Joybuy Insights

Buying trainers and sports shoes: how to choose the right pair for your needs

Buying trainers and sports shoes online seems simple, until you have to choose between women’s trainers, men’s trainers, children’s trainers, running shoes and lifestyle trainers. A style may look appealing but still be wrong for your daily commute, sport or foot shape.

Joybuy’s Product Recommendation Officer has narrowed down the key information to points you can check. That way, you can compare more than just colour and brand: you can also look at fit, materials, grip, cushioning and care.

Three common pitfalls when buying shoes online

1. Using lifestyle trainers as sports shoes

A Nike trainer, Lacoste trainer or Vans style may be suitable for everyday wear, but that doesn’t automatically mean it’s designed for running or intensive training. Lifestyle trainers often have a firmer sole and a more fashion-led shape. For running, cushioning, flexibility, ventilation and grip are more important.

So, wear lifestyle styles for commuting, shopping or casual outfits. Choose running shoes if you regularly cover several kilometres.

2. Relying on the EU size alone

An EU size isn’t the same across every brand or style. So, also check:

  • the stated foot length in centimetres;
  • the width of the forefoot;
  • the space around your toes;
  • the thickness of your socks;
  • the difference between women’s and men’s styles.

Shoes that are too short will pinch. A style that’s too roomy may slip around when you walk or exercise. Always check the size guide on the product page. Trainers available in different sizes may come in half sizes or use different size ranges.

3. Mistaking marketing terms for measurable features

Terms such as ‘lightweight’, ‘waterproof’, ‘extra stable’ and ‘professional’ only tell you something when the product details back them up. Look at how the shoes are made:

  • Mesh or textile can help with ventilation.
  • EVA foam is often used in midsoles for cushioning.
  • Rubber generally offers durability and grip, depending on the tread.
  • A GORE-TEX membrane is described in the product details as providing water resistance and breathability.
  • A hook-and-loop fastening can make children’s shoes easier to put on and take off independently.

Brand claims about performance don’t guarantee the same experience for everyone. Consider them alongside the technical specifications and intended use.

Which features should you check?

Fit and size

Measure your feet at the end of the day, when they usually take up a little more room. Compare your measurement with the size guide for the specific style. For running and trail running, a little space around the toes is often useful, but your heel shouldn’t slip out.

A standard fit isn’t the same as a wide fit. For example, the Pelliot styles in this selection are listed in standard and slim fits. This may be relevant if you have narrower feet.

Cushioning and midsole

For everyday walking, a soft EVA or foam midsole can feel comfortable. For recreational running, also consider the balance of cushioning and stability. The adidas Runfalcon 5 features a Cloudfoam midsole and an OrthoLite insole. According to the product information, the adidas Ultrarun 5 uses Bounce 2.0 cushioning.

These terms describe how the shoes are made; they don’t automatically indicate a particular level of performance. Choose based on your running distance, the surface you’ll be running on and your personal preference.

Sole, grip and terrain

A flatter tread is often suited to city use and dry surfaces. For mud, loose ground or rocky paths, deeper grooves and a rubber outsole matter more. Trail running shoes such as the Salomon Speedcross 5 GTX W and Salomon XA Pro 3D v9 GTX feature Contagrip outsoles with tread designed for mixed or off-road terrain.

Check the water resistance, too. The Salomon styles feature a GORE-TEX membrane. This makes them worth considering for wet walking routes, but no shoe can replace suitable socks and proper care when exposed to water for long periods.

Recommended styles for different needs

Ideal for: Budget-conscious beginners
adidas Runfalcon 5 BETSCA FTWWHT CBLACK

adidas Runfalcon 5 BETSCA/FTWWHT/CBLACKJH6246 Size 42 2/3

Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, this style is designed for road use and short runs of 0–10 km. That makes it a practical choice if you’re looking for one pair for recreational running and everyday wear.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description lists specific features such as Cloudfoam, mesh and an Adiwear outsole, rather than relying on general claims about comfort.

Key benefits and features

Mesh upper, Cloudfoam midsole, OrthoLite insole and rubber Adiwear outsole.

Ideal for: Buyers looking for premium quality
LACOSTE L003 2K24 224 7 SMA

LACOSTE L003 2K24 224 7 SMA WHT/GRY 45

Why it suits this profile: These lifestyle trainers combine mesh, suede and synthetic overlays with an OrthoLite insole. They’re a good fit for everyday city wear, where both style and choice of materials matter.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The features are linked to visible materials and sole components. The shoes aren’t presented as running shoes.

Key benefits and features

Mesh and suede upper, EVA midsole, OrthoLite insole and rubber outsole with an anti-slip tread.

Ideal for: Specific needs and intensive use
Salomon XA Pro 3D v9 GTX

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

Why it suits this profile: According to the product description, this style is designed for trail running and walking on technical or rough terrain. Its construction therefore makes it better suited to intensive outdoor use than a regular lifestyle trainer.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated purpose, GORE-TEX membrane and Contagrip tread make it clear what the style is designed for.

Key benefits and features

GORE-TEX according to the product information, 3D Advanced Chassis, Quicklace and a Contagrip rubber outsole.

Ideal for: Families with active children
New Balance PC574EVN children's trainers

New Balance PC574EVN 28.5

Why it suits this profile: The combination of a hook-and-loop fastening, mesh and a rubber sole is well suited to school, play and everyday wear. The fastening is practical for children who put their shoes on by themselves.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information covers the size, fastening, materials and care. That means you can look beyond appearance alone.

Key benefits and features

Hook-and-loop fastening, lightweight EVA midsole, mesh panels and rubber outsole with tread.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and current European safety regulations.

Care tips to help your shoes last longer

How long shoes last depends on how you use them, the surface you wear them on, your body weight, your gait and how well you care for them. A few simple habits can help:

  • Let your shoes air out fully after wearing them.
  • Clean them with a soft brush or damp cloth.
  • Follow the brand’s care instructions; some styles shouldn’t go in the washing machine.
  • Don’t dry shoes on a radiator or with direct heat.
  • If you exercise frequently, alternate between two pairs of shoes.
  • Check the sole and upper regularly for signs of wear.

If your shoes get wet, it’s usually best to let them air-dry slowly rather than apply heat. With trail running shoes, mud in the tread can affect grip, so clean it off after use.

Frequently asked questions

How do I find the right size when buying trainers online?

Measure both feet in centimetres and use the size guide for the specific style. Use the measurement of your longer foot as your guide. Also check the fit and the space around your toes, especially if you wear thicker socks with your running shoes.

How long do trainers and sports shoes last?

There’s no set lifespan. Everyday trainers may last longer than sports shoes worn several times a week. Replace your shoes when the sole looks visibly smooth or unevenly worn, the cushioning feels noticeably less effective or the upper no longer provides a stable fit.

Are waterproof shoes suitable for every sport?

Not always. A water-resistant style can be practical for walking, trail running and commuting in rainy weather. For intensive indoor activities, ventilation may matter more. So, check the intended use, membrane, tread and fit before buying.