Joybuy Insights

Choosing sports shoes: how to find the right pair for walking, sport and running

Sports shoes should suit the activity you intend to use them for. A pair that feels comfortable while running errands may not be suitable for training on asphalt or a wet woodland path. Even so, many people mainly choose based on appearance, brand name or a term such as “extra cushioning”. This can lead to the wrong choice, especially when the fit, sole or size does not match how you plan to use them.

Three common pitfalls when choosing sports shoes

1. Confusing a soft sole with the right cushioning

A soft insole feels comfortable straight away, but that does not automatically tell you anything about stability or suitability for running. Memory Foam and similar insoles are primarily designed for comfort. For running, the midsole, flexibility and grip are also important.

2. Using one pair on every type of terrain

Sports shoes for asphalt generally have a sole pattern designed for flat, hard surfaces. Trail running shoes and Salomon trail shoes, on the other hand, have deeper tread and more grip for gravel, mud and uneven paths. If you wear a smooth-soled running shoe on wet woodland ground, the grip may not be sufficient.

3. Looking only at the European size

An EU size is not always enough information for every model. Also check the foot length in millimetres, the width and the stated fit. A regular fit, such as width D, is not the same as a roomy or wide last. Always check the size chart on the product page as well. On some listings, the title and size information may be displayed differently; in that case, the product specifications take precedence.

Which features deserve attention?

Fit and room around the toes

Your toes should not touch the front of the shoe when you walk or run. With walking shoes and running shoes, some room for movement is useful, as feet can swell slightly during longer activities. A shoe that feels tight around the forefoot straight away is not a good choice, even if the material is breathable.

Look at:

  • the stated width, such as D or G;
  • a normal, regular or relaxed fit;
  • the fastening: laces offer more adjustment than a slip-on;
  • the size chart and foot length in millimetres or centimetres.

Upper and ventilation

Mesh and technical textiles can feel more breathable than fully synthetic leather. This makes them appealing as lightweight sports shoes for everyday use, fitness or walking. However, mesh is not automatically waterproof. For rainy routes, a water-repellent construction or a separate walking shoe is more practical.

Midsole, insole and outsole

Pay attention to the difference between:

  • insole: the part your foot rests on, sometimes featuring Memory Foam;
  • midsole: the layer that affects comfort and responsiveness;
  • outsole: the rubber contact with the ground.

For sports shoes with good cushioning, the combination of these layers matters more than a single marketing term. For asphalt, flexibility and an even tread pattern are relevant. For trail running, tread, rubber compound and stability on uneven ground are more important.

Care and lifespan

Always follow the care instructions for the specific model. According to the product information, some Skechers trainers can be washed on a cold, delicate cycle and left to air-dry. Other models should only be cleaned with a damp cloth. Putting shoes in the tumble dryer or placing them near a heat source can damage the upper and sole.

Replace sports shoes when the sole is visibly wearing unevenly, most of the tread has disappeared or the upper no longer provides proper support. How long they last depends on your body weight, the surface you use them on, how often you run and how well you care for them. There is therefore no universal replacement period.

Recommended sports shoes by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Skechers Slip-Ins: BOBS Sport Squad Chaos 118300-BBK 42.5

Skechers Slip-Ins: BOBS Sport Squad Chaos 118300-BBK 42.5

Why this suits the profile: These low-top men's trainers are designed for everyday use and combine a regular fit with a textile upper, rubber sole and lace fastening. This makes them practical for walking, running errands and casual outings.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states a regular fit and a specific size of 42.5, so you do not have to rely on appearance alone. However, check the current size chart before buying.

Key benefit & advantages

Textile upper, rubber sole, lace fastening and, according to the product information, machine-washable on a cold delicate cycle.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality
Adidas Supernova Ease M CBLACK CBLACK CARBON 44 2/3

Adidas Supernova Ease M CBLACK/CBLACK/CARBON 44 2/3

Why this suits the profile: According to the product description, these Adidas running shoes are designed for short to medium distances. The regular fit, mesh upper and Dreamstrike midsole suit runners looking for a dedicated pair for everyday training.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The intended use and size are clearly specified. This makes it a more targeted choice than a general trainer when you actually want to train on paved roads.

Key benefit & advantages

Breathable mesh upper, Dreamstrike foam throughout the midsole and a rubber outsole with lugs.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Salomon DRX DEFY GRVL L47809700 43 1/3

Salomon DRX DEFY GRVL L47809700 43 1/3

Why this suits the profile: According to the product information, this model is intended for gravel, mixed terrain, trail running and walking. It is therefore a more logical choice for outdoor use than an everyday trainer.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The All Terrain Contagrip outsole and Active Chassis are explicitly linked to mixed and uneven terrain. However, check that this tread pattern suits your usual route.

Key benefit & advantages

Energy Foam midsole, synthetic mesh and a rubber All Terrain Contagrip sole according to the product specifications.

Suitable for: Comfort during long days
Skechers D'Lites 4.0 237225 BBK 43

Skechers D'Lites 4.0 237225 BBK 43

Why this suits the profile: These Skechers trainers are designed for everyday use and walking. The mesh and synthetic leather construction, regular fit and Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole suit anyone mainly looking for comfortable trainers for long days.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The shoe is not presented as a trail shoe or dedicated running shoe. This helps you assess its use realistically: walking and everyday wear are the main focus.

Key benefit & advantages

Mesh and synthetic leather, Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole and rubber Goodyear outsole according to the product description.

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

Which sports shoes are suitable for running on asphalt?

Choose running shoes with an outsole designed for hard surfaces, a suitable midsole and a regular, stable fit. Women's and men's running shoes differ in more than just colour or size, so always check the specific construction and size chart. A model such as the Salomon Aero Glide 2 W is listed in the product information as being suitable for hard surfaces such as asphalt.

How long do sports shoes last?

That depends on how you use them. Walking on flat paths puts different demands on a pair than running every day or trail running. Look for uneven wear, a tread that has become smooth, separating seams and a loss of fit. Store shoes in a dry place and follow the stated cleaning advice.

Are shoes with Memory Foam suitable for sport?

Shoes with Memory Foam can be comfortable for walking, everyday use and light training. For running, you should also consider the running category, midsole, grip and fit. A comfortable insole does not automatically make a casual trainer suitable for long distances or trail running.