Joybuy Insights

Choosing trainers and sports shoes: practical tips for comfort, sizing and use

A pair of trainers or sports shoes may look appealing online, but an attractive design is not automatically right for your everyday needs. Trainers for the office and city walks require different features from shoes for running, trail running or children’s sports. If you focus only on the brand, colour or discount, you are more likely to end up with the wrong size, poor grip or insufficient support.

As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I filter product information for useful features. This makes it easier to see which specifications are genuinely relevant and which marketing claims should be viewed with a degree of caution.

Three common pitfalls when buying shoes

1. Using lifestyle trainers as running shoes

Women’s trainers, men’s trainers and models such as Nike trainers, Puma trainers or retro adidas shoes are often designed for everyday use. They may have a flat sole or a construction focused primarily on appearance. That does not mean they are suitable for the repeated impact of running.

For running, a suitable fit, a cushioned midsole and a sole with sufficient grip are more important than looks alone. Ideally, use running shoes for their stated purpose and do not choose a casual model for long training sessions.

2. Confusing “waterproof” with water-repellent

A mesh upper can feel lightweight and airy, but it will generally let moisture through more easily than a shoe with a membrane. If the description only says “water-repellent” or “suitable for wet weather”, this does not guarantee that your feet will stay dry for long periods.

Check whether the product description specifies a particular construction, such as a GORE-TEX membrane. Also consider ventilation: waterproof shoes can feel warmer than lightweight shoes with mesh uppers.

3. Choosing a size without checking the size guide

Sizes vary by brand, model and sometimes even by version. A standard fit is not the same as a wide fitting. Measure both feet at the end of the day and compare the longer foot with the size guide in centimetres or millimetres.

Also look for:

  • enough room around the toes;
  • a heel that does not lift as you walk;
  • the socks you will actually wear;
  • the difference between EU, UK and US sizes;
  • whether a wide or narrow version is available.

For children’s shoes, a secure fastening such as hook-and-loop tape is practical. Check regularly whether your child has outgrown their shoes; a shoe that fits well today may be too small within a few months.

Important specifications to compare

Upper and lining

Leather and synthetic materials can provide greater durability for everyday use. Textile and mesh are often lighter and allow more airflow. The Nike Wmns Dunk Low NN DD1873-113, for example, is listed as combining leather and textile, with a padded collar and a lined interior. This suits casual use, but the description does not position this model as a running shoe.

A canvas model such as Converse STAR PLAYER 76 OX can feel lightweight and breathable. However, canvas generally offers less protection from rain than a sealed, waterproof construction.

Midsole and cushioning

Running shoes use materials such as EVA or Cloudfoam to make the sole lightweight and cushioned. According to the product details, the adidas Galaxy 7 M has a Cloudfoam midsole and textile upper. The adidas Runfalcon 5 combines Cloudfoam with an OrthoLite insole and is described as being designed for short road distances of up to 0–10 km.

Cushioning is a personal preference. A very soft sole will not feel stable to everyone. So also consider the fit, weight and heel support.

Outsole and grip

For tarmac and shopping streets, a rubber or TPU sole with a relatively shallow tread is often sufficient. On mud, wet stones and loose ground, you need a more defined tread and a compound described as suitable for outdoor use.

Trail running shoes such as the Salomon XA Pro 3D v9 GTX specify a Contagrip outsole, 3D Advanced Chassis and Quicklace fastening. According to the product information, the GTX version includes a GORE-TEX membrane. For mixed gravel paths, the Salomon DRX DEFY GRVL features Active Chassis, Energy Foam and All Terrain Contagrip. Compare these features with your route rather than focusing solely on the Salomon trail shoes brand name.

Recommended models by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Adidas Galaxy 7 M ROYBLU/FTWWHT/DKBLUEID8756 42

Adidas Galaxy 7 M ROYBLU/FTWWHT/DKBLUEID8756 42

Why it suits this profile: An accessible choice for short road runs and everyday active use, with a regular fit and lace-up fastening.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify running use and describe the Cloudfoam midsole, rather than focusing solely on a casual look.

Key benefit & advantages

Cloudfoam cushioning, textile upper and TPU outsole according to the product specifications.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for 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: For walkers and trail runners who regularly encounter wet, uneven or technical paths.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies both a GORE-TEX membrane and a Contagrip outsole; however, check that the fit and warmth suit your intended use.

Key benefit & advantages

GORE-TEX, 3D Advanced Chassis, Quicklace and Contagrip according to the product description.

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

PELLIOT Running Shoes Unisex – Breathable & Lightweight, Obsidian Black (EU 42)

Why it suits this profile: For users looking for one lightweight model for roads, gravel and straightforward trail routes, while taking their foot shape into account.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description distinguishes between a standard fit and a slim fit, and mentions a ROCKYTEC rubber sole for different surfaces.

Key benefit & advantages

Mesh and woven textile, EVA midsole and a choice of foot shapes according to the product specifications.

Suitable for: Parents looking for children’s shoes
Skechers Meteor-Lights Krendox 401495L-BKBL 33

Skechers Meteor-Lights - Krendox 401495L-BKBL 33

Why it suits this profile: A practical high-top design for children, with a regular fit and hook-and-loop fastening for putting on and taking off independently.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size advice specifies a regular fit and the construction has a clear fastening system; clean according to the care label instructions.

Key benefit & advantages

Hook-and-loop fastening, rubber sole and synthetic upper according to the product details.

Looking for more options?

We have compiled 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 and sports shoes

How long do trainers and sports shoes last?

Lifespan depends on use, the surface, body weight, care and materials. Check the sole for smooth patches, cracks and uneven wear. With running shoes, a less responsive midsole can also be a reason to replace them, even if the upper still looks in good condition.

Can you wear running shoes every day?

You can, but the tread and cushioning are designed for a particular type of use. Running shoes may feel comfortable for commuting, while a lifestyle trainer may be less suitable for regular training. Look at the sole, fit and level of stability before using one pair for everything.

How do you care for sports shoes in the Netherlands?

Remove dirt with a soft brush or damp cloth and allow the shoes to dry at room temperature. Do not use a radiator or tumble dryer unless the care label explicitly permits it. Many models are not suitable for machine washing. With waterproof shoes, the wrong cleaning products can affect the performance of the membrane or outer layer.