Trainers may seem simple to choose, but an appealing style won’t necessarily suit your everyday needs. A pair that feels comfortable when you try it on may not offer enough support on long walks. Parents might also choose a children’s shoe that’s easy to fasten but doesn’t leave enough room for growing feet.
The most common pitfalls when choosing trainers are:
Start by thinking about how you’ll use your trainers. Are you looking for men’s trainers for your commute, women’s trainers for everyday wear, children’s trainers for school or sporty trainers for light training? The answer will help you decide which features matter most.
As well as checking the EU size, look at the stated fit and width. A regular-fit style won’t automatically suit every foot. Check details such as D or G width, a secure heel and whether you can adjust the laces properly.
For children, trainers with hook-and-loop fastenings are handy for school and outdoor play. The New Balance PC574EVN, for example, has a hook-and-loop fastening and a low-cut design. The Skechers Microspec Texlor combines elastic with a hook-and-loop fastening. This makes them easier to put on and take off, but still check that the shoes aren’t too loose.
Check the size advice for each product, too. The Skechers Bobs Sport Sparrow 2.0, for example, is stated to come up large, with a size smaller recommended. For other styles, such as the Skechers Bobs Geo-New Aesthetics, the advice is to order your usual size.
The material affects weight, breathability and care. Mesh and textile generally let more air through than a fully enclosed synthetic upper. Suede and synthetic overlays can add structure, but often need to be cleaned carefully.
The New Balance U574RUS features a combination of mesh, suede and synthetic materials. According to the product information, the Lacoste L003 2K24 has a mesh and suede upper with synthetic leather overlays. This tells you about the construction, but doesn’t automatically indicate how long the shoes will last in every situation.
Check the care instructions. Not every pair can go in the washing machine. Styles with built-in lights, such as some children’s trainers, should be cleaned with a damp cloth according to the product information. Heat, bleach and tumble drying can damage the materials or components.
Check the materials used for the midsole and outsole. EVA foam is often used to make a lightweight midsole. Rubber on the outside can help with grip and wear resistance, but the tread pattern still matters when you’re choosing trainers for wet or slippery surfaces.
Low-cut trainers are usually handy for everyday wear and casual outfits. High-tops cover more of the ankle, but may not feel as unrestricted for walking or cycling. Trainers with memory foam may feel softer, according to the product description. That doesn’t guarantee they’ll suit every foot.
Casual trainers aren’t automatically the right choice for running or intense sport. Check the sports category, flexibility, fit and sole information carefully. For walking, school, work and leisure, casual trainers are often more practical.
Why it suits this profile: These beige low-top trainers have a regular fit, lace fastening and plain design, so they’re easy to pair with everyday clothes.
The product information states that these have a regular fit and are size 37. So rather than judging by looks alone, check the sizing details before you buy.
Textile upper, rubber sole, low-cut design and lace fastening, according to the product specifications.
Why it suits this profile: This men’s style combines a white-and-grey colourway with mesh, suede and synthetic overlays. It’s well suited to work, city wear and casual outfits.
The product page lists size 45, a regular fit, a padded tongue and an OrthoLite insole. Check these details before you order rather than choosing on brand name alone.
Mesh and suede upper, EVA midsole, rubber outsole and an OrthoLite insole, according to the product description.
Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, this black low-top style is designed for sports and casual wear. The lace fastening makes it easy to adjust for everyday use.
The product specifications list the material, fastening, D width and size 45. This makes it easier to decide whether the style really suits your activities.
Leather and mesh upper, rubber sole, lace fastening and Memory Foam insole, according to the product description.
Why it suits this profile: These navy children’s trainers have a hook-and-loop fastening, a low-cut design and a rubber sole with tread. They’re a practical choice for school, play and everyday wear.
The product information lists the upper, EVA midsole, rubber tread and hook-and-loop fastening separately. This lets you check the practical features rather than judging by the classic design alone.
Suede, synthetic material and mesh; lightweight EVA midsole; rubber sole with tread and hook-and-loop fastening.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Measure both feet at the end of the day and compare the longer foot with the size chart for the specific style. Also check whether the product comes up true to size, small or large. Size advice for one brand isn’t a universal rule for all trainers.
Their lifespan depends on how far you walk, the surfaces you wear them on, your body weight, the materials and how well you look after them. A pair worn every day will wear differently from one used only indoors. Look out for worn-smooth tread, seams coming undone and a compressed insole. Replace your trainers when they no longer fit securely or are visibly damaged.
Memory foam may provide extra cushioning according to the product description, but it isn’t the only factor that determines whether a shoe is suitable for walking. Check the fit, stability, tread on the rubber sole and heel support as well. If you’re unsure, try them on a shorter walk before wearing them for longer periods.