Choosing trainers without a costly mistake: check the fit, material and intended use

Choosing a new pair of trainers online can seem straightforward. But a familiar brand name, an appealing colour and a discount aren’t enough to tell you whether a style is right for you. A low-profile lifestyle trainer might be comfortable for a shopping trip, but unsuitable for running. A leather trainer may look sturdy, while a mesh style could offer better ventilation.

The most common pitfalls:

• Confusing style with intended use: casual and lifestyle trainers aren’t automatically suitable as sports shoes.
• Focusing only on cushioning: a soft sole tells you little about stability, grip or fit.
• Skipping the size information: EU sizes can vary between brands and styles. Some Skechers trainers, for example, are described as a generous fit.
• Reading too much into material claims: “breathable” doesn’t mean a shoe is waterproof. Always check the exact material composition.

Which specifications should you check?

1. Fit and size

Start with the size guide for the specific product. Don’t just look at EU 37, 38 or 42; check the stated foot length in centimetres or millimetres too. A difference of a few millimetres can be noticeable in a narrow-fitting shoe.

Look out for these points:

• Width: a standard width won’t necessarily suit a wide foot.
• Toe room: your toes shouldn’t touch the front of the shoe.
• Heel hold: the heel should stay securely in place in running and sports shoes.
• Sizing: the Skechers Graceful - Get Connected and Skechers Bobs Sport Sparrow 2.0 are both described as generous-fitting styles, and you may want to consider going down a size. Check this before ordering.

Women’s, men’s and unisex trainers can have different sizing or fits. Use the product page as your guide, rather than relying only on your usual size.

2. Upper and ventilation

The upper has a big impact on how a shoe feels and how easy it is to care for.

• Leather trainers: offer a sturdy construction and a smart appearance. They may feel less breathable than textile styles.
• Mesh and woven textile: according to the product descriptions, these materials are used to promote airflow and keep the weight down. That makes them worth considering for walking or sporting activities.
• Canvas: lightweight and easy to wear with casual outfits, but needs extra care in rainy weather.
• Synthetic reinforcements: can add support and durability, but may make a shoe feel less flexible.

Colour is another factor. White trainers are easy to wear with jeans and summer clothes, but show dirt more quickly. Black trainers are more practical for everyday use. For leather styles, treating the upper with a protective spray in line with the care instructions can help keep it looking its best for longer.

3. Midsole, outsole and intended use

Check that the sole suits the activity you have in mind. A flat rubber outsole can be comfortable for everyday wear and provide grip on paved surfaces. For running, factors such as weight, cushioning, flexibility and fit matter more than a fashionable shape.

According to the PELLIOT running shoe product description, the midsole is made from flexible EVA foam and the outsole is designed to provide grip on different surfaces. This type of style is a more logical choice for walks, trail-style routes and sporting activities than a flat lifestyle trainer. These are stated product specifications; they don’t guarantee that a shoe will suit every foot or surface.

Check the care instructions too. Several styles aren’t suitable for machine washing. After wearing shoes in damp conditions, it’s best to let them air-dry away from direct heat.

Our recommendations for different types of wearer

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

adidas Barreda Decode FTWWHT/MSILVE/GREONE size 40

Why it suits this profile: A versatile style for everyday wear, commuting and casual outfits. The combination of mesh and synthetic leather suits shoppers looking for one pair to wear on different occasions.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description specifies both the upper and sole, as well as an exact size. So you don’t have to judge it by the photo or colour alone.

Key benefit & features

Mesh textile, synthetic leather, textile lining and a grippy sole, according to the product specifications.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality

PUMA Speedcat OG Black-White size 42

Why it suits this profile: For anyone looking to pair a sleek streetwear look with leather, a low-profile fit and a distinctive design for everyday wear.

How this product avoids the pitfall

This style isn’t presented as a running shoe. The flat heel, leather upper and rubber outsole make its intended use clearer: casual and lifestyle wear.

Key benefit & features

Leather upper, IMEVA midsole according to the product description, and rubber outsole with lace-up fastening.

Suitable for: Specific needs & intensive use

adidas Adizero Boston 13 W size 38 2/3

Why it suits this profile: Designed for runners looking for a dedicated running shoe for training or races, rather than an all-purpose trainer for everyday wear.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies a technical mesh upper, Lightstrike Pro midsole and Energy Rods. This makes its intended use clearer than that of a purely fashion-led trainer.

Key benefit & features

Technical mesh, Lightstrike Pro foam and Continental rubber are listed as product specifications.

Which trainers go with your wardrobe?

White and black trainers make a practical neutral base. A low-profile style such as the Converse Star Player works with jeans, chinos and casual dresses. According to the product description, the Nike Dunk Low is made with leather and textile and has a padded collar and rubber outsole. This type of style is suited to streetwear and everyday wear, but that doesn’t automatically make it suitable for running.

If you’re after a retro look, consider the New Balance 574. The combination of suede and mesh feels different from an all-leather trainer. For a lighter, more breathable pair, Skechers trainers made with textile and mesh are one option. Always check the stated fit and sole height.

Frequently asked questions about trainers

How long does a pair of trainers last?

Their lifespan depends on use, body weight, surface, material and care. Daily wear will wear down the outsole faster than occasional use. With running shoes, it’s worth checking the tread, seams and cushioning for signs of wear, rather than judging by the age of the shoes alone.

Can I use trainers for running?

Only if the style is designed for it and the product information supports this. Casual trainers, lifestyle trainers and flat leather styles may lack features that matter for running, such as suitable cushioning, flexibility and a good fit. If you train regularly, it’s better to choose a style sold as a running shoe.

How do I clean trainers?

Always follow the care label or the instructions on the product page. Many styles can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap, then left to air-dry. Don’t put them in the washing machine unless this is explicitly permitted. For leather trainers, treatment with a protective spray may be recommended in line with the instructions; test any care products on an inconspicuous area first.