In the Netherlands, a pair of men’s trainers often has to serve several purposes. You might wear them to work, on a walk around town, while doing the shopping and sometimes for light exercise. But a shoe doesn’t always look online the way it feels on your foot. A soft insole, breathable mesh or a roomy fit might sound appealing, but that doesn’t tell you everything about whether it’s right for your needs.
So pay attention to the construction, sizing and care instructions. This can help you avoid buying a pair that soon starts to pinch, feels too warm or doesn’t offer enough grip.
A memory foam insole can feel pleasant when you try it on. That doesn’t automatically mean the shoe is right for every foot, though. Also check whether the insole is removable, how wide the shoe is and whether the fit matches your usual size.
Some of the Skechers men’s trainers in this selection have a fixed insole. This is worth bearing in mind if you normally wear your own insoles.
Many men’s sports trainers have a sporty shape, but aren’t designed for regular running. For running, factors such as cushioning, a secure-fitting upper and a grippy outsole are all important. A casual trainer may be suitable for walking or everyday wear, but might not offer the same support on longer runs.
Black men’s trainers and grey men’s trainers are easy to style, but colour tells you nothing about ventilation, fit or durability. Start by looking at the materials and intended use. A synthetic upper with mesh panels can be practical for everyday wear, while an all-textile style may feel lighter but need different care.
As well as the EU size, check the stated width. For example, the product information may list width D for a standard fit. The Skechers Slip-Ins Go Walk Flex Hands Up is listed as width G. This may be worth considering if you need more room for your foot, but fit is always personal.
Measure your feet at the end of the day and compare the measurements with the size guide for the model. You can also adjust the fit more precisely with lace-up styles than with slip-ons.
Mesh panels or a breathable mesh upper can help with airflow. This is practical for walking and everyday wear. Also check the lining, as this affects how the shoe feels when you wear it for longer periods.
Synthetic leather is generally easy to wipe clean, while textile and mesh often need more careful cleaning. Always follow the care instructions on the product page. A manufacturer’s recommendation for machine washing is a product specification, not a guarantee that the shoe will remain unchanged in every circumstance.
A rubber outsole features on many of these styles. Also check the tread. A sole with lugs or a patterned tread may help with grip when walking, but a casual tread isn’t automatically suitable for wet trails or intensive training.
For men’s adidas running shoes such as the Supernova Ease, the product description lists a Dreamstrike midsole, breathable mesh and a rubber outsole with lugs. According to this information, the model is intended for short to middle-distance runs. Use it with that purpose in mind, and choose technical running shoes if you regularly run long distances.
Why it suits this profile: This black low-top trainer is designed for everyday wear and combines a standard fit with a lace-up fastening. It’s easy to style and adjust to your feet.
The product information lists mesh panels, a non-removable Memory Foam insole and a rubber outsole. You can check these features in advance rather than judging by appearance alone.
Black colour, lace-up fastening, synthetic leather upper, mesh panels and rubber sole.
Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, this model is designed for short to middle-distance runs. It’s a good fit for those looking to combine everyday trainers with light running sessions.
The product description sets out the intended use, mesh upper and rubber outsole with lugs. This makes it clearer what the model is designed for than with a general casual trainer.
Breathable mesh, Dreamstrike midsole, standard fit and rubber outsole with lugs.
Why it suits this profile: A synthetic upper, overlays, lace-up fastening and treaded sole make this a good choice for walking and everyday wear on a range of surfaces.
The product details specify a Relaxed Fit design, a treaded sole and care with a damp cloth. This gives you clearer guidance on intended use and care.
Roomier Relaxed Fit, memory foam insole, reinforcements at the toe and heel, and grippy rubber outsole.
Why it suits this profile: These Skechers Slip-Ins for men have a slip-on design and are made for casual everyday wear. They’re a practical choice if you often need to put your shoes on quickly.
The product details list a fixed footbed and a standard fit. Check these points in advance if you wear your own insoles or need extra room.
Slip-on design, textile upper, Air-Cooled Memory Foam and patterned rubber sole.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Choose a style with a fit that doesn’t pinch, a rubber outsole and good ventilation. For longer walks, men’s walking shoes with extra tread and support may be a better choice than lightweight casual trainers. Also check whether the shoe has a standard or roomier fit.
It depends on the combination of insole, fit and sole. Memory foam trainers can feel comfortable, but a fixed insole is less practical if you use orthopaedic or custom insoles. Try on both shoes with the socks you normally wear, then walk around indoors in them for a few minutes.
Remove loose dirt with a soft brush. If the product information allows it, use a slightly damp cloth with mild soap. Leave your shoes to air-dry away from direct heat. Machine washing varies by model, so always follow the manufacturer’s care advice. This helps preserve the mesh, bonded sections and shape of the shoe as much as possible.