Joybuy Insights

Choosing trainers without a costly mistake: a practical guide to comfort, fit and use

Choosing a new pair of trainers might seem straightforward, but an attractive photo tells you little about fit, materials or how they’re intended to be used. A low price, for example, may come with a fixed insole that doesn’t suit your foot. And a model described as a sports shoe isn’t automatically suitable for intensive running.

When comparing trainers, watch out for these three common pitfalls:

  • Marketing claims without measurable details: terms such as “maximum comfort” are only useful if the product information also specifies the materials, sole type, fit and fastening.
  • Choosing the wrong shoe for the activity: casual trainers are designed for everyday wear. For regular running, sports shoes or running shoes with a suitable midsole and outsole make more sense.
  • Choosing a size without checking your foot length: EU sizes can vary between brands and models. Always check the size chart and the stated foot length.

Which specifications should you check?

1. Fit, width and size

Look beyond categories such as men’s trainers, women’s trainers or children’s trainers. Important details include:

  • the EU size;
  • the stated fit, such as normal or regular fit;
  • the shoe width, for example D;
  • foot length in centimetres;
  • the type of fastening, such as laces, elastic or hook-and-loop straps.

Laces generally let you adjust a shoe more closely around your foot than a slip-on style. For children, a combination of elastic and hook-and-loop fastening can be practical. When buying online, it’s a good idea to measure your foot while wearing the socks you’d normally wear with trainers.

2. Upper and lining

The materials affect how a pair feels and how you care for it. Textile and mesh can help with ventilation, according to the product description, while synthetic leather or leather creates a more enclosed look. Check the lining too: a textile lining can feel comfortable for everyday wear, but may need extra time to dry after getting wet in the rain.

Check the care instructions. Several models in this selection should only be cleaned with a damp cloth. A shoe that isn’t machine washable needs more hands-on care than a model with machine-washing instructions.

3. Sole and intended use

The sole often consists of several parts:

  • insole: fixed or removable;
  • midsole: for example Cloudfoam, Dreamstrike or IMEVA, according to the product information;
  • outsole: often rubber, with a flat or treaded surface.

According to adidas’s own product information, the Runfalcon 5 has a Cloudfoam midsole, an Ortholite insole and an Adiwear outsole. The brand positions this model for road running and distances of 0 to 10 km. This is the manufacturer’s product specification and recommended use, not a guarantee that the model is right for every runner.

For everyday wear, black trainers such as the Skechers Track-Ripkent or a black adidas model are easy to style. For a retro look, the adidas Run 70s 2.0 is a better fit. The Puma Speedcat’s low, flat shape makes it particularly appealing for casual outfits; if you plan to use it for sport, check that the sole and support suit your activity.

Recommended trainers by type of user

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
adidas Run 70s 2.0 FTWWHT CBLACK GREONE size 40

adidas Run 70s 2.0 FTWWHT/CBLACK/GREONEIH8584 40

Why it suits this profile: This model pairs a retro silhouette with a synthetic leather and textile upper. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for one pair to wear with everyday outfits and for casual use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies the materials, rubber outsole, flexible construction and foot length. So you don’t have to judge it on its retro looks alone.

Key benefit & highlights

Synthetic leather and textile; rubber outsole; foot length of 25.5 cm for this version.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Skechers Burns 52635 BBK size 46

Skechers Burns 52635 BBK 46

Why it suits this profile: The combination of synthetic leather, mesh panels and a fixed Memory Foam insole is a good match for anyone looking for an everyday style with clear comfort specifications.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description clearly states the regular fit, size 46, mesh panels and non-removable insole. This makes it easier to compare with other trainers.

Key benefit & highlights

Memory Foam insole; mesh for ventilation according to the product description; rubber outsole.

Suitable for: Specific needs & intensive use
adidas Runfalcon 5 size 44 2/3

adidas Runfalcon 5 BETSCA/FTWWHT/CBLACKJH6246 size 44 2/3

Why it suits this profile: The product page states that this model is designed for road running and short distances of 0–10 km. That makes it a more logical choice for a running routine than an ordinary casual trainer.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated use, sole construction and sizing details are more specific than simply calling it “sporty”. Still, check that the fit suits your foot.

Key benefit & highlights

Mesh upper; Cloudfoam midsole; Ortholite insole; Adiwear outsole, according to adidas.

Suitable for: Parents buying children’s shoes
Skechers Microspec Texlor children’s trainer size 30

Skechers Microspec Texlor 403770L BBK 30

Why it suits this profile: This children’s trainer has elastic fastening with a hook-and-loop strap, a regular fit and a D shoe width. That makes it practical for children learning to put their shoes on and take them off independently.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size, regular fit, D width and materials are all clearly stated. This helps you avoid choosing based on colour or appearance alone.

Key benefit & highlights

Elastic fastening and hook-and-loop strap; textile upper; rubber sole.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about trainers

How long do trainers usually last?

Their lifespan depends on how often you wear them, your weight, the surface you walk or run on, how well you care for them and the materials they’re made from. Check the outsole regularly for wear, and look for loose stitching or a misshapen insole. A pair worn every day may wear out faster than one used occasionally, so there’s no single lifespan that applies to all trainers.

Are trainers suitable for running?

Some models are designed for running, while others are mainly for casual wear. Check the product description for a specific intended use, sole construction and fit. A retro trainer or flat lifestyle shoe isn’t automatically suitable for longer distances.

How do you care for trainers?

Always follow the care label. Many models can simply be wiped with a damp cloth and left to air dry. Avoid direct heat, bleach and the washing machine unless the care instructions specifically allow it. Remove dirt as soon as possible to reduce the need for more intensive cleaning.