Joybuy Insights

Choosing running shoes: a practical guide to comfort, grip and the right fit

Buying the right running shoes seems simple, until you have to choose between models for roads, woodland paths, walking and everyday wear. A low price or a well-known brand name doesn’t automatically mean a shoe is right for your feet and running route. Terms such as “maximum cushioning” and “ultralight” are only useful once you know what kind of construction they refer to.

Joybuy’s Product Recommendation Officer filters the most important product information and turns it into practical choices. That way, you can avoid paying for features you don’t need.

Common pitfalls when choosing running shoes

1. Choosing running shoes based on the brand name

Nike running shoes, adidas running shoes and New Balance running shoes all include models for different uses. A retro trainer might look sporty, but that doesn’t necessarily make it suitable for long distances. Always check the outsole, midsole, fit and stated intended use.

2. Looking only at “cushioning”

Well-cushioned running shoes can feel comfortable, but more foam doesn’t automatically make a shoe a better choice. A soft midsole can feel good during easy training sessions, while a firmer or more responsive model may suit short, fast runs better. Also consider the flexibility and stability of the outsole.

3. Checking the size without measuring your feet

Sizing varies between brands and models. An EU size 40 in one model may fit differently in another. Measure your foot in centimetres and compare the measurement with the size chart on the product page. Leave a little room around your toes for running, so your foot doesn’t slide forwards and hit the front of the shoe.

Features to check

1. Midsole and cushioning

The midsole largely determines how a shoe feels. Common materials include EVA, React, Cloudfoam, Bounce and ABZORB. These are manufacturers’ product and technology names; how they feel can vary depending on your feet, weight and running style.

  • Soft cushioning: designed to feel comfortable when walking, running at an easy pace and wearing shoes day to day.
  • Responsive cushioning: described as offering more spring when you push off.
  • Stability construction: for example, a supportive element in the sole or a reinforced heel. This can provide a more secure feel, but it’s no substitute for personalised running advice.

For comfortable running shoes for everyday wear, a soft insole, a secure heel fit and good ventilation are often more important than a long list of technologies.

2. Upper and ventilation

A mesh upper generally lets more air through than fully synthetic materials. That can feel more comfortable during longer training sessions or on warm days. If you wear your shoes outdoors often, check that the mesh has enough reinforcement around the heel and toe.

For parents looking for children’s trainers for school and play, a sturdy rubber outsole and an easy fastening system are practical features. The New Balance PC574EVN, for example, has a hook-and-loop fastening, an EVA midsole and a rubber outsole with a tread pattern. According to the product information, this model is designed for school, play and everyday wear, not specifically for running training.

3. Outsole and terrain

The outsole should suit the terrain:

  • Roads and pavements: a relatively flat rubber tread rolls smoothly over asphalt.
  • Parks and light woodland paths: a versatile tread provides more grip on loose surfaces.
  • Trails and mud: deep, multidirectional lugs help on uneven or soft paths.
  • Wet weather: a water-repellent membrane can keep rain out, but it won’t make a shoe completely waterproof in every situation.

Trail running shoes are usually less suitable for everyday road running if their lugs are deep and stiff. Conversely, a standard road running shoe may not provide enough grip on muddy paths.

Recommended models for different types of runner

Suitable for: Beginners on a budget
adidas Runfalcon 5 BETSCA/FTWWHT/CBLACKJH6246 Size 42 2/3

adidas Runfalcon 5 BETSCA/FTWWHT/CBLACKJH6246 Size 42 2/3

Why it suits this type of runner: A practical choice if you’re starting out with easy running, walking or short distances on roads. The product information describes this model as suitable for 0–10 km and everyday wear.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

The specifications list a mesh upper, Cloudfoam midsole and Adiwear outsole. This means you can base your choice on the construction rather than just the adidas logo.

Key benefits and features

Cloudfoam midsole, breathable mesh and a rubber Adiwear outsole. The stated foot length for size 42 2/3 is 26,7 cm.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Nike Zoom Vomero 5 HV2527-002 44.5

Nike Zoom Vomero 5 HV2527-002 44.5

Why it suits this type of runner: A good choice if cushioning and ventilation matter to you, and you want a trainer you can wear outside your training sessions too.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

Rather than judging it on looks alone, you can consider its Zoom Air units, mesh with synthetic overlays and padded collar.

Key benefits and features

According to the product information, this model has Zoom Air cushioning, a mesh upper and a rubber outsole with a waffle tread.

Suitable for: Specific activities and intensive use
Salomon Speedcross 5 GTX W 416127 36 2/3

Salomon Speedcross 5 GTX W 416127 36 2/3

Why it suits this type of runner: A targeted choice for women running on soft, muddy or mixed trails who need more grip than a standard road running shoe can provide.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

The deep tread and stated intended use make it clear that this model is designed for trail running. That helps you avoid wearing a flat city outsole on soft ground.

Key benefits and features

GORE-TEX membrane, Contagrip TA outsole with deep grooves, Quicklace system and EnergyCell+ midsole, according to the product description.

Suitable for: Versatile outdoor enthusiasts
Nike Pegasus Trail 3 DA8698-300 38.5

Nike Pegasus Trail 3 DA8698-300 38.5

Why it suits this type of runner: Ideal if you alternate between city streets, parks and light trails, and don’t want to buy a different pair for every surface.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

The product information specifically mentions use on both trails and in the city. You can check the multidirectional lugs in the product description, giving you more detail than the term “all-terrain” alone.

Key benefits and features

React foam midsole, mesh with synthetic overlays and a rubber outsole with multidirectional lugs.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and comply with current European safety regulations.

Sizing, care and lifespan

Measure both feet at the end of the day, wear the socks you normally run in and check that your heel doesn’t lift when you walk. Laces or a hook-and-loop fastening should feel secure without creating pressure points.

After a wet training session, leave your shoes to dry at room temperature. Don’t put them on a radiator or in a tumble dryer: heat can damage the glue and foam. Clean mesh and rubber with a soft brush or damp cloth, following the care instructions. If you run regularly, consider alternating between two pairs so the materials have time to recover between wears.

There’s no set lifespan for running shoes. The surface you run on, your body weight, how often you run and your wear pattern all play a part. Replace a pair when the outsole looks visibly smooth, the midsole stays compressed or the shoe no longer feels stable.

Frequently asked questions about running shoes

Which running shoes are suitable for beginners?

Choose a model with a comfortable fit, good ventilation and an outsole suited to your route. For asphalt and short training sessions, models such as the adidas Runfalcon 5 are a practical starting point. Always check the size and care instructions on the product page.

How often should I replace my running shoes?

It depends on how you use them and how much they’ve worn. Don’t just look at the number of kilometres you’ve run; check for a smooth tread, cracks, distortion or reduced comfort too. Shoes worn every day may wear out faster than those used for occasional walks.

Are trail running shoes suitable for asphalt?

They can be used for short stretches, but deep trail lugs may feel less smooth on asphalt and wear down more quickly. If you mainly run in the city, choose a road running model. For mud, loose ground and woodland paths, trail models such as the Salomon Speedcross 5 GTX W or Nike Pegasus Trail 3 are a better fit.