Joybuy Insights

Buy comfortable shoes online: how to choose without making the wrong purchase

Buying comfortable shoes online may seem straightforward, until the fit is disappointing, the sole turns out to be slippery or the material quickly loses its shape. Product photos mainly show colour and style. Important details, such as shoe width, foot length and care instructions, are often further down the product page.

So look beyond discounts or a familiar brand name. With the right checks, you can compare women’s and men’s trainers, Crocs clogs, flip-flops and sandals based on features that suit your everyday needs.

Three common pitfalls when buying shoes online

1. Relying solely on your usual size

An EU size is not the same in every model. A trainer with a standard fit may feel different from a wide flip-flop or a sandal with a narrow front. Socks, a high instep and wider feet can also affect your choice.

So check:

  • the stated shoe width, such as D or G;
  • the recommended foot length in millimetres or centimetres;
  • whether it says “standard fit” or “runs small/large”;
  • the amount of room around the toes and whether a heel strap can be adjusted.

Measure both feet at the end of the day and use the longer foot as your reference. Extra care is needed with children’s shoes, as children’s feet grow and sizes can vary between models.

2. Interpreting “non-slip” or “water-resistant” too broadly

A treaded sole with grooves may provide more grip, but that does not mean a shoe will be slip-free on every wet floor. With water-resistant flip-flops, you should also distinguish between water drainage and waterproofing. Drainage holes help water run off; they do not make a flip-flop suitable for prolonged immersion.

According to the product description of the PUXI Wave Bathroom Slippers, the sole has a wave pattern, deep grooves and textured studs for use on wet floors. These are verifiable construction features. Actual grip also depends on the surface, wear and the way you walk.

3. Ignoring care instructions

A shoe that can be washed is not automatically suitable for tumble drying. For some Skechers trainers, the product information specifies a gentle cold wash cycle and air drying. Other models should only be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap.

Before buying, check:

  • whether machine washing is allowed;
  • the maximum temperature;
  • whether the shoe must be air-dried;
  • whether direct sunlight, bleach or heat should be avoided.

Proper care may extend the shoe’s useful life, but always follow the label for the specific model.

Which specifications determine comfort?

Fit and sizing

For everyday use, the right length and enough room around the toes are important. A standard fit is not the same as a wide fit. According to the product information, the Skechers Slip-Ins GO WALK Flex - Grand Entry 124836-NVW 40 has a standard fit and shoe width G. The Skechers BOBS Sport Squad Chaos 118300-BBK 42.5 is listed with a standard fit and width D.

With flip-flops, the size is sometimes given as a range, such as 37-38. The PUXI models link this size to a recommended foot length of 240 mm. This is more practical than relying solely on a photo or a general size chart.

Material and sole

The upper affects how the shoe feels and how much ventilation you can expect. Textile is often used for casual trainers. Rubber soles can provide grip and durability, but the tread remains an important factor.

For Crocs clogs and some sandals, 100% CROSLITE is listed as the material. According to the product description, this provides a lightweight feel and makes the shoes easy to use. However, check whether the model has a heel strap, footbed or additional support. A slip-on style is handy for wearing at home or for short periods, but it is not automatically suitable for long walks.

Intended use

First decide where you will wear the shoes:

  • Shoes for everyday use: consider fit, weight, ventilation and care.
  • Women’s and men’s trainers: check the fastening, sole tread and available widths.
  • Flip-flops for the bathroom or swimming pool: look for drainage and a clearly defined sole tread; do not use “water-resistant” as a synonym for waterproof.
  • Sandals for warm weather: check the heel straps, adjustability and open sections.
  • Children’s shoes: check the exact EU size, foot length and room for growth.
  • Unisex shoes: assess the size chart rather than just the stated target audience.

Our recommendations for different user profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
CROCS 206804 ICE BLUE UNISEX C5

CROCS 206804 ICE BLUE UNISEX C5

Why it suits this profile: This unisex slip-on style is practical for wearing at home, in your free time and for short journeys. The listed size is 20-21.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information clearly states the material, target audience, colour and size. However, check that size 20-21 is suitable for the foot length.

Key benefit & advantages

100% CROSLITE according to the product details, lightweight and designed as an easy-to-wear slip-on style.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Geox Women D Bleyze E Collection Smooth Leather Black 38

Geox Women D Bleyze E Collection - Smooth Leather Black 38

Why it suits this profile: A good choice if you are looking for a leather casual shoe that also works for commuting and everyday outfits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size guidance refers to the measured foot length. This reduces the chance of ordering based solely on your usual size.

Key benefit & advantages

Full-grain leather upper, elastic textile panels, rubber outsole and removable insole according to the product description.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users
PUXI Wave Bathroom Slippers Reef Black Size 37-38

PUXI Wave Bathroom Slippers Reef Black Size 37-38 Unisex

Why it suits this profile: Designed for use in the bathroom or other damp indoor areas, where drainage and sole tread matter more than a fashionable appearance.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated drainage channels and deep grooves make the wet-floor features easy to verify. This is not a guarantee of grip on every surface.

Key benefit & advantages

High-density EVA, a recessed footbed and a wave pattern with non-slip texture according to the product details.

Suitable for: Casual walkers
Skechers Slip-Ins GO WALK Flex Grand Entry 124836-NVW 40

Skechers Slip-Ins: GO WALK Flex - Grand Entry 124836-NVW 40

Why it suits this profile: This women’s trainer is designed for everyday use and, according to the product information, has no fastening, making it easy to slip on.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page specifies the fit, width G, material and care instructions. This means you can compare the shoe without relying solely on its name.

Key benefit & advantages

Textile upper, rubber sole and standard fit according to the listed specifications.

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 buying comfortable shoes online

How do I measure my foot for an online order?

Place your foot on a sheet of paper and mark the heel and the furthest point of the toes. Measure the distance in millimetres. Repeat this for both feet and use the longer measurement. Compare the result with the size chart for the chosen model, rather than just your usual shoe size.

How long do comfortable shoes last?

This depends on the material, how often they are worn, the surface and how they are cared for. A trainer worn outdoors every day will wear differently from a pair of indoor flip-flops. Look out for coming-away seams, a tread that has become smooth and a misshapen insole. These are more practical signs than a general promise about lifespan.

Are shoes bought online cheaper than shoes from a shop?

Not always. Compare the total price, including delivery, any return costs and care requirements. A cheaper pair may work out less economical if the size is wrong or the material is unsuitable for how you intend to use them. So before checking out, confirm the size, fit, material, delivery time and returns policy.