Buying trainers without regrets: how to choose the right pair for every situation

Buying trainers seems simple, until you have to choose between men’s trainers, children’s trainers, running shoes and casual trainers. An attractive price or well-known brand name does not automatically mean that a pair suits your feet and how you intend to use it. Especially when shopping online, the fit, materials and care requirements are not always immediately clear.

So watch out for these common pitfalls:

• A sporty look is confused with sport-specific features. A casual trainer may be perfectly suitable for everyday use, but it is not automatically suitable for running, training or wrestling.
• “Cushioning” is presented as a universal solution. A soft sole may feel comfortable, but the right shoe also depends on the fit, surface, running style and duration of use.
• The size is chosen blindly based on EU numbers. Size 40, size 42 or size 44 may fit differently from one brand and model to another. Always check the stated foot length and the size advice.
• Care instructions are ignored. Some models must not be put in the washing machine. Cleaning them incorrectly can damage their shape, bonded seams or materials.

Which features should you check?

1. Intended use and sole

Start by asking yourself what you need the shoes for. For school, shopping and everyday use, casual trainers are often more suitable than technical running shoes. If you run regularly, running shoes with a suitable midsole and grip are the more logical choice. For wrestling, you need a specific model that, according to the product description, is intended for use on a mat.

Pay attention to the outsole material:

• Rubber generally provides grip for everyday use and a variety of surfaces.
• TPU can be used for a lightweight, durable outsole; adidas mentions this, for example, for the Galaxy 7.
• Rubber studs are used in the Supernova Ease, according to adidas product information, to provide grip while running.
• A sole designed for a wrestling mat is not automatically suitable for asphalt, rough tiles or outdoor training.

According to Nike product information, the Inflict 3 is intended for wrestling training and competitions, and not for outdoor sports or rough terrain. Usage specifications like these are more important than appearance alone.

2. Cushioning, insole and fit

Terms such as Memory Foam, Cloudfoam, Dreamstrike and Air-Cooled Memory Foam refer to brands’ product technologies. According to adidas and Skechers’ own product information, these materials are intended to provide a softer or more cushioned feel. That does not mean that every user will have the same experience.

Also check:

• Is the insole removable?
• Does the shoe have a regular, wide or narrow fit?
• Does the model fasten with laces, a strap or hook-and-loop fastening?
• Does the heel stay securely in place?
• Is there roughly a thumb’s width of space at the front when you are standing?

A model featuring trainers with Memory Foam may be appealing for everyday use, but bear in mind that some insoles are not removable. This can be inconvenient if you use your own insoles.

3. Upper and care

Trainers with mesh generally allow more air to pass through than fully enclosed synthetic material, according to the product description. This can be practical during active use, but mesh is not automatically waterproof. Synthetic leather can be easier to clean with a damp cloth, while textile may require additional care.

Check the instructions before buying:

1. For several models, adidas recommends cleaning with a damp cloth and allowing them to dry naturally.
2. For some models, Skechers mentions a gentle wash programme, while other models may only be cleaned by hand.
3. For the Inflict 3, Nike recommends cleaning with a damp cloth and air-drying.

Do not use bleach and do not place shoes on a radiator. Heat can deform materials.

Our recommendations by usage profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

Adidas Run 70s 2.0 FTWWHT/CBLACK/GREONEIH8584 40

Why it suits this profile: According to the product description, this retro model is designed for everyday use and combines a synthetic textile upper with a rubber sole. The stated foot length is 25,5 cm for EU size 40.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies the materials, a flexible rubber outsole and a clear size measurement. This means you do not have to rely on the retro look alone.

Main benefit & advantages

Synthetic leather and textile; rubber outsole; size 40 with a foot length of 25,5 cm.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for top quality

Adidas Supernova Ease M CBLACK/CBLACK/CARBONIH2580 42

Why it suits this profile: If you are looking for a specific pair for short to medium-distance runs, adidas lists a breathable mesh upper, Dreamstrike midsole and rubber studded outsole. The shoe has a regular fit and lace fastening.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The intended use and construction are clearly described. You are therefore not buying this model based on its name alone, and can compare the sole, fit and upper.

Main benefit & advantages

Mesh upper; Dreamstrike midsole; regular fit; size 42 and foot length 26,5 cm.

Suitable for: Specific activities & intensive users

Nike Inflict 3 325256 005 44.5

Why it suits this profile: According to Nike product information, this model is made for wrestling and intensive training. The shoe has a mesh upper, laces, an ankle strap and a rubber outsole.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description limits its use to wrestling shoes and mats. This prevents you from choosing a sports shoe designed for a different surface.

Main benefit & advantages

Mesh for ventilation; adjustable ankle strap; rubber sole; size 44,5.

Choosing the right size without unnecessary returns

Measure both feet at the end of the day while standing. Note the length of the longer foot and compare it with the size chart for the specific model. Do not look only at EU sizes; check the measurements in centimetres too.

For example:

• The adidas Run 70s 2.0 in size 40 lists a foot length of 25,5 cm.
• The adidas Run 70s 2.0 in size 44 2/3 lists 27,4 cm.
• The adidas Runfalcon 5 in size 42 2/3 lists 26,7 cm.
• According to the product information, the Skechers Burns in size 42 has a regular fit and D width.

Wear the socks you normally use and check that your toes can move freely. Hook-and-loop fastening is practical for children’s trainers, allowing them to put them on and take them off independently, but check regularly that the foot is not sliding forwards and that there is still room for growth.

Frequently asked questions about buying trainers

Which trainers are suitable for everyday use?

For everyday use, casual trainers with a rubber sole, regular fit and comfortable upper are often practical. According to the product information, a model such as the adidas Run 70s 2.0 is designed for versatile everyday use. Do not choose a running shoe or wrestling shoe simply because it looks sporty.

How long do trainers last on average?

Their lifespan depends on the distance you walk or run, body weight, surface, care and how often you alternate between different pairs. Check the sole for smooth patches, cracks and sections coming loose. Even when the upper still looks smart, the cushioning can change through use. There is no fixed replacement period that applies to every model.

Are trainers with Memory Foam suitable for everyone?

Skechers lists a Memory Foam or Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole for various models. This may provide a soft feel, but fit remains a personal matter. Check the width, fastening and whether the insole can be removed. If you have specific foot problems, it is wise to seek independent advice and not attribute medical benefits to a product claim.