Joybuy Insights

Choosing men’s trainers: practical buying tips for comfort, style and everyday wear

A pair of men’s trainers often needs to do several jobs in the Netherlands. You might wear them to work, for a walk around town, at the gym or perhaps for a gentle run. However, not every trainer is suitable for all these situations. A fashionable sole may offer little grip, while a running shoe won’t always work with a casual outfit.

The product description provides useful pointers, but marketing language can vary from one brand to another. So focus on specifications you can check, getting the right size and choosing a shoe designed for the way you plan to use it.

Three common pitfalls when choosing men’s trainers

1. Mistaking a lightweight shoe for a suitable running shoe

Lightweight trainers feel comfortable for everyday wear, but weight tells you nothing about stability, fit or cushioning. For running shoes intended for regular use, the midsole, flexibility, grip and fit are all relevant. A casual trainer with a thin sole isn’t automatically suitable for longer distances.

2. Choosing based only on colour and brand name

PUMA trainers and adidas trainers come in a wide range of styles. However, a familiar logo tells you little about the width, upper or sole construction of a particular model. So when looking at black and white trainers or white and black trainers, check the material and fastening too. For example, laces can offer more adjustment than an elasticated slip-on design.

3. Ordering your EU size without checking your foot length

Sizing can vary between brands and models. For example, EU 42 may correspond to a foot length of 26.5 cm in one model, while another size chart gives a different measurement. Measure both feet at the end of the day and compare your longer foot with the size chart. Also check whether the shoe is designed as a men’s model or unisex trainers.

Which specifications should you check?

Cushioning and midsole

For everyday walking, training and light running, a cushioned midsole can affect how a shoe feels underfoot. Product descriptions may mention EVA, IMEVA or a combination of Dreamstrike+ and EVA. These terms describe materials or construction; they don’t guarantee a particular running experience.

If you’re mainly looking for comfortable trainers for your commute, check for a padded insole and a soft sockliner. For training shoes, flexibility and a sole with enough grip are also important.

Upper and breathability

Textile and mesh can feel more breathable than fully synthetic materials. This can be useful for men’s sports shoes at the gym or in warm weather. A leather or synthetic upper, on the other hand, may have a different look and require different care.

Check the material composition. For example, the PUMA Pounce Lite models list an upper made from 58.39% textile and 41.61% synthetic material. According to the product information, the PUMA Speedcat OG has an upper made from 97% leather and 3% textile.

Grip and where you’ll wear them

A rubber outsole is a product specification you can check, but grip also depends on the tread and the surface. A flatter tread may be enough for asphalt, gym floors and dry city streets. For wet or uneven paths, it’s worth checking the sole design and the stated intended use.

Remember to check the care instructions too. Several adidas models recommend cleaning with a damp cloth and allowing them to dry naturally. Machine washing, bleach and direct heat can damage the material.

Our recommendations for different types of shoppers

Suited to: Budget-conscious beginners
Adidas Run 70s 2.0 black and white, size 42

Adidas Run 70s 2.0 CBLACK/FTWWHT/FTWWHT, size 42

Why it suits this shopper: This model combines a retro running-shoe look with a black and white colour scheme for everyday and casual wear.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifically mentions a lightweight, flexible construction, a rubber outsole and cushioning for everyday comfort. Make sure size 42 is right for your foot length.

Main benefit and highlights

A textile and synthetic leather upper, rubber outsole and versatile black and white design.

Suited to: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Adidas Supernova Stride 2 men’s running shoes

Adidas Supernova Stride 2 M, size 44

Why it suits this shopper: A sensible choice for shoppers who mainly wear their men’s trainers for training and running.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description specifies a mesh upper, Dreamstrike+ and EVA in the midsole, and an Adiwear rubber outsole. This makes its practical features clearer than a style claim alone.

Main benefit and highlights

Hybrid cushioning, breathable mesh and an outsole designed for grip and durability, according to the product information.

Suited to: Specific activities and intensive use
PUMA Pounce Lite men’s trainers in white, black, blue and orange

PUMA Men's Sneakers Pounce Lite, size 42

Why it suits this shopper: This model is designed for running, training and everyday wear when low weight and grip matter.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated PROTREAD outsole, lace-up fastening and performance fit offer more specific buying information than simply calling the shoe ‘sporty’. Compare the insole length with your foot before ordering.

Main benefit and highlights

Ultra-light foam, a rubber outsole and an upper made with at least 30% recycled materials, according to PUMA.

Suited to: Casual urban shoppers
PUMA Anzarun Lite black and white unisex trainers

PUMA Anzarun Lite Black-White Unisex

Why it suits this shopper: A black and white style for errands, the gym, commuting and relaxed everyday wear.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information describes more than just the look: it also specifies a mesh upper, EVA midsole, rubber outsole and SoftFoam+ sockliner.

Main benefit and highlights

Lightweight construction, breathable textile and EU sizes that, according to the listed size chart, go up to EU 48.5.

How to check your choice before ordering

  • Measure your foot in centimetres and compare it with the specific size chart.
  • Check whether you’ll use the shoe for running, training or mainly casual wear.
  • Look at the materials used for the upper, lining, sockliner and outsole.
  • Check the care instructions; many models aren’t suitable for machine washing.
  • Compare the colour, available size and product variant. A model may have a separate product page for each size.
  • Treat sustainability claims as additional information only. According to PUMA’s own product information, the Pounce Lite range uses at least 30% recycled materials in the upper. adidas states that the Supernova Stride 2 contains at least 20% recycled and renewable materials.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that 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 wear, choose a model with a comfortable sockliner, enough cushioning, a sturdy outsole and a fit that doesn’t pinch. Mesh models may feel more breathable, while synthetic or leather styles often work better with smart-casual outfits.

Can I use men’s sports shoes for running?

It depends on the model. Check whether the product description mentions running or training, and look at the cushioning, flexibility, fit and grip. A sports shoe designed for fitness or walking isn’t automatically suitable for regular runs.

How long do comfortable trainers last?

Their lifespan depends on how often you wear them, the surfaces you walk on, your body weight, how well you care for them and the materials they’re made from. Replace a pair when the outsole becomes noticeably smooth, the midsole stays compressed or the upper starts coming away. Alternating between two pairs can reduce the daily wear on each pair.