Joybuy Insights

Choosing everyday trainers: how to find a pair that suits you

Trainers are suitable for work, walking, travel and casual outfits. However, it can be difficult to decide online which pair is right for the way you intend to use them. Photos mainly show colour and shape, while details such as fit, material and sole construction determine whether the shoes are comfortable to wear.

So before ordering women’s trainers or men’s trainers, watch out for these common pitfalls.

Common pitfalls when choosing trainers

1. A regular fit does not mean every foot will fit the same way

A model with a regular fit may suit one foot well but feel too narrow or too roomy on another. So check not only the shoe size, but also the stated width, fastening and sizing advice.

For example, the Skechers Graceful - Get Connected is described as a generous fit, so you may want to consider ordering one size smaller. The Skechers Bobs Geo-New Aesthetics, on the other hand, has a regular fit with a shoe width of D. The difference between these two models matters more than the brand alone.

2. “Comfortable” does not mean much without technical details

Terms such as comfortable trainers, soft sole or cushioning are only useful when you know how the product is constructed. Look at the materials used for the insole, midsole and outsole. A canvas upper may be lightweight and breathable, while leather or suede offers more structure and requires different care.

According to the product description, the New Balance U574LEB has an ENCAP midsole and a suede and mesh upper. The Converse Star Player 76 OX, by contrast, features canvas, textile and a vulcanised rubber sole. These are verifiable product specifications; the final wearing experience remains personal.

3. A trendy model is not automatically suitable for intensive use

Low-top trainers with a slim sole work well with streetwear and casual clothing, but they are not always the right choice for long walks or a full working day on hard floors. Check the sole thickness, tread, insole and support around the heel.

A smooth or flat sole can be practical for everyday use around town. If you do a lot of walking in changing conditions, a clear rubber tread is often more useful. No model should automatically be treated as a walking shoe or sports shoe if this is not stated in the product information.

Important specifications to compare

Fit, size and fastening

Pay attention to the following points:

  • Sizing advice: does the model fit true to size, small or large?
  • Shoe width: for example, D for a regular women’s fit.
  • Fastening: laces allow you to adjust the fit; slip-on styles are quicker to put on.
  • Collar and tongue: a padded edge can affect how the shoe fits around the ankle.
  • Removable insole: useful if you want to use a different insole.

If you are unsure, do not order solely based on the size you wear in another brand. Nike Dunk Low, New Balance 574, Vans Old Skool and Skechers trainers may all feel different.

Material and care

The material affects the appearance, breathability, care requirements and intended use:

  • Leather: durable and easy to wipe clean, but sensitive to moisture and scratches.
  • Suede: creates a matt appearance, but requires a suitable brush and protective treatment.
  • Textile or canvas: lightweight and often breathable, but stains may be more visible.
  • Synthetic material: check the specific composition; “vegan” and “synthetic” are not always synonymous.
  • Rubber: often used to provide grip and wear resistance in the outsole.

According to the product description, the Skechers Bobs Geo-New Aesthetics 117417-BBK is described as 100% vegan. Always check the current product page if the choice of material is important to you.

Sole and intended use

For trainers intended for everyday use, the following features are particularly relevant:

  1. Sole tread: a tread can provide extra grip on different surfaces.
  2. Midsole: EVA, IMEVA and ENCAP are different constructions with different designs.
  3. Cushioning: treat the description as comfort information, not as a medical claim.
  4. Flexibility: canvas models with vulcanised rubber soles often feel different from more structured leather models.
  5. Care instructions: some shoes should not be put in the washing machine and must be air-dried.

Recommended trainers for different user profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Skechers Bobs Geo-New Aesthetics 117417-TAN 37

Skechers Bobs Geo-New Aesthetics 117417-TAN 37

Why it suits this profile: The beige colour and low-top design are easy to pair with jeans, chinos and neutral casual outfits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states that it has a regular fit, width D and size 37. This allows you to compare it more accurately rather than relying on the photo alone.

Key benefit & highlights

Textile upper, rubber sole, lace fastening and a plain low-top design.

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

New Balance U574LEB 40.5

Why it suits this profile: The retro shape works with casual clothing, streetwear and sporty outfits for men and women looking for a more structured model.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The composition is clearly described: a suede and mesh upper, ENCAP midsole and rubber outsole. This makes your choice less dependent on general comfort claims.

Key benefit & highlights

Suede and mesh upper, ENCAP midsole and rubber tread outsole; suitable for casual and sporty looks.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users
Vans Old Skool Pewter True White 36.5

Vans Old Skool VN0A4BV51951 Pewter/True White 36.5

Why it suits this profile: The low-top design with a flat sole works well with streetwear and everyday use around town, with a distinctive combination of suede and canvas.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description mentions the flat sole, low profile, padded ankle collar and combination of materials. This helps you decide whether the model suits your walking habits and clothing style.

Key benefit & highlights

Suede and canvas upper, textile insole and rubber outsole with a flat construction.

Suitable for: Minimalist women’s style
Lacoste Aceline 96 124 SFA white trainers

Lacoste Aceline 96 124 6 SFA Off White 39.5

Why it suits this profile: The white low-top trainers complement a pared-back wardrobe and are easy to pair with denim, dresses and smart-casual clothing.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page states that it has a regular fit, padded insole and rubber outsole. The upper is made from synthetic leather, which is clearer than a general description such as “premium”.

Key benefit & highlights

Synthetic leather upper, textile lining, padded insole and rubber sole.

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.

Caring for your trainers and extending their lifespan

Their lifespan depends on the material, how often they are worn, the surface and how well they are cared for. These habits can help prevent unnecessary wear:

  • Rotate your shoes if you wear them every day.
  • Allow damp trainers to dry at room temperature, away from direct heat.
  • Use a suitable brush for suede and a product designed for leather.
  • Do not machine-wash trainers if the product information advises against it.
  • Check the outsole, seams and heel before wear becomes noticeably uncomfortable.
  • Only apply protector to textile or suede if the care advice allows it.

Brands may make additional sustainability or material claims. Treat these as information supplied by the brand and check the specific composition on the product page.

Frequently asked questions about trainers

Which trainers are suitable for everyday use?

That depends on your routine. For the office and casual outfits, low-top trainers with a rubber sole are practical. If you do a lot of walking, it is better to look for a suitable fit, adequate cushioning and a sole tread that matches the surface. A lifestyle model is not automatically designed for running or intensive sport.

How do trainers from different brands fit?

The fit varies by model. Always check the sizing advice, width and any comments such as “fits large” or “fits small”. Women’s trainers in particular can fit differently even within the same brand.

How do you clean leather and vegan trainers?

You can usually gently wipe leather trainers with a suitable cloth and care product. For vegan trainers, follow the specific material information, as synthetic materials may react differently. Do not use bleach, and allow the shoes to dry naturally if this is stated in the care instructions.