Joybuy Insights

Buying men’s sports shoes: how to choose the right footwear for football, running and everyday use

A pair of men’s sports shoes may seem like a quick purchase: select your usual size, look at the brand and check the price. Yet many disappointing purchases come down to details that only become apparent on the pitch or during a run. For example, a football boot for natural grass will not automatically perform well on artificial grass. And a casual trainer with a sporty look does not always provide the cushioning you need during training.

Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer helps you assess the key differences using verifiable product information. This allows you to make a more informed choice between men’s running shoes, men’s football boots and versatile sports shoes for everyday use.

Three common pitfalls when buying sports shoes

1. Choosing the wrong sole for the surface

The abbreviations FG, AG and IN refer to different playing surfaces:

  • FG football boots are designed for firm, natural grass pitches. The studs provide grip on a solid surface.
  • AG football boots are designed for artificial ground, in other words artificial grass. Always check the product description, as not every model with a firm-stud sole is automatically suitable for artificial grass.
  • Indoor football shoes have a flat rubber sole for sports halls and other indoor surfaces.
  • For artificial grass football boots, a sole with a suitable stud configuration is important. The wrong sole can make walking uncomfortable and cause faster wear.

A shoe used on the wrong surface may provide less grip and become unnecessarily damaged more quickly.

2. Mistaking a sporty look for genuine cushioning

Not every shoe with a running-inspired design is suitable for longer distances. For everyday running shoes, consider the midsole, upper and intended distance. The product information for the Adidas Galaxy 7 M, for example, states that it has a Cloudfoam midsole, a textile upper and is intended for longer road training sessions.

For short walks or casual use, a simpler sole may be sufficient. If you train regularly, you will generally benefit more from cushioned sports shoes and a fit that holds your foot securely.

3. Looking only at the EU size

Size 40 in one model will not always feel the same as size 40 in another. Therefore, also check the foot length in millimetres or centimetres. In the product details for the Adidas Galaxy 7 M, size 40 is linked to a foot length of 255 mm. The Adidas Runfalcon 5 is available, among other sizes, in 40, 40 2/3 and 42 2/3, with corresponding foot lengths.

Measure your foot at the end of the day, wear the socks you use when exercising and compare the measurement with the size chart. Also consider the width and the amount of room around your toes. A shoe that is too tight can quickly become uncomfortable during exercise.

Important specifications to check

Sole and grip

First decide where you will use the shoes. For football on a firm natural grass pitch, FG models are the obvious choice. For a sports hall, an indoor model with a rubber sole is more suitable. If you train on different surfaces, it is sensible to use suitable footwear for each one rather than relying on a single pair everywhere.

According to the product information, the Joma Striker models use an FG sole and are intended for firm, natural and sometimes semi-dry grass pitches. However, some listings also state AG as a suitable surface. Therefore, check the current specifications on the product page before ordering.

Cushioning and midsole

For running and daily training, the midsole construction and type of insole are relevant considerations. Cloudfoam is mentioned in the product information for various adidas models as a cushioning material. The Adidas Runfalcon 5 is also listed with a mesh upper, an OrthoLite insole and an Adiwear outsole.

According to adidas’s own product information, these materials are intended to provide comfort, ventilation, grip and support for daily training. This is a product specification, not a guarantee that every user will have the same experience.

Upper, fastening and care

A synthetic or microfibre upper can be practical for football, as it is easy to clean with a damp cloth. Mesh generally allows more air to pass through, which can be appealing for running or everyday use. Laces allow you to adjust the fit around the instep.

Do not simply put sports shoes in the washing machine. Several models recommend cleaning with a damp cloth and allowing them to dry naturally. Direct heat can damage materials and adhesive bonds.

Recommended sports shoes by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Adidas Run 70s 2.0 size 40

Adidas Run 70s 2.0 size 40

Why it suits this profile: This trainer is designed for everyday use and combines a textile and synthetic upper with a rubber outsole. This makes it suitable for casual wear and light activities.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description positions this model for everyday use, not as a specialised running shoe or football boot.

Key benefit & advantages

Size 40; rubber outsole; breathable textile is listed in the product information.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for top quality
Adidas Galaxy 7 M size 40

Adidas Galaxy 7 M size 40

Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, this model is intended for road running and longer distances. The combination of Cloudfoam, textile and TPU is suitable for users who train with specific goals in mind.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated use and 255 mm foot length help ensure that a casual model is not confused with a running shoe.

Key benefit & advantages

Cloudfoam midsole; textile lining; TPU outsole; size 40.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users
Joma Striker 2502 FG size 42

Joma Striker 2502 FG size 42

Why it suits this profile: According to the product description, this Joma model is intended for football on firm natural grass pitches. The FG sole and synthetic leather upper are suitable for training and matches on this surface.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The FG designation makes the intended surface clear. Do not use this model as a general indoor or running shoe.

Key benefit & advantages

FG sole; lightweight construction according to the product information; size 42; lace fastening.

Suitable for: Indoor footballers and sports hall trainers
Joma FS Reactive 2402 IN size 40.5

Joma FS Reactive 2402 IN size 40.5

Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, this model is made for indoor surfaces. The rubber sole, EVA midsole and mesh/synthetic upper are suitable for indoor football and other indoor activities.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The IN designation and recommendation for indoor surfaces help prevent you from choosing a studded shoe for a smooth sports floor.

Key benefit & advantages

Rubber sole; EVA foam in the midsole; breathable upper; size 40.5.

Looking for more options?

We have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Size, care and lifespan

Before ordering, check that your preferred size is available. The range includes size 40 sports shoes, size 42 sports shoes and size 43 sports shoes, as well as half and intermediate sizes such as 40.5, 40 2/3 and 42 2/3. If you are unsure, use the foot length from the product table instead of relying solely on your usual shoe size.

Allow shoes to dry completely in the open air after use. Remove mud and grass with a soft brush or damp cloth. Store them somewhere dry and out of direct sunlight. Their lifespan depends on frequency of use, surface, body weight, running style and care. A football boot for natural grass will not automatically last a long time if it is frequently used on artificial grass.

Frequently asked questions about men’s sports shoes

Which sports shoes are suitable for daily running?

Look for models that are explicitly described as suitable for running or daily training. The Adidas Runfalcon 5 lists a mesh upper, Cloudfoam midsole, OrthoLite insole and Adiwear outsole. The Adidas Galaxy 7 M is described as suitable for longer distances on the road. Also check the fit and foot length.

How do I choose between FG and AG football boots?

FG stands for Firm Ground and usually refers to firm natural grass pitches. AG stands for Artificial Ground and refers to artificial grass. Check the product specifications for each model, as the details may vary between versions. Do not automatically use an FG shoe on every artificial grass pitch.

How long do sports shoes last on average?

There is no fixed lifespan. Intensive exercise, wet conditions, using the wrong surface and inadequate care all accelerate wear. Look out for worn tread, a compressed midsole, coming-away seams or a sole that no longer makes even contact with the ground. These are practical signs that it is time to replace a pair.