Buying sneakers seems simple until you have to choose between children’s sneakers, women’s sneakers, men’s sneakers, sports shoes and walking shoes. An attractive appearance says little about the fit, material or intended use. A shoe that is suitable for a short walk, for example, may be less suitable for running or intensive training.
The following pitfalls often cost online shoppers money:
Use the product details as your starting point and check the returns policy before ordering.
First check whether the shoe has a regular, narrow or roomier fit. The size indication alone is not enough. Also pay attention to the shoe width, such as D or G, where this is specified.
For children, Velcro sneakers or elastic laces are practical. They are quick to put on and suitable for children who want to fasten their own shoes. Do check that the fastening holds the foot securely. A pair of light-up sneakers may be appealing, but the fit remains more important than the light effect.
With adult models, laces offer more ways to adjust the tension. This is relevant for women’s sneakers, men’s sneakers and sports shoes that you wear for longer periods at a time.
A flat rubber sole often works well for everyday wear and casual outfits. For running on tarmac, other features are important, such as a flexible outsole, cushioning and an upper that wraps around the foot. The adidas running shoes in this selection, for example, have a mesh upper and a flexible outsole according to the product description.
For urban running routes, you could look at models such as the Salomon women’s running shoes. According to the product information, the Salomon Aero Glide 2 W is described as suitable for running on hard surfaces such as tarmac. Do not automatically use a casual sneaker as a running shoe; a fashionable tread pattern and a training outsole are not the same thing.
For walking and everyday use, grip, a sturdy outsole and a comfortable insole are useful points to check. The term “walking shoes” can cover several different types, so look at the sole and the intended use of the specific model.
Check whether the upper is made from textile, synthetic material, mesh, canvas or leather. If you are specifically looking for vegan sneakers, check that this is explicitly stated in the product description. According to the product information, the Skechers Bobs Geo-New Aesthetics is 100% vegan. This is a product specification for the listing and not a general feature of all Skechers sneakers.
Care affects both appearance and lifespan. Many models should not be put in the washing machine. A soft, damp cloth and mild soapy water are often suitable; allow the shoes to air-dry afterwards and avoid direct heat. Always follow the care instructions supplied with the product.
Finally, pay attention to the size advice:
Looking for sneakers in sizes 27 to 45? Check the available size for each model, as a category may contain several sizes while a specific product page shows only one size.
Why it suits this profile: These black children’s sneakers have elastic laces and a Velcro fastening. This makes them easy to put on and take off every day, for example for school or playing outdoors.
The product information states that the shoes have a regular fit and recommends ordering your usual size. Still, check this against the current size guide.
Textile upper, rubber sole, elastic laces and Velcro fastening.
Why it suits this profile: For anyone looking for a leather sneaker with a slim, low-profile silhouette for everyday wear and streetwear outfits.
The specifications mention a regular fit, round toe and lace fastening. This allows you to adjust the tension yourself rather than choosing based on appearance alone.
Leather upper, textile lining, IMEVA material and rubber outsole.
Why it suits this profile: This model is designed for everyday wear and combines a textile upper with a fixed Memory Foam insole.
The description explicitly states the material, fit and vegan specification. When buying, check that this information still matches the current listing.
100% vegan according to the product description, textile upper, fixed Memory Foam insole and rubber outsole.
Why it suits this profile: The product description is aimed at women who run on hard surfaces such as tarmac, or who are looking for a shoe for daily training.
The intended use and the sole are clearly stated. This makes it easier to compare the model with a casual sneaker or walking shoe.
Synthetic and textile upper, lace fastening and rubber sole with grip and cushioning according to the product information.
For children, children’s sneakers, girls’ shoes and boys’ shoes with a simple fastening are often practical. The Skechers Heart Lights-Rainbow Lux has Heart Lights in the sole and a Velcro fastening. The Flex Glow has lights with an on/off button. Features like these are fun for everyday wear, but check whether the shoe is stated to come up small or fit true to size.
For adults looking for a neutral everyday staple, black sneakers are easy to pair with different outfits. White sneakers create a lighter look, but generally require more frequent care. For sport, it is better to choose a model whose product description clearly states the intended use, such as running, training or walking.
When comparing Skechers sneakers, Puma Speedcat sneakers, adidas running shoes and Salomon women’s running shoes, you can follow this order:
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.
Measure both feet at the end of the day and compare the longer foot with the size guide for the model you have chosen. Also check the fit advice. A regular fit does not automatically mean that every brand fits the same way.
This depends on how often they are worn, the surface, the material and how well they are cared for. Intensive daily use wears down a sole faster than occasional wear. Replace a pair when the sole has become visibly smooth or unevenly worn, the fastening no longer works properly or the upper no longer provides enough support.
Not always. A sneaker with Memory Foam or a soft insole may feel comfortable for everyday use, but that does not automatically make the model suitable for running. Check whether the product information lists running as an intended use, and pay attention to the sole, fit and stability.