may move around while walking. A shoe that is too small leaves too little room for movement. Always check:

  • the stated EU size;
  • whether the model fits normally, small or large;
  • the shoe width;
  • whether there is enough room around the toes without the heel slipping.

Several models in this selection are listed as having a regular fit. The Skechers Flex Glow 90542L BBLM 28 is an exception: according to the product specifications, this model runs small and one size larger is recommended.

2. Looking only at the upper

A mesh upper can be lightweight and breathable, while synthetic leather is easier to clean with a cloth. Suede can create a smart appearance, but requires more care when exposed to moisture and dirt. None of these materials is automatically suitable for every situation.

Also look at the sole. A rubber outsole with a tread can be important for grip on school playgrounds and pavements. An EVA midsole is listed for some New Balance children’s trainers as a lightweight, cushioning material. Treat this as a product specification; it is not a guarantee that a shoe will feel equally comfortable for every child.

3. Choosing a fastening that does not suit the intended use

Trainers with hook-and-loop fastenings are practical when a child needs to get dressed independently. Elastic laces combined with a hook-and-loop fastening offer a similarly easy fit, while also helping to provide a more secure fit around the foot.

Trainers with laces offer more options for adjusting the shoe around the foot. On the other hand, a child needs to be able to tie and secure the laces properly. For school and everyday use, convenience is often more important than a sporty appearance alone.

What should you look for in comfortable children’s shoes?

Fit and width

A regular fit is not the same as a universal fit. The Skechers Microspec Texlor models list both a regular fit and shoe width D. For New Balance models, the available information focuses mainly on the material, fastening and sole. Therefore, compare the size guide and check the following when the shoes arrive:

  1. The toes should be able to move.
  2. The heel should not lift noticeably.
  3. The shoe should not pinch at the sides.
  4. Try on both shoes with the socks the child normally wears.

Material and care

Textile and mesh are practical choices for active everyday use, but always follow the manufacturer’s washing instructions. According to the product specifications, several Skechers models must not be machine washed and should be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. New Balance recommends, depending on the model, using a soft brush or cloth and allowing the shoes to air-dry.

For suede models, such as certain New Balance children’s trainers, it is sensible to avoid prolonged contact with water. Allow shoes to dry at room temperature and do not use a direct heat source.

Sole and everyday use

For trainers intended for school and everyday wear, a flexible construction and a treaded sole are often practical features to consider. The available models have rubber soles or, in the case of the Skechers Flex Glow, a synthetic sole according to the product information. Always check the specific model rather than relying on the brand alone.

Our recommendations by intended use

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

Skechers Microspec Texlor 403770L BBK 32

Why it suits this profile: A black low-top trainer for children with elastic laces and a hook-and-loop fastening. The regular fit and shoe width D make choosing the right size more straightforward.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specifications explicitly state the fit, width and fastening. This means you do not have to base your choice solely on the photo or colour.

Key benefit & advantages

Textile upper, rubber sole, elastic laces and hook-and-loop fastening. Available in size 32.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
New Balance PC574EVN28.5

New Balance PC574EVN28.5

Why it suits this profile: These blue children’s trainers combine suede, synthetic materials and textile mesh. The hook-and-loop fastening is practical for school, play and everyday use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information covers not only the appearance, but also the materials, EVA midsole, rubber outsole and fastening.

Key benefit & advantages

Suede, synthetic material and mesh; EVA midsole; rubber outsole with tread; hook-and-loop fastening; size 28.5.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
New Balance PC574EVB 30.5

New Balance PC574EVB 30.5

Why it suits this profile: Black children’s trainers with laces for children who use an adjustable fastening and want a neutral colour for school and everyday use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The laces allow for precise adjustment. The rubber outsole with tread means the choice is not based solely on design.

Key benefit & advantages

Suede, synthetic materials and textile mesh; lightweight EVA midsole; rubber outsole with tread; laces; size 30.5.

Which colours and styles suit everyday use?

Black children’s trainers hide light marks and go with a wide range of school clothes. Blue children’s trainers also provide a neutral base, while green details or a contrasting sole create a sportier look. Grey children’s trainers are easy to combine with different outfits. Red children’s trainers, such as the Skechers Gametronix 402260L BLMT in size 29, stand out more and may appeal to children who value colour.

Also consider the difference between low-top trainers, sporty children’s shoes and models with additional details. Lights, eye-catching patterns or a well-known brand name say nothing about fit or durability on their own. Use the technical specifications as your starting point.

Check size and care before buying

For children’s sizes 28 to 34 inclusive, it is important to check the size for each model. A size 32 from one brand may not fit exactly the same as a size 32 from another brand. Also check whether the insole is removable. The models mentioned often state that the insole cannot be removed.

Check the following points after delivery:

  • Do the shoes fit with the child’s usual socks?
  • Can the child operate the fastening independently?
  • Does the heel stay in place while walking?
  • Is the material suitable for the planned care routine?
  • Does the sole provide enough grip for the surface on which the shoes will be worn?

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 children’s trainers

How often should I replace children’s trainers?

This depends on growth, use and wear. Regularly check whether there is still enough room around the toes, whether the sole has become smooth and whether any seams or fastenings are damaged. A child who walks, cycles and plays outside every day puts different demands on shoes than a child who mainly wears them indoors.

Are children’s trainers with hook-and-loop fastenings more practical than trainers with laces?

For young children, trainers with hook-and-loop fastenings are usually easier to put on and take off. Laces offer more options for adjusting the fit, but require greater independence. Elastic laces with a hook-and-loop fastening are a practical middle ground.

Can children’s trainers go in the washing machine?

Not always. Several Skechers models state that machine washing is not permitted. Clean these shoes with a damp cloth and mild soap, and allow them to dry away from direct heat. Check the care instructions on the product page or label for each pair of shoes.