Joybuy Insights

Buy shoes without disappointment: how to choose trainers, sports shoes and walking shoes

Buying shoes online may seem straightforward, but an appealing photo and a familiar brand name do not tell you everything about fit, intended use or durability. A trainer for everyday wear has different requirements from running shoes, trail running shoes or football boots. With the right checks, you can avoid ending up with a pair that feels too narrow, wears out quickly or does not provide enough grip on wet surfaces.

Common pitfalls when buying shoes

1. Confusing a sporty appearance with sports functionality

Not every trainer is suitable for running or intense training. A lifestyle model may look technical but, for example, lack the cushioning, stability or outsole needed for prolonged use. The PUMA Speedcat OG, for instance, is primarily designed as a low-profile model with a flat heel for everyday wear. This makes it an interesting choice for casual outfits, but not automatically suitable for long running sessions.

2. Looking only at the EU size

Size 42 is not identical across every brand or model. The shape of the last, the amount of room at the toes and the insole used all affect the fit. So always check the foot length in millimetres or centimetres and compare it with the size guide on the product page. For the adidas Galaxy 7 M, for example, EU 42 corresponds to a foot length of 270 mm.

3. Not relating marketing claims to your surface

Terms such as ‘good grip’, ‘waterproof’ or ‘lightweight’ are only useful when it is clear what they actually refer to. A rubber outsole may be suitable for asphalt, while trail running shoes need a deeper tread for mud, gravel or wet stones. According to Salomon’s own information, the XA Pro 3D v9 GTX features a GORE-TEX membrane and a Contagrip outsole. Even so, check that the construction suits the way you plan to use the shoes.

Which specifications should you check?

Fit and sizing

Measure both feet at the end of the day, when they often take up slightly more space. Place your heel against a wall and measure to your longest toe. Use the larger measurement as your guide. Also pay attention to:

  • Toe room: your toes should not press against the front.
  • Width: a standard fit is not automatically suitable for wide feet.
  • Heel hold: your heel should remain stable without the laces digging in.
  • Insole: a removable insole can be practical for cleaning or for using a different footbed.

For children’s shoes, measuring again regularly is especially important. Children grow quickly, and a shoe that fits well today may become too small in a short time.

Outsole, tread and surface

Choose the outsole according to where you walk:

  • For urban use, trainers with a flatter rubber tread are generally practical.
  • For running on asphalt, a flexible construction and a cushioning midsole are important considerations.
  • For trail running and walking, shoes with good grip, a protective toe cap and a sturdy tread are more important.
  • For sports played on natural grass, specific studs, such as an FG configuration, are designed for that surface. According to the product description, the Nike Huarache 9 Varsity Lax FG is designed for lacrosse on firm natural grass, so it is not a general-purpose walking shoe.

An outsole with plenty of grip can be advantageous on rough ground, but may feel less smooth on polished indoor floors or asphalt.

Materials and care

Textile and mesh are often lightweight and breathable, while leather or synthetic materials can provide more structure and protection. No material is maintenance-free, so check the care instructions:

  • Clean them with a slightly damp cloth in most cases.
  • Allow shoes to dry naturally, not on a radiator.
  • Do not machine-wash models with electronics, such as children’s light-up shoes, unless the manufacturer expressly permits it.
  • Apply a waterproofing treatment to suitable models before first use, as recommended for some leather trainers.
  • Alternate between pairs if you wear them every day; this gives moisture and the shape of the shoes more time to recover.

Our recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Adidas Run 70s 2.0 FTWWHT/CBLACK/GREONEIH8584 40

Adidas Run 70s 2.0 FTWWHT/CBLACK/GREONEIH8584 40

Why it suits this profile: This model combines a retro trainer look with a lightweight, flexible rubber outsole and a breathable textile lining. That makes it well suited to everyday wear, commuting and casual outfits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies a standard fit and provides exact foot lengths for each EU size. This means you can look beyond appearance alone.

Key benefit & advantages

Synthetic leather and textile; flexible rubber outsole; size guide with foot lengths.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Salomon XA Pro 3D v9 GTX 472701 41 1/3

Salomon XA Pro 3D v9 GTX 472701 41 1/3

Why it suits this profile: Walking, trail running and outdoor use expose shoes to changing weather, gravel and uneven ground, so they require more protection than an ordinary trainer can provide.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications mention a GORE-TEX membrane, a 3D Advanced Chassis and a Contagrip rubber outsole. These are verifiable construction features, rather than a general promise for every surface.

Key benefit & advantages

Waterproof membrane according to the product description; protective toe and heel; Quicklace system.

Suitable for: Specialist use & intensive users
Adidas Ultrarun 5 LEGINK/FTWWHT/COREBLACKIE8792 44 2/3

Adidas Ultrarun 5 LEGINK/FTWWHT/COREBLACKIE8792 44 2/3

Why it suits this profile: This running model is designed for road use and longer distances. The mesh upper, Bounce 2.0 midsole and Adiwear rubber outsole suit runners who train regularly.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description clearly states that the shoes are intended for running, specifies a standard fit and details the outsole construction. This makes it easier to match them to asphalt rather than technical terrain.

Key benefit & advantages

Lightweight Bounce 2.0 midsole; breathable mesh; Adiwear rubber outsole with a grippy tread.

Suitable for: Everyday trainer wearers
Vans UA Old Skool VN0A38G15U71 Port Royale/True White 38.5

Vans UA Old Skool VN0A38G15U71 Port Royale/True White 38.5

Why it suits this profile: The low-top Vans Old Skool is a versatile choice for everyday wear, work, city walks and casual outfits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The material details specify textile for the upper and lining and rubber for the sole. This gives you a clearer idea of what to expect in terms of care and weather resistance.

Key benefit & advantages

Textile upper; rubber sole; waterproofing treatment recommended before first use.

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 buying shoes

How do I find the right shoe size when ordering online?

Measure your foot in millimetres and compare the result with the specific size guide for the model. Also consider the fit: regular fit, narrow versions and wide lasts can vary from one product to another. Read the returns policy before ordering too, so you can check at home whether the heel and toe room fit properly.

How long do shoes last on average?

Their lifespan depends on use, body weight, surface, care and materials. Everyday trainers can wear out more quickly if you also use them for sport. Running shoes gradually lose their original properties as a result of mileage and repeated use. Check the outsole, seams and fit regularly, and replace your shoes as soon as wear begins to affect comfort or stability.

Are expensive shoes automatically more comfortable?

No. Comfort is mainly determined by fit, foot width, sole construction and the purpose for which the shoe was designed. An expensive trail model may be unnecessarily stiff for urban use, while an affordable trainer may feel perfectly comfortable for short daily walks. So compare the specifications with how you plan to use the shoes first, and only then decide based on brand or price.