Joybuy Insights

Buying trainers: how to choose the right pair for everyday wear, sport and school

Buying trainers seems simple, until you have to choose between men’s trainers, women’s trainers, children’s trainers, sports trainers and casual trainers. An appealing design tells you little about fit, materials or whether they’re right for your needs. Even well-known names such as New Balance, Skechers, adidas, Vans, Lacoste and Puma offer different models with a range of features.

Use this practical checklist to avoid a poor purchase and compare trainers on details you can actually check online.

Common pitfalls when buying trainers

1. Focusing only on the brand or appearance

A retro-style model may be suitable for everyday wear, but that doesn’t automatically make it right for running. Conversely, a running shoe may be technically suitable for exercise but less suited to a smart or casual outfit. So think about how you’ll use your trainers first, then consider the colour and brand.

2. Ignoring size information

An EU size isn’t identical across every brand or model. A shoe in size 42 trainers, size 44 trainers or size 46 trainers can feel different depending on its last, upper and width. Always check the stated fit, foot length in centimetres and size guidance.

3. Underestimating cleaning and materials

Mesh lets air through, but it can be more prone to getting dirty. Suede needs different care from synthetic leather. Some models can be machine-washed according to the product information, while others should be cleaned with a damp cloth. Incorrect care can damage the shape, glue or lights.

The key specifications to check

Fit, size and fastening

Check the stated fit, shoe width and fastening. Laces offer more adjustment around the instep. Hook-and-loop fastenings are practical for children who want to put on their trainers by themselves. Slip-ins can be handy when you want to get your shoes on quickly, but check that the fixed insole and regular fit suit your feet.

If you have wide feet or wear thick socks, don’t just look at the length. A narrow-fitting model may feel less comfortable, even in the right size. If you’re unsure, checking your foot length in centimetres is a useful extra step.

Upper and lining

Many comfortable trainers combine textile or mesh with synthetic overlays. Mesh can help with ventilation, while synthetic sections often provide extra structure. Let the product description guide you, and don’t treat claims about comfort or ventilation as a guarantee for every wearer.

The lining and insole also matter for everyday wear. Models with Memory Foam, EVA or another cushioning construction are designed to provide a softer feel, according to the product information. That doesn’t mean every model will suit every foot or activity.

Sole and intended use

A rubber outsole with a tread pattern can be practical on a range of surfaces. For running shoes, the midsole, weight, fit and intended type of running are also important. A casual trainer with a flat sole isn’t automatically a substitute for a running shoe.

Also check whether the insole is removable, whether the sole is flexible and what care is recommended. For school, walking and everyday wear, durability, grip and easy care are often more important than a standout design.

Recommended models for different wearers

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Vans VN000EE3BLK1 Authentic Black 37

Vans VN000EE3BLK1 Authentic Black 37

Why it suits this wearer: A simple black design for everyday wear, work, walking or casual outfits. The textile and rubber combination makes the product specifications easy to understand.

How this product avoids the pitfall

You’re choosing a versatile design with a clearly stated combination of materials, rather than relying solely on attention-grabbing marketing claims.

Key benefit & features

Textile upper and lining, rubber sole and a design that works with everyday outfits.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
New Balance U327SWB36

New Balance U327SWB36

Why it suits this wearer: For anyone after a distinctive retro silhouette in suede and mesh, without a purely sporty look.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifically lists suede, mesh and a rubber outsole. Be sure to check how to care for the suede beforehand.

Key benefit & features

Lightweight construction, retro-inspired design and a rubber outsole with tread, according to the product description.

Suitable for: Specific needs & intensive use
Adidas Supernova Ease M 44 2/3

Adidas Supernova Ease M CBLACK/CBLACK/CARBON IH2580 44 2/3

Why it suits this wearer: Designed for short to medium-length runs and training sessions. According to adidas’ product information, this model has a mesh upper, Dreamstrike midsole and rubber studded outsole.

How this product avoids the pitfall

This shoe isn’t presented as an all-purpose trainer, but as a model for regular short to medium-distance running.

Key benefit & features

Breathable mesh, lace fastening, Dreamstrike foam and a rubber studded outsole.

Suitable for: Families with active children
Skechers Meteor-Lights Krendox size 33

Skechers Meteor-Lights - Krendox 401495L-BKBL 33

Why it suits this wearer: Children’s trainers for school, play and active days, with a hook-and-loop fastening and a high-top design.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists a regular fit, size 33, hook-and-loop fastening and care with a damp cloth. Take extra care because of the built-in lights.

Key benefit & features

Hook-and-loop fastening, rubber sole and synthetic upper; suitable for children’s everyday wear.

Looking for more options?

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

More to consider when choosing popular models and sizes

For men’s trainers, models such as the Skechers Burns in sizes 42, 44 or 46 are easy to filter by size. The product information lists a regular fit, mesh inserts and a Memory Foam insole. Check that your preferred size is actually available for each variant.

If you’re looking for women’s trainers, you could consider the adidas Runfalcon 5 W. This model has an engineered mesh upper and a flexible outsole. For a smarter look, Lacoste trainers such as the L003 2K24 in size 46 or the Storm 96 2K in size 47 are worth comparing for their materials, soles and fit.

Puma trainers are another option if you’re after a lightweight, sporty style. According to the product information, the PUMA Pounce Lite in size 42 features lightweight foam construction, a rubber PROTREAD sole and an upper made with at least 30% recycled materials.

Frequently asked questions

What size trainers should I order?

Start with your usual EU size, but always check the size chart and guidance for the specific model. Measure your feet at the end of the day and compare the longer foot with the stated foot length. Remember to consider the width and the type of socks you’ll wear.

How long do trainers last?

Their lifespan depends on how you use them, the surfaces you wear them on, your body weight, how well you care for them and the materials they’re made from. Walking long distances every day puts different demands on the sole than occasional wear. Replace your trainers when the sole looks noticeably smooth or unevenly worn, the upper starts to come away or the fit no longer feels stable.

Can I machine-wash trainers?

Not as a rule. Follow the care instructions for the specific model. Some Skechers models are listed as machine-washable, while Vans and children’s trainers with lights should be cleaned carefully with a cloth. Leave your shoes to air-dry and avoid direct heat.