Joybuy Insights

Choosing children's trainers: practical tips and popular picks for school and play

A pair of children's trainers needs to stand up to the playground, cycling, running and unexpected showers. Yet many parents choose mainly based on colour, brand or an appealing light-up feature. They can end up with shoes that are difficult to fasten, get dirty quickly or don't fit properly.

So when choosing trainers for children, look beyond their appearance. These common pitfalls are worth watching out for:

  • Unclear sizing: one style may come up true to size, while another runs small. Checking the European size alone is not always enough.
  • Focusing too much on extra features: light-up trainers are appealing, but be sure to check the fastening, sole and care instructions too.
  • Choosing the wrong fastening for your child's age: loose laces may work well for older children, while those who are learning to dress themselves often find hook-and-loop fastenings or elastic laces more practical.
  • Confusing everyday wear with sports use: a low-profile casual trainer is suitable for school and play, but isn't necessarily right for intensive running sessions.

What should you look for in children's trainers?

1. Size, fit and room to move

Children grow quickly, but shoes that are too big can slip as they walk. Always check the stated fit, shoe width and size advice on the product page. A regular fit doesn't mean every style will feel the same.

For example:

  • The Skechers Microspec Texlor styles are described as having a regular fit and a D width.
  • The New Balance PC574EVN has a hook-and-loop fastening and a low-profile design.
  • According to the product information, the Skechers Flex Glow in size 28 runs small, so sizing up is recommended.
  • For children with wider feet, a style available in a suitable width may be more practical than a narrow, fashion-led trainer.

Ideally, measure both feet at the end of the day and compare the measurements with the size chart. Check that the toes can move freely and that the heel doesn't lift when your child walks.

2. Sole and materials for everyday use

A rubber sole generally offers good grip and is suitable for school, outdoor play and everyday wear. Also check that the sole is flexible enough to allow natural movement. A treaded sole can provide extra grip on wet or uneven surfaces, but may also make a trainer heavier.

Many children's shoes have a textile or mesh upper. These materials can be lightweight and breathable, but often need careful cleaning. Textile isn't automatically waterproof, so check the care instructions before choosing a style for everyday wear in changeable weather.

When comparing comfortable children's shoes, these specifications are useful to consider:

  • upper material;
  • outsole material and tread;
  • insole type and whether it's removable;
  • weight and flexibility;
  • fastening and adjustability.

A non-removable insole isn't a drawback in itself, but it does make replacing it or airing it separately more difficult. This can matter if your child wears the shoes every day.

3. Fastenings, lights and care

Children's shoes with hook-and-loop fastenings are practical for young children and for school. Elastic laces combined with a hook-and-loop fastening can make shoes easier to put on while still providing a secure fit.

With light-up trainers, it's worth checking how the lights are operated and how the shoes should be cleaned. The Skechers Flex Glow has lights in the sole and an on/off switch on the side. According to the product information, this style should be cleaned with a damp cloth and must not be machine-washed. The lights are a fun extra, but the shoes often need more careful cleaning.

Check the washing instructions too. Some styles can be cleaned on a cold, delicate wash, while others should only be wiped with a damp cloth. Always follow the instructions for the specific style.

Our recommendations by use

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
Skechers Microspec Texlor 403770L BBK 32

Skechers Microspec Texlor 403770L BBK 32

Why it suits this profile: This black, low-profile style is easy to pair with school uniform and everyday outfits. The elastic laces and hook-and-loop fastening make it straightforward to put on and take off.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The product information states that it has a regular fit, D width and a clear fastening. So you don't have to choose based on appearance alone.

Key benefits and features

Textile upper, rubber sole, low-profile design and size 32 with a regular fit.

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

New Balance PC574EVN28.5

Why it suits this profile: This navy trainer is a good choice for parents who prioritise materials and everyday comfort over eye-catching details.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The description lists suede, synthetic material and textile mesh separately. It also specifies EVA foam in the midsole and a rubber outsole.

Key benefits and features

Hook-and-loop fastening, EVA midsole, treaded rubber outsole and a low-profile design.

Suitable for: Specific needs and intensive use
Skechers Flex Glow 90542L BBLM 28

Skechers Flex Glow 90542L BBLM 28

Why it suits this profile: A good choice for children who enjoy a sporty look and lights for everyday wear.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The lights aren't the only feature mentioned: the mesh, elastic laces, hook-and-loop fastening and fit are also described. Do bear in mind that this style needs specific care.

Key benefits and features

Lights with an on/off switch, mesh upper, elastic laces and hook-and-loop fastening.

Looking for more options?

We've put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about children's trainers

What size children's trainers should I choose?

Measure both feet and use the size chart for the specific style. Check whether the shoes come up true to size or run small too. Some styles are recommended in your usual size, while the Skechers Flex Glow runs small according to the product information.

Are light-up trainers suitable for everyday wear?

They can be, as long as the fit and fastening are right for your child. Pay particular attention to care instructions. Styles with electronic or light components often can't be machine-washed and should be cleaned with a damp cloth.

How long do children's shoes last?

Their lifespan depends on how often they're worn, the surfaces they're used on, the materials and how quickly your child grows. Check the sole, seams, fastening and inside of the shoes regularly. Replace them when they're visibly worn or no longer fit properly, even if the outside still looks tidy.