Joybuy Insights

Buying shoes online: how to choose trainers, sports shoes and comfortable styles

Buying shoes online may seem straightforward, but an appealing photo does not tell you everything. A sole may look sturdy without offering enough flexibility, a style may be described as “breathable” even though the material allows very little air through, and a well-known brand name says nothing about how well the shoe will fit your feet.

With this practical selection guide, you can compare shoes online based on use, material, size and care. This makes it easier to find trainers, sports shoes, children’s shoes, women’s shoes, men’s shoes, flip-flops, clogs or sandals suited to your everyday life in the Netherlands.

Common pitfalls when buying shoes online

1. Choosing based only on brand or appearance

Skechers shoes, Nike Dunk Low, New Balance trainers, Converse trainers, Crocs and Vans Old Skool each have a recognisable style. However, the construction varies from one model to another. A casual trainer is not automatically suitable for running, while a sports shoe will not always work well with smart or everyday clothing.

So always check the intended use, fastening, sole and material. For example, a lace-up model offers different adjustment options from children’s shoes with hook-and-loop fastening.

2. Confusing “comfortable” with the right fit

Comfort is personal. A soft insole may feel pleasant, but a toe box that is too narrow, insufficient room around the toes or an incorrect length will still be a problem. Check the stated fit, foot length in millimetres and whether there is enough room for socks.

If in doubt, measure both feet while standing. Use the larger measurement and compare it with the size guide for the specific model. This is particularly important when looking for size 36 shoes or size 46 shoes.

3. Ignoring care requirements and materials

Mesh and textile are often lightweight and suitable for ventilation, but they require different care from leather, synthetic leather or EVA. Not every pair is suitable for machine washing. Direct heat can deform certain soles or materials.

Check the following before buying:

  • whether the insole is removable;
  • whether the shoes can be washed by hand or in the washing machine;
  • how they should be dried;
  • whether the upper can withstand rain and intensive use;
  • whether the sole has enough tread for your type of surface.

The key specifications to compare

Fit and size

A regular fit does not mean that every brand fits the same way. Look at:

  • EU size and foot length;
  • regular, wide or narrow last;
  • room around the toes;
  • fastening: laces, hook-and-loop, elastic or heel strap;
  • how much extra room you want when wearing thicker socks.

For example, the PUXI Banana Boat flip-flops are available in size ranges such as 37-38 and 42-43. The product information also gives recommended foot lengths. With Crocs, the fit may vary by model; the product description recommends choosing a size larger if you are between sizes or want extra room for socks.

Material and ventilation

If you are looking for breathable shoes, consider mesh, textile or canvas. Mesh panels feature on the Skechers Burns 52635 BBK, while the Skechers Go Run 400-Darvix for children has a breathable mesh upper. The Converse Star Player 76 OX uses canvas, a lightweight material that may feel more breathable for everyday wear than fully enclosed synthetic material.

Leather and synthetic leather may be easier to wipe clean, but they can feel warmer. EVA is popular for flip-flops and clogs because it is lightweight and easy to clean. This makes it practical for the beach, swimming pool, garden or holidays, but it is not automatically suitable for long walks or running sessions.

Sole, cushioning and intended use

For everyday use, a flexible rubber sole and a suitable weight are often important features. For running, cushioning, grip, stability and the type of surface are also key. A trail model is designed with different properties from a simple city trainer.

According to the product description, the New Balance U1906ROA has an ABZORB midsole, mesh and synthetic material, plus a rubber outsole. PELLIOT models combine a sandwich-mesh upper with an EVA midsole and a ROCKYTEC rubber outsole. These specifications provide useful guidance, but they do not replace checking the fit for yourself.

Recommended models by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Skechers Burns 52635 BBK 46

Skechers Burns 52635 BBK 46

Why it suits this profile: A black men’s trainer for everyday wear, with laces, mesh panels and a regular fit.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify the material, size 46, regular fit and care instructions. You therefore do not have to rely solely on the photo or brand name.

Key benefit & advantages

Synthetic leather upper, mesh for ventilation, rubber sole and a non-removable Memory Foam insole.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking premium quality
New Balance U1906ROA 36

New Balance U1906ROA 36

Why it suits this profile: A women’s or unisex-style trainer for shoppers who want to combine retro styling with technical features.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The choice is based on verifiable details: mesh and synthetic upper, ABZORB midsole, Stability Web and rubber outsole.

Key benefit & advantages

Size 36, lace fastening, textile lining and a midsole with ABZORB cushioning according to the product information.

Suitable for: Specific activities & intensive users
PELLIOT Running Shoes Unisex Obsidian Black EU 42

PELLIOT Running Shoes Unisex – Breathable & Lightweight, Obsidian Black (EU 42)

Why it suits this profile: Designed for running and varied surfaces, from tarmac to trails, with a choice of standard and narrow fits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description specifies the surface, foot length, fit, sole material and hand-washing instructions. This allows you to assess the model against your own needs.

Key benefit & advantages

Sandwich-mesh upper, EVA midsole and ROCKYTEC rubber outsole; the stated features come from the product description.

Suitable for: Holidaymakers and flip-flop fans
CROCS Classic Clog Black

CROCS Classic Clog Black

Why it suits this profile: An easy slip-on style for the beach, swimming pool, garden and relaxed everyday wear.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size guide uses foot length in centimetres and states that you can choose a size larger if you are unsure. Clean with water and mild soap.

Key benefit & advantages

Lightweight Croslite material, ventilation openings, adjustable heel strap and easy care.

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.

How to check your purchase before paying

Use this quick checklist:

  1. Measure your feet and compare the larger length with the size guide.
  2. Check whether the shoe is intended for walking, school, leisure, sport or running.
  3. Assess the upper, lining, insole and outsole separately.
  4. Check whether the fit is regular, wide or narrow.
  5. Read the returns policy and check the information about statutory conformity.
  6. Read the care instructions before buying a pair that is likely to get dirty or wet regularly.

For children, a secure fastening, flexible sole and regular fit are practical considerations. For example, the Skechers Go Run 400-Darvix 405102L has hook-and-loop fastening, mesh and a rubber sole. As growing feet change, measuring them regularly remains important; do not order solely based on the previous size.

Frequently asked questions about buying shoes online

Which shoes are suitable for everyday use?

That depends on your routine. Trainers with a rubber sole and a textile, canvas or mesh upper are often practical for work, school and leisure. In wet conditions, the material, tread and care requirements matter more than appearance alone. Flip-flops and clogs are better suited to indoor use, the garden, swimming pool or holidays than to long walks.

How do I determine my shoe size when buying online?

Measure both feet from heel to longest toe, preferably at the end of the day. Compare the larger measurement with the size guide for the chosen model. Also consider the width and allow extra room for socks. A size 36 in one model may not provide the same internal space as a size 36 from another brand.

How long do shoes bought online last?

Lifespan depends on use, body weight, surface, material and care. Alternate shoes that are used intensively, allow wet pairs to dry naturally and follow the washing label. Pay particular attention to wear on the outsole, seams and heel construction. If a product does not conform to the contract, statutory consumer rights apply under European rules.