A pair of men’s sports shoes can look convincing online and still turn out to be unsuitable for how you plan to use them. A soft sole is not automatically suitable for running, a popular brand says little about the fit, and a low price can become expensive if the shoe wears out quickly.
That is why it is worth watching out for three common pitfalls:
For everyday use and running, breathable sports shoes with mesh are comfortable in warmer weather or on longer walks. Mesh generally allows heat and moisture to escape more easily than fully enclosed synthetic material. For trail running, extra reinforcement is relevant because branches, stones and rough paths can put strain on the upper.
A combination of mesh and woven material can offer a practical middle ground. Also check whether the shoe is lined, how the tongue sits and whether the heel is sufficiently enclosed. A lightweight, airy upper is not automatically waterproof; rainy conditions require different features.
The midsole affects how the shoe feels underfoot. EVA foam is often used for a lightweight construction and cushioning. Other models use, for example, Bounce, Dreamstrike or Lightstrike foam. These brand names describe a product technology, but do not by themselves tell you which feel will suit you best.
Pay particular attention to:
Claims about comfort, rebound or support come from the brand’s product information. Treat them as product specifications and consider them alongside the size, fit and intended use.
The outsole should match the surface. For roads, a rubber tread with a relatively flat profile is often sufficient. On woodland paths, wet stones or loose ground, deeper grooves and a more pronounced tread are more practical.
Also consider the width:
Measure both feet at the end of the day, wearing the socks you usually wear. Use the longer foot as your reference and check the foot length in millimetres. If the size guide lists, for example, 270 mm for EU 44, do not compare it solely on the basis of the EU size number.
Why it suits this profile: A model for anyone looking to build a running routine, with a regular fit, mesh upper and full-length Dreamstrike midsole. According to the product information, it is intended for short to medium distances.
The product description clearly states the intended use and fit. However, check the available size and compare it with your foot length.
Breathable mesh, Dreamstrike foam and a rubber lugged sole; lace fastening for an adjustable fit.
Why it suits this profile: Designed for intensive training and race preparation. The product information lists a Lightstrike Pro midsole, ENERGYRODS and a textile upper.
The intended use is more specific than simply “sports shoe”. This makes it easier to assess whether the model matches your training intensity.
Lightweight, breathable textile; Lightstrike Pro, ENERGYRODS and Continental Rubber in the outsole according to the product details.
Why it suits this profile: For anyone looking for one pair for city roads, unpaved paths and trail running. The model features a sandwich-mesh upper, EVA midsole and ROCKYTEC rubber outsole.
The sole is not designed solely for tarmac. However, check the surfaces you usually run on and choose the standard or slim version that suits your foot.
Lightweight, breathable upper; EVA midsole; ROCKYTEC rubber and available fits for different foot shapes.
For sports shoes for everyday use, you could also consider PUMA trainers, Vans trainers or unisex sports shoes. According to the product information, the PUMA Anzarun Lite combines mesh, an EVA midsole and a SoftFoam+ insole. Vans Authentic and Vans Rowley Classic are aimed more at casual outfits and walking than running. If you are looking for extra room in the forefoot, consider the LI-NING Yueying 6 with its wide toe box.
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.
That depends on usage, body weight, surface, care and materials. Regularly check the outsole for wear, the upper for tears and the midsole for deformation. With running shoes, it is sensible to consider not only how long you have had them, but also how the materials feel and look.
You can, but whether it is practical depends on how you use them. Running shoes with mesh and cushioning can be comfortable for walking, while a race-focused model is less suitable for standing for long periods or casual use. For everyday wear, a sturdy outsole and a versatile appearance are often more important than maximum speed.
Not always. Weight and width are different properties. Look for a model with a standard or wide fit, sufficient toe room and a size guide in millimetres. If you are between sizes, also compare the returns policy and try the shoes indoors with your usual socks.