Joybuy Insights

Choosing trainers for men and children: how to avoid a poor purchase

By Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer

In the Netherlands, a pair of trainers often needs to do more than just handle a walk. Men wear them to work, for shopping and to informal engagements. Children wear their shoes at school, while playing outside and on the way to sports activities. If you choose based solely on colour or brand, it is easy to end up with the wrong pair.

When choosing trainers for men and children, these are the three main pitfalls to watch out for:

  1. A well-known technology is mistaken for a suitable shoe. Memory Foam, ENCAP cushioning or IMEVA may sound appealing, but that does not automatically mean the fit will suit every foot. Also check the width, fastening and insole.
  2. The size is chosen without checking. An EU size can feel different from one model to another. Some shoes are true to size, while others come up large or small. Children’s feet also change quickly.
  3. The material and care requirements are underestimated. Suede and mesh can be comfortable and breathable, but they require different care from synthetic leather. Shoes that are not suitable for machine washing should be cleaned with a damp cloth.

Which specifications should you check?

1. Fit, size and fastening

Do not look only at the size number. Also check the stated fit and shoe width. The product details for several models specify a regular fit and D width. This is useful information, but it does not guarantee that every foot will fit the same way.

For children, elastic laces with hook-and-loop fastening are convenient when putting shoes on independently. The Skechers Microspec Texlor, for example, has elastic laces and a hook-and-loop fastening. The Flex Glow is described as coming up small, so you may need to choose one size larger. Always check the current sizing information on the product page.

For men, laces can offer more ways to adjust the fit. Slip-ons are quicker to put on, but provide fewer options for adjusting the fit around the instep.

2. Cushioning and insole

Pay attention to the difference between a product feature and a general promise. Skechers models are described as having a Memory Foam insole. This insole is non-removable in the Burns, while the Bobs Sport Sparrow 2.0 has a removable insole. The latter may be relevant if you use your own insert.

New Balance U574 models are described as having ENCAP cushioning in the midsole. According to the product description, this construction combines foam with a polyurethane rim. Treat this as technical information for comparing models, not as a medical or health claim.

For sports activities, it is also important to distinguish between trainers and genuine sports shoes. Many casual trainers are suitable for everyday use and light activity, but are not automatically suitable for intensive training or specific sports.

3. Upper, sole and care

An upper made from suede and mesh combines style with ventilation, according to the product details. The New Balance U327SWB and U574 models use this combination of materials. Mesh can feel comfortable for everyday wear, but needs protection from dirt and rain.

Synthetic leather is generally easy to wipe clean. The Skechers Burns has a synthetic leather upper with mesh inserts and a rubber sole. Always check the care instructions before buying. Many models recommend hand cleaning with a damp cloth, so machine washing may not be suitable.

A rubber outsole with a tread pattern is a verifiable feature that can provide grip. However, the exact experience depends on the surface, wear and use. For wet Dutch streets, a clearly defined tread pattern is often more practical than a completely flat sole.

Our recommendations for different uses

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Skechers Burns 52635 BBK 42

Skechers Burns 52635 BBK 42

Why it suits this profile: This black model is designed for everyday wear and combines a regular fit with laces, mesh inserts and a Memory Foam insole.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details clearly specify the material, fastening, sole and fit. This means you do not have to rely on the brand name alone.

Key benefit & advantages

Synthetic leather upper, mesh inserts, rubber sole and a non-removable Memory Foam insole.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality
New Balance U574GWH42

New Balance U574GWH42

Why it suits this profile: The retro silhouette works with casual outfits, sportswear and streetwear. The white and grey colourway is easy to style.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The choice is based on concrete details: suede and mesh, an ENCAP midsole and a rubber outsole. The model is not presented as suitable for every sport.

Key benefit & advantages

ENCAP midsole according to the product description, suede and mesh upper, and rubber sole with a tread pattern.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
New Balance U327SWB36

New Balance U327SWB36

Why it suits this profile: The distinctive retro look with blue accents is ideal for anyone looking for a statement pair for everyday wear and streetwear.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The choice is not based on looks alone: the product description mentions mesh, suede, a rubber sole and a pronounced tread pattern for grip.

Key benefit & advantages

Lightweight construction according to the product details, breathable mesh and an enlarged rubber outsole.

Suitable for: Parents who want to choose children’s shoes practically
Skechers Microspec Texlor 403770L BBK 32

Skechers Microspec Texlor 403770L BBK 32

Why it suits this profile: This black children’s trainer is designed for everyday wear and has elastic laces with a hook-and-loop fastening for quick fitting.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated regular fit and size 32 make comparisons easier. The rubber sole and textile upper are clearly specified.

Key benefit & advantages

Elastic laces and hook-and-loop fastening, regular fit, D width and rubber sole.

Comparing colours and models

  • Black trainers: practical for everyday wear and easy to combine with jeans or school uniform.
  • White trainers: work well with lighter outfits, but show dirt more quickly. Choose a model that can be cleaned with a cloth.
  • Navy trainers: a softer colour than black, suitable for casual and sporty combinations.
  • Retro trainers: New Balance U574 and U327 models have a recognisable vintage look.
  • Casual trainers: Skechers Summits and Bobs models are mainly designed for comfortable everyday wear.
  • Puma Speedcat: the Speedcat OG has a slim profile, leather upper, IMEVA and a rubber outsole. Its flat sole makes this model particularly appealing for casual outfits and streetwear, but not automatically suitable for every sport.

When searching for trainers in sizes 28 to 46, pay close attention to the sizes available for each product. A category may show a wide size range, while a specific model may only be in stock in one or a few sizes.

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.

Frequently asked questions about trainers for men and children

How do I determine the right trainer size?

Measure both feet at the end of the day and compare the longer foot with the size chart for the chosen model. Also check whether the shoe comes up true to size, large or small. For children, it is practical to try shoes on with the socks they usually wear.

How long do trainers typically last?

How long they last depends on walking distance, surface, body weight, care and material. Look out for wear on the tread, seams coming apart and a misshapen insole. If you wear them intensively every day, having a second pair can reduce the strain on each pair.

Are Memory Foam trainers suitable for sport?

According to the product description, a Memory Foam insole may provide a softer feel, but it does not automatically make a casual trainer suitable for intensive sport. For running, indoor training or team sports, always check whether the model has been specifically designed for that activity.