Joybuy Insights

Choosing sports shoes without regrets: How to find the right pair

Buying sports shoes seems simple, until you have to choose between football boots, indoor football shoes, futsal shoes, lacrosse shoes and trainers. A shoe that feels comfortable for a walk isn't necessarily right for an artificial pitch or a sports hall. The surface, fit and sole are more important than the colour or brand.

Many bad buys are the result of three common pitfalls:

  • The wrong sole for the surface: FG studs for natural grass are not the same as AG or TF soles for artificial grass. Likewise, an indoor sole doesn't belong on outdoor pitches.
  • Marketing jargon without verifiable details: Terms like “extra comfort” mean very little if the material, fastening, width and insole aren't clearly specified.
  • Focusing only on the size: EU sizes can feel different from one model to the next. The thickness of your socks, the width of your feet and the space around your toes also play a role.

That's why you should first check what you'll be using the sports shoes for. Then you can focus on comparing brands, colours and prices.

The most important features to check

1. Choose the sole based on the surface

For football and lacrosse, the sole is the first thing to consider. The abbreviations will help you choose:

  • FG, Firm Ground: Intended for firm, natural grass pitches. The fixed studs provide grip on a relatively hard natural surface. A model like the Nike Huarache 9 Varsity Lax FG is designed for lacrosse and natural grass, according to the product information.
  • AG, Artificial Ground: Designed for artificial grass. The Joma Super Copa 2402 AG has a rubber AG sole with studs for synthetic pitches.
  • TF, Turf: Suitable for short artificial grass and turf. The Joma FS Reactive 2402 TF uses a rubber sole with multiple small studs.
  • IN or indoor: For sports halls. Indoor football shoes and futsal shoes, like the Joma Top Flex series, have a non-marking rubber sole, so they provide grip without leaving obvious scuff marks on the floor.

Don't wear an FG model for indoor sports as a rule. The studs can damage the floor and will feel less natural. Conversely, a flat indoor sole won't provide enough grip on grass.

2. Look beyond the upper

The material affects maintenance, flexibility and how the shoe feels around your foot. Synthetic materials are usually easy to clean with a damp cloth. Textile can feel more breathable but needs more care when dealing with mud and rain. Leather can mould to your foot but must be kept dry and properly maintained.

Also, pay attention to the construction:

  • A reinforced toe cap is practical for intensive use and frequent ball contact.
  • A padded collar can make the fit around the ankle more comfortable.
  • An EVA or foam insole provides cushioning, according to the product specification, but it's no substitute for a good fit.
  • A lace-up fastening allows for precise adjustment; a hook-and-loop fastening is practical for children who want to put their shoes on quickly.

In the description for the Joma Aguila Cup 2518 FG, a leather upper is mentioned, while the product specifications also list “synthetic leather”. This difference shows why it's wise to check the full product information instead of just relying on a material name from the title.

3. Check the size, width and returns policy

If you're looking for size 40.5 sports shoes, size 41 sports shoes, size 44 sports shoes, size 45 sports shoes or any other half-size, it's a good idea to check the size chart for that specific model. A size 41 football boot can fit differently from a size 41 pair of trainers.

Pay attention to these points:

  1. Measure both feet at the end of the day.
  2. Wear the socks you'll be wearing when you play sports.
  3. For children's sports shoes, allow some room for growth, but make sure the heel doesn't slip.
  4. Check if the product information states that the model fits true to size, large or small.
  5. See if the shoe has a standard width. If you have wide feet, a narrow model can quickly feel tight.

Under EU rules, consumers have statutory rights for online purchases, including the legal guarantee of conformity. You should also check the current returns policy and keep the packaging while you're trying on the shoes at home to assess the fit.

Recommended sports shoes for every profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Joma Top Flex 2531 IN TOPS2531IN 42

Joma Top Flex 2531 IN TOPS2531IN 42

Why it's a good match: For recreational futsal and indoor football, a clear indoor specification is more important than a flashy design. This model is aimed at indoor use and has a regular fit.

How this product avoids the common pitfalls

The non-marking rubber sole is clearly intended for indoor surfaces, making you less likely to choose an outdoor shoe for the sports hall.

Key benefit & features

Synthetic and textile upper, reinforced toe cap, EVA insole and lace-up fastening.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality
Joma Aguila Cup 2518 FG ACUW2518FG 41

Joma Aguila Cup 2518 FG ACUW2518FG 41

Why it's a good match: These Joma football boots are ideal for players who play on firm, natural grass pitches and appreciate a classic model with a lace-up fastening.

How this product avoids the common pitfalls

The FG sole makes its intended use clear: this is a choice for natural grass, not for indoor courts or standard artificial grass.

Key benefit & features

Padded collar, anatomical insole, rubber sole and size 41.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users
Nike Huarache 9 Varsity Lax FG FD0090-002 41

Nike Huarache 9 Varsity Lax FG FD0090-002 41

Why it's a good match: Lacrosse players who play on natural grass can specifically look for this Nike Huarache model with its FG configuration.

How this product avoids the common pitfalls

The product description explicitly mentions lacrosse and natural grass. This means the shoe doesn't rely on a vague claim about “sporty use”.

Key benefit & features

Synthetic upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole and lace-up fastening.

Suitable for: Everyday comfort
Skechers D'Lites Fresh Start 11931-WSL 42

Skechers D'Lites - Fresh Start 11931-WSL 42

Why it's a good match: For daily wear, running errands and casual outfits, Skechers trainers are more practical than specific sports shoes for pitches.

How this product avoids the common pitfalls

The description mentions everyday use and provides specific information about the upper, sole and maintenance.

Key benefit & features

Leather upper, rubber sole, lace-up fastening and Air Cooled Memory Foam insole.

Looking for more options?

We have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and comply with current European safety regulations.

How to maintain your sports shoes and make them last longer

Clean your sports shoes after use according to the instructions on the label. For many models, a damp cloth is sufficient. Avoid the washing machine if the product information recommends hand washing, as is the case with the Nike Huarache. Let the shoes air dry in a cool, well-ventilated place. Direct heat can damage the materials and adhesives.

Use football boots, indoor football shoes and trainers for their intended purpose. Check the sole regularly for wear and tear and replace the pair when grip, cushioning or stability noticeably decreases. Their lifespan depends on how often you use them, the surface, your body weight, and how you maintain and store them.

Converse trainers, Lacoste models and casual men's or women's shoes are primarily designed for everyday use. For children, a simple fastening system, such as the hook-and-loop fastening on certain Skechers models, is often practical. With children's shoes, it's also important to check the fit more frequently, as their feet are always growing.

Frequently asked questions about sports shoes

Which sports shoes are suitable for artificial grass?

Choose a model with an AG or TF sole. AG is designed for artificial grass pitches; TF uses multiple small rubber studs and is suitable for short, turf-like artificial grass. Always check the recommended surface for the specific model.

How do I know what size sports shoes I need?

Measure both feet while wearing the sports socks you use and compare the measurement with the model's size chart. Also, pay attention to the stated fit. A standard size doesn't mean that every brand or model will fit identically.

How often should I replace my sports shoes?

There's no fixed timeframe. Check the sole, seams, heel and cushioning. With intensive use, sports shoes wear out faster than trainers for everyday use. A pair that has lost its grip or stable fit needs replacing, even if it still looks good.