Joybuy Insights

Choosing trainers and sports shoes: a practical guide to comfort, grip and fit

Buying a new pair of shoes seems simple, until you develop a cramped forefoot, poor grip or an unsuitable sole after just a few weeks. When it comes to trainers and sports shoes, it is therefore not just about colour and brand name. The right choice mainly depends on the surface, fit, cushioning and material.

Also pay attention to commonly used marketing terms. A shoe may be described as “lightweight”, “breathable” or “waterproof”, while the product details say little about its exact construction. Always check the specifications and consider what you will genuinely use the pair for.

Three common shoe-buying mistakes

1. Using a casual trainer for intensive sport

Comfortable trainers are suitable for everyday use, school, shopping or light walks. They are not automatically suitable for running, trail running or lengthy training sessions. A sports shoe for intensive use will generally have a sole and fit that are better suited to repeated impact and the chosen surface.

Using an ordinary trainer on wet woodland paths can also leave you short of grip. Different sole profiles are available for tarmac, gravel and mud.

2. Relying solely on the EU size

A size 42 or 43 can fit differently depending on the model. Width is also important. In the product details, this may be indicated by D for a standard width or G for a roomier fit. Also check the size guide, foot length and fastening system.

Laces allow for precise adjustment. Hook-and-loop fastening is practical for children and makes shoes quick to put on and take off. A slip-on can be convenient for everyday use, but offers fewer ways to adjust the fit.

3. Confusing waterproofing with breathability

A membrane such as GORE-TEX may offer protection from rain according to the product information, but that does not mean every shoe is fully suitable for prolonged contact with water. Also check the tongue construction, seams and care instructions.

An open mesh upper will generally ventilate better in dry weather, but does not offer the same protection from rain as a model with a waterproof membrane. Choose based on the climate and activity, rather than just one prominent feature.

The key features to check

Fit, width and toe room

Ideally, measure your feet at the end of the day, when they have slightly more volume. Compare the measurement with the size guide for the specific model. Look for:

  • enough room around the toes;
  • no pressure on the instep or sides;
  • a heel that does not constantly lift;
  • a width that suits the shape of your foot;
  • a fastening that allows you to secure the shoe properly.

Room for growth is important for children, but shoes that are too large can cause slipping and reduce control. For children’s trainers, a secure fastening, flexible forefoot and rubber sole are practical features to look out for.

Cushioning and insole

A soft insole may feel comfortable when trying shoes on, but the right amount of cushioning depends on how you use them. For everyday walking, a Memory Foam insole can feel comfortable. For running, stability, sole construction and fit are also important.

The product descriptions for various Skechers models mention an Air-Cooled Memory Foam or Memory Foam insole. Check whether the insole is removable. This is not always the case with the models mentioned, which is relevant if you use your own insoles.

Sole, grip and surface

A profiled sole with a rubber outsole may be suitable for everyday use and light walks. For trail running and outdoor activities, a more pronounced tread is important. Check whether the manufacturer links the sole to tarmac, gravel, wet surfaces or technical terrain.

According to Salomon’s product information, the XA Pro 3D v9 GTX and DRX DEFY GRVL feature a Contagrip outsole. The former is also described as having a GORE-TEX membrane and 3D Advanced Chassis, while the latter has Active Chassis and Energy Foam. These are product specifications, not a guarantee that the shoe will be suitable for every foot or situation.

Recommendations by usage profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Skechers Slip-Ins Summits - High Range 232457-TPE 42

Skechers Slip-Ins Summits - High Range 232457-TPE 42

Why it suits this profile: This slip-on is designed for everyday use and casual outfits. Its standard fit and rubber profiled sole make it practical for commuting and light walks.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details clearly state that it is intended for casual use. This makes it less tempting to treat the shoe as a specialised running shoe.

Key benefit & highlights

Slip-on design, synthetic upper, rubber sole and standard D width in size 42.

Suitable for: Buyers seeking premium quality
Salomon XA Pro 3D v9 GTX 472701 41 1/3

Salomon XA Pro 3D v9 GTX 472701 41 1/3

Why it suits this profile: According to Salomon’s product information, this model is intended for trail running and walking. It is suited to users who regularly tackle unpaved paths, wet woodland and changing conditions.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The intended use, GORE-TEX membrane and profiled sole are listed separately in the description. This makes it easier to assess whether the shoe suits your route.

Key benefit & highlights

GORE-TEX membrane, Quicklace system, 3D Advanced Chassis and Contagrip rubber outsole.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
PELLIOT Running Shoes Unisex Lightweight Cushioning Clean and Breathable

PELLIOT Running Shoes Unisex Lightweight Cushioning – Clean & Breathable, White (EU 38)

Why it suits this profile: This unisex model is intended for running, road-to-trail transitions and varied terrain. The size guide lists foot lengths and offers both a standard and narrower option.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information distinguishes between foot shapes and describes hand washing and air drying. This helps with choosing the right size and prevents incorrect care.

Key benefit & highlights

Sandwich mesh, EVA midsole, ROCKYTEC rubber and a weight-saving design 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.

Care and lifespan of trainers and sports shoes

Lifespan depends on use, surface, body weight, running style and care. Do not wear running shoes every day as ordinary footwear if you cover a lot of kilometres. Allow wet shoes to dry at room temperature and avoid radiators or tumble dryers unless the care label states otherwise.

Check regularly:

  • wear on the tread;
  • cracks in the sole or upper;
  • coming-away seams;
  • deformation of the heel;
  • persistent odour or moisture in the lining;
  • less support or cushioning than when you bought them.

The same practical criteria apply to women’s and men’s shoes. The main differences concern sizing, the last and the availability of different widths. With children’s trainers, replacing them promptly is particularly important because feet grow and the fit can change quickly.

Frequently asked questions

Which trainers are suitable for everyday use?

Choose a model with a standard fit, sufficient room around the toes, a flexible rubber sole and an upper suited to the season. Skechers trainers with Memory Foam can feel comfortable for everyday walking, but always check the width and whether the insole is removable.

How often should I replace running shoes?

There is no universal mileage that applies to every pair. Pay particular attention to wear, a smoother tread, cracks and changes in cushioning. Someone who often runs on tarmac may see different wear from someone who mainly trains on woodland paths.

Are waterproof shoes also suitable for warm weather?

That depends on the construction and ventilation. A waterproof membrane can keep rain out more effectively, but an open mesh model will generally offer greater ventilation in dry, warm weather. Choose between water protection and maximum ventilation based on how and where you will use the shoes.