Joybuy Insights

Choosing men’s trainers: a practical guide to adidas and PUMA models

Buying a new pair of men’s trainers seems simple, until you have to choose between retro, streetwear and running-inspired styles, colours and fits. Marketing terms such as “all-day comfort” or “lightweight” also don’t always tell you enough about how a shoe feels in everyday use.

So keep an eye out for these three common pitfalls:

  • Mistaking an attractive silhouette for a suitable fit. A narrow, flat trainer may look stylish, but offer less room for wider feet.
  • Focusing only on colour or brand. Black men’s trainers and white men’s trainers are easy to style, but the material and sole also affect care and how you use them.
  • Skipping the size information. EU sizes don’t always work the same way across different models. Always check the foot length in centimetres and the product’s specific size chart.

The selection below is based on verifiable details such as materials, sole construction, fastening, sizing and care instructions. Any claims about comfort or performance come from the relevant product descriptions and are not presented here as guaranteed results.

What features should you check?

1. Fit and foot length

Ideally, measure your foot at the end of the day, when your feet are slightly more swollen. Place your heel against a wall and measure to the tip of your longest toe. Then compare this length with the product chart.

For example, the adidas Run 70s 2.0 lists a foot length of 26.5 cm for EU 42. EU 44 2/3 is listed as 27.4 cm, while EU 44 is 28.0 cm. This difference shows why relying solely on your usual size can be risky.

Also consider the width:

  • Standard fit: suitable if you don’t usually need extra room.
  • Performance fit: may feel a little more snug.
  • Rounded toe: often offers more visual and practical room around the toes, but always check the actual fit for yourself.

2. Upper and lining

The material affects a trainer’s appearance, care and breathability. Many men’s casual trainers combine leather or synthetic materials with textiles.

  • Leather with suede overlays: found on retro models such as the adidas Samba OG, but requires careful care and protection from prolonged exposure to moisture.
  • Synthetic leather and textile: used on the adidas Run 70s 2.0, combining different surfaces with a textile lining.
  • Textile and synthetic materials: can help keep weight down, but stains and moisture still call for careful cleaning.

Don’t automatically put your trainers in the washing machine. The product information for the models mentioned recommends cleaning them with a soft, slightly damp cloth and letting them air dry. Don’t use bleach or harsh cleaning products.

3. Sole, cushioning and everyday use

Don’t focus on the word “comfort” alone. Check which materials are actually listed:

  • According to its product description, the adidas Run 70s 2.0 has a rubber outsole and a lightweight, flexible construction.
  • The adidas Samba OG features a rubber gum cupsole and a full-grain leather upper with suede overlays.
  • The PUMA Speedcat OG has an IMEVA midsole and rubber outsole.
  • The PUMA Milenio Tech lists a SOFTFOAM+ insole with an extra-thick heel and an IMEVA construction.

According to adidas and PUMA’s own product information, these constructions are designed to support comfort, flexibility or grip. Treat this as product information, not a guarantee for every wearer. For your daily commute, shopping or walks around town, a secure fastening, the right size and enough room for your toes are just as important as the name of the cushioning technology.

Models for different shopping needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Adidas Run 70s 2.0 CBLACK/FTWWHT/FTWWHTIH8585 42

Adidas Run 70s 2.0

Why it suits this profile: The retro running-shoe look works well with jeans, chinos and simple streetwear. Its black-and-white colourway makes it a good first pair for everyday wear.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists the upper, textile lining, rubber outsole and specific EU sizes. This lets you check the materials and sizing rather than relying on marketing language alone.

Key benefit & features

Synthetic leather with textile, textile lining, rubber outsole and a choice of EU sizes.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Adidas Samba OG Cloud White Core Black Clear Granite men's trainers

Adidas Samba OG men's trainers

Why it suits this profile: If you’re after a distinctive retro style in leather and suede, this model works well with smart-casual outfits and streetwear.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size chart lists foot lengths for each EU size and describes the fit as standard. The upper is specifically described as full-grain leather with suede overlays.

Key benefit & features

Leather upper, suede details, textile lining and rubber gum cupsole with lace-up fastening.

Suitable for: Specific activities & frequent wear
Puma Speedcat OG Black White

Puma Speedcat OG

Why it suits this profile: Its low, streamlined shape is ideal if you like a sporty, motorsport-inspired look and slim-fitting casual outfits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page lists a regular fit, rounded toe, EU sizing and material construction. Still, check whether the low-profile shape gives your feet enough room.

Key benefit & features

Leather upper, IMEVA midsole, rubber outsole and lace-up fastening.

Suitable for: Everyday city outfits
PUMA Milenio Tech white black

Puma Milenio Tech

Why it suits this profile: The white-and-black colour combination and thicker sole work well with modern streetwear and everyday city outfits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description gives the upper material percentages and lists the sole, lining, fit and care instructions. This means you can check the key details before buying.

Key benefit & features

Upper made from 78,60% synthetic material and 21,40% textile, SOFTFOAM+ insole and rubber outsole.

Size and care check before you buy

Use this quick checklist:

  1. Measure both feet and use the measurement for the longer foot.
  2. Compare the centimetres with the chart for the specific model.
  3. Check whether the shoe has a standard, regular or snug fit.
  4. Check the material: leather and suede need different care from textile.
  5. Check the returns policy and product availability before you order.

If you’re looking for adidas men’s trainers, Puma men’s trainers, white men’s trainers or black men’s trainers, a category page can be a useful way to compare colours, sizes and models.

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 men’s trainers

How do I know which EU size I need?

Measure your foot in centimetres and compare it with the model’s size chart. Don’t rely only on the size of a previous pair, as fit can vary between brands and models. adidas sometimes uses half sizes such as 40 2/3 or 43 1/3.

How long do casual trainers last?

How long they last depends on how often you wear them, the surfaces you walk on, your body weight, how well you care for them and the materials they’re made from. Worn tread, a sole that’s coming away or permanent distortion are signs that it may be time to replace your pair. Let trainers air dry and avoid the washing machine, bleach and direct heat.

Are black or white trainers easier to style?

Black men’s trainers usually work well with dark and neutral-coloured clothing. White men’s trainers add a lighter contrast and go well with denim, chinos and summer outfits. In either case, the material, sole shape and fit will determine whether the pair suits the way you plan to wear them.