Joybuy Insights

Choosing men’s trainers: how to find the right pair for every day and every activity

Men’s trainers are suitable for commuting, leisure, training, running and walks. Yet many models look more alike at first glance than they are in use. A casual trainer may feel comfortable during a walk around town, but offer insufficient grip on wet paths. A running shoe may feel lightweight, but be less suitable for everyday wear because of its softer sole construction.

The right choice therefore starts not with colour or brand, but with how you plan to use the shoes. Also watch out for these common purchasing pitfalls:

  • One universal shoe for every activity: men’s trainers for everyday use generally have different features from men’s running shoes or men’s trail-running shoes.
  • Focusing only on cushioning: a soft insole says little about the fit, torsional stiffness or grip of the outsole.
  • Checking the size without measuring your foot: EU sizes can vary between brands and models. Where possible, check the insole length in centimetres or millimetres.
  • Underestimating maintenance: textile, suede, leather and synthetic materials require different cleaning methods. Machine washing can damage the shape or adhesive bonding.

Three features to check before buying

1. Fit and room around the toes

A good fit does not mean the shoe should feel tight. Your toes need enough room to move naturally, while your heel should not lift as you walk. As well as the EU size, check:

  • the stated foot length;
  • the shoe width, such as standard or D;
  • the type of fastening;
  • whether the insole is removable.

For models with a standard fit, such as various men’s Skechers trainers, it is often recommended that you order your usual size. This remains product guidance, not a guarantee for every foot. Ideally, measure your foot at the end of the day while wearing the socks you normally use.

2. Sole and grip suited to how you will use them

For tarmac and sports pitches, a flat or lightly treaded rubber sole is often sufficient. Men’s walking shoes and men’s trail-running shoes generally need a more pronounced tread for mud, gravel or uneven paths. Look out for information about:

  • rubber or TPU in the outsole: this tells you something about the material, but does not automatically indicate grip on every surface;
  • tread depth and grooves: deep lugs are useful on loose ground, while a flatter tread may feel more comfortable on the street;
  • midsole material: EVA, Cloudfoam, IMEVA and other types of foam affect the weight and feel underfoot;
  • stability: for intensive training, secure support around the heel and midfoot is more important than simply having a soft insole.

According to adidas’s product description, the Adizero Boston 13 has a Lightstrike Pro midsole, ENERGYRODS and a Lighttraxion outsole with Continental Rubber. The brand associates this combination with speed training and race preparation. Treat this primarily as an indication of the shoe’s intended use, rather than a universal promise.

3. Material, ventilation and care

A mesh or textile upper generally offers different breathability from leather or synthetic material. For everyday use in changeable Dutch weather, a combination of materials can be practical, but no material is completely maintenance-free.

That is why you should check the washing and cleaning instructions. According to the product information, the PUMA Rickie has an upper made from 58.39% textile and 41.61% synthetic material. The PUMA Speedcat OG is described as having an upper made from 97% leather and 3% textile. These are clear differences in appearance, flexibility and care requirements.

Claims about recycled materials should also be read in the right context. According to the product description, at least 30% of the PUMA Rickie’s upper is made from recycled materials. The New Balance 574 models mention recycled polyester or recycled rubber. Always check which part of the shoe the claim applies to.

Recommended men’s trainers by usage profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
PUMA Men’s Trainers Rickie

PUMA Men’s Trainers Rickie

Why it suits this profile: A lightweight model for anyone looking for one pair for easy running, training and everyday wear. The lace fastening makes it easy to adjust the fit.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information mentions a low weight, a rubber PROTREAD outsole and size guidance based on insole length. This means you can look beyond appearance alone.

Key benefit & advantages

Lightweight foam, textile lining and rubber outsole. According to the product description, the upper contains at least 30% recycled materials.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Adidas Adizero Boston 13

Adidas Adizero Boston 13

Why it suits this profile: Designed for intensive running training and race preparation. Its technical sole construction is better suited to faster paces than to a casual outfit.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description specifies the midsole, ENERGYRODS and outsole. This makes the model’s intended use clearer than a shoe described simply as ‘sporty’.

Key benefit & advantages

Lightweight textile upper, Lightstrike Pro midsole and Continental Rubber at the forefoot according to the product specifications.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
PELLIOT Trail-running Shoes

PELLIOT Running Shoes Unisex – Breathable & Lightweight

Why it suits this profile: For runners who switch between paved roads, woodland trails and uneven paths. The model is available in different sizes and fits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information mentions a ROCKYTEC rubber outsole, a mesh and woven upper, and a standard or narrow version. However, check which sole variant is supplied.

Key benefit & advantages

EVA midsole, durable upper and size selection based on foot length. According to the product description, a variant with Vibram Megagrip is only available in certain versions.

Suitable for: Men’s casual trainers
New Balance U574RUS

New Balance U574RUS

Why it suits this profile: A retro-inspired model for everyday wear, the office and informal occasions. The combination of suede and mesh works well with a sporty yet understated wardrobe.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description mentions not only the appearance, but also the materials, rubber outsole and suitability for everyday and sporty use.

Key benefit & advantages

Suede and mesh upper, rubber sole and an ENCAP midsole according to the product information.

Choosing a brand: compare features, not just logos

A brand name can help you filter models, but it does not say enough about suitability. Adidas running shoes, for example, are designed for different running goals. Men’s PUMA trainers range from lightweight sports shoes to lifestyle models such as the Speedcat OG. Several men’s Skechers trainers focus on a Memory Foam or Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole. Men’s New Balance trainers, men’s Vans Old Skool and similar casual models are particularly appealing when style and everyday comfort matter more than technical running performance.

Also pay attention to the product variant and size. A Vans Old Skool may have a flat sole, while a trail-running model uses a more aggressive tread. These two shoes are not automatically interchangeable.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about men’s trainers

Which men’s trainers are suitable for everyday wear?

For everyday use, choose a model with a standard fit, enough room for your toes, a rubber outsole and an upper that suits how much maintenance you are prepared to do. Men’s casual trainers such as the New Balance 574 models are designed for versatile use. Models with a Memory Foam insole, such as certain men’s Skechers trainers, may feel comfortable, but fit is still a personal matter.

How long do men’s trainers typically last?

Their lifespan depends on running distance, body weight, the surface, alternating between multiple pairs and how well they are maintained. Regularly check the outsole for wear, the upper for cracks and the midsole for deformation. For intensive running, having a separate set of men’s running shoes may be more practical than using the same pair for both everyday wear and sport.

How do I determine the right men’s trainer size?

Measure both feet on a sheet of paper and use the longer foot as your reference. Compare the measurement with the size chart for the specific model. Also consider width and sock thickness. Some PUMA and PELLIOT models explicitly refer to foot length or insole length; use this information alongside your usual EU size.