Buying shoes seems straightforward – until a pair starts pinching after a few weeks, wears out quickly, or turns out to be less practical than the product photos suggested. With trainers, sports shoes and comfortable everyday footwear, there are three common pitfalls to watch out for:
When buying shoes online, it pays to look beyond colour and brand. Check the material, closure, sole, sizing advice and intended use.
First, check whether the model has a normal, narrow or wide fit. The New Balance U574RUS39.5 features a combination of suede and mesh, with a supportive midsole and rubber outsole. The Skechers Graceful - Get Connected 12615-BKRG in size 37, on the other hand, states that the model comes up large and that a size smaller is recommended.
For children’s shoes, the closure is key. Shoes with Velcro or elastic laces are practical for school and nursery, as children can put them on more easily themselves. Always check the length on the size chart and, if in doubt, leave a little room for toe movement.
An upper made of textile or mesh can be comfortable for everyday wear and often offers better ventilation than a fully closed synthetic upper. Suede can give a sturdier look but requires more care in rain and when dirty.
With clogs such as the Crocs Classic Clog, the model is made from moulded Croslite material. The ventilation holes and water-resistant design make this type of shoe practical for the garden, beach, pool or quick errands. Just check that the open construction suits the activity you have in mind.
A rubber outsole can provide grip on various surfaces; a PU sole is often lightweight and flexible. These are checkable features, but they don’t tell you everything about comfort. Also look at the sole thickness, the tread pattern and whether there’s a heel strap.
Care affects how long your shoes last. Many textile trainers shouldn’t go in the washing machine, according to the product information. Cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap is the recommended method. Crocs clogs can usually be cleaned with water and soap, but prolonged exposure to heat or direct sunlight can cause warping.
Why it fits this profile: This black trainer is ideal for anyone looking for a lightweight model for casual wear, walking and everyday errands. The product information mentions a textile upper, lace-up closure and Memory Foam insole.
The sizing note states that this model comes up large. Check this advice before ordering, rather than automatically choosing your usual size.
Lightweight PU sole, lace-up closure and Memory Foam insole according to the product description.
Why it fits this profile: This retro-inspired sports shoe is designed for athletic activities, leisure and everyday wear. The upper combines mesh and synthetic materials.
The product details mention specific components such as the ABZORB midsole, Stability Web technology and rubber outsole. Compare these features with your own intended use, rather than just focusing on the retro look.
Mesh and synthetic materials, ABZORB midsole and rubber outsole. According to the product information, this model comes with a minimum of two years’ statutory warranty in the EU.
Why it fits this profile: This clog is ideal for use around the house, in the garden, by the pool or for short trips out. The heel strap can be flipped back for a more secure fit.
The shoe is lightweight and easy to clean, but the open design makes it clear that this isn’t a closed sports shoe. Choose it for the right scenario.
Moulded Croslite material, ventilation holes, adjustable heel strap and easy cleaning with water and soap.
Why it fits this profile: This high-top children’s shoe in size 32 features a Velcro closure and a normal fit. That’s practical for school, play and activities where quick on-and-off is needed.
The model explicitly states a normal fit and sizing advice according to its own size chart. Still double-check this when measuring your child’s foot.
Velcro closure, D-width, synthetic upper and rubber sole according to the product details.
We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and comply with current European safety regulations.
For everyday wear, trainers with a breathable textile or mesh upper, a suitable sole and an easily adjustable closure are often practical. For the garden, beach or pool, a Crocs Classic Clog can be more convenient. For longer walks or sporting activities, a closed sports shoe with a good fit is usually the better choice.
How long they last depends on how often you wear them, the surface, your body weight, care and materials. Look out for visible wear on the tread, tears in the upper, a deformed heel counter or reduced cushioning. Rotating between two pairs can reduce the strain on each pair, but that doesn’t replace checking the shoes themselves.
Always read the sizing advice for the model. Some Skechers models in this overview come up large, while others fit true to size according to the product information. Measure your feet, check the width and try new shoes on indoors on a clean surface, so you can assess the fit in good time.