Joybuy Insights

Choosing sports shoes: how to find the right fit, grip and support

Buying sports shoes online seems simple, until you notice after a few training sessions that the shoe rubs, offers too little grip or quickly loses its shape. A low price or well-known brand name does not automatically mean the shoe is suitable for your sport. Running, indoor training, wrestling and everyday use all require different features.

The most common buying mistakes come from three pitfalls:

  • One shoe for every surface: a running shoe designed for tarmac is not automatically suitable for a sports hall or muddy woodland path.
  • Looking only at weight or appearance: lightweight shoes can be comfortable, but may offer less protection or stability.
  • Ordering your size blindly: an EU size can fit differently from one brand or model to another. Shoe width and the space around your toes also matter.

By checking the materials, sole and fit carefully, you can compare sports shoes more effectively.

Which sports shoes are right for your sport?

Start by considering the surface and the movements you make. This helps you avoid paying for features you will not use.

Running shoes for tarmac and everyday training

For running on Dutch roads and cycle paths, a cushioned midsole, breathable upper and reliable outsole are practical points to consider. A standard running shoe is primarily designed for hard surfaces. For short to medium distances, a stable fit may be sufficient; longer runs require extra attention to comfort and space around the forefoot.

According to the product description, the adidas Supernova Ease uses a mesh upper, Dreamstrike foam in the midsole and a rubber outsole with lugs. The adidas Galaxy 7 lists a Cloudfoam midsole and a TPU outsole. Always check the available size and stated foot length when choosing adidas running shoes.

Trail running shoes for changing terrain

Trail running shoes generally need a deeper tread and a more hard-wearing upper. On wet paths, loose sand and mud, the tread is more important than a smooth road outsole. Fit is also important: a shoe that is too roomy can allow your feet to slide forwards on descents, while a shoe that is too tight can put pressure on your toes.

The product information for the PELLIOT models mentions a sandwich-mesh upper, EVA midsole and ROCKYTEC rubber outsole. Some versions are said to feature Vibram Megagrip according to the product description; check each specific version, as this feature does not automatically apply to every variant.

Indoor sports shoes for quick changes of direction

For volleyball, badminton, handball and other indoor sports, grip, lateral support and a non-marking rubber sole are important points to check. A non-marking sole is designed not to leave visible marks on the floor. This means that an ordinary trainer is not always suitable for use in a sports hall.

According to the product description, the Nike Hyperset 2 FQ7070 models feature a multidirectional tread, foam midsole and an upper made from mesh and synthetic material. The models differ in features including colour and available sizes. Always view the individual product page before ordering.

Training shoes, trainers and children’s shoes

For fitness, walking and everyday use, flexibility, ventilation and a comfortable fastening are often more important than maximum running cushioning. Skechers trainers with mesh can be practical for everyday wear. For children, a sturdy rubber sole, a standard fit and a fastening they can use independently are useful criteria.

Do not use children’s shoes as adult running shoes: their construction, sizing and support are designed for a different foot and a different type of use.

Three specifications to check before buying

1. Sole and grip

Do not look only at the shoe’s name; check the material and tread:

  • Rubber: suitable when grip and durability are important.
  • TPU: often used for a firm, relatively durable outsole.
  • Non-marking rubber: relevant for indoor sports shoes.
  • Deep tread: more logical for trail running than for smooth sports hall floors.

A sole tread only works well when combined with the right surface. A trail sole may feel unnecessarily stiff on a sports hall floor, while a flat indoor sole may offer too little grip outdoors.

2. Upper and ventilation

A mesh upper generally allows more air through than fully synthetic leather. This can be comfortable during intensive training or in warm weather. Mesh does not, however, mean waterproof. An additional protective layer may be useful for walks in the rain, but always check the specific product information.

Look for combinations of mesh, textile and synthetic material. Reinforced sections around the heel and toe can help with intensive use, while a soft lining affects wearing comfort. Brand claims about ventilation or shock absorption are not guaranteed results for every wearer; treat them as information from the product description and compare them with the listed materials.

3. Fit and size

Measure both feet at the end of the day, when they often take up slightly more space. Compare the longer foot with the model’s size chart. Also check:

  • whether the shoe has a standard, narrow or wide fit;
  • whether there is approximately a thumb’s width of room in front of your toes;
  • whether your heel lifts when you walk;
  • whether the laces, hook-and-loop or elastic fastening can be adjusted properly.

Men’s and women’s sports shoes may use different size and fit charts. Do not rely solely on your usual EU size.

Recommended choices by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Adidas Galaxy 7 running shoes

Adidas Galaxy 7 M ROYBLU/FTWWHT/DKBLUE ID8756 42

Why it suits this profile: A practical choice for anyone starting to run and looking for one pair for regular training on hard surfaces.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists a textile upper, Cloudfoam midsole and TPU outsole, allowing you to check the key construction features.

Key benefit & advantages

Cloudfoam midsole, breathable textile and size 42 with a stated foot length of 270 mm.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for top quality
Adidas Supernova Ease running shoes

Adidas Supernova Ease M CBLACK/CBLACK/CARBON IH2580 42

Why it suits this profile: Designed for runners who want to structure their daily training over short to medium distances.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its intended use is clearly described as an everyday running shoe, helping you avoid choosing an indoor or trail model for tarmac.

Key benefit & advantages

Breathable mesh, Dreamstrike foam and a rubber sole with lugs.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Nike Hyperset 2 indoor sports shoes

Nike Hyperset 2 FQ7070 101 44.5

Why it suits this profile: Intended for athletes who make quick movements and changes of direction in a sports hall.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description mentions a non-marking rubber sole and multidirectional tread rather than a general-purpose road sole.

Key benefit & advantages

Mesh and synthetic upper, foam midsole and reinforced areas around the toe and heel.

Suitable for: Parents comparing children’s shoes
Skechers children’s shoes

Skechers Go Run 400-Darvix 405102L-BBK 30

Why it suits this profile: A low-top trainer for boys who need shoes for school, play and everyday use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size, standard fit, D width and hook-and-loop fastening are clearly specified, so you do not have to judge the shoe by its appearance alone.

Key benefit & advantages

Breathable mesh, rubber sole and hook-and-loop fastening in size 30.

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 sports shoes

How long do sports shoes typically last?

Their lifespan depends on use, body weight, surface and maintenance. Look out for smoothed-out tread edges, tears in the upper, a compressed midsole or pain caused by a changed fit. If you train several times a week, you should check for wear sooner than someone who mainly wears their shoes for everyday activities.

Can you use running shoes as training shoes?

They can be suitable for light training, walking or simple fitness exercises, but not every running shoe provides enough lateral support for intensive changes of direction. For indoor training, indoor sports shoes with a suitable rubber sole are usually the more sensible choice. Always check the recommended environment and sole tread.

How do you look after sports shoes?

Remove dirt with a soft brush or damp cloth and allow the shoes to air-dry. Avoid prolonged soaking, direct heat and tumble drying unless the product information explicitly states otherwise. If you use them frequently, alternate between two pairs where possible, allowing the material to dry and recover between wears.