A pair of men’s trainers often needs to do several jobs in the Netherlands: get you to work by bike, take you on walks around town, handle the shopping and sometimes even a light workout. But not every trainer is up to the task. A sporty-looking pair may not offer enough support for walking. A soft insole may feel comfortable, but that doesn’t automatically tell you anything about the fit or durability.
With this practical buying guide, you can compare comfortable men’s shoes, sporty styles and men’s running shoes based on verifiable features. That way, you won’t have to rely on colour, brand name or marketing claims alone.
Words such as “comfort” and “cushioning” don’t tell you how a shoe will fit your foot. A memory foam insole may feel soft, but the shoe should also leave enough room for your toes and fit securely around your heel. So check the size, width and fastening.
Men’s casual shoes with a rubber sole are usually designed for everyday wear. That doesn’t automatically make them suitable for running or longer training sessions. For those activities, the midsole, weight, grip and breathable upper all matter. When choosing men’s running shoes, look beyond their appearance.
Black and grey men’s trainers are easy to style, but colour tells you nothing about breathability, support or wear resistance. Even well-known brands such as Skechers and adidas use different constructions for different activities. Compare the specific model, not just the logo.
If possible, measure your foot at the end of the day, when your feet are slightly larger. Compare your foot length with the brand’s size chart. EU sizes can vary between models.
Look out for these features:
According to the product information, the adidas Barreda Decode comes in a regular fit with a lace-up fastening. For the listed sizes 40 2/3 and 44, the recommendation is to choose your usual size. Always check the current size chart on the product page.
A padded or memory foam insole can affect how a shoe feels to wear. Also check whether the insole is removable. According to the product descriptions, the insoles in several Skechers Burns models can’t be removed. This is worth bearing in mind if you use your own insoles.
A foam midsole, such as the one in the adidas Supernova Ease, is designed to create a softer feel underfoot. The product information states that this model has a full-length Dreamstrike midsole. This is a product specification, not a guarantee that every wearer will have the same experience.
An upper with mesh can feel more breathable on warm days or during longer walks. Skechers Burns models are listed as having mesh inserts and a synthetic upper. The adidas Supernova Ease is described as having a breathable mesh upper.
Also check the outsole:
For off-road routes, men’s trail running shoes may be more suitable than regular lifestyle trainers. For these models, check the specific details about the tread, materials and fit; the product name alone isn’t enough.
Why it suits this type of wearer: Its classic shape works well for everyday wear, walks around town and casual outfits. The listed size 40 2/3 is worth considering if you fall between standard sizes.
The product information lists a regular fit, lace-up fastening and size chart. This makes it easier to assess the fit than judging by appearance alone.
Suede and nylon upper, padded midsole and rubber cupsole, according to the product description.
Why it suits this type of wearer: This model is a good fit if you’re looking for sporty men’s trainers with an adjustable lace-up fastening and a design suited to a range of everyday activities.
The product details mention a padded insole, adjustable laces and a rubber outsole. You can check the key comfort and fit features before buying.
Synthetic textile upper, textile lining and rubber outsole, according to the product details.
Why it suits this type of wearer: The product description positions this model for short to medium distances. It’s therefore a sensible choice if you want to combine everyday wear with a running routine.
Its stated purpose is clearer than that of an everyday casual trainer. The breathable mesh upper and rubber lugs are described in specific terms.
Full-length Dreamstrike foam midsole, mesh upper and rubber lugs, according to the product information.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and current European safety requirements.
How long your trainers last depends on how you use them, the surfaces you walk on, your body weight, how well you care for them and whether you rotate them with other shoes. Leave wet trainers to dry at room temperature and avoid direct heat. Clean them according to the care label. Some models should only be cleaned with a damp cloth; other product descriptions recommend a gentle wash cycle.
Rotate your shoes if you wear them every day. Check them regularly for:
If your shoes show obvious signs of wear, it’s better to replace them than to keep wearing a pair that no longer fits properly.
Choose a pair with a good fit, enough cushioning and a rubber outsole. Casual styles are often fine for walks around town. For longer distances, a model with mesh and a clearly described midsole may feel more comfortable. Always check the size and width.
According to the product information, many Skechers models in the range are designed for everyday wear. The Burns and Summits models mention features such as memory foam, mesh or a flexible rubber sole. That doesn’t mean every model will suit every foot, so pay attention to the width, insole and fastening.
It depends on the construction and distance. Sporty trainers may be suitable for occasional light activity, but if you run regularly, men’s running shoes with suitable cushioning, breathability and grip are a more targeted choice. Only use men’s trail running shoes when the sole and tread are suited to the surface.