Joybuy Insights

Buying shoes without regret: how to choose the right pair for every occasion

Buying shoes online seems simple, until you find that a style is too narrow, lacks grip or starts to show signs of wear after just a few weeks. Product photos and marketing terms don’t always tell you how a shoe will perform on a rainy walk, during a long day at work or in an intensive training session.

When choosing, look out for these three common pitfalls:

  • Expecting one shoe to suit every surface: running shoes aren’t automatically suitable for muddy paths, and men’s walking shoes are often less flexible on tarmac.
  • Misinterpreting “breathable” or “water-resistant”: mesh lets plenty of air through, but doesn’t always protect you from rain. A membrane can keep water out, but may feel warmer.
  • Choosing a size based only on your usual shoe size: fit varies by brand, last and style. Check your foot length in millimetres and see whether a regular or narrow fit is available.

What features should you check?

1. Sole and grip

For everyday wear, a rubber sole with a shallower tread is often enough. If you’re looking for shoes with good grip for woodland, hills or wet ground, deeper grooves and a tread that sheds mud are more useful.

For trail running shoes, tread matters more than eye-catching looks. According to the product description, the Salomon Speedcross 5 GTX W has a Contagrip TA sole with deep grooves for soft and mixed terrain. The Nike Pegasus Trail 3 has a rubber sole with multidirectional lugs for urban surfaces and trails, according to the product information.

Also think about where you’ll actually wear the shoes. A very deep tread can feel less comfortable on smooth shop floors or tarmac, and may wear down more quickly.

2. Cushioning, weight and stability

Lightweight shoes are ideal for travelling, commuting and longer walks. However, a lightweight construction doesn’t automatically mean the shoe offers enough support. Check the midsole material, such as EVA or React foam, as well as the shape around the heel and midfoot.

For running, running shoes with suitable cushioning and a secure heel fit are important. For casual shoes, a firm, comfortable insole is often more important than maximum cushioning. For children’s trainers, an easy fastening is also useful: hook-and-loop fastenings can be practical for school and putting shoes on independently.

3. Breathability and protection from moisture

Breathable shoes with mesh generally allow heat and moisture to escape more easily. That’s useful in summer, when travelling or during sports. However, mesh offers less protection from the elements than leather or a waterproof membrane.

According to Salomon’s product description, a GORE-TEX model combines water resistance with breathability. This is information from the product description, not a guarantee that your feet will stay dry in all conditions. During prolonged rain, in deep puddles or if the shoes aren’t properly maintained, moisture may still get in.

For everyday wear, a combination of mesh, synthetic overlays and a rubber sole can be a practical middle ground. If you mainly walk indoors, it’s worth prioritising comfort, weight and easy care over maximum rain protection.

Fit and size: how to reduce returns

Measure your feet at the end of the day, when they usually take up a little more space. Place your heel against a wall, measure to the tip of your longest toe and compare the result with the size chart for the style.

Also consider:

  • Toe room: leave some space in sports and walking shoes to allow for movement and thicker socks.
  • Width: a standard last won’t suit every foot. According to the product information, some PELLIOT styles are available in both standard and narrow fits.
  • Heel fit: your heel shouldn’t keep lifting as you walk.
  • Socks you’ll wear: try on walking shoes with the socks you wear on walks.
  • Fastening: laces allow you to adjust the fit; hook-and-loop fastenings are practical for children’s shoes.

A shoe that looks comfortable on paper may still not fit properly in practice. Always check the product details, available sizes and returns policy before ordering.

Recommended styles for different needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
PELLIOT Running Shoes Unisex Lightweight Cushioning

PELLIOT Running Shoes Unisex Lightweight Cushioning – Clean & Breathable

Why it suits this need: A lightweight unisex style for anyone looking for one pair for city routes, recreational running and easy trails.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description lists a sandwich-mesh upper, EVA midsole and ROCKYTEC rubber sole. Check that the version you choose has the specified sole variant.

Key benefits and features

Lightweight upper, EVA cushioning and a choice of standard or narrow fit, according to the product information.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Salomon Speedcross 5 GTX W

Salomon Speedcross 5 GTX W 416127

Why it suits this need: Designed for women looking for trail running shoes for muddy or mixed paths, with protection against wet weather.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description specifies GORE-TEX and a Contagrip TA tread. Check the size and remember that water resistance doesn’t mean unlimited protection.

Key benefits and features

GORE-TEX membrane, deep sole grooves, Quicklace fastening and EnergyCell+ midsole, according to the product information.

Suitable for: Specific needs and intensive use
Nike Pegasus Trail 3

Nike Pegasus Trail 3 DA8698-300

Why it suits this need: An option for runners who switch between city routes, recreational runs and off-road paths.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information describes multidirectional lugs and a reinforced toe and heel. This gives it a more clearly defined purpose than a standard lifestyle trainer.

Key benefits and features

React midsole, mesh upper and rubber sole with tread, according to the product description.

Other occasions: trainers, children and indoor comfort

For everyday wear, women’s trainers, men’s trainers and casual shoes are all about fit, material and care. According to the product description, the Nike Dunk Low has a leather and textile upper, padded collar and rubber sole. The Vans Old Skool combines a textile upper with a rubber sole, according to the product specifications.

For children, New Balance PC574 shoes may be a good choice thanks to their hook-and-loop fastening, EVA midsole and rubber outsole. Slippers and disposable slippers are another option for home, travel or guests. With these, focus on warmth, ventilation, a non-slip tread and whether you want them to be reusable.

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 buying shoes

How do I know which shoe size to order online?

Measure both feet in millimetres and use the size chart for the specific style. If there’s a difference, choose the size that fits your longer foot. Also check the recommended fit and allow for the thickness of your socks.

How long do shoes usually last?

How long they last depends on how they’re used, your body weight, the surface, care and materials. A pair worn on tarmac every day will wear differently from one used both indoors and outdoors. Replace your shoes when the sole is visibly worn smooth, the cushioning has noticeably deteriorated or the upper no longer supports your foot properly.

Are more expensive shoes automatically a better choice?

No. The right choice depends on how you’ll use them. A city walk calls for different features from trail running. Compare the tread, material, fit, fastening and care requirements rather than looking only at the price or brand name.