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:
Below, you’ll find practical tips and a selection of shoes for different needs.
The upper affects how a shoe feels and how easy it is to care for.
A waterproof walking shoe is therefore a different choice from a lightweight trainer for your commute.
Don’t just look at the colour or thickness of the sole. Consider:
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.
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.
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.
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.
Slip-on design, synthetic materials and a low-cut silhouette for versatile everyday wear.
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.
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.
GORE-TEX according to the product description, Contagrip rubber and Quicklace fastening.
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.
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.
Memory Foam insole according to the product description, mesh in the upper and a rubber outsole.
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.
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.
Leather upper, IMEVA material according to PUMA and a grippy rubber outsole.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
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.
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.
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.