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A new pair of men’s trainers seems easy to choose, until after a few weeks you start noticing an uncomfortable fit, visible wear or a sole with little grip. Marketing terms such as “all-day comfort” don’t always tell you what you need to know in practice, either.
So focus on the construction, materials and intended use. Below, you’ll find the key things to check, along with a selection of models from Vans, Converse, New Balance and adidas.
A trainer might go perfectly with your streetwear or casual outfit, yet be less suited to long walks. A thin, flat sole feels different from one with foam cushioning or a supportive midsole. So look beyond colour and brand, and consider the sole construction and intended use.
Leather and suede are often seen as inherently hard-wearing materials. In reality, they need regular care and can struggle with prolonged exposure to moisture. Textile and mesh can be lighter and more breathable, but are more prone to dirt. Also check whether a model contains any animal-derived components. This is stated explicitly in the product information for various Vans and New Balance models.
Sizing can vary between brands and models. The Vans Old Skool, Converse Chuck Taylor All Star and New Balance 574 don’t all fit the same way. So check the official size guide, your foot length and any information about wide-fit options. For example, the Vans Knu Skool has a size guide showing EU sizes and foot lengths in centimetres.
A rubber sole with a tread pattern is practical for everyday use in the UK. Rubber generally offers grip on a range of surfaces, but the depth and shape of the tread also affect how the shoe feels. The product information for the Converse Pro Blaze Classic and Chuck Taylor All Star describes their vulcanised rubber soles as flexible and designed to provide grip.
For light sporting activities, a running-shoe-style construction is often more suitable than a flat skate trainer. According to its product description, the adidas Run 70s 2.0 has a lightweight, flexible construction and a rubber outsole. This makes it an interesting option for casual wear and light activity, but it isn’t a substitute for specialist sports shoes.
The New Balance 574, for example, combines suede and mesh. On some versions, the mesh across the instep, collar and tongue is made from recycled polyester. Always check the product variant, as the colour and materials can vary between versions.
A comfortable trainer shouldn’t just feel soft. Look at the room around the toes, the support around the heel and how the shoe fastens. Laces let you adjust the fit precisely. A padded collar can provide extra comfort around the ankle.
According to the product information, the New Balance 574 models in this selection use an ENCAP midsole with foam and a polyurethane rim. This is a specific feature of the construction, not a guarantee that every wearer will have the same experience. If you’re after a low, classic fit, the Converse Pro Blaze Classic or Vans Old Skool may be more suitable.
Why it suits this profile: The classic low-top shape is easy to wear with jeans, chinos and casual streetwear. The product information lists a textile upper, textile lining and rubber sole.
The materials listed make it clear that this is a textile model. You can take the care instructions and its limited suitability for wet conditions into account before buying.
Recognisable skate style, a rubber sole and a versatile colour combination. Available in several size options within the selection provided.
Why it suits this profile: This model combines suede and mesh with an ENCAP midsole. It’s a good fit for anyone looking to pair a retro silhouette with a construction described as suitable for longer days on your feet.
The product specifications clearly list the midsole materials and rubber outsole. So you don’t have to rely solely on general claims about comfort.
Suede and mesh upper, ENCAP midsole and rubber sole. New Balance also lists mesh made from 100% recycled polyester in specific areas.
Why it suits this profile: The retro running-shoe style and lightweight, flexible construction work well for walking, commuting and casual outfits. This model isn’t designed as a specialist sports shoe.
The product description sets out the sole, flexibility and construction separately. This helps you distinguish light everyday activities from more demanding sports use.
Synthetic leather and textile, a rubber outsole, and a design described in the product information as lightweight and flexible.
Why it suits this profile: The high-top canvas shape and rubber toe cap give outfits a distinctive retro, streetwear feel. The lace-up fastening lets you adjust the fit around your foot.
The canvas upper and rubber toe cap are clearly described. This helps you factor in the risk of stains and the recommended cleaning method, using a soft brush or damp cloth.
High-top canvas construction, rubber toe cap and vulcanised rubber sole, described in the product information as flexible.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Your choice mainly depends on what matters most to you:
When buying, always check the exact colour, size and product variant. A model name may cover several versions with different materials or size availability.
Lifespan depends on how far you walk, your body weight, the surface, how well you care for them and the materials. Daily use on tarmac puts more strain on the sole than occasional wear. Replace your pair when the sole becomes visibly smooth, the heel wears down unevenly or the upper no longer offers a good fit.
They can be, but suede needs extra care. Apply a suitable waterproofing spray before wearing them for the first time and avoid prolonged exposure to rain. Let wet trainers dry naturally, away from radiators and direct heat. For stains, use a suede brush or eraser, depending on the care instructions.
Choose a model with enough room around the toes, a secure fit around the heel and noticeable cushioning. The New Balance 574 and adidas Run 70s 2.0 have construction features that may suit everyday walking. Fit is personal, so check the size guide and wear the trainers indoors for a short time before using them for longer periods.
