Joybuy Insights

Choosing trainers and shoes: practical buying tips for women, men and children

Buying a new pair of trainers and shoes online seems straightforward, but a good-looking photo tells you little about fit, materials or how they’ll perform. A shoe that looks suitable for everyday wear might turn out to be too narrow, offer little grip or be difficult to clean.

So watch out for these common pitfalls:

  • Choosing on looks alone: a fashionable trainer isn’t automatically suitable for long walks or an active day at school.
  • Ordering without checking the fit: the same EU size can fit differently from one model to another. Shoe width, sock thickness and foot length all matter too.
  • Taking marketing claims at face value: terms such as “extra comfortable”, “durable” or “for all terrain” are only useful when the product description gives specific details about the sole, upper, fastening and care.

A good choice doesn’t start with colour. It starts with when and how you’ll wear the shoes, and a check of the product specifications.

Which features should you check?

1. Fit, size and width

If possible, measure both feet at the end of the day. Compare the longer foot with the size chart for the specific model. Don’t just check the EU size; look at the stated width too:

  • D or regular: often intended to provide a standard fit.
  • G: offers more room for the foot in some models.
  • Slim or narrow: may suit narrower feet.
  • Standard or regular: always check the product page, as these terms aren’t used consistently across brands.

Children can quickly grow out of a pair. Elastic laces and hook-and-loop fastenings are practical on children’s trainers, but check that the shoe isn’t too loose. A secure heel and enough room for the toes are important for everyday wear, without the shoe pinching.

2. Sole and intended use

The sole affects how a shoe feels on paving, tarmac, woodland paths or wet ground.

  • For casual shoes and commuting, a rubber sole with tread is often practical.
  • For sport and running, look for a cushioned midsole, low weight and enough flexibility.
  • For walks outside the city, grip matters more than a smooth, fashionable tread.
  • For indoors, the garden and quick trips to the shops, Crocs clogs or EVA clogs can be handy thanks to their low weight and easy care.

Rubber, plastic and EVA soles each offer a different combination of grip, flexibility and weight. EVA stands for ethylene-vinyl acetate and is often used in lightweight shoes and midsoles. The material can feel comfortable, but how the shoe actually feels depends on the shape, thickness and construction of the shoe as a whole.

3. Materials, ventilation and care

A textile or mesh upper may feel airier than synthetic leather. That makes it an interesting option for everyday wear or active use, but check how the material should be cleaned too. According to the product information, some models can go in the washing machine, while others should only be cleaned with a damp cloth.

Also look out for:

  • Removable insole: handy if you want to dry or replace it.
  • Fastening: laces give you an adjustable fit; slip-ons are quicker to put on.
  • Ventilation holes: useful on clogs and summer shoes, but they don’t automatically make a model suitable for rain.
  • Treaded sole: check that the tread suits the surfaces you’ll be walking on.

Our recommendations by type of wearer

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Skechers Sport Court 92 - Illustrious 149763-WHT 37

Skechers Sport Court 92 - Illustrious 149763-WHT 37

Why it suits this type of wearer: This low-cut model is designed for everyday wear and has a regular fit, lace-up fastening and synthetic leather upper. It’s a straightforward choice if you’re looking for one pair to wear with casual outfits and when you’re out and about.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states that it has a regular fit, is EU size 37 and has a rubber outsole. This makes it easier to check in advance whether the model is right for your foot and how you plan to use it.

Main benefit & key features

Rubber sole, lace-up fastening, synthetic leather upper and, according to the product information, a shock-absorbing midsole.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality
Skechers Slip-Ins Summits Key Pace 232469-BLK 41

Skechers Slip-Ins: Summits - Key Pace 232469-BLK 41

Why it suits this type of wearer: This model is a good choice if you want to slip your shoes on quickly but still care about the lining and sole construction. The product description mentions a mesh upper, removable insole and slip-on design.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Rather than relying on the slip-on design alone, you can compare the regular fit, size 41 and stated materials with your current shoes before you buy.

Main benefit & key features

Mesh upper, rubber outsole, removable insole and, according to the product information, a shock-absorbing midsole.

Suitable for: Specific needs & intensive use
PELLIOT Running Shoes Unisex Lightweight Cushioning

PELLIOT Running Shoes Unisex Lightweight Cushioning – Clean & Breathable, White (EU 39)

Why it suits this type of wearer: This unisex model is designed for running and use on different surfaces. The product information lists a sandwich mesh and woven upper, an EVA midsole and a ROCKYTEC outsole. According to the description, a slim version is also available for narrower feet.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications make clear that this isn’t an ordinary casual trainer: the sole and upper are described as suitable for changing surfaces. Still, think about whether you’ll mainly be running on tarmac, trail paths or using them every day.

Main benefit & key features

Lightweight mesh, EVA midsole, hard-wearing upper and a treaded outsole with grip, according to the product description.

For children and outdoor use

For school, play and short outings, children’s trainers with elastic laces and hook-and-loop fastenings are practical. The Skechers Microspec Texlor is one example: it has a textile upper, rubber sole and regular fit. Always check your child’s current foot length when choosing a size, as sizes 31, 32 and 33 aren’t interchangeable.

For the garden, beach or quick changes, you could also consider Crocs clogs and other EVA clogs. According to the product information, the Crocs Classic Clog for children has ventilation holes, a pivoting heel strap and an EVA-like Croslite construction. The PUXI model has a one-piece moulded EVA construction and comes in a wide range of sizes. With styles like these, check the foot length and heel strap, and follow the advice not to expose them to heat or direct sunlight for extended periods.

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 and shoes

How do I find the right shoe size online?

Measure both feet in millimetres and use the size chart on the product page. Use the measurement for your longer foot as your guide. Also check the width and whether the model is described as a regular, narrow or wide fit.

How long do comfortable trainers last?

It depends on how far you walk, the surfaces you walk on, your body weight, how well you care for them and the materials they’re made from. A pair you wear every day will usually wear out faster than shoes you alternate with other pairs. Replace your shoes when the sole becomes visibly smooth, the heel wears unevenly or the upper no longer holds your foot securely.

Are running shoes suitable for everyday wear?

They can be, but you don’t always need them. Running shoes are designed with features such as a lightweight construction and cushioning. For the office, shopping or casual wear, a simpler trainer may be enough. Choose based on the surface, how long you’ll be walking, fit and care.