Joybuy Insights

Choosing trainers and sports shoes: how to find the right pair for your needs

Choosing a new pair of trainers or sports shoes online can seem easy. But photos, trendy names and vague comfort claims can give you the wrong impression. A shoe that looks great might feel too narrow, lack grip or be unsuitable for rain and long walks.

So look out for these three common pitfalls:

  • Comfort claims without specific details: words such as “soft” or “cushioned” don’t tell you much unless you know what material is used in the insole or midsole.
  • Expecting one pair to do everything: casual shoes aren’t automatically suitable for running, trail running or long walks.
  • Ordering without checking the fit: the same EU size can feel different from one brand or style to another. Width, fastening and toe-box shape also make a difference.

Below, you’ll find practical tips and a selection of shoes for different needs.

What should you look for in trainers and sports shoes?

1. Choose the material to suit how you’ll use them

The upper affects how a shoe feels and how easy it is to care for.

  • Textile and mesh: often lightweight and breathable. Suitable for everyday wear and indoor activities, but not necessarily water-resistant.
  • Synthetic materials: generally easy to clean. Check that the shoe has enough ventilation, though.
  • Leather or synthetic leather: can feel more durable and offer better protection from light dirt. It may be warmer than open mesh.
  • GORE-TEX or another membrane construction: always check the official product information. The product description for the Salomon XA Pro 3D v9 GTX mentions a GORE-TEX membrane to help protect against wet conditions. That doesn’t mean the shoe will stay completely waterproof if submerged for a long time.

A waterproof walking shoe is therefore a different choice from a lightweight trainer for your commute.

2. Check the sole, grip and surfaces you’ll be walking on

Don’t just look at the colour or thickness of the sole. Consider:

  • Rubber outsole: generally offers grip, but the tread determines how suitable the shoe is for wet paving, tarmac or off-road terrain.
  • Flat tread: often suits casual shoes and street wear. The PUMA Speedcat, for example, has a flat heel and rubber outsole.
  • Deeper tread: more useful on woodland paths, gravel and mud. For trail running shoes, tread, stability and protection matter more than a fashionable shape.
  • Flexibility: a very stiff sole can feel stable on rough ground, while a flexible sole may feel more comfortable on a leisurely walk.

Use sports shoes for the activities they’re designed for. A casual trainer may be suitable for everyday walking, but it isn’t automatically right for intensive training.

3. Consider the fit and fastening

A good fit starts with the right foot length, but there’s more to it than that. Check the stated width, room for your toes and how the shoe fastens.

Laces offer the most adjustability. Slip-on trainers are handy when you want to get out of the door quickly, but they should fit securely around your heel. The Skechers Bobs B Flex - Arctic Edge is described as having a slip-on design, while the Skechers Track-Ripkent and Skechers Burns Agoura have lace fastenings.

If you’re unsure, don’t order based only on your usual size. Compare the size chart for the specific style and wear the socks you’d normally use when trying them on. Your toes shouldn’t feel pressed, and your heel shouldn’t lift excessively as you walk.

Recommended styles for different needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Skechers Bobs B Flex - Arctic Edge 118110-BBK 42.5

Skechers Bobs B Flex - Arctic Edge 118110-BBK 42.5

Why it suits this profile: A low-cut style for everyday wear, with a slip-on fastening and synthetic upper. Handy for shopping, commuting and casual outfits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies a textile lining, synthetic sole and heel height of 3,5 cm. This makes it easier to compare the style than relying on the word “comfortable” alone.

Key benefit & highlights

Slip-on design, synthetic materials and a low-cut silhouette for versatile everyday wear.

Suitable for: Buyers 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: Designed for walking and trail running across varied terrain. The product description lists a GORE-TEX membrane, 3D Advanced Chassis, Contagrip outsole and Quicklace system.

How this product avoids the pitfall

This shoe isn’t described simply as a general-purpose trainer: the product information specifies that it’s for trail running and hiking, and gives details of the construction for grip and stability.

Key benefit & highlights

GORE-TEX according to the product description, Contagrip rubber and Quicklace fastening.

Suitable for: Specific needs & intensive use
Skechers Track Syntac 232398 BBK 45

Skechers Track Syntac 232398 BBK 45

Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, these sports shoes are designed for both active and casual wear. The combination of leather, mesh, a Memory Foam insole and rubber sole suits anyone looking for one pair for a range of everyday activities.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description gives details about the materials, fastening, fit and care. So you can see in advance that the insole isn’t removable and machine washing isn’t recommended.

Key benefit & highlights

Memory Foam insole according to the product description, mesh in the upper and a rubber outsole.

Suitable for: Style-conscious everyday wearers
Puma Speedcat OG Dark Myrtle-White 398846-12-37.5

Puma Speedcat OG Dark Myrtle-White 398846-12-37.5

Why it suits this profile: A low-cut style with a slim, sporty look, ideal for streetwear and casual outfits. It has a leather upper, textile lining and lace fastening.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details list a regular fit, round toe, flat heel and rubber outsole. It’s clear that this is primarily a casual shoe, not a trail or running shoe.

Key benefit & highlights

Leather upper, IMEVA material according to PUMA and a grippy rubber outsole.

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 sports shoes

How long do trainers typically last?

It depends on how you use them, the surfaces you walk on, your body weight, the materials and how well you care for them. Check the tread regularly for wear, look for cracks in the upper and check whether the heel has become misshapen. If you wear them frequently for walking or sport, you may need to replace them sooner than if you only wear them casually now and then.

Are trainers suitable for long walks?

Some comfortable trainers are suitable for everyday walks, but check the sole, fit and support. For off-road paths, walking shoes or trail running shoes are usually a better choice, as they can offer more specialised grip and protection. Don’t assume a flat casual sole will be suitable for muddy or rocky routes.

How should you clean sports shoes?

Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. You may be able to clean textile shoes gently with a damp cloth, while leather and synthetic materials need different care. Let your shoes air-dry, keep them away from direct heat and check whether machine washing is permitted for the specific style.