Joybuy Insights

How to choose trainers without regret: a practical guide for men, women and children

Trainers may seem easy to choose, but an attractive style isn’t automatically suitable for everyday wear. A sole may be too stiff for long walks, a lovely light colour may need a lot of care, and the wrong size can start to rub after just a few hours. Casual trainers are also often marketed as sports shoes, even though they aren’t suitable for every sport.

This guide helps you compare trainers using practical criteria: fit, materials, fastening, sole and intended use. That makes it easier to find men’s trainers, women’s trainers or children’s trainers to suit your daily routine.

Three common pitfalls when choosing trainers

1. Choosing by colour and brand alone

Black, white and blue trainers are easy to coordinate, but colour tells you little about comfort or durability. A white synthetic shoe may react to dirt differently from a style made with suede, textile or mesh. So always check the upper material and care instructions.

Brand names such as Vans Old Skool, New Balance 574, Skechers trainers and Lacoste trainers suggest a particular style, but models can vary considerably within the same brand. A flat rubber sole on a Vans style feels different from a sports shoe with a softer midsole.

2. Assuming your usual size will fit the same way

A size chart is a starting point, not a guarantee that every style will fit the same. Width, toe room, heel construction and fastening all affect the fit. With children’s shoes, it’s also important to check foot length regularly.

Look for details such as regular fit, shoe width D or G and the recommended size range. If you’re unsure, compare the product page and available size chart with a pair that fits you well.

3. Wearing casual trainers for intensive sport

Casual trainers are designed for everyday wear, school, work or light walks. Sports shoes usually have different features, such as a more flexible upper, a specific sole tread or extra stability for a particular sport. A style described as suitable for sports and casual wear may not be right for running, indoor football or long hikes.

Which features should you check?

Sole and cushioning

Check whether the product description gives information about the midsole, cushioning and outsole. EVA foam, for example, is used in the New Balance PC574 for children. Other styles mention a Memory Foam insole, such as the Skechers Burns and Track Syntac. These are product specifications; how comfortable they feel depends on your feet and how you use them.

According to product information, a rubber outsole generally offers grip and wear resistance, but check the tread too. A flat sole suits some casual styles, while a pronounced tread may be more practical for school, walking or changing surfaces.

Upper material and breathability

Textile and mesh can feel more breathable. Suede and synthetic leather create a more structured look, but may need special cleaning. The New Balance U574 styles combine suede with mesh. The Skechers Burns styles use synthetic leather and mesh. Vans Old Skool styles feature textile and, depending on the model, suede.

Pay close attention to care instructions. Not every pair can go in the washing machine. For example, the Vans Old Skool product description advises against machine washing and cleaning at high temperatures. According to the product information, Skechers Meteor-Lights with built-in lights must not be machine washed.

Fastening and ease of use

Laces let you adjust the fit around your foot. This is useful if you want a secure feel. Hook-and-loop fastenings and elastic fastenings are more practical for young children who want to put on their own trainers. Slip-ons, such as the Skechers Bobs B Flex, are quick to put on, but offer less adjustability than laces.

Also think about when you’ll wear them:

  • For work and everyday wear: casual trainers in a neutral colour, with an easy-care upper.
  • For school and play: children’s trainers with a rubber outsole and a fastening your child can manage themselves.
  • For walking: consider the tread, heel fit, materials and cushioning.
  • For sport: choose sports shoes that, according to the product specifications, are suitable for the activity.

Our recommendations for different needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
Skechers Bobs B Flex - Arctic Edge 118110-BBK 42.5

Skechers Bobs B Flex - Arctic Edge 118110-BBK 42.5

Why it suits this need: This men’s style is a slip-on for anyone who wants to quickly put on a pair for everyday wear. The black design is easy to pair with jeans and casual clothes.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies a standard slip-on design without laces, along with details about the materials and sizing. This makes it clear from the outset that adjustability is limited.

Key benefit & features

Synthetic upper and synthetic sole; textile lining; slip-on construction; 3.5 cm sole height.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
New Balance U574LEB 40.5

New Balance U574LEB 40.5

Why it suits this need: The retro shape works well with casual outfits and streetwear. This style is worth considering if the combination of materials and construction matters more to you than colour alone.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description lists the materials, ENCAP midsole and rubber outsole separately. This lets you compare the technical details with other New Balance 574 styles.

Key benefit & features

Suede and mesh; ENCAP midsole according to the product description; rubber outsole; deep navy colour with grey and white accents.

Suitable for: Specific needs & intensive use
Skechers Track Syntac 232398 BBK 45

Skechers Track Syntac 232398 BBK 45

Why it suits this need: According to the product description, this black men’s style is designed for sports and casual wear. It’s a good fit for anyone looking for one pair for everyday activities and light exercise.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description clearly states the intended use, fastening and care instructions. This makes it clear that it isn’t an all-purpose sports shoe for every discipline.

Key benefit & features

Leather upper with mesh; Memory Foam insole according to the product information; rubber sole; lace-up fastening and regular fit.

Suitable for: Parents of school-age children
New Balance PC574EVN 28.5

New Balance PC574EVN 28.5

Why it suits this need: These blue children’s trainers are designed for school, play and everyday wear. The hook-and-loop fastening is practical when a child needs to put their shoes on independently.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fastening, sole construction and materials are clearly specified. This helps parents decide whether the pair is suitable for school and outdoor play.

Key benefit & features

Suede, synthetic material and mesh; lightweight EVA midsole; rubber sole with tread; hook-and-loop fastening.

Care and lifespan

How long trainers last depends on how often you wear them, the surfaces you walk on, your weight, the fit and how well you care for them. After a wet day, let your shoes dry at room temperature and keep them away from direct heat. Use a suitable brush for suede, and follow the product instructions for textile or synthetic materials.

Alternating between two pairs can help reduce wear, especially if you walk every day. Check the soles, seams and heels regularly. For children, wear isn’t the only thing to consider: measure their feet again as soon as their shoes start to feel tight.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and current European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about trainers

How long do trainers usually last?

There’s no set lifespan. Everyday wear, lots of walking, damp conditions and the quality of care all affect how quickly they wear out. Look out for an outsole that’s becoming smooth, seams coming loose and an insole that’s starting to sink.

Are trainers suitable for sport?

It depends on the sport and the product description. Casual trainers are generally suitable for everyday wear and light activities. For running, indoor sports or intensive training, it’s better to choose sports shoes with a construction suited to the activity.

How can I clean trainers without damaging them?

First check the material and care instructions. In most cases, use a soft brush or a damp cloth with mild soap. Avoid bleach, high temperatures and the washing machine if the manufacturer advises against them. Leave your trainers to dry naturally, away from direct heat.