A pair of men’s trainers may seem easy to choose at first. Yet many men buy shoes that become uncomfortable after a few weeks, feel too warm or don’t offer enough grip. The difference usually isn’t the logo, but the fit, sole and intended use.
This buying guide will help you compare men’s sports shoes without being swayed by generic marketing claims. You’ll find out what to look for in men’s running shoes, casual trainers and sports shoes for everyday wear.
Casual trainers may be fine for walking to the station, but that doesn’t automatically make them suitable for running. Running puts repeated extra strain on the sole and upper. So check whether the product description lists running or training as a recommended use.
Conversely, technical running shoes may be more than you need for the office, shopping or a casual get-together. A sturdier sole and breathable mesh are most useful if you actually run longer distances or do intensive training.
Many shoppers go straight for cushioned running shoes. Cushioning matters, but a soft midsole isn’t the only factor in comfort. The shoe should also fit snugly around the heel, leave enough room for your toes and suit the way you run or walk.
Pay attention to the type of sole, too. A rubber outsole with tread may be more practical on wet UK streets than a smooth sole designed mainly for indoor use.
Sizing varies between brands and models. The adidas Supernova Stride 2, for example, is listed in EU sizes such as 40 2/3, 41 1/3, 42 2/3 and 44 2/3, with corresponding foot lengths. The Skechers Track Syntac is described as a regular fit in the product information provided. Use details like these as a guide, but always check the size chart on the product page.
Start by deciding what you need the shoes for:
If you’re looking for adidas men’s trainers with a sporty look, models such as the Supernova range are designed for different uses. According to the product description, the Supernova Ease is intended for short to middle distances. The Run 70s 2.0, by contrast, has a retro-inspired design for everyday wear.
The midsole plays a big part in how a shoe feels when you walk or run. According to the product specifications, the adidas Supernova Ease uses a full-length Dreamstrike midsole. The Supernova Stride 2 lists a combination of Dreamstrike+ and EVA. These terms describe the construction, but they don’t guarantee that every wearer will have the same experience.
Various Skechers men’s shoes list a Memory Foam or Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole. This can feel comfortable for everyday wear. Check whether the insole is removable, though: the Skechers Track Syntac is listed as having a non-removable insole.
A mesh upper can feel more breathable during sport. Synthetic leather is often easier to wipe clean and works well for everyday wear. Always check the care instructions:
Shoes you wear outdoors regularly will last longer if you remove mud and moisture straight away and avoid drying them on a radiator.
Why it suits this profile: This model combines a sporty shape with a design made for everyday wear. The listed EU size 42 corresponds to a foot length of 26,5 cm.
The product information highlights everyday comfort, a flexible construction and a rubber outsole, without positioning the model as a specialist running shoe.
Textile and synthetic leather upper; rubber outsole; black with white details.
Why it suits this profile: According to the product description, this model is made for training and longer runs. The mesh upper and listed Dreamstrike+, EVA and Adiwear components are suited to sporting use.
The intended use, materials and sole construction are clearly described. This makes it easier to distinguish the model from an everyday lifestyle trainer.
Textile and synthetic mesh; Dreamstrike+ and EVA midsole; Adiwear rubber outsole; at least 20% recycled and renewable materials, according to the product information.
Why it suits this profile: The product description focuses on intensive training and race preparation. That makes this a more specialised choice than a trainer designed solely for everyday wear.
The technical components are listed: Lightstrike Pro, ENERGYRODS, Lighttraxion and Continental Rubber. This helps you decide whether the construction suits your training goals.
Textile upper; Lightstrike Pro midsole with ENERGYRODS; outsole with Lighttraxion and Continental Rubber; listed foot length of 276 mm for EU 43 1/3.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and comply with current European safety regulations.
Choose a model with a comfortable insole, a rubber outsole and an upper that’s easy to care for. According to the product description, the Skechers Track Syntac is designed for both sports and casual wear. The adidas Run 70s 2.0 works well with outfits for work, walking and leisure time.
Lifespan depends on use, the surface you wear them on, your body weight, how well you care for them and the fit. Look for worn tread, tears in the upper and a midsole that has become permanently compressed. Don’t automatically use running shoes as work shoes, and let wet shoes air dry completely.
Measure both feet at the end of the day and compare the longer foot with the size chart for the model. Also check the fit around your toes and heel. A size such as EU 42 2/3 or 43 1/3 won’t necessarily be the same across different brands. The product page is therefore the best place to check before you order.