A new pair of sneakers can seem like an easy choice. But many disappointing purchases come down to the wrong size, inadequate support or materials that aren’t suited to how you’ll wear them. This applies to men’s, women’s and children’s sneakers alike.
If you focus only on colour or brand, you could fall into these common traps:
Don’t just look at the EU size. Check the stated fit and shoe width too. For example, some models in the range are listed as having a “regular” fit and width D. Others have width G, which may offer more room.
If possible, measure both feet at the end of the day. Wear the socks you’d normally wear with your sneakers and leave a little room around your toes. For children, a simple fastening is practical: elastic, hook-and-loop fasteners or a combination of the two make shoes easier to put on and take off.
If you’re specifically looking for size 44 sneakers, check the sizes available for each model too. A size 44 from one brand won’t necessarily have the same internal length as a size 44 from another. So follow the sizing information on the product page.
The upper has a big impact on how a sneaker feels and how you’ll need to care for it.
Also check the lining, tongue and collar. A padded edge can change how the shoe feels, while a fixed insole is less flexible if you want to replace or adjust your insoles.
For sneakers for everyday wear around town, grip, flexibility and a comfortable weight are important considerations. Many models have a rubber outsole. For sports shoes, the tread, midsole and reinforcements may matter more.
According to its product description, a trail model such as the Nike Pegasus Trail 3 is designed for both unpaved paths and urban surfaces. The description mentions a React midsole, a rubber sole with multidirectional lugs, and reinforcements at the toe and heel. These are features you can check, but they don’t automatically make the shoe suitable for every foot or sport.
For school and play, children’s sneakers with hook-and-loop fasteners can be practical. For more energetic activities, a secure fastening and plenty of grip matter more than a stand-out colour alone.
Why it suits this profile: These black children’s sneakers are designed for everyday wear and have an elastic fastening with hook-and-loop straps. That makes them practical for school, childcare and putting on independently.
The product information lists a regular fit, width D and size 30. That means important fit details are available upfront, rather than relying on a general claim about comfort.
Textile upper, rubber sole and a combination of elastic and hook-and-loop fastenings.
Why it suits this profile: These women’s sneakers have a low-cut design, leather upper and black-and-white colourway. They work well with casual outfits without looking overtly sporty.
The product page specifies the material, padded collar, insole and rubber outsole. Be sure to check the care instructions: don’t submerge the shoes and wipe them with a clean, dry cloth.
Leather upper, padded collar, cushioned insole and rubber sole with pivot-point tread.
Why it suits this profile: According to the product description, this model is designed for trail running, urban routes and outdoor activities. It’s a good fit for anyone who expects more from their sports shoes than a casual look alone.
Rather than making a general claim about sports performance, the product lists specific features: mesh and synthetic upper, React midsole, multidirectional lugs, and reinforced toe and heel.
Tread designed for different surfaces and a construction with extra protection around the forefoot and heel.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
It depends on how often you wear them, how far you walk, your body weight, the surface and how well you care for them. Look out for wear on the sole tread, seams coming loose and the upper losing its shape. A pair worn every day will generally wear out faster than sneakers you alternate with other pairs.
Many Skechers sneakers in the range are designed for everyday wear, according to their product descriptions. Check the fit, width, fastening, insole and sole material for each model. A slip-on such as the Skechers Slip-Ins Summits - Key Pace 232469-BBK 44, for example, has no laces, a fixed footbed construction and a patterned rubber outsole. This can be practical, but fit is still a personal matter.
Remove dirt as soon as possible with a soft, slightly damp cloth and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a suitable product for leather, suede or textile. Don’t machine wash sneakers unless the care instructions specifically say you can. Leave them to air-dry, away from direct heat.