Joybuy Insights

Choosing men's trainers: practical buying tips for comfort, fit and everyday wear

In the Netherlands, a pair of men's trainers often needs to do more than just see you through a short walk. You might wear them to work, around town, while shopping or for a light workout. But an appealing product page can give the wrong impression. For example, a soft insole doesn't automatically mean the shoe is right for your foot.

The main pitfalls are:

  • Focusing only on cushioning: a soft sole may feel comfortable when you try a shoe on, but fit, stability and flexibility also affect how comfortable it is to wear for longer periods.
  • Skipping the size information: a regular fit isn't the same as a wide shoe. Always check the stated width, size guide and manufacturer's advice.
  • Using sports shoes for every activity: men's running shoes are designed differently from men's casual shoes. For everyday wear, a sturdy, breathable trainer may be more practical; if you run regularly, features designed specifically for running matter more.

What should you look for in men's trainers?

1. Fit and shoe width

Start by considering the shape of your foot. Many models in this selection have a regular fit and a D shoe width. This may suit feet of average width, but it doesn't automatically mean there's enough room for a wide forefoot.

Keep the following points in mind:

  • If possible, try shoes on at the end of the day, when your feet may be slightly larger.
  • Wear the socks you normally use.
  • Leave some room around your toes without your heel slipping up.
  • Check whether the model is described as normal, regular or wide.
  • If you have wider feet, take a look at our range of wide-fit men's trainers.

According to the product description, the Li-Ning Yueying 6 has a wider toe box. Skechers Burns models, by contrast, are described as having a regular fit. That difference matters more than the brand or colour alone.

2. Cushioning, insole and surface

If you're looking for well-cushioned trainers, you'll often come across terms such as Memory Foam, Air-Cooled Memory Foam, EVA or a specific midsole. These terms describe materials or construction, but they don't tell you exactly how a shoe will feel for every wearer.

So check the following:

  • Is the insole removable?
  • What material is the sole made from?
  • Is the shoe designed for tarmac, everyday wear or sport?
  • Does the outsole have a tread pattern for grip?
  • Is the cushioning spread across the whole sole or concentrated mainly under the heel?

The Memory Foam insole in several Skechers models is not removable. This may work well if you want to keep the shoe's original fit, but may be less convenient if you use your own insole. According to the product information, the adidas Supernova Ease has a Dreamstrike midsole and a rubber outsole with lugs. This makes it a more suitable choice for short to medium-length running sessions than for smart-casual outfits alone.

3. Material and breathability

Breathable men's trainers often have mesh or knitted textile uppers. Mesh can help air circulate, but it doesn't automatically make a shoe waterproof. Synthetic leather may be easier to wipe clean, while textile and mesh need more attention when they get dirty or wet.

Always check the care instructions. According to the product description, some models can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle; others should only be cleaned with a damp cloth. Not every pair with a sporty look is suitable for prolonged wear in wet weather.

Recommended models for different uses

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Skechers Burns 52635 BBK_44

Skechers Burns 52635 BBK_44

Why it suits this profile: This black model is suitable for everyday wear and combines synthetic leather with mesh panels. The lace-up fastening lets you adjust the fit.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information mentions both mesh for ventilation and a flexible rubber outsole. Do check that the fixed insole suits the way you plan to use the shoes.

Main benefit & features

Memory Foam insole, mesh panels and a regular fit in size 44.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Adidas Supernova Ease M CBLACK CBLACK CARBON

Adidas Supernova Ease M CBLACK/CBLACK/CARBON IH2580 45 1/3

Why it suits this profile: According to the product description, this model is designed for short to medium-length runs and has a breathable mesh upper.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its intended use is clearly described as everyday running. That makes it easier to choose based on specific features, rather than general claims about comfort.

Main benefit & features

Dreamstrike midsole, mesh upper and rubber outsole with lugs.

Suitable for: Specific activities & intensive use
LI-NING YUEYING 6 black running shoes

EU43 LI-NING YUEYING 6 Men's Optimized Cushion Running Shoes

Why it suits this profile: The product description mentions a wide toe box, a zoned rubber outsole and a full-length Tempo Bounce midsole. These features make it suited to running and outdoor use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications describe the fit, toe room, support and sole construction separately. Check the size guide carefully, especially if you wear thicker socks.

Main benefit & features

Wide toe box, rubber/EVA outsole and a stability construction which, according to the product information, is designed for outdoor sports.

Suitable for: Everyday convenience
Skechers Slip-Ins Summits Key Pace

Skechers Slip-Ins: Summits - Key Pace 232469-BBK 44

Why it suits this profile: These men's Skechers Slip-Ins are designed for everyday wear and feature a slip-on construction without traditional laces.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The choice is based on its practical slip-on design and regular fit, not just the word ‘comfort’.

Main benefit & features

Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole, textile upper and patterned rubber outsole.

Looking for more options?

We've put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and comply with the current European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about men's trainers

How do men's trainers usually fit?

It varies by brand and model. Several Skechers models in this selection are described as having a regular fit. According to the product information, Li-Ning recommends that people with wider feet consider going up half a size. Measure your foot and compare the result with the size guide before ordering.

How long do comfortable men's trainers last?

Their lifespan depends on how often you wear them, your body weight, the surface you walk or run on, how well you care for them and the weather. Look out for worn tread, seams coming apart and a compressed sole. If you wear trainers every day, consider alternating between two pairs so the materials have time to air and dry.

Can I wear black men's trainers for sport and everyday use?

You can if the product description says the model is suitable for both. Do check its specific intended use, though. A pair designed for light training isn't automatically suitable for intensive running. For men's running shoes, fit, grip, cushioning and the intended running surface matter more than the colour alone.