Joybuy Insights

Choosing trainers for everyday wear: consider fit, materials and how you’ll use them

Trainers come in a wide range of styles, from white trainers for the office and city to sports trainers for walking, training or running. But a well-known brand name or an attractive colour tells you little about whether a pair is right for your feet and how you’ll use it. The right choice starts with practical features such as fit, sole, materials and care.

Common pitfalls when choosing trainers

1. Mistaking a fashionable sole for adequate cushioning

A flat sole can feel stable and work well with casual outfits, but it isn’t automatically suitable for long walks or running sessions. Trainers such as the Vans Old Skool are described in the product information as having a flat sole. This makes them a good option for everyday wear and streetwear, but not necessarily for intensive running.

For running, cushioning, flexibility, fit and grip matter more than appearance alone. That’s why lifestyle trainers and running shoes usually have different designs.

2. Looking only at the size

The same EU size can fit differently from one model to another. The shape of the toe, the width of the last and the thickness of the insole all affect how a shoe fits. If possible, measure both feet at the end of the day and compare their length in centimetres with the product’s size chart.

Remember to factor in your socks, too. If you wear sports socks, you may need a little more room in a close-fitting style. If you’re between sizes, check the returns policy and exact sizing information rather than relying on a general assumption such as “true to size”.

3. Reading too much into material claims

Mesh is often chosen for its airy structure, while suede and leather can feel more substantial. None of these materials is automatically waterproof, so always check the product details.

According to the product information, the Vans Old Skool VN0A4BV51951 has a suede and canvas upper. The Vans UA Old Skool VN0A38G15U71 has a textile upper and rubber sole. Both models are listed as containing non-textile parts of animal origin. This is useful information if you’re mindful about the materials you choose.

Important features to check

Fit and room inside the shoe

Don’t just look at length. Also consider:

  • Forefoot width: particularly important for longer walks.
  • Toe room: your toes shouldn’t press against the front of the shoe.
  • Heel fit: a secure heel helps reduce slipping as you walk.
  • Lace-up fastening: this lets you adjust the fit more precisely than elasticated slip-ons.

Men’s trainers, women’s trainers and unisex trainers can have different last shapes. A unisex style won’t necessarily suit every foot, so compare the size chart and product description.

Sole, cushioning and grip

For everyday trainers, a rubber outsole is practical because it provides grip on tiles, tarmac and shop floors. An EVA midsole is often used to keep the weight down and provide a softer feel underfoot. According to the product description, the Lacoste L003 2K24 combines an EVA midsole with a TPU element and an OrthoLite insole.

For running shoes, other features are worth considering, including:

  • a construction that suits your running style;
  • enough cushioning for your chosen surface;
  • grip for wet tarmac, unpaved paths or trails;
  • a secure fit that doesn’t pinch.

The PELLIOT Running Shoes feature an EVA midsole and a ROCKYTEC rubber outsole. According to the product description, this model is designed for use on everything from roads to trails. Make sure the available size and fit are right for your feet.

Materials and care

Textile and mesh can feel more breathable in warm weather. Suede and leather generally need more careful maintenance. Don’t put your trainers in the washing machine without checking first: the care label may specify hand cleaning. Leave wet shoes to dry naturally and keep them away from direct heat.

Dirt shows up more quickly on white trainers than on black or darker styles. A damp cloth, a suitable care product and regular cleaning can help keep them looking their best for longer. Check that a product is suitable for the material before using it.

Our recommendations for different types of wearer

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Vans Old Skool VN0A4BV51951 Pewter/True White 36.5

Vans Old Skool VN0A4BV51951 Pewter/True White 36.5

Why it suits this profile: A recognisable casual style for anyone looking for one pair to wear with everyday outfits, on city walks and with streetwear.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifically mentions a flat sole, a low-profile fit and a soft collar. This makes it clearer what the style is designed for than a general comfort claim would.

Key benefit & features

Suede and canvas upper, textile insole and rubber sole, according to the product description.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
LACOSTE L003 2K24 224 7 SMA WHT/GRY 45

LACOSTE L003 2K24 224 7 SMA WHT/GRY 45

Why it suits this profile: A smart lifestyle trainer for work, the city and everyday wear, with more technical details than a simple canvas style.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description specifies mesh, suede, synthetic overlays, EVA, TPU and an OrthoLite insole. This makes it easier to assess the materials and construction for yourself.

Key benefit & features

Padded tongue, EVA midsole, OrthoLite insole and rubber outsole with an anti-slip tread, according to the product details.

Suitable for: Specific activities & intensive use
PELLIOT Running Shoes Unisex Lightweight Cushioning

PELLIOT Running Shoes Unisex Lightweight Cushioning – Clean & Breathable, White (EU 38)

Why it suits this profile: A unisex style for anyone who combines walking, running or varied terrain.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Rather than focusing on a sporty look alone, the product information specifies an EVA midsole, breathable mesh and a ROCKYTEC outsole. Make sure the version you choose suits the surfaces you’ll be using it on.

Key benefit & features

Lightweight mesh and woven upper, EVA cushioning and rubber outsole, according to the product description.

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 trainers

Which trainers are suitable for everyday wear?

Choose a style that fits without pinching, with an outsole that offers enough grip and materials suited to the season. Casual trainers such as the Vans Old Skool are designed for everyday wear, while styles with EVA cushioning and mesh are better suited to walking or an active day.

How long do trainers usually last?

Their lifespan depends on how often you wear them, your body weight, the surfaces you walk on, how well you care for them and whether you alternate them with other shoes. Check the soles for worn tread, cracks and a misshapen heel. Trainers wear out faster with intensive use than with occasional wear.

Are white trainers practical in the Netherlands?

White trainers are easy to style, but dirt and moisture show up more quickly. Choose a material that’s easy to clean, treat suede with a suitable product and let your shoes dry properly after rain. If you cycle a lot or walk along wet streets, a darker style may need less maintenance.