A pair of men's trainers can look great in a product photo and still disappoint when you wear them around town, in shops or in the park. The difference often comes down not to the logo, but to the fit, sole and intended use.
Look out for these common pitfalls:
The right choice starts with when you'll wear them.
For men's running shoes, key things to check include a breathable upper, a secure lace fastening and a sole with enough grip. Consider the distance and surface, too. Short training sessions on tarmac call for different features from walks along wet woodland paths.
Models such as adidas running shoes from the Supernova range are described as being designed for training and everyday runs. The Supernova Stride 2, for example, has a Dreamstrike+ and EVA midsole, plus an Adiwear rubber outsole. These are verifiable product specifications, but they don't guarantee that every runner will have the same experience.
For comfortable trainers for work, shopping or long days, a padded collar, flexible rubber sole and well-fitting insole are practical features. A mesh panel can help with ventilation, while synthetic leather may be easier to wipe clean than suede.
The men's Skechers trainers in the models provided are mainly designed for everyday wear and casual activities. The Burns Agoura features a memory foam insole and mesh panels, among other details. The Oak Canyon Redwick has a Relaxed Fit construction, padded collar and rubber outsole with a tread pattern.
If you're mainly looking for men's trainers to wear with jeans, chinos or a casual outfit, consider the colour, material and sole pattern. Men's retro trainers such as the New Balance 574 combine suede and mesh with an ENCAP midsole and rubber outsole, according to the product information. The New Balance U1906RCH has a more modern, retro running-inspired look, with mesh, synthetic overlays and an EVA midsole.
Measure your feet at the end of the day, wearing the socks you normally wear with trainers. Measure both feet and use the longer measurement. Then check the size guide for the specific model.
As well as length, check the width:
The available selection includes trainers in sizes 42, 44 and 45. Before you check out, make sure the selected option is available in your size. The adidas Supernova Rise M ATR model, for example, has several separate size options.
Mesh is lightweight and generally allows more air to circulate. Synthetic leather and suede have a different look and can feel more substantial, but they need different care. Check the lining, too: a textile lining may be useful if you'll be wearing the trainers for several hours at a time.
Marketing terms such as ‘breathable’ or ‘comfortable’ aren't enough on their own to help you choose. Look for specific details, such as mesh panels, a padded tongue, the insole material and whether the insole is removable.
The midsole plays a part in how the shoe feels underfoot. Product specifications may mention EVA, Dreamstrike, ENCAP and Zoom Air. These are brand-specific constructions or material names. According to the brands' own product descriptions, they're designed to provide cushioning, support or responsiveness; your experience may differ.
Check the outsole, too. Rubber and tread are useful details to consider for grip and wear resistance, but they don't mean a model is suitable for every surface. A trainer for everyday wear isn't automatically suitable for intensive running.
Why it suits this type of wearer: A focused option for anyone starting to run who also wants a pair of trainers for everyday wear. The product page lists a regular fit, mesh upper and Dreamstrike midsole.
Its intended use and construction are clearly described, so you don't have to judge it on looks alone.
Breathable mesh, lace fastening, regular fit and a rubber sole with studs.
Why it suits this type of wearer: A good fit for anyone looking to combine a technical look with a retro-inspired silhouette. The product specifications list mesh, synthetic overlays, Zoom Air units and a rubber waffle outsole.
The product information covers both the materials and the sole construction, so you can weigh up the style and practical features together.
Mesh upper, padded collar and tongue, plus a rubber outsole with a waffle tread pattern.
Why it suits this type of wearer: A sensible choice if you'll mainly use your trainers for training and longer runs. The product description lists Dreamstrike+, EVA, mesh and an Adiwear rubber outsole.
The model is clearly positioned as a training shoe. That helps you avoid choosing a casual trainer for more intensive running.
Breathable textile and synthetic mesh, a hybrid midsole and a rubber sole for grip.
We've put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Their lifespan depends on how you use them, your body weight, the surface, how well you care for them and the materials. Look for wear on the tread, tears in the upper and a visibly misshapen midsole. Don't keep using running shoes indefinitely if the sole no longer provides even support.
No. EU sizing is a useful starting point, but the actual fit varies from model to model. Check your foot length in centimetres, the stated width and the advice on the product page. If you're unsure, taking an accurate measurement is more useful than relying on your usual size alone.
Not always. For several of the models mentioned, adidas recommends cleaning with a damp cloth and leaving them to air-dry. Some Skechers models are listed as machine-washable, while others should be cleaned by hand. Always follow the care label for the specific pair, and avoid bleach, tumble-drying and direct heat if advised against.