Joybuy Insights

Buying trainers: how to choose a pair that suits your needs

Buying trainers seems simple, until you have to choose between women’s trainers, men’s trainers, children’s trainers, casual trainers and sports shoes. A style may look appealing, yet be less suitable for long walks, school days or intensive training.

That is why the right choice starts not with colour or brand, but with intended use, fit, material and fastening. Below, you’ll find the key points to consider, followed by a selection of popular options based on verifiable product specifications.

Common pitfalls when buying trainers

1. Mistaking a soft sole for adequate support

A thick or soft insole feels comfortable when you try the shoes on. That does not automatically say anything about stability, grip or suitability for prolonged use. You should also check the outsole material, flexibility and whether the insole is removable.

Some memory foam trainers have a non-removable insole. That may be perfectly fine for everyday wear, but less practical if you use your own orthotic insole.

2. Wearing fashionable trainers for the wrong activity

Casual trainers, such as black trainers or Vans trainers, are often designed for everyday use. They are not necessarily suitable as running shoes. For running, factors such as fit, cushioning, grip and low weight are important. Always check the product description before using a lifestyle model for sport.

3. Relying solely on the stated size

Sizing can vary between brands and models. Look for information such as true to size, shoe width and sizing advice. The product details for some Skechers trainers, for example, state that the model comes up large and recommend choosing one size smaller. With children’s shoes, it is also sensible to measure their feet regularly, as children’s feet grow.

Which specifications should you check?

Intended use and sole

For walking, work and everyday travel in the Netherlands, a rubber outsole with sufficient tread is practical. A flat sole may suit casual wear, while a running shoe is more geared towards movement and grip.

Pay attention to these points:

  • Rubber outsole: generally practical for grip on tarmac and shop floors.
  • Tread: relevant on wet pavements and unpaved paths.
  • Flexibility: important if you walk or stand for long periods.
  • Heel height: a flat sole provides a different walking experience from a raised, thick sole.

A model with a leather upper may feel sturdier, but often requires more care than mesh or textile. For leather trainers, applying an impregnating product before first use is often recommended according to the product instructions.

Material and breathability

Mesh and other textiles generally allow more air to circulate than synthetic leather. This makes them appealing for warm days, commuting or sporting activities. Leather trainers offer a different look and may be suitable for casual outfits, but make sure you check the care instructions.

Also consider the lining. A textile lining can affect wearing comfort, while a soft insole may provide additional cushioning. Treat terms such as “comfort” or “lightweight” as product descriptions; the actual experience depends on your foot shape, socks and intended use.

Fastening, width and sizing advice

Laces allow you to adjust the fit around the instep. Hook-and-loop fastening is particularly practical for children’s trainers, as children can fasten the shoes independently. An elasticated design combined with hook-and-loop fastening can make putting the shoes on and taking them off even easier.

Before ordering, check:

  1. Whether the shoe comes up true to size, small or large.
  2. Whether the width is suitable for your foot.
  3. Whether the insole is removable.
  4. Whether the model is intended for women, men, children or unisex use.
  5. Whether cleaning with a cloth, hand washing or machine washing is recommended.

Our recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Puma Speedcat OG Dark Myrtle-White 398846-12-38

Puma Speedcat OG Dark Myrtle-White 398846-12-38

Why it suits this profile: This low-profile model has a standard fit, lace fastening and a flat heel. The leather upper and dark colour work well with a range of casual outfits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify the materials and a rubber outsole, rather than making only general comfort claims.

Key benefit & advantages

Leather upper, textile lining, rubber sole and IMEVA mentioned in the description for a lightweight feel.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Skechers Arch Fit-Big Appeal Trainers 149057-BBK 39

Skechers Arch Fit-Big Appeal Trainers 149057-BBK 39

Why it suits this profile: This women’s model combines an engineered mesh upper with an Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole. It is suitable for everyday walking and a sporty casual style.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description specifies the upper material, rubber sole and sizing advice. This lets you look beyond the name of the cushioning technology.

Key benefit & advantages

Mesh for breathability, lace fastening, rubber sole and washing instructions for a gentle cycle.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
PELLIOT Running Shoes Unisex Lightweight Cushioning Obsidian Black EU 43

PELLIOT Running Shoes Unisex Lightweight Cushioning – Obsidian Black EU 43

Why it suits this profile: The product description focuses on running and routes from roads to off-road terrain. The model features mesh, an EVA midsole and a rubber outsole with ROCKYTEC technology.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description provides measurements in millimetres and distinguishes between a standard and narrow fit. This helps you make a more targeted choice.

Key benefit & advantages

Lightweight sandwich mesh, EVA midsole, rubber outsole and sizes from EU 39 to EU 45 in the listed table.

Looking for more options?

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

Choosing trainers for women, men and children

For women’s trainers and men’s trainers, fit, sole type and material are often the first things to consider. A black model is easy to style, while leather has a different look from mesh. Brands such as Skechers, Puma and Vans offer different models for casual wear, walking or sporting activities. Always check the specific details of the pair you are considering.

For boys’ trainers and other children’s shoes, fastening and sizing advice are particularly important. Models with hook-and-loop fastening, such as the Skechers Gametronix or Microspec Texlor, are convenient for young children. A standard fit and rubber sole can be practical for school and play, but check that the size still fits properly.

Frequently asked questions about buying trainers

How often should I buy new trainers?

This depends on usage, how often you walk or run, body weight, terrain and care. Replace a pair when the sole shows clearly uneven wear, the grip has noticeably deteriorated or the upper and fastening no longer function properly. Don’t consider only the age of the shoes.

Can I use casual trainers as running shoes?

Not always. Casual trainers are generally designed for everyday use, not repeated running impact. For running, choose a model whose product description explicitly mentions sporting use, and check the cushioning, grip, fit and sizing.

How should I care for my trainers?

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Many models should not be put in the washing machine and are better cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. Allow shoes to air-dry away from direct heat. Treat leather trainers with an impregnating product according to the product instructions, and store each pair somewhere dry and well ventilated.