A pair of trainers needs to do more than look good. In the Netherlands, shoes are often used for commuting, shopping, walking, travelling and sometimes sport. Yet many people buy based solely on the brand, colour or a special offer. This can lead to the wrong fit, poor grip or a model that is unsuitable for the activity.
A soft insole feels pleasant when trying shoes on, but that does not automatically mean the shoe is suitable for running, walking or standing for long periods. Also check the midsole, outsole and the way the shoe encloses your foot.
A model with Memory Foam, such as some Skechers trainers, can feel comfortable for everyday use. For running shoes, fit, stability, ventilation and grip are also important.
Casual trainers are made for everyday use and light movement. Running shoes are designed for repeated running movements on a particular type of surface. Walking shoes and trail running shoes often have a different tread and more protection against uneven terrain.
So, trainers for the gym are not automatically suitable for a muddy woodland path. Check the stated intended use and sole tread before ordering.
A shoe can be the correct EU size and still be too narrow, too wide or too loose. Pay attention to the shoe width, the shape of the toe box and the fastening. Laces offer more adjustment than a slip-on shoe. Children’s trainers need extra room for growth, but a shoe that is too roomy can be less stable.
Always check the size guide for the specific model. A size 42 from one brand does not necessarily fit exactly like a size 42 from another brand. Look out for descriptions such as:
Ideally, try on a pair at the end of the day while wearing the socks you normally wear. Your toes should be able to move without your heel lifting.
A mesh or textile upper can offer better breathability and is often suitable for everyday use or sporty activities. Synthetic materials are generally easy to wipe clean. Canvas, as used on certain Vans trainers and Converse trainers, creates a casual look but does not automatically provide protection from rain.
Also check the lining. Textile can affect how the shoe feels to wear, while a rubber outsole is particularly relevant for grip and durability.
Look at the outsole tread and material. A rubber sole can provide grip on paved surfaces, but the tread also helps determine how suitable the trainers are for wet tiles, gravel or trails. Running shoes sometimes feature specific foam materials, such as Dreamstrike, Cloudfoam or Energy Foam. Treat these features as product specifications; the actual experience may vary from one wearer to another.
According to the manufacturer’s product information, the Salomon DRX DEFY GRVL has an All Terrain Contagrip outsole and an Energy Foam midsole. On paper, this makes the model suitable for gravel paths and mixed terrain, but always check that the fit suits your foot.
Why it suits this profile: This low slip-on model is designed for everyday use and, according to the product information, has a textile lining, synthetic materials and a heel height of 3.5 cm.
The product information clearly states the materials, construction and size range. This allows you to compare the shoe without relying on its appearance alone.
Lace-free slip-on design, synthetic upper and sole, textile lining and a stated size range up to EU 50.
Why it suits this profile: The combination of suede, mesh and a rubber outsole is ideal for anyone looking for versatile trainers for everyday wear and casual outfits.
The product description specifies the materials used and mentions a supportive midsole. This helps distinguish a fashion choice from a shoe designed for regular everyday use.
Suede and breathable mesh, a rubber outsole and a tread that, according to the product information, is suitable for casual and sporty occasions.
Why it suits this profile: According to the product description, this model was developed for running and outdoor activities on gravel and mixed terrain.
The product information explicitly mentions the terrain, sole and construction. This helps prevent you from using ordinary casual trainers on surfaces where more grip is needed.
Active Chassis, Energy Foam midsole, mesh upper and All Terrain Contagrip outsole according to the supplied product specifications.
For everyday use, you could also consider black trainers with a lace-up fastening, such as the Skechers D'Lux Walker - Scrambler or the Skechers Track Syntac. Both product descriptions mention a standard fit; the Track Syntac also has a Memory Foam insole.
For a more breathable slip-on model, the Skechers Slip-Ins Summits - High Range and Skechers Slip-Ins: Summits - Key Pace are options worth comparing. If you prefer a classic canvas model, take a look at the Vans Authentic Black or Converse Star Player 76 OX.
For road running, the adidas Supernova Ease and adidas Galaxy 7 feature Dreamstrike and Cloudfoam midsoles respectively, according to the product information. For women’s trainers, men’s trainers and children’s trainers, always check the available sizes and stated fit.
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.
Their lifespan depends on use, surface, body weight, materials and maintenance. With daily use, cushioning and tread can change more quickly than when shoes are worn occasionally. Replace a pair when the sole becomes visibly uneven or smooth, seams start to come apart or the fit no longer feels stable.
This varies from model to model. The Skechers Bobs B Flex - Arctic Edge and some other models state in the product information that they are machine washable. Other models recommend cleaning with a damp cloth and must not be submerged. Always check the care label or maintenance instructions on the product page. Shoes with built-in lights, such as certain children’s trainers, must not be put in the washing machine according to the supplied instructions.
Trainers is a broad term for casual footwear and some sporty models. Sports shoes are generally designed for a specific activity, such as running, walking or training. So pay attention to the sole tread, fastening, materials, ventilation and the surface for which the model is intended. Casual trainers may be perfectly suitable for the city, but they are not automatically suitable for intensive sport.